Friday is finally here, and this weekend is Super Bowl weekend? Will you watch? Who are you rooting for? I’ll definitely put on the game, even though I don’t have a dog in this fight. (Except Oscar, of course.) That’s OK, though. Georgia had a great run in 2021: the World Series and National Championship ain’t bad. For those of you looking to make it through the weekend in one piece and (maybe) show up for work on Monday, we’ve got 2 things you need 2 survive the big game: an Aperol cocktail and a super simple take on nachos good for one or more! And, of course, it wouldn’t be Friday without that smart-casual style we’re known for around here.
Anyone who follows me regularly knows my love affair with Aperol cocktails. Today, I’ve got a real simple grapefruit Aperol cocktail that’s perfect to satisfy this weekend. If you’re looking for other Aperol cocktails, check out my introduction to Aperol. But also check out this winter Aperol cocktail. If you love Aperol, you’ll love this too.
A light and refreshing alternative to grapefruit margaritas with an edge.
Ingredients
UnitsScale
16ounces tequila
4ounces Aperol
12ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
8ounces triple sec
4ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
4ounces simple syrup
Fresh grapefruit and limes slices for garnish
salt for rims
Instructions
Fill a pitcher with ice and add tequila through simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
Place salt on a small plate. Run a grapefruit wedge around the edge of the glass and dip in salt on plate. Fill glasses with ice and pour cocktails into prepared glasses.
Garnish glasses with fresh grapefruit and lime slice.
If you’re not spending this weekend with a large crowd, but you still want to get in the Super Bowl spirit, then this recipe is for you. I put together these mini nachos: a super simple way to make delicious nachos for a few. I mean, you can’t go wrong with shredded chicken, but substitute for any protein (or not), and these things are just as delicious.
Preheat your broiler on low. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On the baking sheet, build a small spiral of 15 chips, stacking them close together in a 3-inc circle. Repeat to make a total of 6 piles.
Sprinkle 1/4 cup chicken and 2 tablespoons black beans on top of each pile of chips. Top each with 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook until the cheese is totally melted, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Top each pile with 2 tablespoons scallions, a few jalapeño slices, 2 tablespoons avocado, 2 tablespoons salsa and 1 tablespoon sour cream. Serve immediately.
Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how much fun sneakers can really be. They don’t get featured that often over here on the blog, but how cute are these snakeskin slip ons from Vince? (Similar here and here.) Animal print adds visual interest to any outfit. And when you already have something fun going, why not make it that much more fun-er? (Double comparative for emphasis only!)
Happy Friday, ladies! And enjoy the big game this weekend with friends and loved ones.
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Daily Looks
If you haven’t checked out our new addition to the blog, DAILY LOOKS, make sure to do just that. Daily Looks is a really simple feature: a dedicated photo feed of my daily outfits. And you can shop those outfits easily through the shop the widget below the picture. Today’s look is below.
We’re continuing Yellowstone week over here on the blog. Yesterday was a big success, and it was nice to know that I’m not alone in my love of the show. Honestly, it shouldn’t be that surprising given what a cultural phenomenon this show has become. Everything from the music (Ryan Bingham anyone?) to the fashion is quietly (or not so quietly) becoming iconic. And if you haven’t checked out the official podcast hosted by Jefferson White who plays Jimmy, you should. With that, I’ve got another Yellowstone-inspired outfit for you—the key piece being a cardigan.
Yellowstone-style cardigan
I love, love, love both Monica’s and Beth’s fashion. It seems like in every episode at least one of them is rocking a chunky cardigan with a unique and beautiful design and pattern. Today, I’m featuring a Yellowstone-style cardigan from Banana Republic. (Nope, not Pendleton.) I’ve layered it on top of this mono-colored Vince sweater, which nicely accentuates the cardigan’s pattern. Combine that with a pair of slim jeans also from Banana Republic, you’ve got a simple but striking outfit. Really don’t want to take away from the cardigan itself—that’s the key.
Jackets and boots, boots and jackets. They’re what make winter dress so much fun. And they’re half the bulk of capturing the essence of Yellowstone-inspired dress. Yesterday, I featured a pair of suede boots from Banana Republic. Today, I’m featuring another pair of suede ones from Frye. I’ve had these for a while, so I pulled two similar boots (and similar).
Loving this Patricia Nash handbag, so much so that it’s the second day in a row that I’ve featured it. Perfectly complements the boots adding to the Western-style feel of the whole outfit. If you’re looking to invest in a handbag, make sure to check out our deep dive into bags from this past Sunday.
Today’s Yellowstone-style Cardigan is a winter favorite. And if you’re looking for more Yellowstone-inspired fashion, make sure to check out the faux suede jacket I featured yesterday.
Hey ladies! Happy Monday. We’re wrapping January and heading straight into February—2022 is moving fast. Did anyone else catch a wild NLF playoff weekend? Hard to believe the Bengals are going to the Super Bowl! Crazy times. Anyway, we’re kicking the month off right with a fun week over here on the blog: it’s Yellowstone week. Anyone else loving this show as much as I am? I finally caught up over the past few weeks, and I can’t wait for season 5. And the fashion? Yes, please. So much so that I’ve put together a full week of Yellowstone-inspired outfits. I’m gonna show you how to dress like Yellowstone characters.
How to dress like Yellowstone characters
It’s winter, so putting together a Yellowstone-inspired outfit is going to center primarily around jackets and hats. Today’s outfit really just is a timeless classic and features a faux suede sherpa-lined jacket from Ralph Lauren (similar and similar 2). I absolutely love sherpa-lined anything—perfect for those cold winter days. Going with faux suede is easy on the budget, and there are a lot of good options out there. The jacket is complemented perfectly by a wool fedora. This one comes in multiple colors, so if you’re in luck if you’re looking for something other than tan.
Absolutely loving this cable-knit sweater from Vince (but check out this similar and similar 2 at different price points). It’s warm and cozy—everything I’m looking for in a winter sweater. It’s the perfect foundation for this outfit. I went with cream, but any color would pair perfectly with the tan jacket.
The backbone of this outfit truly is these boot-cut jeans from Ann Taylor paired with the suede boots from Banana Republic. Hard to really capture that ranch aesthetic with any other type of denim but wide-legged. The boots come in three different colors, including black. I’d love to see this outfit redone in black, honestly. Less Beth Dutton, more Rip.
It’s Yellowstone all week on the blog, and I’m going to be giving you inspiration on how to dress like Yellowstone characters. If you’re looking for a 360-degree view of today’s outfit, check out our YouTube short. And make sure to subscribe to the channel for all of our latest videos first.
Happy Monday, ladies. Winter is really here in Athens, and by “really”, I mean really. We had snow yesterday! A rare event down here, and all the more reason to bundle up. With winter in full swing, it’s really easy to get stuck in neutral. I’ve said it before, but it’s worth bringing up again.
While blacks, whites, and greys serve as the backbone of our wardrobes, it’s easy to get in a fashion rut where our outfits start looking exactly like the wintry sky. So let’s change things up a bit today: let’s inject some color into our wardrobe. Today, I’m going to be bold with a pink sweater: sometimes I want to reflect outwards what I’m feeling on the inside.
Be bold with this sweater
Today, I’m highlighting an oversized merino-cashmeresweater from Banana Republic. Super soft and super comfy. And that’s what winter at home is all about, right? The sweater comes in three colors: ivory, navy, and pink. I chose pink because like I said, I’m feeling bold today. I’ve paired it with a pair faux leather pants (similar) and lug sole Chelsea boots. It’s a really simple combo that packs a punch. If you’re not feeling the leather pants, not to worry.
Oversized sweaters work well with a pair of trousers and of course your favorite denim. Try pairing the sweater with a pair of skinny jeans for contrast; or if you’re lounging around the house, reach for your favorite boyfriend jeans.
Shop Sweaters Everlane 25% off full-price items (below)
Shop My Picks Everlane 25% off full-price items (below)
Lug sole Chelsea boots
Chelsea boots are a classic essential in my book and always make my must-have lists for fall and winter. Today, I’m wearing lug sole Chelsea boots (similar, J.Crew). The lug sole has a little more oompf than your standard pair, and I like that. Really makes going “bold” that much bolder.
Shop Sweaters Everlane 25% off full-price items (below)
Shop My Picks Everlane 25% off full-price items (below)
Faux leather pants
Ok, I know what you’re thinking, “You featured faux leather pants last week on the blog.” And you would be correct. I’m really feeling the leather vibes this winter, and I’m seeing what new and interesting combinations I can come up with. Last week dressed up the leather pants(similar) and paired them with a blazer. This week, we’re going more comfy-casual. And I’m feeling it.
every woman should have in their wardrobe. This is a great series to help you build a well-founded wardrobe that will last throughout the years. So, don’t miss it!
Fridays with Oscar is always about the celebration of simplicity and comfort. Since it’s Friday, I chose a casual outfit to kick off the weekend. Fridays are always about casual ease, whether it’s what I wear or what I eat. Today, I’m sharing a quick and easy version of chicken noodle soup and a refreshing, healthy mocktail instead of the usual cocktail. So come on in and stay awhile, even if it’s only virtually. And I do love to whip up a cocktail to sip and savor and enjoy come five o’clock.
Striped hoodie from Madewell
December, January, and February are the months I slip into my winter uniform: a sweater and jeans (or some variation thereof). Who doesn’t love an oversized sweater when it’s cold outside? Or maybe you prefer a cardigan, crewneck, or v-neck? Today I’m showcasing a striped hoodie and a pair of green chinos (that can act as a neutral) from Madewell. And if where the temps are dropping where you are, make sure to tuck a button-up or long sleeve tee underneath the hoodie for an extra layer of warmth.
Ok, ok. I’m sure you’re asking yourself, “Is there room in my closet for yet another striped sweater?” The answer is “yes,” especially when that hoodie is color-blocked with neutral shades of green and ivory. I’m loving this lightweight hoodie from Madewell because of its neutral color scheme. The power of neutrals is that they mix and match with so many other items in your wardrobe.
Blue jeans are always a good choice on any given day, but I also like variety. That’s when a pair of chinos come into play. They have the comfort and casual feel of blue jeans with a little extra something. This utility pant from Madewell exudes casual ease. Add a pair of suede loafers from Ralph Lauren (limited sizes similar here and here), and this OOTD definitely harkens back to my prepster days and ways.
Today, I’m bringing you an old family favorite: chicken noodle soup for the soul. It’s the perfect winter dish: super simple and unbelievably tasty. The recipe calls for rotisserie chicken. If you can find organic go for it, but remember you can swap a whole chicken for chicken breasts only if you’re so inclined. And be sure to make extras: this soup freezes and will be waiting for you with open arms if you catch a winter cold.
Place the carrots, celery, onions, butter in a large stock pot on medium high heat and saute until the vegetables are tender, about 5-10 minutes
Place the entire chicken on top of the vegetables and then pour the broth over the top. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer for 30 minutes.
While the soup simmers, mix the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. At the end of the 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the soup and pour the cornstarch mixture into the broth slowly while continuously stirring. Once it is all combined, stir in the noodles and let them cook 6-8 minutes or until just tender.
While the noodles are cooking, remove the chicken meat from the bones and chop it into bite-sized pieces. When the noodles are tender, stir the chicken in and mix well.
Mocktails for Dry January
This month is dry January. So, I’ve hopped on the bandwagon as they say, as this month is all about reset, refresh and renew on the blog. So… mocktail anyone? Today we’re featuring a sparkling raspberry lemonade. This drink is refreshing and easy to make. Make sure to garnish with a lime wedge or mint, and voila! You won’t even miss the booze.
Of all your winter wardrobe favorites, what’s your most, most, and I mean most favorite? I mean the one item you absolutely cannot live without. Is it that one jacket? A worn pair of jeans you just can’t part with? So hard to pick when you get right down to it—not sure if I could even answer that question completely. What I do know is this: it’s really hard to beat a cozy cashmere sweater. Style trends come, and style trends go, but a cashmere sweater is a wardrobe essential.
Everlane’s cashmere sweaters are cozy
I’m just going to throw this out there: Everlane knocked it out of the park with their turtleneck cashmere sweater. Cozy? Check. Comfortable? Check. And Stylish? You betcha. Count me in. Anyone who knows me knows I can’t pass up on camel, but this sweater comes in a variety of colors. (I’m kinda loving the Key Lime.) What I love about this sweater is that you can dress it up or down.
Yes, ma’am, high-waisted jeans are in, and they’re here to stay. I’ve been loving the raw hem look so far this New Year, but if it’s not your thing, look, not to worry. The Gap’s got you covered today: they’re running a (up to) 70% off sale with tons of high-waisted options. You can’t go wrong with their high-rise vintage slim or ace jeans.
Thought I’d try something new today—a pair of boots from Jessica Simpson’s clothing line. Fun fact: she launched the line in 2005, sold it in 2015, and reclaimed it last year. Who knew?
Looking for an easy way to add color to your winter wardrobe?Make sure to check out how to colorize with accessories.
happy Monday ladies! it’s a new week, and style at a certain age is back at it. over the past few weeks, i’ve had the opportunity to return to my fashion roots. for my regulars, y’know that that means preppy. for my new followers, guilty as charged: i’m an inner prep. now that fall is in full swing, it’s so easy to dress the part. with the leaves turning and my leg feeling better than ever, i find myself pulling out a pair of crisp khakis and a warm sweater and heading outside. i’m so thankful i can take oscar for walks again. keeping that spirit, today we’re showing you how to dress preppy this fall.
how to dress preppy this fall
we’re featuring mostly Talbots today. i’m loving these relaxed chinos: the embroidered elephant is so fun. and if you know me, you know how much i love animal prints. i’ve paired the pants with an olive mockneck sweater. olive is a perfect fall color and goes exceptionally well with anything khaki. that’s why i pulled in this khaki collared jacket and matching slip-ons. (one of my favorite pair of shoes this fall!) try as you might, today’s OOTD is such a tried and true combination, it’s almost impossible not to look good in it.
if and when you wear primary neutrals, it’s always good to spice things up a bit. one easy way to do this is with your accessory choices. IMO, my camo tote bag pushes this outfit over the top. throwing in an interesting pattern overtop a basically plain base creates visual interest. (but if a color pop is more of your thing, you can easily add a red, orange, or yellow bag to make today’s OOTD really shine.)
although the country is slowly starting to open back up, we’re still spending a lot, if not the majority of our time at home. and there’s nothing wrong with wearing blue jeans, tees, and sneakers. believe me; i’m reaching for that combination a lot more these days. last week, we revisited jeans after months of athleisure wear. today, we’re going to build on that post and talk five ways to elevate your blue jeans into a timeless and classic look. we’re gonna start with my base outfit below and build five new ones from it by addition, subtraction, and slight modification.
in our first look, we’ve kept my original jeans but built the outfit around the mighty blazer. a blazer will elevate any look, and when you add the leopard pattern with these (similar) shoes and belt, you’ve got a timeless classic.
for our second look, we’ve kept the blouse but swapped out the jeans for skinny ones. the whole idea here, though, is to add accessories. a belt can be an attention grabber and add life to any pair of jeans. swap out your daily jewelry for something a little more eye-catching. and don’t forget to add a color pop by using a sweater as an accessory.
for our third look, let’s keep the skinny jeans but add a poplin popover for that classic long-over-lean look. such a simple and clean look, but remarkably comfortable as well. one of my favorites. (and you didn’t think i’d forget that pop of color. how about these (similar) shoes?)
for our fourth outfit, we’ve kept our base but simply added a chunky (similar) cardigan. talk about reusability. it looks like we’ve got a few more days of cooler weather here in Athens, and i’ve definitely reached for this cardigan more than once. super comfy without loosing that timeless classic look.
and finally, don’t forget about colored jeans. whether you’re going with black, white, red, or some other color entirely, the fashion possibilities they afford us are endless. i’ve stuck with a neutral today: gray jeans. and i’ve built the entire outfit around the safari jacket—one of my personal favorites.
thanks for joining us, ladies. i hope today’s post gives you some inspiration on how to take your jeans and restyle them in a way that gives you that timeless classic look we’re always striving for over here on the blog. if you’re looking for more inspiration or want to see how these outfits look in 3D, be sure to check out our new YouTube video.
i hope you had a wonderful and restful Easter! did you get a chance to connect with those that you love? did you make brunch? what did you make? (hopefully you had a chance try our baked eggs and popovers!) now that i’m spending so much time at home, it’s amazing how the little things i used to take for granted have become, well, highlights of my day. take my daily trip to the mailbox. simple and totally forgettable a few months ago. now, it’s something i look forward to. not only is it a forcing function to get up and out of my house, but it often leads to an impromptu walk around the neighborhood. and that’s really perfect, because we’ve got a few more weeks of absolute perfect weather here in Athens. with that in mind, i thought we’d do a fun OOTD: how to wear a graphic tee.
the simple things in life
if you caught my 10 classic essentials that transition to spring yesterday, you’ll know that the classic tee made my list. and what’s more fun in spring and summer than a graphic tee? i would say that the graphic tee made a come back a decade ago, but that’s not really true: they’ve never really went away. i’ve featuring a fun California-themed shirt from J.Crew in honor of my days past, but the best thing about graphic tees, there’s one out there just for you; and just for the mood you’re in.
graphic tees go with anything, literally. i’ve paired mine today with a pair of girlfriend jeans and an equally fun sweater also from J.Crew. it’s transition weather here, so layering is important. but depending on where you are, you may go sans sweater and, say, a pair of ankle jeans. or bootcut. or shorts. or whatever really. in a moment when fun can be hard to come by, remember, it’s the little things in life. and that’s what a good graphic tee is really.
it’s sweater weather—my favorite. so many fun options this year. i’m featuring a cardigan with muted pastels, and it contrasts nicely with the my tee. we’ve featured many cardigans on the blog over the years. dress them up; dress them down; they’re just so flexible. and this one is putting a smile on my face today. i hope it is yours too.
