Happy Memorial Day everyone! I decided in celebration of this magnificent country, I would find some stripes that really make a splash. Spring 2010 is all about lines and there is an age old rule when wearing them. Although some have said that horizontal stripes can make you appear thinner, there are very few situations in which they really do.
When choosing a striped shirt, shorts, dress or cami, consider vertical stripes like these shorts for two reasons. A) it will make you look taller and B) it will make you appear thinner. There are some cases that a horizontal stripe in the right place may work but for the most part, it only add pounds to your appearance.
Here are some stripes that will make you feel like a sexy patriot.
Cyn's Pick of the Day: Remain Knit Dress from Nordstrom's
This is clearly a matter of opinion and this could go really wrong really fast if in the wrong hands but with that being said, I love this piece. The cinched waist creates shape and the vertical stripes give your back side a little boom. I would even add a thin belt at the waist for fun or pair with a bright solid colored shoe. This would look amazing on a rectangle or apple body shape. Please note, this could make one look heavier than they really are due to the variance in stripe width towards the bottom of the dress.
The Horizontal Yes List
This horizontally striped sexy off the shoulder sweater dress on the left from BCBG is so perfectly designed. I love the dark band at the top to create a bold chest line and a bold line at the bottom to slim the leg. The narrow width of the stripes is a plus.
The dress on the right is called the Striped Contrast Dress from BCBG. This piece works really well in defining shape. It makes the shoulders appear slightly broader and more defined yet slims at the waist and the V neck draws the eye down. This would be a great piece for a pear shape because it will help balance the top half of the body with the bottom. Hour glass and rectangles could wear this as well. Sugar Lip Tip*** Remember Kimberlee's Insider Tip about sparing the upper arm? Keep in mind that this piece would accentuate the upper arm.
The Horizontal NO List
These two shirts are an absolute disaster. Yes, this seriously underfed model on the left may look like she could pull this off but let's not kid ourselves. If the model on the right can't even make this design look good how could anyone else? There are a few design aspects to be aware of with these pieces. First, the horizontal stripe will make you look wider. Secondly, the wide flowing bottom design would make anyone look 15 lbs heavier. Third, if you pair these tanks with white pants it will also make you appear a few pounds heavier. Once it's all said and done, you will look like a fluttering house. Trust me, this piece doesn't do anyone any favors.
The dress on the right is deceiving. It looks really good on this model who is posing at an angle with her hand on her waist and her arm strategically placed at her side creating the illusion that the waistline is thinner than it is. The plunge neckline is a nice touch but the short length cuts mid-thigh which is the wider part of most people's legs. I like the design but think that this would make most look worse rather than better.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com
Photos from BCBG, Express, and Nordstrom
Monday, May 31, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Sugar Lips Cosmo Tips! Cosmopolitan Cocktail Recipes and Fun Facts
In my opinion, there is nothing more alluring than a woman in a sexy dress holding a martini. Sex And The City 2 is out in theaters today and women across the country will be celebrating with a Cosmo in hand. I think this is the perfect day to share my favorite Cosmopolitan cocktail recipes; I have a classic recipe and one with a fresh twist below for your enjoyment. Of course the perfect balance is required to keep it from spilling and you will want to find a fun mixologist to try a fresh approach to this classic. With any recipe, quality ingredients are a must and you can shake or stir whatever your preference. I was also curious when this cocktail was created and how it made it's way into the social scene so I did a little internet research.
Martini Fun Facts
1862 - The classic martini was invented by Jerry Thomas in 1862 at the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco. He mixed four parts red sweet vermouth with one part gin and garnished his recipe with a cherry. "He named the drink Martinez for a town 40 miles east of San Francisco in gold mining country, which is where the drinker of this cocktail was headed."1 Another beautiful reason to love the Bay Area!
1874 - According to Google, the Cosmopolitan was "concocted in 1874 at the Manhattan Club in New York when socialite Jennie Jerome asked for something special. Her fame surpassed this drink, however; the gorgeous and adventurous American was the mother of Winston Churchill." 2
The Classic Cosmopolitan
4 parts Vodka
1 part Cointreau
2 parts cranberry juice
squeeze of citrus
Sugar Lips Cosmo Twist
4 parts Citrus Vodka
1 part Cointreau
1 part cranberry juice
1 part freshly squeezed organic grapefruit
1) Fottler, Marsha. The ingredients may vary, but the celebration continues. The Herald Tribune. October 3, 2007. http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20071003/FEATURES/710030328?Title=The-ingredients-may-vary-but-the-celebration-continues
2) Google http://www.google.com/search?q=history+of+the+cosmopolitan+martini&hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=iSL&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&tbs=tl:1&tbo=u&ei=-Zb-S-a0HofSM-appTs&sa=X&oi=timeline_result&ct=title&resnum=11&ved=0CEoQ5wIwCg
Martini Fun Facts
1862 - The classic martini was invented by Jerry Thomas in 1862 at the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco. He mixed four parts red sweet vermouth with one part gin and garnished his recipe with a cherry. "He named the drink Martinez for a town 40 miles east of San Francisco in gold mining country, which is where the drinker of this cocktail was headed."1 Another beautiful reason to love the Bay Area!
1874 - According to Google, the Cosmopolitan was "concocted in 1874 at the Manhattan Club in New York when socialite Jennie Jerome asked for something special. Her fame surpassed this drink, however; the gorgeous and adventurous American was the mother of Winston Churchill." 2
The Classic Cosmopolitan
4 parts Vodka
1 part Cointreau
2 parts cranberry juice
squeeze of citrus
Sugar Lips Cosmo Twist
4 parts Citrus Vodka
1 part Cointreau
1 part cranberry juice
1 part freshly squeezed organic grapefruit
1) Fottler, Marsha. The ingredients may vary, but the celebration continues. The Herald Tribune. October 3, 2007. http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20071003/FEATURES/710030328?Title=The-ingredients-may-vary-but-the-celebration-continues
2) Google http://www.google.com/search?q=history+of+the+cosmopolitan+martini&hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=iSL&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&tbs=tl:1&tbo=u&ei=-Zb-S-a0HofSM-appTs&sa=X&oi=timeline_result&ct=title&resnum=11&ved=0CEoQ5wIwCg
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Kimberlee's Pick Of The Week: Victoria’s Secret Cotton & Cashmere Off-The-Shoulder Sweater
My pick of the week is this completely affordable Victoria’s Secret Cotton & Cashmere Off-The-Shoulder Sweater. It is fantastically trendy and at a mere $25 it rocks a seriously sexy silhouette that boldly bares the shoulder while gracefully, and forgivingly, grazes the body to create a look that is universally flattering. The delicate feel of the cashmere blend offers a luxurious softness that is versatile in temperamental spring weather. It’s warm enough for a chilly morning and with the off the shoulder cut, it makes this a great go to piece even in the warmer weather. Wear it solo with a cute pair of jeans and a stiletto, or (my personal fave) layer with a white tank and add a bulky scarf in a complementary color for more visual interest. Available in a variety of hues (I snagged two, one in a beautiful shade of blue the other in blazing sun yellow), this is a true hit on the bargain hunter’s list!
Kimberlee
Photo from Victoria Secret.com
Kimberlee
Photo from Victoria Secret.com
Monday, May 24, 2010
Let's Get Cooking: Pantry Essentails To Diversify Your Menu
Every great chef starts out with seasonal ingredients and a great pantry. I am going to help you build your pantry basics to help you diversify your menu and create healthier alternatives to prepackaged or processed foods. The key to making lifestyle changes is creating flavorful meals that are quick and easy to make. Here are some basics to add to your pantry with tips underneath each.
Spices: Fresh and dried these are critical to have on hand at all times. Staples are garlic cloves, fresh basil, rosemary, thyme, dried cayenne pepper, paprika, curry and fennel seeds.
Rice: I love brown rice because it is heartier than white rice and has a nutty flavor to it that can enhance your dishes. Be sure to have plenty of white, brown, jasmine, wild and even green rice on hand to make salads, side dishes, soups and casseroles.
Noodles: Everyone loves noodles. You can add them to soups, salads, create side dishes or main dishes. I have only found one wheat noodle that I like and it is Trader Joe's organic whole wheat pasta.
Baking Essentials: Always stock your baking essentials with the following: sugar, flour, baking soda, baking powder, yeast packets, cocoa and powdered sugar.
Spices: Fresh and dried these are critical to have on hand at all times. Staples are garlic cloves, fresh basil, rosemary, thyme, dried cayenne pepper, paprika, curry and fennel seeds.
- Read labels and stay away from prepackaged and flavored sprinkles such as seasoning salt, bouillon cubes and other premixed flavors. You can create these yourself and avoid partially hydrogenated oils.
- Choose only whole oats; avoid quick oats or instant oats. The fiber and nutrients are stripped away during the flattening process and the instant oats have added sugar, salt and artificial flavor.
- Cynnie's Best Oatmeal Recipe: Start with cold water. This is key to making your oats creamy not mushy! Bring one cup cold water to a boil, add 1/2 cup oats and stir to combine. Add cinnamon and vanilla extract for flavor; stir again. Bring oats to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes. Add fresh organic berries, 100% pure maple syrup and sprinkle with walnut pieces. The fruit and maple syrup provide immediate energy and the oats and nuts sustain your energy for hours.
Rice: I love brown rice because it is heartier than white rice and has a nutty flavor to it that can enhance your dishes. Be sure to have plenty of white, brown, jasmine, wild and even green rice on hand to make salads, side dishes, soups and casseroles.
Noodles: Everyone loves noodles. You can add them to soups, salads, create side dishes or main dishes. I have only found one wheat noodle that I like and it is Trader Joe's organic whole wheat pasta.
Baking Essentials: Always stock your baking essentials with the following: sugar, flour, baking soda, baking powder, yeast packets, cocoa and powdered sugar.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
12 Week Trial to Reduce My Age Spots: Clinique Clinical Even Better Skin Tone Corrector
This is as vulnerable as it gets; I have decided to bare it all in the name of blogging. As you can see from my photos, my skin tone has become very uneven due to age spots. There are dark spots on my forehead and underneath my eyes near my cheek bones. You can also see dark patches directly underneath my eye on the picture on the right and acne scars on my forehead and cheek. ***Please note: the larger spot in the picture on the left is a mole and is not part of this demonstration. This is what I get for years of sunburned cheeks and thinking that tanning beds were cool.
Today I went to my favorite Esthetician, Jen Taylor, and had a level one lactic peel with a brightening treatment to kick start my 12 week trial of Clinique's Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector. We have been discussing specific treatments for these spots and depending on how this over the counter experiment goes, I may or may not consider laser resurfacing treatments for the patches around my eyes. The experiment above will hopefully lighten the overall appearance of the spots all over my face.
So what is an age spot anyway? It is a patch of hyper pigmented skin caused by sun damage to the skin over the years. An age spot can also be referred to as a sun spot, liver spot or brown spot. According to the Mayo Clinic, "age spots develop when the extra melanin becomes "clumped" or is produced in higher concentrations than normal". Click on this melanin link above to learn more about it and to see a image of the layers of your skin.
How are age spots prevented? Sunscreen!! This is why it is so important to wear sunscreen on your face, neck and chest every day.
I will be documenting this experiment with pictures on Clinique's website: www.becomingevenbetter.com and on my blog. You can see for yourself whether or not this product can correct these spots.
Resources: The Mayo Clinic Website: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/age-spots/DS00912/DSECTION=causes
Today I went to my favorite Esthetician, Jen Taylor, and had a level one lactic peel with a brightening treatment to kick start my 12 week trial of Clinique's Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector. We have been discussing specific treatments for these spots and depending on how this over the counter experiment goes, I may or may not consider laser resurfacing treatments for the patches around my eyes. The experiment above will hopefully lighten the overall appearance of the spots all over my face.
So what is an age spot anyway? It is a patch of hyper pigmented skin caused by sun damage to the skin over the years. An age spot can also be referred to as a sun spot, liver spot or brown spot. According to the Mayo Clinic, "age spots develop when the extra melanin becomes "clumped" or is produced in higher concentrations than normal". Click on this melanin link above to learn more about it and to see a image of the layers of your skin.
How are age spots prevented? Sunscreen!! This is why it is so important to wear sunscreen on your face, neck and chest every day.
I will be documenting this experiment with pictures on Clinique's website: www.becomingevenbetter.com and on my blog. You can see for yourself whether or not this product can correct these spots.
Resources: The Mayo Clinic Website: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/age-spots/DS00912/DSECTION=causes
Friday, May 21, 2010
Bat Those Eyelashes Girls! Do's and Don't for Healthy Lashes
I recently went to Las Vegas on a girls weekend and of course I put on some fake eyelashes for the night. Simultaneously, I started using a new mascara. Days later, I noticed that my lashes were much shorter and thinner so I asked the Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips Make-Up Expert, Chantelle, what was causing this; the glue or the new mascara. She told me that most likely it was the glue but could be the mascara as well. She told me to discontinue use of both to be sure. Sounds simple right?
According to EHOW, "People naturally lose three to five eyelashes per day, which are almost immediately replaced by new ones. It can sometimes take anywhere from four to eight weeks to replace an eyelash that was lost due to accident or trauma". It has been a long time since I have had an eye lash crisis. Last year, I had an eyelash tint, which is a non-toxic vegetable dye, and my lashes looked FANTASTIC....for three days and then they started to break off. Now for those of you who know me, I love my lashes thick and long. So I thought that would be a great time to send out some lash care tips.
Tip 1: Eat Right! Our lashes are an extension of the body fueled by a proper diet.
Tip 2: Remove your eye make-up before going to bed.
Tip 3: Choose an eye make-up remover that has an oil base. Give your lashes a rest from the chemicals and nourish them with oil resulting in more flexibility and strength.
Tip 4: Discard your mascara after three months of use. Mascara tends to dry up and will become flaky and it can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Tip 5: Do not share your mascara and other eye products. You do not want to share bacteria so keep it to yourself!
Resources:
Hinesman,Genae-Valecia. How To Promote Eyelash Growth. EHOW Website. http://www.ehow.com/how_4473949_promote-eyelash-growth.html
According to EHOW, "People naturally lose three to five eyelashes per day, which are almost immediately replaced by new ones. It can sometimes take anywhere from four to eight weeks to replace an eyelash that was lost due to accident or trauma". It has been a long time since I have had an eye lash crisis. Last year, I had an eyelash tint, which is a non-toxic vegetable dye, and my lashes looked FANTASTIC....for three days and then they started to break off. Now for those of you who know me, I love my lashes thick and long. So I thought that would be a great time to send out some lash care tips.
Tip 1: Eat Right! Our lashes are an extension of the body fueled by a proper diet.
Tip 2: Remove your eye make-up before going to bed.
Tip 3: Choose an eye make-up remover that has an oil base. Give your lashes a rest from the chemicals and nourish them with oil resulting in more flexibility and strength.
Tip 4: Discard your mascara after three months of use. Mascara tends to dry up and will become flaky and it can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Tip 5: Do not share your mascara and other eye products. You do not want to share bacteria so keep it to yourself!
Resources:
Hinesman,Genae-Valecia. How To Promote Eyelash Growth. EHOW Website. http://www.ehow.com/how_4473949_promote-eyelash-growth.html
Remembering Tommy
24 hours ago a friend from college was murdered outside of his father's home in Chicago. He was a 1st Lieutenant of the Army National Guard returning from his second tour in Iraq, a Chicago Police Officer and a member of the advisory council to stop the violence in his neighborhood. Tommy had recently returned from a memorial service in DC for fallen soldiers and according to reports, he was headed to visit his family, share some pictures from the memorial and show his Dad his new motorcycle. As he got on his bike to head home, a gun was put to his head in an attempt to steal his bike. His father, a veteran and ex-cop, seeing this shot two of the men. But in the exchange of gun fire from the three men, Tommy was shot and killed.
It's times like these when you reflect on how people touch our lives. Even if it was for a brief period of time, some leave a lasting impression in our hearts. Tommy has touched many lives across the country and around the world. Rest in peace my friend. Know that your legacy will live on through the lives that you have blessed.
xo Jacyn
It's times like these when you reflect on how people touch our lives. Even if it was for a brief period of time, some leave a lasting impression in our hearts. Tommy has touched many lives across the country and around the world. Rest in peace my friend. Know that your legacy will live on through the lives that you have blessed.
xo Jacyn
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Lips Like Sugar! Protect Your Kissable Lips From Skin Cancer with SPF
Did you know that our lips are one of the most vulnerable parts of our body when it comes to the sun? The skin on our lips is very thin and susceptible to being sunburned. Lip gloss is on of my favorite accessories but it can magnifies the suns rays and may lead to skin cancer. The American Cancer Society reports that there are more than 2 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosed annually. 1 Let's start protecting our lips!
What happens when I wear lip gloss without SPF?
According to Dr. Christine Brown, a dermatologist at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, “...lip glosses can make more of the light rays penetrate directly through the skin instead of getting reflected off of the skin’s surface".2 You can protect your lips by choosing a lipgloss with SPF in it or apply an SPF lip balm first before your lip gloss. Click the link below for a list of 256 lip Balms with SPF in them and their ratings for maximum protection.
Best Lip Balms With SPF
Keep your sugar lips kissable and protected!
References
1) Skin Cancer Facts, American Cancer Society, May 18, 2010. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ped/content/ped_7_1_what_you_need_to_know_about_skin_cancer.asp.
2) Dahl, Melissa. "Not Just Lip Service: Gloss Can Invite Skin Cancer", MSNBC.com. April, 30 2008: May, 18, 2010. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24190829/.
What happens when I wear lip gloss without SPF?
According to Dr. Christine Brown, a dermatologist at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, “...lip glosses can make more of the light rays penetrate directly through the skin instead of getting reflected off of the skin’s surface".2 You can protect your lips by choosing a lipgloss with SPF in it or apply an SPF lip balm first before your lip gloss. Click the link below for a list of 256 lip Balms with SPF in them and their ratings for maximum protection.
Best Lip Balms With SPF
Keep your sugar lips kissable and protected!
References
1) Skin Cancer Facts, American Cancer Society, May 18, 2010. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ped/content/ped_7_1_what_you_need_to_know_about_skin_cancer.asp.
2) Dahl, Melissa. "Not Just Lip Service: Gloss Can Invite Skin Cancer", MSNBC.com. April, 30 2008: May, 18, 2010. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24190829/.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Kimberlee's Premiere: Bare the Shoulder, Spare the Arm!
I am really excited to have introduced you to our Real World Fashion Expert, Kimberlee Smith over the weekend. She has great fashion and style "Insider Tips" that will help real women shop smarter and dress better. She would be happy to answer any questions that you may have just email her at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com.
Bare the Shoulder, Spare the Arm!
The most flattering feature on almost every woman? The shoulders. The least flattering feature on almost every woman? The upper arm.
For a breezy feel on warmer weather days, skip the cap sleeve which typically accentuates the thickest part of a woman’s upper arm by stopping right in the middle completely ruining the image of a long line, and instead go for a draped off the shoulder top that will reveal just enough skin to make you feel like the sexy kitten you are, and draw far less attention to that pesky upper arm. Insider tip…be sure to judge the neckline of the off the shoulder looks, depending upon your bust size. Too large of a drape on a small bust will leave you constantly adjusting to avoid a sneak peek of the girls for all the paparazzi to see. The perfect drape will feel loose, natural, and luxurious. Look for brilliant colors to pair with jeans, shorts, or a perfect pair of black pants for a less casual look.
Bare the Shoulder, Spare the Arm!
The most flattering feature on almost every woman? The shoulders. The least flattering feature on almost every woman? The upper arm.
For a breezy feel on warmer weather days, skip the cap sleeve which typically accentuates the thickest part of a woman’s upper arm by stopping right in the middle completely ruining the image of a long line, and instead go for a draped off the shoulder top that will reveal just enough skin to make you feel like the sexy kitten you are, and draw far less attention to that pesky upper arm. Insider tip…be sure to judge the neckline of the off the shoulder looks, depending upon your bust size. Too large of a drape on a small bust will leave you constantly adjusting to avoid a sneak peek of the girls for all the paparazzi to see. The perfect drape will feel loose, natural, and luxurious. Look for brilliant colors to pair with jeans, shorts, or a perfect pair of black pants for a less casual look.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Welcome Our Latest Fashion Expert Kimberlee Smith!
I can't wait for you all to meet our latest fashion contributor, Kimberlee! She is one of most stylish women that I know and an absolute cutie! She has her eyes and ears on the fashion world at all times and will be bringing you the latest finds at affordable prices, great shopping tips and market must haves! She has been immersed in the fashion world for over 15 years and started by designing her own clothes in high school. She is sassy and savvy! Welcome Kimberlee!
Kimberlee's Biography
My name is Kimberlee Smith and I am very excited to be your Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips "Real World" Fashion Expert!
My undying love for fashion, combined with my insatiable desire to make it work for everyone, has given me the drive to make the world more beautiful, one look at a time.
With little girl dreams of sitting in the front row at Fashion Week in Paris, I have always followed the latest trends, runway designs, fabrics, cuts, accessories, and overall looks to retain my status as the fashionista go-to girl for my circle of friends and family. Recently, I have decided to extend my passion out to the rest of the world by following a path I have dreamt of for years and pursue a career in the fashion industry. I believe that color is fantastic, every woman has a beautiful feature that can be accentuated with style, and that without accessories your fashion story is incomplete.
I hope that you enjoy my “real world meets trendy style” take of the world!
With Sugar,
Kimberlee Smith
Kimberlee's Biography
My name is Kimberlee Smith and I am very excited to be your Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips "Real World" Fashion Expert!
My undying love for fashion, combined with my insatiable desire to make it work for everyone, has given me the drive to make the world more beautiful, one look at a time.
With little girl dreams of sitting in the front row at Fashion Week in Paris, I have always followed the latest trends, runway designs, fabrics, cuts, accessories, and overall looks to retain my status as the fashionista go-to girl for my circle of friends and family. Recently, I have decided to extend my passion out to the rest of the world by following a path I have dreamt of for years and pursue a career in the fashion industry. I believe that color is fantastic, every woman has a beautiful feature that can be accentuated with style, and that without accessories your fashion story is incomplete.
I hope that you enjoy my “real world meets trendy style” take of the world!
With Sugar,
Kimberlee Smith
Friday, May 14, 2010
Not Your Typical Pork and Beans: Black Bean Stew With Southern Cornbread
I have been in a food rut until this week! I took a few hours yesterday to plan and coordinate our menu for the week and am really excited to share with you my latest creation. With spring being warm one day and cold the next, I needed a menu that matches my mood and the weather. I choose to eat meat but this could easily be a vegetarian dish. You can adjust the ingredients for any size crowd and any flavor profile that you prefer. Don't forget to email me or FB message me with how it turned out- I am dying to know what you think!
Pork and Black Bean Stew with Homemade Southern Cornbread (8 servings)
2/3 lb. Cubed pork loin roast. (I chose one with a pretty good amount of marbling and asked the butcher to cube it for me)
8 C. vegetable broth (Click here for recipe)
2 cans of black beans drained and rinsed
2 pieces of corn on the cob
1 cup of small heirloom tomatoes diced ( I chose a package with color-yellow, green, purple and red)
3 pieces Ham bits diced
1 slice of applewood bacon
1 small yellow onion diced
1 jalapeno diced
2 garlic cloves chopped
1 c. red wine**
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Pork Seasoning Mix
kosher salt to taste
pepper to taste
1/2 t. cumin
1t. paprika
1T. chili powder
1T. red pepper flakes
**CHEF TIP: choose a wine that you would drink. If you wouldn't drink it, don't cook with it.
Use a Dutch oven or large deep dish cast iron pan. Mix the dry seasonings together and toss cubed pork and let rest. Meanwhile, saute the ham bits and bacon together on medium low until brown. Remove from pan and set aside preserving the flavor and oil in the pan. Add the onions, jalapeno and garlic and saute on medium to medium high heat constantly stirring to keep the garlic from burning. Burnt garlic = bitter dish. Let that cook for about 7-8 minutes to infuse all of the flavors. Add the pork and saute for 10 minutes. Then add the red wine and stir scraping the little gibs at the bottom of the pan. Next, add the black beans, corn, tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook for an hour or two. The longer it cooks on low heat, the more tender your pork will become. Plate in a white bowl to accent the colors. Top with a dollup of sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced ripe avocado and homemade fresh salsa (diced tomatoes, yellow onion, cilantro, tiny bit of jalapeno and sprinkle of kosher salt). Serve with warm cornbread. Recipe below.
Homemade Southern Cornbread
2 C. stoneground corn meal
2 T. sugar
3/4 C. all purpose flour
2 1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. baking soda
1 t. salt
2 C. buttermilk
2 large eggs
1/4 c. vegetable oil
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees. Mix all of the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Mix the wet ingredients in another bowl. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and slowly begin to add the wet ingredients. Mix just until mixture is moist. Do not over mix.
Bake in a greased cast iron skillet or a buttered pan for 15-20 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes, cut and serve. Enjoy!!
Pork and Black Bean Stew with Homemade Southern Cornbread (8 servings)
2/3 lb. Cubed pork loin roast. (I chose one with a pretty good amount of marbling and asked the butcher to cube it for me)
8 C. vegetable broth (Click here for recipe)
2 cans of black beans drained and rinsed
2 pieces of corn on the cob
1 cup of small heirloom tomatoes diced ( I chose a package with color-yellow, green, purple and red)
3 pieces Ham bits diced
1 slice of applewood bacon
1 small yellow onion diced
1 jalapeno diced
2 garlic cloves chopped
1 c. red wine**
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Pork Seasoning Mix
kosher salt to taste
pepper to taste
1/2 t. cumin
1t. paprika
1T. chili powder
1T. red pepper flakes
**CHEF TIP: choose a wine that you would drink. If you wouldn't drink it, don't cook with it.
Use a Dutch oven or large deep dish cast iron pan. Mix the dry seasonings together and toss cubed pork and let rest. Meanwhile, saute the ham bits and bacon together on medium low until brown. Remove from pan and set aside preserving the flavor and oil in the pan. Add the onions, jalapeno and garlic and saute on medium to medium high heat constantly stirring to keep the garlic from burning. Burnt garlic = bitter dish. Let that cook for about 7-8 minutes to infuse all of the flavors. Add the pork and saute for 10 minutes. Then add the red wine and stir scraping the little gibs at the bottom of the pan. Next, add the black beans, corn, tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook for an hour or two. The longer it cooks on low heat, the more tender your pork will become. Plate in a white bowl to accent the colors. Top with a dollup of sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced ripe avocado and homemade fresh salsa (diced tomatoes, yellow onion, cilantro, tiny bit of jalapeno and sprinkle of kosher salt). Serve with warm cornbread. Recipe below.
Homemade Southern Cornbread
2 C. stoneground corn meal
2 T. sugar
3/4 C. all purpose flour
2 1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. baking soda
1 t. salt
2 C. buttermilk
2 large eggs
1/4 c. vegetable oil
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees. Mix all of the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Mix the wet ingredients in another bowl. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and slowly begin to add the wet ingredients. Mix just until mixture is moist. Do not over mix.
Bake in a greased cast iron skillet or a buttered pan for 15-20 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes, cut and serve. Enjoy!!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Spring Is Here and I Couldn't Be Happier!
I had the most amazing day today. The sun was shining without a cloud in the sky and I soaked up every minute of it. I sat by the pool and read my book and caught up on the latest trends on my iPhone. What did I do before I had this little gem? I heart you Apple. Tonight I got to cook and experiment in the kitchen creating a new menu for the week as a result of the amazing weather that we are having today. I can't wait to share with you a few of my fun flavors and new recipes. I got in touch with a really great friend of which I haven't communicated with in over 15 years and thanks to facebook, we reconnected. The beauty of that is she is such a little fashionista and has great style and a fashion editor in the making. I can't wait to read more of her work because it is fun, informative and clever. Now I am enjoying a glass of wine and couldn't be happier knowing that although I may be a world away from you, I can share my work with you and hope that it brings you joy. I love blogging but more so I love that I can share all of this with you. Nite!
All My Sugar,
Cyn
All My Sugar,
Cyn
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Take Ten Years Off of Your Face: Eyebrow Tint
Yikes! I am getting white eyebrow hairs! What is that about? Before I went on vacation last week, I had the fine experience of a facial and brow wax with my favorite Esthetician, Jen Taylor of Jennifer Taylor Skin Care at Shelby Sexton Salon in Lafayette. I expressed my concern with my new found friends and she had just the answer; an eyebrow tint.
What is an eyebrow tint anyway? The process is simple. It takes 15 minutes and ten years off of your look. In addition to my white/gray eyebrows, I have blond hairs and lighter hair near the skin. The tint darkens these hairs making my eyebrows slightly more predominant and lasts four to six weeks. Jen uses a safe, non-toxic vegetable dye that can also be used on your eyelashes as well. I tried the eyelash tint too and LOVED it. My eyelashes looked so good and I didn't have to wear as much mascara.
This is not something that I recommend that you try on your own. This is for professionals only. To contact Jennifer, please click on the link above or email me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com.
What is an eyebrow tint anyway? The process is simple. It takes 15 minutes and ten years off of your look. In addition to my white/gray eyebrows, I have blond hairs and lighter hair near the skin. The tint darkens these hairs making my eyebrows slightly more predominant and lasts four to six weeks. Jen uses a safe, non-toxic vegetable dye that can also be used on your eyelashes as well. I tried the eyelash tint too and LOVED it. My eyelashes looked so good and I didn't have to wear as much mascara.
This is not something that I recommend that you try on your own. This is for professionals only. To contact Jennifer, please click on the link above or email me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
5 Body Types: Which One Are You?
Now that you have your basic measurements, you can determine which body type you relate best with. We are all unique and these are simply guidelines to help you dress for the body that is the most similar. I have included some rough sketches of each type. And just for the record, although I was an art student and graphic designer, I am not one to draw very well. Nor am I a spelling bee winner which most of you are very aware of. So, don't judge just learn.
The purpose of this exercise is to help you create balance and appear 10 lbs. thinner. There is one basic rule when it comes to illusion: accentuate the positive disguise the negative. The tips listed next to each body type are to do just that. Let's get to it.
The Apple
The apple is larger throughout the middle with smaller legs. This body has full breasts and there is little definition at the waist. This type tends to gain weight in the stomach and breasts first.
I call this body type the super model because it sounded better than "yardstick", "rectangle" or "asparagus"(they didn't seem very appealing so I changed it). It also happens to be the body type of the majority of the runway models so it made sense to me. This type is athletic with shoulders that are fairly even with the hips and wider across the chest and waist line with little distinction between each. This type gains and loses weight evenly.
This body type has narrow shoulders and wide hips and upper thighs. My drawing could have been a little more dramatic in the shoulder area. This type gains weight in the upper thighs, butt and hips first. This is an easy body type to dress for and in my opinion, is one of the sexiest shapes.
The Hourglass Figure
This figure has a narrow waist with shoulders and hips that are of equal measurements. Accentuating the waist is a highlight while also focusing on the upper and lower body curves.
This body type has broad shoulders and bust with narrow hips with long, lean legs. The key to this type is to add balance to the hips to create an hourglass figure.
The purpose of this exercise is to help you create balance and appear 10 lbs. thinner. There is one basic rule when it comes to illusion: accentuate the positive disguise the negative. The tips listed next to each body type are to do just that. Let's get to it.
The Apple
The apple is larger throughout the middle with smaller legs. This body has full breasts and there is little definition at the waist. This type tends to gain weight in the stomach and breasts first.
- Flowing fabrics such as empire waist shirts to accentuate your cleavage and hide the wider midriff and straight cut blouses.
- Single breasted coats and jackets will help elongate your torso. Choose a length that will reach the top of your thighs.
- Concentrate on bringing attention to your lower half with wide and flare leg pants and skirts that are not to tight.
- Long necklaces and scarves are a great choice for you as well.
- Avoid horizontal stripes, short skirts/jackets and large belts.
- Celebs with this body type: Catherine Zeta-Jones, Elizabeth Hurley, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Hudson.
I call this body type the super model because it sounded better than "yardstick", "rectangle" or "asparagus"(they didn't seem very appealing so I changed it). It also happens to be the body type of the majority of the runway models so it made sense to me. This type is athletic with shoulders that are fairly even with the hips and wider across the chest and waist line with little distinction between each. This type gains and loses weight evenly.
- This body should avoid tight tops and dresses.
- Focus on short blazers, pleated skirts of all lengths, ruffled or elaborate tops and long lean pants.
- Create a waistline by adding a dark belt at the waist and accentuate your toned legs and shoulders.
- I would also avoid wide-leg pants
- Celebs with this body type: Cameron Diaz, Cheryl Crowe, and Hillary Duff.
This body type has narrow shoulders and wide hips and upper thighs. My drawing could have been a little more dramatic in the shoulder area. This type gains weight in the upper thighs, butt and hips first. This is an easy body type to dress for and in my opinion, is one of the sexiest shapes.
- Large patterned tops, shoulder pads to create the illusion of balance, and large collars are all beneficial.
- V-cut and wide boat neck lines are also good.
- I would choose a medium to long length jacket, straight cut skirts and pants concentrating on darker matte colors for each.
- Avoid high waist pants and pleated or patterned skirts.
- Short necklaces look best on this shape.
- Celebs with this body type: Beyonce, Shakira, Eva Mendez and J-Lo. Hot lil' mamas right?
The Hourglass Figure
This figure has a narrow waist with shoulders and hips that are of equal measurements. Accentuating the waist is a highlight while also focusing on the upper and lower body curves.
- Women with this body type look amazing in cinched waist jackets and wrap dresses or shirts.
- Belted waist lines both wide and skinny are a plus.
- You could wear flared, wide-leg or boot cut jeans to balance the hips. If you choose to wear skinny jeans, balance it with a loose top that shows off your waist.
- Necklaces that are short to medium in length look best on you.
- Celebs with this body type: Halle Berry, Salma Hayek, Megan Fox, and Scarlett Johansson
This body type has broad shoulders and bust with narrow hips with long, lean legs. The key to this type is to add balance to the hips to create an hourglass figure.
- Flared pants, wide-leg jeans and A-line skirts or anything that flairs at the hemline work best.
- Dresses that are wider on the bottom and fitted at the top
- Show off your shoulders
- Shirts that cinch your waistline and flair at the hips
- Low V-necks and U-necklines make you look longer and leaner and draw the eye down.
- Celebs with this body type: Naomi Campbell, Demi Moore and Renee Zellweger
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