Rachel McCarthy, Author at A Blonde's Moment

November Neutrals

November 2, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

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If I had to give the month of November a color, it would most definitely be camel. Falling leaves, cooler temperatures and Thanksgiving (which is only three weeks away!!!) have me dreaming in neutrals…with little touches of gold.

I don’t think it’s any coincidence that this neutral color makes me think of November. Camel transitions to gold so perfectly, leading us into the festive holiday season. I’ve rounded up of a few of my favorite camel and gold pieces for today’s post. From clothing to beauty products to home accessories, these shades are everywhere this season!

If you are looking for a staple v-neck sweater that can go with just about everything in your closet, THIS particular one is available in several colors and is currently 30% off with the code SHOPNOW. It’s easy to dress up with a cute A-line camel skirt and pointy toe flats or dress it down with skinny jeans and ankle boots.

I recently discovered THIS brand of lipgloss and I am completely obsessed! You know how much I love to match my lip color with my look and I can’t get over how gorgeous these colors are in person! My first purchase was the Buff color and I loved it so much, I ordered the Cassis and Cabernet — perfect for fall and the holiday season.

I hate to go all Christmas on you just yet (Halloween was only two days ago!) but I found these gold coasters that would be perfect for the holidays — or anytime of the year in our house! I stick to mostly golds and silvers when decorating for Christmas. I’m not a huge fan of the red and green decor.

And since I already mentioned Christmas, I recently discovered THESE fragrances in an ornament! Jo Malone has a lot of Christmas pieces out already like THIS miniature candle collection, THIS “Christmas cracker set” and THIS bathtime collection. Cute packaging included 🙂 P.S. Not to freak anyone out, but I remember a lot of the beauty gift sets going really fast last Christmas, so if you are interested in any of them, I would order them early! Personally, I have yet to come to terms with the fact that it is already November. Is anyone else with me? Where did this year go?!

Did you hear about the Shopbop Surprise Sale that started yesterday? For three days, shop select styles up to 40% off! Here are a few of my favorite picks. You can click directly on the image 🙂

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday, friends!

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Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

November 1, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Crockpots are a lifesaver on weeknights or any day with a busy schedule. At least once a week, I try to make something for dinner in the crockpot. I love being able to throw the ingredients in and just let it cook. Lately, I’ve been on a real soup kick — it’s the perfect warm dinner for a cool fall day. And I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off November than sharing a roasted butternut squash soup with all of you!

Herringbone & Plaid

October 31, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

You may have figured out by now that my go-to fall accessory is a blanket scarf. Although, since the weather seems to be cold one week and warm the next, I am not getting to wear them nearly as much as I would like to. Today, I am pairing my most recent blanket scarf purchase {you may remember it from THIS post} with a warm and cozy vest in the most quintessential fall pattern: herringbone.

Herringbone Vest: J.Crew Factory {under $50!} | Turtleneck Sweater: Chelsea28 via Nordstrom {on sale!} | Leggings: Zella | Boots: Hunter | Blanket Scarf: Love Always {only $15!} | Bag: GiGi New York, similar HERE | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Lips: #205

When I purchased THIS blanket scarf, I knew that it would be
the perfect match for THESE boots. Don’t get me wrong, I love my red boots, but
there is just something so incredible about hot pink rain boots! Although the
red may be slightly more practical, the pink will not only be perfect for
spring but also for fall – pink is a year-round color in my book!

When it comes to pattern mixing, I like to keep the rest of
the outfit pretty simple. THIS turtleneck sweater is probably one of my
all-time favorites. I bought it in a few colors last winter and have literally
worn it to death. Thankfully, it is still available and is now on sale! It’s an
oversized fit {I’m wearing a medium for reference} and it looks cute paired
with jeans or leggings. It’s also available in THIS burgundy color that I have
had my eye on!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! If you follow along
on Instagram or Snapchat, you may have seen that we were in Kentucky visiting
Louisville and the Bourbon Trail this past weekend. My husband has always
wanted to experience bourbon country, so for his birthday back in September, I
got him the trip! We came home yesterday {I’m actually writing this post from
26,000 feet!} so it was a pretty quick trip, but fun nonetheless – and I don’t
even like bourbon! Thanks for dropping by and have a great start to the week,
friends!

This post is linked up with: B Loved Boston | Fizz & Frosting | More Pieces of Me | Lipgloss & Crayons | Start the Week Stylish | Still Being Molly | Fashion Frenzy | October Fashion Series | On Trend Tuesdays | Style Me Wednesday | Layers and Lipstick

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Bubble Gum Pink

October 27, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Layers are a girl’s best friend with the latest round of cool temperatures. I went a little outside of my style comfort zone to create a different kind of layered look today {no blanket scarves here!). This “moto-chic” looks combines a cozy turtleneck, faux leather jacket, skinny jeans and ankle boots…and I’m totally obsessed with it.

Faux Leather Jacket: BLANKNYC | Turtleneck Sweater: J.Crew, color is from last season {similar color HERE} | Black Jeans: J.Crew | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Bag: Chanel {similar style HERE} | Ankle Boots: similar HERE | Lips: Snob, Turkish Delight

It was by total accident that this outfit came together. I was putting a few looks together in my closet and I came to one of my favorite sweaters from last fall/winter — how can you not love this pink! When I was putting together a fall color crush post about burgundy, I had noticed they were remaking THIS sweater again. It’s super warm, comfy and I love the high-low hemline. {Unfortunately, the sweater isn’t available in pink this season, but it is available in THIS turtleneck style.} Anyways, I was happy to see it was back in stock and it was a good reminder to incorporate it into a look. When I pulled the sweater out of my closet, it was hanging right next to THIS faux leather jacket and that’s when the light bulb went off! It would be a little outside my style comfort zone, but I had a feeling I would love the combination together.

If you have been following along for awhile, you know I pretty much stick to classic and more preppy pieces. But, I have to say, I liked the switch up with this edgier {dare I say darker?!} look. It’s amazing that a preppy bright pink sweater from J.Crew can be used in the same sentence as “edgy” and “moto”, but I think that speaks to the versatility of the sweater!

I hope you have a great weekend! We are off on an adventure this weekend. I planned a trip to a place my husband has always wanted to go for his birthday present back in September and this is the weekend we go! Any guesses? Follow along on Instagram {rach.mccarthy} and Snapchat {rach.mccarthy7}! See you back here on Monday!

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Splurge vs. Save: Statement Coat

October 26, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

leopard coat | sunglasses | lipstick {#401} | watch | black jeans | handbag | nail polish {#08} | turtleneck sweater | belt | earrings | eyeshadow palette | pumps

Now that the temperatures are beginning to drop {and will hopefully be staying this way!} it’s time to start thinking about coats. Since it’s not terribly cold yet, I like to focus more on the “cuteness” factor of the coat, as opposed to the warmth factor. As far as cute coats go, I can’t think of a better piece than a statement coat, of the leopard variety, of course. And since I haven’t shared a splurge vs. save post in awhile, I wanted to talk about styling a statement coat at any budget.

leopard coat | sunglasses | lipstick {cabernet} | watch | black jeans | handbag | nail polish {limited addiction} | turtleneck sweater | belt | earrings | eyeshadow palette | pumps

Styling a statement coat, or piece for that matter, can sometimes be tricky. Since it is such a loud and in your face piece {you are making a statement after all!} it’s important to highlight it, not take away from it by choosing other not so basic pieces. As for the leopard jacket, black with touches of gold are always a safe combination that won’t detract from the coat. I do, however, always love to add a pop of color with lipstick and nail polish. The red in both looks adds to the statement factor of the coat, and red, black and leopard is always a classic combination! If the bold lip isn’t your thing, a nude or beige lip color would also look fabulous.

When it comes to comparing the splurge and save looks, I definitely have a few favorite finds. The splurge sunglasses are priced at almost $450, while the save sunglasses are currently on sale for $22! The save statement earrings are almost an identical match for the Kendra Scott splurge earrings, except they are about $50 less. Last, but certainly not least, the handbag comparison. I truly could not believe how similar the two bags were when I first found them, yet not so similar in price. The splurge handbag comes in at almost $900 while the save is only $48!

How do you like to style a statement coat? What are some of your favorites from the splurge vs. save items? Have a wonderful Wednesday, friends!

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SHOP SPLURGE

SHOP SAVE

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

October 25, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

I’ve never met a mac and cheese I didn’t like. Actually, it’s probably one of my favorite “not so healthy” foods. And I could probably eat it at least a few times a week if it were socially acceptable to do so! It’s been awhile since I made mac and cheese {since it is so unhealthy} but since making THIS Zoodle Mac and Cheese recipe a few months ago, coming up with another healthy alternative has been on my mind…

Fall Favorites: OTK Boots & Blanket Scarves

October 24, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

There is nothing that says fall more than over the knee {OTK} boots and blanket scarves. The temperatures got seriously cool on Saturday, and I was more than happy to break out a few of these fall favorites.

fall-outfit-blanket-scarf-over-the-knee-boots

Oversized Sweater: Nordstrom {available in 3 other colors} | Blanket Scarf: Shein c/o {under $10} | Leggings: Zella | Boots: Stuart Weitzman {similar style for $125 HERE} | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: #28

When it comes to blanket scarves, I realize that my collection is quite extensive. For me, my love stems from their warmth factor and of course the unique color combinations of each. As I have mentioned a few times this fall, burgundy is definitely one of my fall color crushes. You may remember THIS scarf from the beginning of the year when I wore the scarf as a wrap {you can see that post HERE} — it’s so versatile!

OTK boots, the ideal mix of warmth and style, are another fall staple. THIS particular pair is the perfect match for so many fall pieces, including this blanket scarf. I liked THIS similar pair that is almost an exact match and it’s under $200!

I hope you all had a great weekend! Ella had her Halloween costume party on Saturday and won Cutest Costume! I shared a little bit of the party on Snapchat, but here are a few more snaps. As you can tell, it was insanely windy. I was afraid she would blow away! Ella really was the cutest bumblebee I’ve every seen!

Have a great start to the week, friends!

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Fall Plaid

October 20, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

We all have that classic piece in our closet that comes back year after year that we never want to part with. In most cases, since it is a classic, the styling options are endless and it’s typically a neutral color {it does have to come back each year!} Although I probably have a few pieces in my closet that fit this description, the one that comes to mind for fall each year is THIS camel skirt.

Plaid Blouse: J.Crew Factory, sold out {similar style HERE} | Boots: Hunter | Skirt: J.Crew Factory, similar color HERE | Bag: Tory Burch | Pearl Necklace: J.Crew | Bracelets: David Yurman Link, Cuff | Earrings: Kate Spade | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick:Elizabeth Arden {marigold}

I have had this camel skirt for a few years now — since it is such a classic, it is still available! — and each fall I come back to it and find new ways to style it. In the past, I’ve waited until the temperatures were a little cooler and I paired the skirt with tights and booties or riding boots. But, since the temperatures have been all over the place lately {it was in the upper 80s here yesterday!} I opted for no tights and Hunter boots.

As much as I love this camel color, I often find it difficult to wear because of my light hair and complexion. A pop of color is a must to make this look work, and this plaid blouse couldn’t be more fitting! Speaking of this plaid blouse, it is one of the softest shirts I have ever owned! And since this blouse is more fitted and shorter than your average blouse, it is ideal for tucking into a skirt or pants. With the mix of orange and red in the top, I was obligated to accessorize with red boots and the most perfect lipstick. I’ve only worn THIS shade a few times, but it is a perfect match for these boots!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Ella has her Halloween costume party on Saturday. Last year, she won best costume so she is hoping to defend her title this year! Her costume is a little different this year, but it is too. cute. for. words. I will be posting some pictures on Snapchat {username: rach.mccarthy7} and Instagram {rach.mccarthy} over the weekend so stay tuned!

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Midnight Blue

October 19, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

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I have been on a serious fall color kick as of late. And as much as I love a good burgundy or olive green, the past week I’ve been swooning over a not so typical fall shade: midnight blue.

There is something so rich and glamours about this midnight blue/navy color. The deep hue is not only perfect for wearing now, but also as we get into the holiday season and winter months. And although it was once considered a fashion faux pas, I love the mix of navy and black together, especially when it comes to more formal pieces. Two navy and black pieces I am loving right now: THIS collarless tweed embellished jacket and THIS quilted puffy coat with a faux fur collar. There is something very elegant about mixing navy and black together, don’t you think?

A few more pieces of note:

If you are looking to add two trendy shoes to your collection that happen to be in this gorgeous color, THESE menswear inspired pointed toe flats are under $80 and THESE velvet ankle boots are a must for your fall and winter looks. I’m all about velvet right now and these are reasonably priced at $89!

I have had my eye on pretty much every new arrival from Tory Burch but the suede handbags are at the top of my list. Although I do love this blue, with the bag’s higher price tag, it would probably be more economically to pick a more neutral color. Speaking of new arrivals, have you seen THIS “block T” leather tote?

If you are looking to expand navy to your beauty look, THIS 9-color palette has some gorgeous shades that would look good well into the holidays too.

You may remember from a post a few weeks ago about fall decor {you can read that HERE} that I was searching for a good fall candle. I did just find THIS one over the weekend and so far so good! But, THIS particular candle caught my attention as a possibility for later in the year. I have had great luck with Voluspa candles in the past so I’m definitely looking forward to trying more.

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Halloween Caramel Apple Pops

October 18, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

With Halloween quickly approaching {I’m just as shocked that it’s almost the end of October!}, it’s that time of the year to share a Halloween-inspired food post. I wanted to share something that would not only work for Halloween, but could also be made for the rest of fall by just changing the decorations. There was one fall treat that came to mind: caramel apples.

I love caramel and I love apples. But, to be honest, I have a serious fear of caramel apples. I don’t know about you, but when I think about caramel apples, the thought of losing a tooth comes to mind. Sorry to go there, but that happens to be why I went with slices instead of the full apple! Caramel and apples are a great combination, but for me, not worth losing a tooth over.

A little background on this recipe: Originally, I had planned to cut the apples into slices and dip just part of the apple in the caramel sauce — stay tuned for how I made the caramel sauce…it’s the best invention ever! — but, as my mom reminded me, the apple needed to be completely covered because it would start to brown once it was exposed to the air. The idea of caramel apple “lollipops” came to mind and I thought that these would not only be a fun dessert for kids, but adults too!

I went through quite a few apple slices to get the recipe right. I started by covering the entire apple slice {front and back} with the caramel, but as the caramel dried, the water from the apple caused the caramel to melt off the back of the apple while it was drying on a wax paper-lined cookie sheet. I quickly realized that only the front of the apple could be covered with caramel and it was going to have to be a “quick turn around” treat.

If I were to make these again, I would probably dip the entire apple slice in the milk or white chocolate and then drizzle the apple with the caramel. I think the chocolate would harden and keep the apple better enclosed. Regardless, they came out cute and were fun to decorate with Halloween sprinkles {I used THESE}.

**Now for the caramel! When I was younger, I remember baking with my mom and having to unwrap all the Werther’s caramels and then melting them. But, THESE caramel bites are easy to melt and they are wrapper-free. Best. Invention. Ever.**

print recipe

Halloween Caramel Apple Pops

Ingredients

2 Granny Smith apples, sliced
11 ounce package Caramel bits
1/4 cup White chocolate, melted
1/4 cup Milk chocolate, melted
Sprinkles for decorating, if desired
Wooded sticks
Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

Wash and dry the apples well. Place a piece of wax paper on a baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray Cut into about 1/2 inch slices and place the wooded sticks in the apple. Melt the caramel bits according to package instructions. Once the caramel has melted, dip the apples into the caramel, only covering one side. Place apples on wax paper to dry and, if using sprinkles, put them on now before the caramel hardens. If using chocolate: once the caramel is dry, melt the chocolate and drizzle on the apple with a fork. Use a toothpick to spread the chocolate around or to create a design. Serve caramel apples immediately.

For more Halloween recipes, see last year’s spooky ghost cupcakes post HERE and a creepy dark and stormy cocktail HERE.

Thanks for dropping by! Have a great Tuesday, friends!
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This post is linked up with: Tasty Tuesdays | Tickle My Tastebuds Tuesday | Two Cup Tuesday | Weekend Potluck | SITS Girls | Diary of a Real Housewife