Rachel McCarthy, Author at A Blonde's Moment

Gingham Dress

August 8, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I spent the weekend at The Blog Societies conference in Charleston, and let me tell you, it was a hot and humid one {hence my hair situation here!}. This is the look I wore for the first full day of the conference and this gingham dress was the perfect cool, summer dress for that weather!

Gingham Dress: J.Crew {same style in linen HERE} | Blush Reversible Tote: Nordstrom | Blush Statement Earrings: BaubleBar {also available in white} | Sunglasses: Prada | Cuff: Mark and Graham c/o | Sandals: old {this season HERE} | Lips: Snob, Turkish Delight

I know I have been all about fall lately {exhibit A, exhibit B}, but today I am taking a quick break to share a few more summer looks, since cool dresses were a necessity in Charleston over the weekend!

There are so many things to love about this dress, it’s hard to know where to begin! Gingham is one of my favorite patterns for summer — and a midi shirtdress with a slight handkerchief hemline is just too perfect for words! Since I needed my camera and computer at the conference, I went with my favorite reversible blush tote, which can hold a ton. And with the “blush” accessory theme, when I found these blush floral statement earrings, I knew I had to have them.

As for #TBScon, I can’t say enough wonderful things about the weekend. Not only was it great to connect with bloggers from around the country, there was SO much information to be learned. If you are a blogger and looking for a wonderful community to join, I would highly recommend The Blog Societies!

Thanks so much for dropping by and have a wonderful start to the week!

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Travel Day

August 4, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Friday Eve, friends! As we speak, I am on my way to Charleston for The Blog Societies Conference and I couldn’t be more excited! It’s just a quick post today so I can share with you my casual travel look. When traveling, comfort is obviously key, and these are some of my most comfortable pieces! Most of the time, jeans and comfort don’t fit into the same sentence, but THESE jeans are my very favorite because they are soft and so non-jean like, if you know what I mean 🙂

Black Tee: Caslon via Nordstrom {only $17! I sized up so it was a littler bigger} | Jeans: Current/Elliott | Black Sandals: Jack Rogers | Panama Hat: J.Crew | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban | Monogram Necklace: Onecklace c/o | Cuff Bracelet: David Yurman | Watch: Kate Spade | Reversible Tote: Nordstrom | Leopard Suitcase: Chariot | Lips: Snob, Turkish Delight

Speaking of comfort, I picked up THIS black tee over the weekend at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and it’s the perfect basic tee. Priced at only $17 during the sale, it comes in a variety of colors and makes for a great staple tee in your closet. It does run a little big and I also sized up so it would be pretty baggy. Remember, comfort is key 😉

Last, but not least, THESE jelly sandals have been on my feet all summer long {when I’m not in work shoes that is!}. They are easy to throw on and are super cute. Also available in several colors, they are under $50. I have them in THIS bone/gold color too!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Be sure to follow along on Instagram {rach.mccarthy} and Snapchat {rach.mccarthy7} for a behind the scenes look at Charleston and #TBScon! See you back here on Monday!

This post is linked up with: Mix & Match Fashion | My Refined Style | Twenties Girl Style | Stylin in St. Louis | Living in Color | Pumps and Pushups | Thursday Fashion Files | Rachel The Hat | Fashion Friday | Friday’s Fab Favorites | Daily Style Finds | East Coast Chic | Friday Favorites | Casual Friday
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UncommonGoods Jewelry

August 3, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Wednesday, friends! Each time a holiday, birthday or anniversary comes around, I typically make it my mission to find a special gift. A few years ago, I discovered UncommonGoods while searching for an anniversary present for my husband {HERE is a great list of ideas if you are searching for your own, hard to shop for, significant other!}. After taking a look at their selection, I knew I found a place where I would be finding so many unique and unusual gifts for anniversaries and birthdays to come. There are so many things to love about UncommonGoods, besides their amazing selection of gifts, including design challenges that allow artists to promote their work. How cool is it that you are virtually wearing artwork with these pieces?

When it comes to accessories, especially jewelry, I am always attracted to personalized pieces, especially initials and monograms {full selection of jewelry HERE}. When I first spotted THIS 3D printed initial pendant I instantly thought statement piece! And, when it comes to personalized pieces, THIS custom beach sand necklace is such a unique idea. I actually bought THESE beach sand cufflinks for my husband a few years ago for our anniversary and used the sand from the beach we were staying at on that anniversary trip. I think it’s such a sentimental way to remember certain events, occasions or trips.

UncommonGoods jewelry never disappoints, including the selection of handmade pieces {you can see the full selection of handmade jewelry HERE}. The gorgeous stones the artists work with, including THIS waterfall stone ring and THIS stunning aquamarine cuff, make for the most beautiful pieces that are truly works of art! Most of all, I love that each piece of jewelry is unique, which helps me achieve that “special gift” status for everyone on my list.

Speaking of unique and special…I discovered THESE custom pet portrait cufflinks last year and knew I had to get them for my husband. Since he wears cufflinks everyday, I love finding new and unique designs to “accessorize” his outfit haha! And these might be the best yet. For those of you who don’t know, we are pretty obsessed with our little Miss Ella. So when I found out that her picture could be engraved on his cufflinks, I couldn’t resist. The pet portrait is also available in the necklace version, which would make the perfect birthday or anniversary present. Hint, hint, Richard 😉

You can see the image I sent to the artist below. I think her rendition captures Ella’s personality perfectly.

Thanks so much for dropping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

Brought to you by UncommonGoods. As always, all opinions are my own.

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Zoodle Mac & Cheese

August 2, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Another Tuesday, another zoodle recipe! You may remember this recipe from a few weeks ago, and since then, I just can’t get zoodles off my mind! Not only are zoodles healthier than pasta, they are so much fun to make. {I used this spiralizer & it’s currently on sale!} I am always on a quest to find healthier versions of some of my favorite comfort foods, and this might be my favorite yet! It’s still the same basic cheese sauce recipe, but by swapping out the pasta for zucchini, it’s much more carb friendly. Check out the recipe below!

Olive Green

August 1, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. It was a relatively relaxing one for us, with just a few errands and I managed to get two runs in {inside, on the treadmill, obviously haha!} It’s always a good weekend when I can get a run in and when it’s two, it’s a miracle! Anyways, on to this summer to fall transition outfit…

A Bohemian Fall

July 28, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Thursday, friends! Well, I wasn’t kidding when I said I was ready for fall in yesterday’s post. Although it was quite warm while shooting these pictures in the 100 degree heat, I wanted to share some fall outfit inspiration for you while the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is still going on! I won’t break out the blanket scarves on you {yet!} but this particular outfit is perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. Also, I love that this blouse can easily be worn now because it’s super cool and lightweight. How cute would it be with olive green shorts?!

Peasant Blouse: Hinge {on sale!} | Denim: Current/Elliott | Suede Lace-Up Flats: Halogen {only $59!} | Flat Brim Hat: Hinge {under $30!} | Handbag: similar style here | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Necklace: Onecklace c/o {wearing XXL size} | Watch: Kate Spade | Cuff: David Yurman | Earrings: Nordstrom | Lips: #47, #07 {part of this lip kit, on sale!}

I know I’m always talking about these lace-up flats {and the blush version I also own — last seen here} but they are such an easy and comfortable shoe! I have a feeling I will be wearing these all fall long. I definitely see a lot of browns and olive greens in my future 🙂

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Not too much on our agenda except prepping for Charleston next week. To all my blogger friends: is anyone going to The Blog Societies Conference in Charleston next week?! Let me know!

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Transitioning to Fall

July 27, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

linen dress {available in white & metallic, too} | sunglasses {#NSale find!} | floppy hat {color: tan camel heather} | nail polish {not just a pretty face} | lipstick {#001} | drop earrings {on sale!} | leopard flats | watch {#NSale find!} | tassel crossbody bag {under $30!}

This happens every year. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale gets me thinking about so many cute fall clothes, I start planning fall outfits in this 100 degree weather. Admittedly, fall is my favorite season, so I do find myself dreaming of layers and blanket scarves more than the average person haha! But now, as we head into August {p.s how is that even possible??} it seems like a good time to start getting your closet ready for the cooler temperatures.

I have had my eye on this green linen shift dress for a few weeks now — it’s the perfect dress to wear now and as we start to transition into fall. Wear it now with white accessories or in the fall with brown and leopard accents {like I did here!}. And speaking of leopard accents…we all know my favorite neutral is leopard and I am constantly trying to find ways to work it into my outfit. When I spotted this half pointed toe flat/half loafer, I fell in love! It’s a mix of two of my favorite fall shoes in one…beyond brilliant!

And since the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is to blame for my fall obsession, I wanted to include a few items from the sale that would look perfect with this dress. This fun tassel crossbody bag will make for the perfect handbag all fall and with it under $30, you can buy it in black, too! I have these drop earrings in a mint color and they are super comfortable and not heavy given their statement size. I love this new color for fall with the gold trim — it will go with so many things in your closet in the coming months! And last, but certainly not least, the #NSale is a great time to scoop up designer pieces at great prices, like these sunglasses and watch, which is over $70 off during the sale!

Are you dreaming of fall yet? I hate to wish the month away, but I am definitely looking forward to the cooler temperatures in the coming months. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

July 26, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

When it comes to desserts, I can’t say that I really have much of a sweet tooth. Although, there is one exception: Starbucks Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. This is one sweet that I crave and just typically can’t resist. I like to think my willpower is pretty strong, but when the Barista asks if she can warm the oatmeal cookie. STOP. All bets are obviously off! But, for as much as I love those Starbucks cookies, I don’t love the calories associated with them. So, I decided it was time to recreate this coffee house favorite in a healthier, yet just as delicious, version.

mashed-banana-substitute-in-cookies-recipe

With only four ingredients, all of which are healthy, these aren’t a clone for the Starbucks cookies, but an excellent and healthier replacement. If you are more of a chocolate-lover, you could easily replace the raisins for chocolate chips or even add different fillings like coconut, walnuts, or butterscotch chips! Check out the easy recipe below!

print recipe

Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

by Rachel McCarthy July-26-2016

This healthy spin on the Starbucks Oatmeal Cookie has only four ingredients and can be customized with your favorite fillings!

Ingredients

2 bananas, smashed
2 cups old fashioned oats
1/2 cup raisins, or other filling of choice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place oats in a food processor and blend until the consistency of flour is reached; transfer to a medium-sized bowl. Add the smashed bananas and vanilla extract to the oats and stir to combine completely. Add the raisins (or other filling of your choice) and mix to combine. Place dollops of the mixture onto a cookie sheet and bake for about 10-11 minutes until just set. Serve and enjoy!

Details

Prep time: 5 mins Cook time: 10 mins Total time: 15 mins Yield: 12 cookies

The Best Chambray Dress

July 25, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! If you have been following along for awhile now, you may remember seeing this chambray dress practically every season over the past year. A classic chambray dress is a closet staple, and one that can be worn each and every season is a total winner! I bought this chambray number about a year ago and I have worn it so many different ways: with leopard and fall accessories to fur vests to blush accessories, it’s truly a 4-season dress!

Chambray Dress: J.Crew | Espadrilles: Marc Fisher {wearing “orange suede”; also available in black & tan} | Tote: Tory Burch | Cuff Bracelet: David Yurman | Watch: Kate Spade | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lips: #47, #07 {part of this lip kit on sale here}

I have had my eye on these espadrilles for a few months now. I originally saw these designer sandals and absolutely fell in love. But at that crazy price point, I was definitely interested in finding a save option! Needless to say that when I found these espadrilles at a fraction of the price, I was beyond excited. Avaliable in black and tan {I’m wearing the “orange suede”} these espadrilles will be perfect to wear as we transition into fall too.

Last item of note: I saw this lip kit when the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale first went live over a week ago. Also available in pink shades, I had a hard time decided between those pretty pinks and basic nude. While I was at Nordstrom over the weekend, I got a chance to check out the colors in person and decided that the nude colors were definitely more practical, especially as we head into fall!

Did you find anything to purchase at the #NSale? I would love to know your favorite finds! Have a great start to the week and see you back here tomorrow!

This post is linked up with: B Loved Boston | Daily Express | Fizz & Frosting | More Pieces of Me | Lipgloss & Crayons | Start the Week Stylish | Still Being Molly

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Chambray & Floral

July 21, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Friday Eve, friends! I can’t believe another week is almost in the books and it’s already the end of July! Time needs to slow.down. The Citi Open tennis tournament is here in DC this week, so you can find us there today. Follow along on Snapchat {rach.mccarthy7} for more!

Chambray Shirt: J.Crew Factory | Floral Shorts: J.Crew Factory | Neon Bag: J.Crew, old but still available in camel or black here {similar style/color here} | Earrings: Nordstrom | Monogram Necklace: Onecklace c/o | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Bracelets: David Yurman {cuff here} | Wood Watch: JORD c/o | Lips: Snob, Turkish Delight

Needless to say, summer in DC is never cool, but it seems like the past week or two has been exceptionally hot — the high for Saturday, Sunday and Monday is forecasted to be 100. What?? And since DC summers never seem to disappoint in the heat category, my search for shorts began a few months ago. Well, after a few months of searching, I finally landed on these cute, colorful floral shorts that are just the right length. Finding shorts of the appropriate length is often very difficult…#tallgirlproblems. But, when I spotted these, I fell in love with not only the length but that pretty print!

And now, my latest accessory! My love for watches goes back to middle school when I thought it was the coolest accessory to have. I remember wanting this hot pink {go figure!} watch desperately and my mom told me that if I won my tennis match at this big tournament, she would get it for me. Well, the bribery worked and I was the proud owner of my new pink watch. Life was good! With time, I have become a little more practical when it comes to picking out a watch and these wooden watches from JORD might be just my favorite yet. I have admired JORD watches for a few years now — with so many different faces and shades of wood to pick from, I love how unique these watches are. And for being such a statement piece, I love that it literally goes with everything. This particular time piece features a champagne-colored face with the natural zebrawood finish — a perfect compliment to my gold bracelets!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and see you back here on Monday!

P.S. I am so excited to be featured this week as the Spotlight of the Week! You can see the feature here. Thanks so much!

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Wood Watches For Men