A Blonde's Moment

Pattern Mixing with Pink Plaid & Stripes

October 17, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

My love for blanket scarves runs deep. You may remember in my last post wearing a blanket scarf {you can see that HERE} I mentioned trying to get my hands on that particular colorblock scarf since last fall. Well, that wasn’t the only blanket scarf on my wish list. I was also determined to find a scarf with pink…

It was amazing to me that I did not own a blanket scarf with the color pink incorporated in some way, I mean, it is my signature color! I searched high and low and finally landed on THIS cozy version and I couldn’t be more happy with it. I don’t think I could have asked for a better hot pink color.

With so many colors in this scarf, the styling possibilities are endless. But, I decided to incorporate some pattern mixing into the look with this striped tee {similar style HERE}. Fall is a great time to give pattern mixing a try because there are so many great patterns you can work with. You may remember the last time I wore this tee, I pattern mixed with leopard {post HERE}.

I hope you all had a great weekend! Mine was super busy with food post cooking and a few outfit posts. It didn’t feel like much of a weekend, but being productive is always a wonderful feeling. Have a great start to the week, friends!

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Aztec Poncho

October 13, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

I am a firm believer that you can never have enough ponchos or blanket scarves in your closet. There is something so warm and cozy about these two fall essentials and by this time of the year, I find myself gravitating to them more and more.

Aztec Poncho: H&M {only $12.99!} | Black Tee: Nordstrom | Leggings: Zella | Ankle Booties: Sole Society, old {similar style HERE} | Statement Earrings: similar HERE | Hat: Nordstrom, old {almost identical HERE} | Tote: Tory Burch | Lips: #10

Last week, while I was working on a Wednesday Wishes post, I spotted this Aztec printed poncho with fringe and thought it would not only be great to share with you, but I most definitely needed it in my closet! If you follow along on Snapchat {rach.mccarthy7}, you may have seen that we went to the Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival this past Saturday. Leading up to the event, I thought this poncho would be the perfect cozy piece to wear on a chilly fall evening. Unfortunately, the weather had different plans and it rained the majority of Saturday and even on our way to the festival {thankfully, it did finally stop by the time we arrived at Mount Vernon!}. With the unpredictable weather, I opted to wear something else so this wouldn’t get wet and I could still photograph it the next day!

To complete this cozy look — by the way, I can’t get over how warm this poncho really is! — I went with my favorite leggings, ankle booties {similar style HERE} and a simple black tee. I have a few of these tees from Nordstrom and they are such great basic pieces to have in your closet. This particular one is the crewneck style, but it is also available in the scoop neck. Both are under $20 and come in multiple colors! If your size isn’t available, keep checking back because they always seem to restock these!

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend? You will find me in the kitchen this weekend working on lots of food posts for you in the upcoming weeks, so stay tuned! Have a wonderful rest of the week and weekend, friends!

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Sunday at the Pumpkin Patch

October 12, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Nothing says fall like a pumpkin patch, and after living in Northern Virginia for over six years now, I was determined to find one this year. On Sunday, we piled into the car {with Ella, of course!} and headed out to Virginia wine country to check out the closest dog-friendly pumpkin patch.

Sweater: Nordstrom {available in 5 colors & under $40 — oversized fit, I’m wearing the medium} | Leggings: Zella | Hat: Hinge, last season {similar HERE & HERE} | Riding Boots: Tory Burch | Leopard Scarf: J.Crew, old {similar HERE} | Bag: Tory Burch | Lips: mixed #10 & #47

I was actually surprised that every pumpkin patch that was close to us was not dog-friendly. But I had heard wonderful things about Great Country Farms, so we didn’t mind the drive through Virginia’s mountains. And since Saturday was a complete rain-out, Sunday was the only option…I guess the other several hundred people there Sunday morning thought the same thing! Between all the people, Ella acting like a crazy pup and 45 mph winds…it was an interesting outing! We were shocked that we were able to get these pictures, and in the end, I think they turned out pretty cute 😉

Now onto the outfit. I saw this mock neck sweater a few weeks ago online and thought it looked so warm and cozy — a perfect fall sweater, right? Initially, I loved this color, but I was afraid it would be too light in color with my hair and skin tone. But when I saw it in store, I fell in love with the color even more and decided to go with it. Now, I want it in every color they make! I love the comfy, oversized fit and the mock neckline allows you to easily pair it with blanket scarves or statement necklaces, whichever you prefer.

As for the rest of the look, I went with my go-to leggings, riding boots and leopard scarf. Although it was incredibly windy and I did manage to lose my hat a few times, I’m so glad I went with the hat because my hair would have been all over the place. This was definitely the perfect look for pumpkin patch-ing: comfortable and warm!

Thanks for stopping by and see you back here tomorrow!

This post is linked up with: Fashion Frenzy | October Fashion Series | On Trend Tuesdays | Style Me Wednesday

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Hot Chips with Scallions, Blue Cheese & Balsamic Glaze

October 11, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

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If there is one appetizer that makes my heart skip a beat, it’s hot chips. Growing up in Northeast Ohio, “hot chips” can be found on just about any menu in my hometown. Most of the time it’s the same: a homemade potato chip with a delicious dipping sauce. But, one of my favorite restaurants back in Ohio does a little bit of a different spin on hot chips that makes them even more irresistible. I decided it was time to recreate this masterpiece…

First and foremost, I know some people don’t care for blue cheese {like my husband!} so this might not be too appealing if you are anything like him. As a side note, I made these one weekend when he was out of town because he can’t even look at the blue cheese package without feeling sick haha! So if blue cheese isn’t your thing, you could definitely replace the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese.

I think what I love most about these chips is the sauce that is made when you mix the blue cheese and balsamic glaze. Since the chips are warm, the cheese begins to melt and combines with the glaze to create a sauce that will truly make your mouth water! While the scallions add some pretty color to the dish, they also give the chips a little bite.

homemade-potato-chip-blue-cheese-balsamic

easy-homemade-appetizer-recipe-potato-chips

I used a fryer that is similar to THIS one, but if you don’t have a fryer, you can still make these in your oven {which would actually be a lot healthier!}. Just preheat your oven to 450 degrees and spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Follow all the directions in preparing the chips as mentioned below, but instead of placing them in the deep fryer, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and brush a little melted butter on each chip {you could also spray them with the cooking spray if you want them to be a little lower in fat}. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep checking on them though because some ovens could brown the chips faster!

print recipe

Hot Chips with Scallions, Blue Cheese & Balsamic Glaze

Homemade potato chips make for the perfect appetizer.

Ingredients

2 potatoes, unpeeled
3-4 scallions, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
balsamic glaze, for drizzling
canola or vegetable oil, for frying
salt, to taste

Instructions

Wash and clean the potatoes with cold water. Using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, finely sliced the potatoes into chips. Place the chips in a large bowl of ice water as you work — this will keep them from browning. When you are ready to fry the potatoes, transfer the potatoes to a paper towel to dry them off. Pour the oil into the fryer, adding just enough to cover the chips. Add the chips to the fryer and fry for about 5 minutes. Keep your eye on them — the potatoes are pretty thin and can brown quickly. **If you don’t have a fryer, see the alternative cooking method in the above paragraph** Transfer the potato chips to a clean paper towel-lined baking sheet. Season with salt. Arrange the chips on a serving dish and top with blue cheese, balsamic glaze and scallions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Have you ever made homemade potato chips? If you are as big of a fan as I am, you will definitely have to give these a try! Thanks for stopping by and happy cooking!

This post is linked up with: Tasty Tuesdays | Tickle My Tastebuds Tuesday | Two Cup Tuesday | Weekend Potluck

Fall Color Crush: Burgundy

October 10, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

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I’m switching things up a little this week and making Wednesday Wishes more like Monday Musings. Since a lot of people are off for Columbus Day today {unfortunately, I’m not one of them!} I wanted to share some fall color inspiration for those who have shopping planned for their day off.

I know this color is by no means revolutionary for fall — in fact, it’s probably the most quintessential color of them all — but, I have been seeing more burgundy than ever this season. I know I touched on this fall trend in one of my fall trends under $100 post, but there have been so many new pieces that have arrived since then, I could not resist sharing a few of my current favorites. From lace dresses to sweaters to accessories, this color is literally everywhere. One of my favorite burgundy finds of the season has been this turtleneck sweater. Although simple, it’s a great staple piece and perfect for layering with vests, jackets and blanket scarves {it’s also available in other colors if burgundy isn’t your thing!}. I bought the sweater last year in a bright pink and it was definitely a favorite.

Accessories are one of my favorite parts of creating a look and this selection of burgundy accessories are some of my favorite. I always love a good hat or blanket scarf, but this suede bag is truly stunning. As for shoes, these pumps with the semi-opaque detailing are just gorgeous and could be worn all through winter — how perfect would they be with a Christmas dress!

A few other burgundy items for fall:

I have had my eye on this coat for a while now. I love the draped lapels, wrap style and of course the color. It’s finally on sale for under $200. And I love the name 😉
Looking to add something burgundy to your husband/boyfriend’s closet? This shirt is one of my husband’s favorites — he has it in a few colors!
As I mentioned in last week’s Wednesday Wishes, I have been searching for fall candles for our house. I just discovered this one and I’m dying to smell it. I would be perfect for the holidays, too!

Floral & Leather

October 6, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

When I first saw this floral print at J.Crew a few months ago, I was smitten by it. The ruffle around the neckline was subtle and on-trend and there were so many pretty colors in the pattern, I knew I could style this several ways, even into fall. Last weekend in Pittsburgh, I wore the blouse with the perfect fall layering piece: a faux leather jacket.

Floral Blouse: J.Crew {extra 40% off with code YESPLEASE} | Cropped Jeans: cabi c/o {similar style HERE} | Faux Leather Jacket: BLANKNYC | Flats: Sam Edelman | Statement Earrings: old {similar style HERE} | Monogrammed Clutch: Mark and Graham {on sale!} | Rings: HERE & HERE | Nameplate Bracelet: Elizabeth Cole | Lips: #31 & #205

You may remember a few weeks ago in my fall trends under $100 series where I wrote about ruffles and mentioned that I had recently purchased a ruffle top {gasp!}. Well, this is it! And I have a confession: I have been wearing this blouse constantly over the past few weekends. It was cool to wear when we were having the heat wave in September and now that the nights are turning a little chilly, I’ve added the jacket. I bought the blouse when it first went on sale and shockingly, it’s still in stock and has been reduced even further. It is true to size and the perfect length {I am about 5’8 for reference}.

I couldn’t pass on the chance to pull the pink shade from the blouse into my accessories, and these pink suede flats and my favorite monogrammed clutch were a match. I bought these suede flats during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and they are also still available. A cute and comfortable flat that comes in a few other colors as well!

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Autumn Home Decor

October 5, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

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With the exception of Christmas, fall is definitely my favorite season for decorating. Now that it’s officially October, it seems like it’s socially acceptable to start pulling out the autumn decor pieces. We have been gone for what seems like every weekend for the past few months, but this weekend we are actually at home and I am so looking forward to decorating the house. Although, not looking forward to potentially dealing with Hurricane Matthew. I might be waiting until next week to get the mums if a hurricane is on it’s way…

These are a few of the fall decorations I have been eyeing to add to my collection this season. At the top of my list are white pumpkins: they would be so cute to add with the traditional pumpkins both indoors and outdoors. Also at the top of my list are festive kitchen towels. I love changing these towels out every season and the pumpkin pie and apple streusel towels are too perfect to pass up. Lastly, I have been searching for a fall candle for our living room. My husband finds the Bath and Body Works candles to be too overpowering, leaving us both with headaches, so we have been trying different brands. We just finished off this candle in amber and we loved it. I’m going to check out this one I mentioned above because not only does the pumpkin scent sound amazing, but I love the packaging!

Here are a few other fall finds to add to your kitchen:

Have you started thinking of fall pie baking yet? These autumn pie crust cutters would be such a wonderful presentation.
There is no denying my love for pasta and I love this fall spin. If you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner, try this pumpkin parmesan and butternut squash sauce with pumpkin shaped pasta!
This cast-iron pumpkin cocotte is functional for cooking and pretty on the table. Perfect for fall soups and stews! I just made this cauliflower chowder and have my eye on this chili recipe next!
Add this pumpkin spice hand soap, dish soap and a pumpkin spice soy candle to your kitchen to celebrate the fall season before you even start cooking!

Thanks for dropping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Pumpkin Rolls with Caramel Frosting

October 4, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

By the first week of October, you probably don’t have to search too far to find something with pumpkin in it. And as much as I get excited for just about anything pumpkin, I was looking for something different — don’t get me wrong, I love pumpkin pie, cupcakes, bars, cookies, etc…as much as the next person, but there had to be something new that wasn’t your standard pumpkin treat…

For me, cinnamon rolls and fall weekends go together like peanut butter and jelly. And although I don’t have cinnamon rolls all that often, it doesn’t mean I don’t constantly crave them! I thought I would add pumpkin to the “cinnamon” roll for a fun, fall spin on a classic sweet breakfast treat. But I wasn’t looking for a complicated recipe — I mean, who wants complicated recipes first thing on a weekend morning?! Using the crescent dough is a great shortcut when making so many baked goods, especially cinnamon {or in this case, pumpkin} rolls.

And instead of the traditional cream cheese frosting that typically accompanies pumpkin desserts, I wanted something that would stand up to that pumpkin taste, especially since there is not only pumpkin puree in these rolls but also pumpkin pie spice. I instantly thought of another favorite fall flavor, caramel. And oh my goodness was this a delicious combination! Thankfully, the frosting recipe I included below makes plenty for the pumpkin rolls, so you will have some leftover for frosting another dessert, dipping in graham crackers or for just eating it with a spoon like me!

print recipe

Pumpkin Rolls with Caramel Frosting

by Rachel McCarthy October-4-2016

A quick spin on the classic cinnamon rolls with an easy caramel frosting.

Ingredients

2 crescent rolls
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup + 2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 stick + 3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
flour, for dusting
non-stick spray

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Unroll the crescent rolls, one at a time, onto a floured surface. Press the perforated lines together so you have a rectangle. Spread about 1/2 cup of the pumpkin puree on the crescent roll and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice on top. Place about 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter, cut into pieces, on top of the pumpkin, sugar and spice. Beginning with the longer end, roll up, pinching the sides to seal. With a knife, slice the roll into pieces and place in greased round baking dish, cut side down. Repeat steps with second crescent roll. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.For Caramel Frosting: In a large bowl, mix the powdered sugar, 1 cup of brown sugar, stick of butter, heavy cream and salt with a hand mixer. Allow the pumpkin rolls to cool before frosting. Serve and enjoy!

What’s your favorite fall pumpkin treat? Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Tuesday, friends!

This post is linked up with: Tasty Tuesdays | Tickle My Tastebuds Tuesday | Two Cup Tuesday | Weekend Potluck

Rainy Daze

October 3, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Happy Monday and October, friends! Can you believe it’s already the tenth month of the year?! Serious question: where did September go?? And speaking of September, it was a rainy end of the month for us in Northern Virginia. After having hardly any rain all summer, we got enough last week to more than make up for it. The one good thing about all this rain was the opportunity to break out my favorite rainy day gear: Hunter boots.

Plaid Tunic: Nordstrom | Leggings: Zella | Rain Boots: Hunter | Bag: Tory Burch | Hat: Hinge via Nordstrom, last season {similar HERE} | Bracelets: David Yurman link, cuff | Lipstick: #09

I wore this look for the drive to Pittsburgh over the weekend and it was the perfect combination of cute and comfortable. I’ve had a serious thing for plaid lately, so when I saw THIS tunic {it comes in a TON of colors!} I knew it would be a great shirt for fall. And it’s ridiculously soft — it feels like a sleep shirt! I paired it with my absolute favorite leggings {I have a workout and non-workout pair!} and my floppy hat — there was no point in styling my hair in the rain because it would have been curl city!

We are heading home from Pittsburgh today since it was a late night last night for Sunday Night Football! I always love going back to Pittsburgh, but it’s funny how much a city can change in such a short time. I lived in Pittsburgh for four years during college and in the past six years, I can’t get over the changes…for the better! There are SO many great restaurants that did not exist when I was there {which is probably for the best!} and so many things that I wasn’t able to enjoy while living there as a student.

Would you be interested in a city guide to Pittsburgh? My first post EVER on ABM was about Pittsburgh {you can read it HERE} and I feel like I could definitely update it with new and exciting things. Let me know in the comments or by e-mail if that’s something you would be interested in reading. Have a great start to the week and see you back here tomorrow for a yummy pumpkin recipe!

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The Cardigan That’s On Repeat

September 29, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

When I bought THIS cardigan during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I knew that it would be a staple in my closet during the fall. Not only is the color perfect for the season, it’s soft and cozy and can obviously be worn several different ways {last seen HERE}! I’m always attracted to these longer, oversized styles, and this one is no exception…

Olive Cardigan: Nordstrom, almost identical HERE | Black Tee: Caslon via Nordstrom | Black Cropped Denim: cabi c/o {similar style HERE} | Leopard Pumps: Sam Edelman, last season {similar HERE} | Tote: Tory Burch | Ring: David Yurman | Monogram Necklace: Onecklace c/o | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: #47

There is something so comfortable and relaxed about these long and oversized sweaters. While this is more of a dressed up look with the heels, it could also be worn more casually with flats or even sneakers. This particular color is sold out {it’s still available in a few other colors}, but I did link THIS almost identical cardigan if you are looking for something in the olive green color.

We all know how much I like to mix black and camel and the leopard pumps are the perfect way to incorporate both colors into the look. Although these leopard pumps are a find from last year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I linked a super similar pair that is the same lower height, but the heel is just a little different. As for my other accessories, I went with my favorite everyday tote and monogrammed necklace.

I hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week and weekend! We are heading to Pittsburgh for the Steelers game {it’s the Sunday night game!} this weekend. I’m looking forward to stopping by my old college stomping grounds and eating at a few of our favorite restaurants! Be sure to follow along on Instagram {rach.mccarthy} and Snapchat {rach.mccarthy7}! See you back here on Monday!

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