A Blonde's Moment

The Cozy Long Cardigan

January 11, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Hinge long cardigan {I’m wearing “grey combo” but it is also available in 3 other colors!} | long sleeve white tee {perfect basic tee — comes in 7 colors!} | Zella leggings | Tory Burch riding boots {on sale!!} | Hinge hat | Tory Burch tote | Moon & Lola monogrammed earrings | Ray-Ban sunglasses | David Yurman ring | red lipgloss {#9}

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I was back in Ohio visiting my grandmother for part of the weekend and wore this comfy travel look one of the days. And let me tell you, this long cardigan is definitely long car drive approved! It is so soft and super warm — it feels more like a robe than a sweater! This cozy sweater is available in three marbled colors {love the oatmeal!} and also solid black. It’s the perfect layering piece for those chilly days!

And I had to finish off this look with my new Tory Burch riding boots! My husband gave these to me for Christmas and I was ecstatic — I have had these on my wish list for so long!! We have had SO much rain over the past two weeks and there was no way I was taking these beauties out in the rain! But, the sun finally came out yesterday and I was able to break them out of the box over the weekend! Tory Burch boots rarely go on sale and these currently are over $100 off! This is definitely a steal!!

Hope you all have a great start to the week and see you tomorrow for a fun Super Bowl recipe! You won’t want to miss it!

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Windowpane Scarf

January 7, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Chelsea 28 turtleneck sweater {comes in 9 colors — I love it!} | Shein windowpane scarf c/o | black Zella leggings | red Hunter boots | earrings | red lipgloss {#9} | Karen Walker sunglasses c/o {get your first month of Endless Eyewear free with code ABLONDESMOMENT}

Well, I think it’s safe to say winter has officially arrived! It has been absolutely freezing here all week {you would think my Ohio blood could handle this!} and I have been pulling out all the warm sweaters, cozy scarves and heavy coats I can find! This turtleneck sweater is the definition of warmth, comfort and coziness — you need it in your closet! I went with a size medium for a more oversized fit, so size down if you want it to be more fitted. I love the black because it’s the perfect basic sweater, but I also have my eye on the blush pink, pale blue and red — I pretty much want this sweater in every color possible! To add some color to this otherwise monochromatic look, I added my red Hunter boots, which I have been living in as of late — there has been SO much rain! Better than snow I guess…which will probably be arriving soon!

Thanks for dropping by and have a wonderful weekend!

P.S. I updated my currently craving items under My Style in the sidebar so be sure to check them out! I’ve included some of J.Crew’s newest arrivals along with a few favorites for spring {!!} 🙂

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New Year, New Workout Clothes

January 6, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Nike tank | pink fitness tracker | headbands | running shoes | pink water bottle {love this & comes in 14 colors!} | hair ties {comes in 8 colors!} | workout tights | North Face parka | workout bag | reflective running gloves {on sale!}

As I mentioned in yesterday’s post {you can read it here in case you missed it!} the new year is the perfect opportunity to start fresh — and that includes adding to your workout wardrobe! I would probably live in workout clothing if it were acceptable and I would probably have enough outfits to last me a lot longer than I care to confess! Don’t get me wrong, I don’t discriminate when it comes to clothes, but there is something exciting about purchasing new workout clothes.

I’ve included some of my new year, new workout essentials for today’s post, which will allow you to achieve all your workout goals in the new year. Because let’s be honest, the workout goes SO much better when you like what you’re wearing…right?! Of all the workout clothing I have, I’m personally most obsessed with running leggings and tights. And I’m absolutely loving this black, white and sleek theme! Of course, an outfit for me isn’t complete without a little pink, and how cute is this water bottle?! Have any of you tried these bkr glass bottles? I’ve had this pink one on my wish list for while and I would love to hear if any of you have tried this brand! Lastly, you may remember these hair ties that I included in a Christmas stocking stuffer post last month. I actually received a few colors for Christmas and I LOVE them! They pull back my hair so well and don’t leave the usual “hair tie line” that most hair ties seem to. They even work with my now shorter hair!

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Wednesday!

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Green Smoothies for a Healthy 2016

January 5, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

green-smoothie-jif-powdered-peanut-butter

As we begin a new year, many people vow to start exercising more, eating better or just committing to a healthier lifestyle. For me, smoothies are the perfect way to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet with ease. And, there is no denying my love for smoothies: admittedly, I actually had two green smoothies this past Saturday {insert monkey covering mouth emoji here}.

I have been a fan of powdered peanut butter for about a year now, typically sticking with PB2. But, when I heard JIF was introducing a new peanut butter powder, I was eager to give it a try. Not only because it was something new, but also because it can be conveniently found on your grocery store shelf. {Does anyone else have a hard time finding PB2? I’ve had luck at GNC and just recently saw it advertised at Sam’s Club, but unfortunately our location didn’t have it in stock! I would love to know where you find your PB2 in stores!}

Interesting fact about the JIF powdered peanut butter: you don’t just add water like PB2, you have to also add a sweetener, such as honey. If I would have read the directions before making the first smoothie, I would have discovered that, but I just assumed it was the same as PB2!! Hence the above picture with the powder peanut butter AND honey.

Overall, the JIF and PB2 are pretty comparable by my estimates, as long as you add the honey to the JIF! But, when it comes to smoothie making, it’s a lot easier to just add the powdered peanut butter than have to remember the honey {or be like me and not have any honey in the house!}. Regardless of what powdered peanut butter you use, it’s a healthy and easy way to add protein to your smoothie.

**You can read about the first time I experimented with powdered peanut butter in my smoothies here**

There are plenty of ways to stay healthy and start the new year off on the right foot — smoothie making is just one of them! What is your favorite way to start the year off healthy? Stay tuned for a special healthy for 2016 Wednesday Wishes tomorrow!

Powdered Peanut Butter Green Smoothie

{what you will need}

1/2 cup spinach

1/2 banana

2 tablespoons powdered peanut butter

1/2 cup skim milk {you could also use almond milk}

1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt

Handful of ice cubes

1 teaspoon of honey {if using JIF powdered peanut butter!}

{directions}

Add all the ingredients to a blender, placing the spinach on top. Mix until completely combined and smooth.

Thanks for dropping by and here is to a healthy 2016! Happy smoothie making! 😉

grey trench vest

January 4, 2016 by Rachel McCarthy

Shein trench vest c/o | black turtleneck | black Zella leggings | black patent leather belt {similar style} | Tory Burch tote | ankle booties, old {similar style} | Roxanne Bergez wrap bracelet c/o, link bracelet | Karen Walker sunglasses c/o {get your first month of Endless Eyewear free with code ABLONDESMOMENT} | red lipgloss {#9}

Happy Monday and welcome to January! It’s hard to believe Christmas is already over and we are starting a new year, time just goes too fast! After an unseasonably warm December, there was definitely a slight winter chill in the air this past weekend. And until the snow and subzero temperatures arrive, I have found the perfect extra layer! This trench vest from Shein provided just enough warmth and could easily be styled with a warmer sweater underneath for even colder days {I just have a turtleneck on}. To complete the look, I added the patent leather belt to make the vest more coat-like. As for size, I went with a medium and it was definitely large enough — I could have even probably sized down, depending on what sweater or shirt is worn underneath!

There is no denying my love for jewelry, especially when it’s a great statement piece! Roxanne Bergez has the most gorgeous bracelets, all made of the highest quality of leather and truly look more like pieces of artwork! After browsing the website, I was instantly attracted to this triple wrap bracelet. Isn’t it so pretty?! I love the way the silver crackled effect pairs so perfectly with this grey and black combination, it’s such an edgy winter look! The triple wrap bracelet is super versatile too — it can be styled by itself or stacked with other bracelets. This style comes in several different colors and textures — something for every look in your closet!

Hope you all have a wonderful Monday and see you back here tomorrow!

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Prepping for a Cozy January

December 30, 2015 by Rachel McCarthy

turtleneck sweater | red camp socks {comes in 4 colors!} | pom-pom hat {I have it in pink!} | lipstick {color: fashion pack} | mittens {on sale!} | green hooded parka {on sale!} | dark wash denim | beige colorblock scarf | winter duck boots | leather beige tote {I’m obsessed with this!}

The arctic temperatures have yet to hit us here in the Washington, D.C. area, but with January just around the corner {and after taking a look at the extended forecast!} it’s probably a good idea to start planning for some cooler air! In that spirit, today I am sharing a cute and cozy look to prep you for those inevitably colder January days!

Although, I must admit, some of my favorite clothes are of the winter variety. There is something so comfortable and cozy about big sweaters, fuzzy hats and warm scarves. Or maybe it’s because I grew up in Ohio and I was always prepared for the cold weather! Regardless, I definitely have a love for these winter clothes.

These red camp socks are some of my favorite socks I own — not only are they comfortable, but super cozy to wear with snow boots! And speaking of snow boots, the Sperry Duck Boots allow you to look perfectly stylish in the snow. The best part about these boots: they come in 12 different colors and patterns {and I’m pretty sure I love them all!}. Truly something for everyone!

Happy New Year and wishing all of you a wonderful 2016! See you back here on Monday!

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A Sparkly NYE

December 28, 2015 by Rachel McCarthy

Shein sequin jacket c/o | navy lace top | black leggings | studded pumps {similar style & on sale!} | bow clutch {similar style} | sunglasses | necklaces {similar} & bracelet | earrings {similar} | red lipgloss {#9} | red nail polish {wildfire}

Happy Monday! Since it is the season of sparkles, this sequin jacket is the perfect way to ring in the new year! What are your plans for New Year’s Eve? Have you decided on an outfit yet? If you are still looking for some outfit inspiration for NYE, check out this post!

Have a great start to the week!

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After Christmas Sales

December 26, 2015 by Rachel McCarthy

packable quilted down coat {under $140!} | sunglasses {such a steal!} | slouchy beanie | wool bow gloves | two-tone watch | C.O. Bigelow candle | pink stone pendant necklace | purple eyeshadow palette | studded pumps {look-alike Valentinos!} | bucket bag | faux fur vest

Happy Saturday, friends! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! Just a quick post to share with you some of my favorite after Christmas sales today — especially the Nordstrom’s Half Yearly Sale for men, women and kids that is going on now on through January 3rd! I’ve rounded up a few of my other post-Christmas sales below as well, so be sure to check those out! Have a great weekend and happy shopping!

Anthropologie: extra 25% off sale items with code TAGTIME

Banana Republic: extra 50% off sale

BaubleBar: top styles up to 65% off, no code necessary!

Forever 21: up to 75% off & free shipping on orders over $30 through 12/27

Gap: up to 50% off sale

J.Crew: extra 40% off winter styles with code SHOPNOW

J.Crew Factory: 30% off new arrivals & an extra 40% off clearance with code SALETIME

Macy’s: After Christmas One Day Sale – late breaking specials & 25-40% off clearance

Nordstrom: Half Yearly Sale for men, women & kids now through January 3rd!

Old Navy: up to 60% off, including clearance & 30% off your order with code ENJOY

Shopbop: 100s of new items added to the sale section!

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Merry Christmas

December 23, 2015 by Rachel McCarthy

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!

xo,

Rachel, Richard & Ella

Photos by Anna Meyer

P.S. I’ll be back Saturday for all the best after Christmas sales! Have a wonderful holiday!

Creating the Perfect NYE Look

December 22, 2015 by Rachel McCarthy

black jumpsuit | red lipstick {#401} | statement earrings | sparkly clutch | silver pumps | crystal cuff {under $40!} | red nail polish {color: wildfire…last 1 week & dries in 10 minutes!} | sequin jacket {on sale!} also here

It’s been awhile since I did a true outfit inspiration post with all the gift guides, so I wanted to share this New Year’s Eve outfit idea with you today! New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to wear sequins and sparkly accessories. How gorgeous are these statement earrings?! Can you believe they are only $16?? These are definitely on my wish list. And although the lace detailing on this jumpsuit is the perfect detail, if it is a bit chilly, this sequin jacket would be so fabulous over your shoulders! Lastly, I have mentioned this nail polish before, but it is my absolute favorite! I’ve been wearing this every week since Thanksgiving and I have yet to get sick of it! It’s the perfect Christmas red, stays on about a week and dries within 10 minutes! I can’t get enough of it! And it comes in other fabulous colors too! It’s definitely something to check out 🙂

I will be sharing one last post for the week tomorrow and then I’ll be back on Saturday for some post-Christmas sales. See you tomorrow and have a wonderful Tuesday!

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