Kim. The Bride. The Future Sister.

My little brother is getting married in August. That's right, my LITTLE brother! Hard to believe - feels like it was just yesterday that I was dressing him up in my clothes and high heels (thus the nickname Patricia :o). He is marrying a woman that he truly loves and cares for and that the Dacek family has come to call one of our own. What better way to officially welcome Kim into the fold? By throwing a quaint little farm inspired bridal shower! 

The day started off rainy, but right as guests started to arrive the clouds parted and the sun came out leaving an absolutely gorgeous day for us to enjoy. The shower was held at Diana's house in Westwood, MA....the perfect backdrop for a lovely celebration.  

First things first. I created the above mood board. I hunted and gathered inspiration from the web and created a power point slide. I know people love Pinterest, so use it if that's what floats your boat! Kim and Pat are getting married on  an eco-friendly, sustainable farm called Pigeon Hill in Vermont. It's very important to Kim (and Pat) to live a clean, organic lifestyle and they wanted that to shine through on their big day.

I tried to stay true to that in the menu by offering wild caught Atlantic shrimp, organic, local grilled chicken, and organic fruits and veggies. Most importantly I loaded up on local Vermont cheeses and meats! The flowers followed suit, my Aunt Barb did all of the arrangements and pulled 90% of the flowers from her own garden as well as her neighbor's (white theme - peonies, daisys, and dusty miller) - she did a beyond amazing job (as always)!!

A lot of Kim's gifts were wrapped in reusable tea towels, table clothes, and napkins to save on paper products. Even the plates that we used at the shower were eco-friendly and bio-degradable! 

Delicious Vermont homemade iced tea with mint and honey, sangria, and sparkling lemonade! Yum!

A really talented gal with a shop on Etsy made the paper rosettes. She was super easy to work with! Her shop is called The Papier Studio and she helped me customize based on Kim's colors. 

We sprinkled the rosettes around the house to tie all of the decorations together. There were also framed pictures of Pat and Kim as a couple everywhere you looked! As well as some very fun pics of Kim throughout her childhood (thanks to Kim's mom, Ellen).  

The bride and her flower girl, Addy. So CUTE!

Kim's closest friends.... 

I couldn't find the perfect napkins, so instead I used bandanas! Affordable and fun! Found them here in every color.... also the vintage teacup candles were made by me! I will post about that project soon.

Teacup candles "how to" will be posted at a later date...so easy to make! 

The painted mason jars were a great little project to do with girlfriends over many glasses of wine. Very easy, but added so much texture and color to the overall theme. I went to Home Depot, found a swatch that matched the seafoam green, had the paint expert mix it and boom - I had the right color. I also bought gold spray paint and a creamy, sparkly color too. It transformed them! We used them for flowers, homemade candles (more on that later), silverware, and snacks!

The stairs were based on my mood board. My dad saw about a quarter of a picture and was able to re-create it out of salvaged barn wood! Talented man that dad of ours...

Leave a Smile for the Bride! The polaroid has been busy the last 5 years making an appearance at many weddings, showers, and bachelorettes!

Two of the many tea towels that Kim unwrapped.... 

Cutest nuggets ever. Triple AAA. Abby, Alice, and Addy. Ridiculous. 

The Favors: a special shout-out to Whitney and Diana for doing the best job on embroidering these burlap satchels. You could clearly tell which ones they did vs. which ones I did (mine are at the back of the piles - ha). I put one Crabtree and Evelyn hand therapy in each with several sprigs of dried lavender. Delightful! 

We re-purposed the stairs by placing mini cupcakes on them! They came from a sweet little cupcake place in Old Lyme, CT that my mom discovered. Delish! We also had an entire ice cream sundae bar, but people were too busy eating that to take pics! 

The bride and groom with all of their "ladies". Barb - thanks for all of the gorgeous flower arrangements! Mom - thanks for contributing to everything! Auntie Pam, thanks for being there to help set up! Aunt Sue - thanks for your sangria mason jar and for helping with everything. We couldn't have done it without you ladies. Pat and Kim are lucky to have your love and support!!

A little tradition....... 

My sister (in law) Tera with Alice and the amazing hostess, Diana (also with Alice).

It was so much fun putting this shower together! A huge thanks goes out to my unofficial sister, Diana, for giving me an amazing canvas to work with, for all of her help doing the prep, and for simply being a member of the family. Love you!  

Now the countdown to the wedding begins! August 17th, here we come! Lots of well wishes to the future Mr. and Mrs. (Pat and Kim)... 

Love,

Kiki

Kim, the bride! We love you!

Jamaican Me Crazy: Build an Outfit

This past week was one of the most challenging I have ever been through, but amidst the fear, shock, and terror, I witnessed so much humanity, kindness, and love. I have been deeply impacted from beginning to end - running in the Boston Marathon and being on the course when the bombs hit followed by 24 hours of explosions, gunfire, and sirens filling the air of my little town called Watertown. It did end positively, victoriously, and with a deep, simultaneous sigh of utter relief. This hell is not over for a lot of the victims who will still need much time to heal and I will keep them in my prayers, my runs, and my heart forever. ​

It is with a guilty feeling that I prepare for my vacation with Bryce. We are headed to Jamaica for a quick getaway. I laid out some of my clothes tonight for the trip and all the while thought, does this really matter? What I am doing? And once again, does it really matter? I came to the conclusion that yes, yes it does. We cannot live in fear - "they" will not get to us and crush our spirits. We are STRONG. We are ONE. We are BOSTON.​ As a resident of this amazing city since 1998, I can honestly say that this week made me realize that I am a true Bostonian and that will never change and I am DAMN proud of it. 

With that said, I wanted to share some light on an otherwise dark week by posting what embodies this blog - an escape to fashion and fun. Here is a glimpse of what I plan on wearing everyday in Jamaica. Montego Bay - you have a couple pale Bostonians heading your way! Get the sunblock and pina coladas ready...... ​

THE Bathing Suit ​- The Star of the outfit! A Splendid suit fits like a glove and I plan on being in this every day for the 5 days we are in Jamaica. Love the bandeau because there are no tan lines!

​Panama Hat - Scored this hat last summer and went through 2 of them! The salt water from the boat does some damage, but nothing is going to bring back those sunspots I have worked so hard to get rid of this past winter! Sunblock and a hat, baby!

​Mexican Tunic - Just gorgeous, airy, summery, and love the bright colors! Perfect as a beach cover-up

Pura Vida Bracelets - Stack 'em high. I love these bracelets and wear them all summer long...great price and the company gives back to the community that creates them! Win/Win. ​

Beach Bag -​ key to a great travel beach bag is its ability to roll down and fit into your carry-on bag. Bright colors and nautical stripes are always worthy of some sand and salt water!

The Nude Flip Flop - Recently Splendid started to make shoes and man are they doing a good job! These are perfect strap width and color. They will go with everything!

Jules Smith Star Ankle Bracelet - Do I really need to say more? Nothing like a pretty, delicate ankle bracelet against newly tanned legs.

Fishtail Away - ​super easy, but keep it loose and low. These aren't as popular anymore, but I think if your hair is salty and sunny that it's a nice way to keep it out of the way. Take it out right before dinner for the most romantic, beachy waves! 

Bain De Soleil or Hawaiian Tropic ​- sunscreen, just wear it, but make sure it smells ultra yummy!

Vaseline Rosy Lips -​ hard to find, my friend usually grabs me tins of this when she is in London, but it's the ONLY makeup I will be bringing to Jamaica. Adds a tint of pink and will look great with a tan! 

I am feeling optimistic about this week being much better than last. One day at a time and we will get through this together.

Again, we are STRONG. We are ONE. We are BOSTON.

Have a fun and fashionable week everyone!​

xoxo

kiki

Soundbites: Week 3

I have to say I have been a bad kid. I am weeks behind on my Soundbites, but hopefully you will forgive me. Also, I find that remembering to take pics every morning can be a challenge, in addition to the time. It takes minutes to snap, but if it's between that and packing a lunch, well, I must say that food always trumps. Sorry this gal likes to eat! ​So, with that said, a full five days is often not represented.... but hopefully the inspiration will still be there!  This particular week I have three days of MENSWEAR.....infuse a little or a lot, it's up to you!

Menswear is the ultimate go-to. My favorite part is the contrast of femininity and masculine. A woman can look so chic in a man's outfit if the female essence comes through. How can this be done? Through use of accessories, color, and texture. 

Hudson Brand Boyfriend Khakis (similar​ here) , intentionally loose fitting and cuffed with a center crease down the middle. You can achieve this by folding your pants lengthwise on your iron and pressing a hot iron all the way down. It gives the illusion of long legs and also a more tailored look. ​

Ida Shoe from Shoemint, the menswear-inspired trend is complete with a black patent toe cap. These oxfords compliment the outfit with a touch of tomboy-chic.

Forever21 Herringbone Blazer (similar ​here), has elbow patches and a bright green color. Roll the sleeves and a pop of maroon polka dots is revealed. A twist on masculinity. 

J.Crew Button Down Shirt (similar here​), ​light airy, and slightly transparent the button down adds softness to the overall outfit. Wear it buttoned all the way up to bring back the menswear feel and partner a couple of chunky necklaces to again bring back the female side. Remember, it's about balance.

Jewelry is, of course, a mix! Jewelmint ​chain necklace, Grandmother's pearls, and C. Wonder leopard bracelet.

Banana Republic Cardigan (similar here), a closet staple, I have worn this for years and it's almost time to retire it....

7 For All Mankind Navy Chinos (similar here)​, rolled and fitted they go with everything! I love crisp navy with bright brown accents.

Blue and White Blouse (similar here)​, ​a stark contrast to the off-white cardi

Jennifer Zeuner Rose Gold Wishbone Pendant and Nixon Rose Gold Watch​, ​​if it's not obvious yet, I love jewelry! These are my absolute two favorite pieces.

La Fiorentina PomPom Scarf (similar here​)​, another staple! Gauzy, breezy, and the perfect nude color.

Finish it off with a bold red lip. Find one here.​

J. Crew Gauzy Grey Button Down (similar here)​, ​see-thru and girly, cami is a must for underneath this shirt. Again, try it buttoned all the way up for a modern approach.

J. Crew Skater Skirt (similar here), so comfortable and flattering, it magically shrinks the hips and slims the waistline. The pockets are just a fun touch!

Ann Taylor Brown Booties (similar here), ​my mom got these for me several years ago for Christmas and they are still going strong.

Hue Brown Tights (similar here​), ​opaque tights are super flattering on everyone - slimming and definitely good at hiding those pale winter legs! I can't wait to shed these for bare, summer legs!! 

Grandma Alice's Beads and C.Wonder Bracelet (similar here and here), ​I love the way these brown accessories bring life to the muted grey pieces while also bringing the whole outfit together.

Everyday Updo (check out this great tutorial)​ - super easy and quick! 

Happy Monday! Have a fun, fashionable week,​

kiki

And the Winner of the Claw Bracelet Giveaway is.....

.......Ms. Whitney Parks! Congratulations!!!!

I hope you will enjoy your new bracelet stacked with some other fun bangles! Please send pictures and I will be sure to post them on the site. I know I have fun wearing mine, so we will just have to coordinate to make sure we don't wear them at the same time (or we can just be twinsies!) It's from ​Jewel Links - so those gals that are bummed out they didn't win (sorry ladies, it was a random drawing), you can hop on there and check it out! Also available in yellow! Enjoy and Congrats again Whitney! 

​The Claw Bracelet - $25 Retail from Jewel Links

Inspiration: Jogger Pants

THE PANT. The JOGGER pant. It enticed me so much that I bought it. Now, do I keep it? Help me decide. 

THE JOGGER PANT: ​Dorthy Perkins. $44.00

​Very trendy, I know. I get sucked in by the comfort, silkiness, and geometric print. Anything with a drawstring waist and elastic hems is OK in my book. 

​If they only last through the summer I think I am satisfied. At a $44.00 price they worth keeping for a short ride. Do you guys agree?

​I would love to hear feedback - the more opinions the better! Bring it on!

-kiki

New Blog Platform = New Giveaway!

Claw your way to the top with this beautiful Claw Bracelet. To introduce the new www.lillianandalice.com I will be giving this bracelet away to a lucky reader! I love this piece - it's versatile and looks great stacked with all of your favorite silver bracelets. 

TO ENTER:

1. LIKE this post on BlogLovin by CLICKING HERE (it's linked to my old blog, but that's ok! I am working on switching it over!)

2. FOLLOW Lillian & Alice on Facebook by CLICKING HERE 

3. FOLLOW Lillian & Alice on Twitter by CLICKING HERE 

4. FOLLOW Lillian & Alice on Instagram by CLICKING HERE​

5. Leave a Comment Below with your name.

6. If you do all of the above by Thursday at Midnight EST you will be entered in the giveaway. The winner will be chosen randomly and announced here on Friday morning.

Best of luck,​

-kiki

Wedding Guest: Build an Outfit

I don't know about you guys, but the wedding "save the dates" have already started rolling in! Bryce and I are up to 4 at this point. In this situation, I typically look for one dress that can work for most (if not all) of them. This is also why I don't mind spending a little more... And, it's nice to have a good closet of dresses for your friends to choose from as well! Why not borrow from one another if you can?

1.

Milly Grace Dress

: Milly makes a beautiful, timeless dress. I love the fit and fabric of her clothing and the few pieces I own will be handed down to my daughter or niece. This particular one has unique draping in the front and then a serendipitous racer back exposed zipper to finish it off. Not to mention the emerald green - representing the pantone color of the year! Worth the price for all of that dancing you are going to do this summer!

2. 

Sam Edelman Ankle Strap Sandals

: loving the high ankle strap this season. It elongates the legs and gives good calf definition at the same time. The two-tone look compliments the emerald dress. Metallics are the best neutral out there.

3.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Studs

: So simple, yet the perfect, elegant stud for a special event or everyday!

4.

Zara Caviar Box Clutch

: pop of neon! Such a cool clutch to spice up the wardrobe!

5.

Braided Updo

: this is one of my all time fave hairdos and it's super easy! Perfect for a wedding or a day at work. It's my go-to! Click on the link for a quick tutorial. I do recommend buying

Goody Spin Pins

for ease and comfort of making this hair a reality!

6. + 7.

Stacked Kenneth Jay Lane Bracelets

: I am a less is more girl with jewelry - my rule is if I wear earrings I don't wear a necklace. If I wear a necklace I don't wear earrings. But, there is always room to stack bracelets and bangles!

Do you guys have weddings on the calendar yet?

Cheers to happy couples,

kiki

Soundbites: Week 2

March seems to be a stressful month, so I am glad that I had the foresight to go for comfort. I have an affinity for jackets, blazers, and cardis because they are easy to layer and add texture to almost any outfit. Keep in mind fabric as you pair things together. As a rule of thumb, I never go with two heavy fabrics or two light fabrics - I much prefer contrast and minimal "bulk". Repeat this mantra: mix and match, mix and match. When it feels wrong, it's probably wrong and when it feels right, you probably nailed it! 

The nail polish I am rocking is Clementine by Crabtree and Evelyn. Buy it here. Goes on smoothly and stays on all week long!

Day 1: Black and White is where it's at for the spring. Even though the temperature may not indicate that spring is upon us, you can at least get the look going....Black and White is always chic. 

Zara jacket, Citizens of Humanity Black Pants, H&M peach colored tank, C.Wonder Bangle, Hearts On Fire stack of rings, My Grandmother Alice's peach button earrings from the 80's.

Day 2: Dresses are always the easy way to do it. Throw it on and go...no fuss, no muss. If you keep up with my blog then you know I also appreciate nude tights and these are no exception. They have a subtle diamond pattern that goes with everything. 

Rhyme and Echo Dress from Piperlime, Zara Maroon Booties, Modcloth Nude Tights, Bracelets from J.Crew, Antique pearls, Etsy"K" bracelet.

Day 3: I love my maroon Zara pants. They go with everything and couldn't be more easy. Especially grey and gold. 

Theory jacket, Anthropologie Blouse with gold accents, Anthropologie grey booties, Nixon Watch merched with a bunch of fun bracelets, and Barley, the dog.

Day 4: One of my fave outfits because of it's fluidity, comfort, and chicness. Great transition piece for every season! Starting to realize as I lay these days out that I have a true addiction to Zara. Guess it could be worse? 

Zara tunic, Zara navy leggings, C.Wonder stacked bangles, Cream Round Toe Pumps, and Julie Collection  "K" Monogram Pendant

Day 5: No casual Friday this week. The big guns are in the office. This outfit wasn't planned and was truly a "sub in". Currently loving a pop of neon. I don't like to go overboard with trends and tend to infuse in an extremely subtle way. Hey - some people can pull off a head to toe neon jumpsuit, I'm just not one of them!

Zara striped jacket and tank, J. Crew black wool cropped pants, Dolce Vita patent pumps (Last Call), Neon - Chain necklace (local Belmont, MA shop), Jewelmint tri-color neon bracelets, and grey 4-Eva 21 bracelets stacked together.

Week 3 will be complete before we know it! Remember - outfits should be FUN. Watch trends, enjoy trends, but don't overdue trends. It's a challenge, but that's what makes it worth it!

Have a fun, fashionable week,

kiki

This for That: Silver, Grey, and Polka Dots for A Night Out

I knew last night would be rowdy and I had every intention of drinking and letting loose. When you go out of the gate with that attitude, you know it's going to be wild. With that in mind, I knew my outfit had to be simple, comfortable and able to withstand some serious dancing....

Top from TOBI (old, but a "basic" so they always have it on the site), Tobi Polka Dot Jeans (no longer available), similar pair at ASOS (although these look to be high-waisted which mine aren't).

Fave pair of suede, Italian booties scored super on sale last year from Anthropologie (similar here)

All things silver, grey, and platinum: claw bracelet and cross bangle from Jewel Links here. Braided grey and bauble bracelets from 4-Eva 21 here. Necklace is a vintage collectable, similar here. Oldie but goodie Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers.

Fun night out in a super comfy, chic outfit! 

Have a great week,

kiki

Peruvian Baked Quinoa: Part of a Well Balanced Wardrobe

We are officially in the season of Spring, but yet it's snowing. And has been for the better half of the day. I went for a cold, wet, snowy run after work and the whole time I was dreaming of my warm clothes and a warm meal. One of my besties, Karen, gave me this recipe back in February, but with a husband that dislikes quinoa, I kept putting it off. I am alone for the weekend so it's perfect timing - no husband to complain (although after making this I think he would actually eat it)!  So now I present you with......Peruvian Baked Quinoa!

I definitely modified the recipe because I worked with what I had in my pantry and refrigerator, but most of what the recipe contains are kitchen staples, unless you don't eat quinoa. For those unfamiliar, it is considered a "superfood". Protein content is really high, as is the dietary fiber, magnesium, iron, and calcium! All from a grain? Who would have thought. It's considered a "Complete Protein" which means it contains all 9 of the essential amino acids necessary! I like the organic white quinoa from Trader Joes - quick and easy!

Peruvian Baked Quinoa and Cheese a la Karen

Think of this recipe as a protein-packed alternative to mac ’n’ cheese.

Ingredients

Serves 8

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 medium leek, white and pale green parts halved and sliced (1 cup) (I USED 2 small yellow onions because I didn't have leeks)

1 1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

2 large eggs

1 cup nonfat milk

1 1/2 cups grated Cheddar cheese, plus more for sprinkling (I used a mix of shredded parm and cheddar for the top)

OPTIONAL (I didn't have tonight and it was still really yummy): 

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper 

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

Directions

1. Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add leek and bell peppers; cover, and

cook 5 minutes, or until tender. Stir in quinoa and garlic, and cook, uncovered, until quinoa grains turn opaque.

2. Add 3 cups water, and season with salt. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer

 until most liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat, and let

stand 5 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 13- x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Whisk together

eggs and milk in large bowl. Fold in quinoa mixture and cheese. Transfer to prepared

baking dish, and bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until browned around the edges and on top.

Nutritional Information

Per SERVING: Calories: 241, Protein: 12g, Total fat: 10g, Saturated fat: 4.5g, Carbs: 27g,

Cholesterol: 72mg, Sodium: 295mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 3g

I scarfed it down with a simple side of greens with olive oil, balsamic and a dash of seasoning. Trust me - I went back for seconds. YUM.

I feel satiated, but it wasn't heavy so I might have room for a sweet treat! 

If you are looking for more recipes and tips on healthy living, put Fun. Fit. Flavor. on your blog roll. My gal pal, Sherri, is super knowledgeable about all this fun stuff! Check it out.

Eat and enjoy a well balanced wardrobe,

kiki

Soundbites: Week 1

Typically I plan my outfits out a week in advance, but last week I took a challenge and planned out 4 weeks worth of outfits! There are a couple of reasons why I did this: 1.) It was fun! 2.) It is ridiculously time-saving 3.) It helps organize my life by setting outfits aside because this is also an opportunity to weed through the forgotten clothes in the back of my closet (as well as those that can go in the "good-will" pile).

If you want to attempt this, (and I recommend you do) try it for at least a week (time-saving alone is worth it). Here is what you will need:

- a separate place to put your outfits outside of your closet and preferably outside of your main bedroom. You need the space! (I use a rolling rack and put it in the spare bedroom)

- sticky notes and a pen to jot down "accessory notes" (see below)

- your creativity!

You will have to excuse my photography, it's done with a point and click and although the sophistication level of a beautiful camera isn't there, I think it still gets the message across for now.....

DAY 1: I get more use out of this skirt then I ever thought I would! It's a pleated faux leather skater skirt (similar  here).This is also a serious risk vs. reward outfit. I didn't know how to feel about a tucked in sweater until now. I officially love it. Chic and simple, but really makes you think differently about the boring old sweaters sitting on your closet shelf. The one I am wearing is from J.Crew, a gift from my mom a couple years ago (similar here).
I layered three necklaces (my gram's long pearls, Jewelmint chain necklace, and a porcupine necklace from H&M. As you can see above - the note I wrote for this hanger was "tucked in" to remind myself of the inspiration I had when putting the outfit together. If you do these far enough in advance the notes will come in handy! If you are anything like me you won't remember your intention after the first week!

DAY 2: A J.Crew maxi skirt in a flowing, soft material (similar here) paired with a "tough" leather moto jacket (similar here). Hair done in a bohemian braid. Jewelry collected over the years (similar bracelet here and pendant here).

DAY 3: Zara sweater dress paired with Splendid layering tee. I have one in a bunch of colors because they are so versatile and are built to last (buy at Shopbop). Faux leather leggings (similar here). Belt is J.Crew (similar here). Bangles from C. Wonder (similar here). Oxfords are a new find from ShoeMint. Foley and Corina handbag in nude (here).

Pink Joie top that I scored for an amazing 65% off on a Cusp mid-day dash. Zara leopard inlay pants (similar here). Jennifer Zeuner Rose Gold Wishbone Pendant was a gift from my in-laws and it's a staple - I wear it all the time layered with other pendants. Stacked bracelets from Etsy (similar here), Rebecca Taylor Rose Gold Nail Bangle (no longer available), and Love bracelet (similar here). Jessica Simpson Black + Gold shoes (similar here) and J.Crew gold belt (a great staple for the wardrobe, similar here).

Ahhh Casual Friday...gotta love it. Canadian Tuxedo Shirt (here from J.Crew), Cargo pants (similar here), J. Crew sweater (similar here), Nixon Rose Gold Watch (here), Rebecca Taylor nail bracelet, and Vintage Pearl bracelet made by my lovely cousin-in-law, Brooke (see her Etsy page here for other fun treats). My dog is not for sale, but he's awfully cute, isn't he?

Week 2 will be complete before we know. Always be thrifty - my motto is that outfits should be a mix of high/low - it can be a challenge, but that's what makes it worth it! 

Have a fun, fashionable Monday,

kiki

Lemon Poppy Seed Squares: Part of a Well Balanced Wardrobe

(thanks to the amazing Will Mann for the above photo)

One of my besties, Joanna, celebrated her b-day on Saturday night and her husband Will threw a wonderful little soiree in her honor . The food was amazing - everything from sushi to stuffed peppers. So yummy!

Will tasked me with bringing a dessert. Originally supposed to be a "bundt" (insert My Big Fat Greek Wedding joke) cake, I realized halfway through the recipe that I had left my bundt pan somewhere in my travels.... Oops. I dug around in my "pan cabinet" and found a recent purchase that looks like a cupcake pan, but is actually a "square" pan (see here). It's kind of a genius invention that I will use for brownies and other yummy bars at some point in the future. It creates the most perfect squares! 

 This recipes comes to us by way of my fave foodie blogger Smitten Kitchen. Pure heaven! I added a lemon glaze to the top because I didn't think it was quite lemony enough....

Poppy Seed Lemon Cake (or squares as seen above)

2/3 cup sugar

8 large egg yolks

1 large whole egg

1 1/2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest (from 2 lemons)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

Pinch of salt

2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, melted and cooled a bit

1/2 cup poppy seeds (I got this from one 3-ounce spice bottle)

FOR THE GLAZE: 2 cups confectioner's sugar and 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (or more depending on how much lemon you like)

• Preheat the oven to 325°F Butter and flour an 8-inch* fluted Bundt or square bar pan.
• Butter the dull side of a 10-inch piece of foil.
• In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk, beat the sugar with the egg yolks and whole egg at medium-high speed until the mixture is pale yellow and very fluffy, about 8 minutes. 
• Beat in the lemon zest. Sift the flour and cornstarch over the egg mixture and fold in along with the pinch of salt with a rubber spatula. 
• At medium speed, beat in the butter, then beat in the poppy seeds.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and cover tightly with the buttered foil. 
• Bake for 15-20 minutes if you do the squares (checking periodically) and 45 minutes for the bundt cake, or until the cake pulls away from the side of the pan and a cake tester inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. 
• Remove the foil and let the cake cool in the pan on a rack for 15 minutes. Invert the cake/squares onto the rack and let cool completely before serving, at least 30 minutes.
• GLAZE: when cakes are cooled, mix the confectioners sugar and lemon juice together until it creates a thick glaze - drizzle over the top so it creates fingers down the side of each bar (or the cake). Place on plate and sift confectioner's sugar gently and lightly over the top!

Do ahead: The cake can be wrapped in plastic and foil and left at room temperature for up to 3 days

The result is a nutty, savory, lemony treat! Now pour yourself a big glass of milk or a nice cup of hot tea and enjoy a delish bar!

-kiki

Canadian Tuxedo No More!

I know what you are thinking. Quite the hiatus, lady. You are correct. Life has thrown me some very positive curve balls in the last 6 months and has hindered me from doing something I love - BLOGGING! So, Lillian and Alice is back, although it will be a slow go seeing as life is still running pretty fast, but I can promise that at least once a week I will give you a little slice of my faves....

This week it's all about the Chambray/Denim shirt, formerly known as the top portion of a Canadian Tuxedo... think of it as your new white t-shirt. A basic, that when worn correctly, is simple and easy as well as timeless and classic!

 In honor of Jenna Lyons, J.Crew Denim Shirt is the perfect pick to achieve this look.

Here is an Affordable Chambray Shirt that will look so sweet with the sleeves rolled up to your elbows!

Love this one!

Best men's picks here and here

Just a couple of tips (come on...it's me! You knew they were coming!):

• Denim vs. Chambray: Denim is a coarse, twill cloth, heavier than chambray, which is a light weight fabric with colored warp and white filling yarns (essentially a lightweight, lighter colored denim).
• Picking the right denim wash can be tough, weigh out your options by looking at your jean wardrobe. What color jeans do you gravitate toward? If it's dark, go with a lighter chambray so you can wear them together and have the necessary contrast to make the outfit work. 
• For fun, go ultra fem on the bottom, perhaps even throw on a sequin skirt for the ultimate juxtaposition!
• Color jeans or printed pants are naturally complimentary
• Wear it like a cardigan, open over a dress or pants. Wear it as a light jacket on chilly spring nights paired with a scarf!
• Remember think of this as your new white tee and wear it to the office! It will "work" hard for you and add depth to your everyday wardrobe.

If there is one piece you are considering adding to your spring wardrobe, let this be it!

-kiki

Martha's Vineyard - Protect Thyself

Martha's Vineyard - Protect Thyself by krista-dacek-beermann featuring a wrap dress

Calypso St Barth wrap dress
calypsostbarth.com

Bandeau bikini
dressilyme.com

Gorjana stud earrings
endless.com

Stella McCartney sunglasses
forwardforward.com

J Crew straw hat
jcrew.com

Organic Peshtemal ,Brown White Eco Friendly,Natural %100 COTTON,High...
etsy.com

Summer photography neutral toffee beige sand pale tones nature photo...
etsy.com

Shipwreck Aluminum Cuff Ring, boats, anchors, waves, nautical,...
etsy.com

Martha's Vineyard Inspiration

Martha's Vineyard Inspiration by krista-dacek-beermann featuring summer sandals

Swell strapless maxi dress
swell.com

Steve Madden summer sandals
heels.com

Ginette_NY monogrammed jewelry
charmandchain.com

Gorjana anchor jewelry
laylagrayce.com

Acqua Di Parma Colonia Intensa Aftershave Lotion 100ml
$58 - harveynichols.com

Serene Beach Print Set. Calming beach, sky and water.
etsy.com

Canvas Tote Bag-Large Carry All Recycled Organic Tote- Sea...
etsy.com

Inspiration: Alexa Chung

Love it all - the blouse, sweater, hair....

alexa chung.

Fave Things: Winter Accessories



Flowy soft sheer fabrics for layering......whether it's splatter print, leopard, or polka dot.




bracelets are a must have accessory...."B" bracelet from loulou boutique in D.C. and Astrology bracelet from Gorjana - the others are a collection over time, mixing high/low, real pearls, Sequin bracelet, and 4-Eva 21.




cloche hat - courtesy of my mom - polka dots are a girl's best friend. Similar here




Missoni inspired scarf from loulou boutique with bright neon colors




ridiculous 5 and 3/4 inch block heel on these Mia Uptown Girl pumps in black patent - buy them here on Zappos for under $75



Have a great week!

xoxo

kiki

Inspiration: Celebrating Tiffany

My dear childhood friend who I love like a sister and who I have known since we were in diapers is getting married! To properly send her off we have planned a gal's weekend in DC which is where I am headed right now on the airplane - btw, wifi on planes is so key to making a 4 hour flight go fast.
As a fellow bridesmaid, I have a couple tricks up my sleeve which I will post as soon as they are pulled out of my hat. The bottom line is that she inspires me- To be a better person, a better friend, and a better family member. She is kind, beautiful, intelligent and thoughtful. All things that make for a wonderful human being.

As Rihanna so aptly sings, "cheers to the freakin' weekend, let's get it started and celebrate the shit out of my BFF, the future Mrs. Kalnas!

Happy Friday!

Xoxo
Kiki

Inspiration by Ladi

I just got my hair done for an event in LA at Mike Chavez! My stylist Ladi was a magician! I wish I knew how to do it myself! Anyone got tips on how to get your hair looking salon worthy every day?

Inspiration - Early Flight

This week and through the month of April is going to be pure hectic craziness, so my posts might look a little different, but it's only because I am on the go! This week is Boston to LA to DC and back to Boston! Oye! As I dressed by mere candlelight (insert exaggeration here) at 5am this morning as to not wake the dogs or the hubby, I wasn't sure what to do with my hair! I decided to go a little retro by doing a slight side French braid pinned with a couple bobbies (similar to Ashley Greene)... The goal: to be comfortable on a five hour flight and still look ok when I land in LA!
Happy Wednesday!

Xoxo
Kiki