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  • Zara Summer Try-On Haul Review: Casual Feminine Wardrobe Staples Unpacked

    Hello, Dolls, This spring and summer, Zara captured my attention with their vibrant pink styles. Though neutrals have been a dominating trend for a while now, seeing Zara's selection was like stumbling upon a fashion oasis in a desert of dullness. As I navigated through their spring and summer selection, I felt like a treasure hunter unearthing versatile gems for my wardrobe. Despite the sizing puzzle I had to solve (seriously, why is it so hard?), the satisfaction of this shopping spree surpassed my last attempt in 2023 by a mile. Watch my 2024 Summer Zara Try-On Haul BASIC KNIT CROP TOP Pink | 4192/012 $29.99 - on sale $17.99 Size: Small SHOP This lovely pink ribbed knit tank top is an ideal choice. I bought it in a size small, and it fits me so well that I don't need to wear a bra with it. It's a simple top to put on and wear during the warmer months, making it one of my favorite purchases. Additionally, there is a coordinating turn-lock cardigan available. Of course I'm purchasing the set and I'm also planning to get this top in the vibrant red color. SATIN EFFECT MIDI SKIRT Mid-pink | 8338/537 Size: Medium $ 39.90 SHOP I am absolutely thrilled with this skirt - it's hands down one of the best buys I've made this year! I went for a size medium and it's just perfect. The waistband doesn't have much stretch, but the fabric is so soft and flowy. It sits beautifully at my mid-rise and has a slightly loose fit around the waist, but I love how it looks overall! I'm thinking about purchasing this in the white or gray color as well. SHIRT STYLE HALTER TOP & LOW-RISE SKORT PASTEL PINK | 2796/777 - top CHALK PINK | 3067/407 - bottom $39.90, $45.90 Sizes: Large SHOP: SHIRT STYLE HALTER TOP LOW-RISE SKORT This light pink zip-up halter top is a nod to iconic characters like Charlie’s Angels, Totally Spies, and Beyoncé in Goldmember, bringing a touch of glamour to my wardrobe dreams. The fabric used in this top is the same as the one in the halter dress, halter top, and pink maxi dress, adding a cohesive and stylish element in my collection. The halter neck portion was too long for me. To fix that, I just used a safety pin and made a simple pleat to adjust the length the way I like it. The collar perfectly hides the pin. I plan to further alter the fit by shortening the collar length by 1 1/2 inches for a comfortable fit. Initially, I intended to buy just the halter top, but once I tried it on, I realized I also wanted to buy the matching bottoms. This is skort is such a unique addition to my wardrobe. With a hidden side zipper, this skirt combines a mini skirt with playful shorts underneath. I bought it in a Large size, but the waist is a bit loose for me. For the perfect fit, I would need to take it in by approximately 1.5 inches. This set exudes style and sophistication, making it a must-have for any lady with a penchant for a cool, retro-inspired look. I wholeheartedly recommend it! INTERLOCK CROP TOP PINK | 5039/466 Size: Large $22.99 SHOP The bright pink color of this top is stunning. I adore its vivid hue. The top features lovely seams and cuts that enhance the bodice. However, a notable downside is the pilling under the arm area, which occurred after just one wear. This raises concerns about the top's durability. While I am fond of the color, I can see myself eventually only wearing this when I'm lounging at home. With that being said, I would pass on this top. FITTED HALTER TOP PINK | 4661/007 Size: Large $ 39.90 SHOP This is undeniably one of my favorite purchases! While the perfect fit eluded me, the structured bodice of this halter top beautifully enhances the body. The sherbet grapefruit pink color pops gorgeously against my skin tone. Although the halter neck section is a tad long and the bodice slightly oversized, it doesn't necessitate alterations. However, a slight adjustment would undoubtedly elevate its already stunning appearance. GOLD BUTTON KNIT MINI DRESS PINK | 3471/018 $49.90 SHOP I eagerly anticipated buying the pink button knit dress, but my excitement waned when I faced challenges finding the best size. Despite trying both large and extra-large sizes, neither fit properly. The XL size was too loose overall. There were noticeable gaps around the chest area, which is my pet-peeve. I wear a size 34F, so my bust size is naturally larger. Even the Large size had similar issues with the button gaps. The root of the problem lies in the button placement, requiring additional fabric to eliminate the gaps. This is a construction issue that wasn't designed the best in my opinion. My recommendation is to refrain from purchasing this dress unless you secure the perfect fit or are open to making alterations. FITTED HIGH NECK DRESS TAUPE BROWN | 2180/309 Size: Large $49.90 SHOP The halter dress in a delightful Milk Tea color is as irresistible as its appearance. It complements the body beautifully with the same fabric used in the pink maxi dress and zip-up halter top. I've been drawn to the halter style for the last two summers. I opted for a size Large in this dress, which fits me slightly snugly. I've been working on slimming down and toning up, aiming to lose 2 inches around my waist. Once I achieve this goal, I'll be able to comfortably wear this charming milk tea dress (as long as I resist too many milk teas). I highly recommend this dress, but remember to try it on beforehand for the perfect fit. FITTED MIDI DRESS FUSCHIA |  2289/707 Size: Extra-Large $49.90 SHOP A long pink dress has been on my summer wishlist for some time now. The design of this garment makes it a versatile option for both casual outings and date nights during the summer. The fabric is beautifully structured, ensuring a flattering fit if you choose the correct size. The large size was too tight for me, as I couldn't zip it up. On the other hand, the XL size is a bit loose at the shoulders and bodice. I plan to adjust the straps and take in the waistline by an inch on each side. It may seem like a lot of extra work for a $50 dress, but I can't resist the appeal of this fun pink dress with its sturdy fabric. Once I achieve the perfect fit, I believe this dress will become my summer wardrobe staple. I would recommend this piece if you manage to find the right size. That being said, my conclusion from this clothing haul is that when considering buying anything from Zara, it's best to try it on in-store first and experiment with different sizes to determine the right fit. I often find myself between sizes at Zara, but most of the items I bought were successful with minor adjustments. I appreciated the feel of the casual fabrics, as well as the vibrant colors. Overall, this haul surpassed last year's, with the standout feature being the lovely pink items. What are your thoughts on this Zara Haul for the summer? Should I do a fall & winter haul from Zara as well? Comment below! Let's Chat Dolls

  • House of CB Dress Try-On Haul & Review - Feminine Spring & Summer Dresses

    Hello Dolls, I always look forward to slipping into a dreamy dress and stepping into the sunshine when it's spring and summer season. This is where the Hosue of CB comes in. With each passing spring and summer, I anticipate the House of CB's latest collection of enchanting bustier-style, corset-style, and poofy dresses. Typically priced between $200 - $400, these dresses may be an investment, but oh, the allure they exude is simply irresistible! I have a weakness for styles that transport me to the pages of a vintage romance novel. So finally, I decided to try out their dresses to see if these darling dresses truly live up to their price tag. Watch the Full 2024 Spring & Summer Dress Try-On Haul Video Tatiana Pink Print Midi Sundress House of CB This cottagecore milkmaid-style dress has a charming appearance. It's lightweight yet the fabric has a substantial feel to it. In the video, I mistakenly mentioned that the dress does not offer the option of a larger cup size, but it actually does. Unfortunately, my local Nordstrom store does not stock the larger cup size variations. When shopping in-store, remember this when trying on the dresses. For this dress, I would have chosen a larger cup size. The corset boning is not overly rigid, which I appreciate. It doesn't feel constricting for more casual formal occasions. I have noticed that where the corset cinches at the waist, the fabric tends to bunch up and shift around the bodice. This makes me inclined to wear the corset slightly looser, which goes against the purpose of wearing a corset to create a defined waistline. Corset. Boning. Adjustable Straps. Functioning Buttons. Side Pockets. Side Zipper Closure. Dress Size Purchased: Large, Regular Cups - $225 XS - L+ Regular Cups & Bigger Cups. SHOP - Nordstrom Carmen Buttercup Bustier Sundress  House of CB This dress is one of my favorites. From the yellow color, to the ruched, tie front, to the front split to show a little bit of leg. I bought this dress in the L+ size, which is equavalent to an extra-large. My typical dress size is US 8. This dress also has the bigger cups size. This cup size suits me best. The boning is all the way around the bodice of the dress which leads into the tie-up corset back. The front split is the perfect way to have that feminine allure and it makes walking in the dress very comfortable. The orange dress is in the same style as the yellow dress, with identical quality and features. Initially, I bought this dress in a size large with regular cups. However, I find that the bigger cups are a better fit for me as my bra size is 34F/34DDD. While I can still wear the regular cup size, it results in a lot of cleavage when I wear it with a padded strapless bra. I prefer wearing a regular cup-sized dress without a bra or with a sticky silicone strapless bra, as it fits my bust better without the padded bra. Corset. Boning. Adjustable Straps. Side Zipper Closure. Side Front Split. Dress Size Purchased - Yellow: Large + , Bigger Cups Dress Size Purchased - Orange: Large , Regular Cups - $225 XS - L+ Regular Cups & Bigger Cups. SHOP  - Nordstrom FINAL THOUGHTS One aspect I particularly appreciate about the dresses from the House of CB is the availability of larger cup sizes. Due to my large bust, I often miss out on the charming corset dresses. I would suggest these dresses to any ladies seeking a seductive, feminine dress that will remain a staple in their warm weather wardrobe for years. I highly encourage trying on these dresses in person to avoid the hassle of returns. Even if your local Nordstrom does not stock the bigger cup sizes, it's helpful to know which sizes offer the most comfortable fit. I must note that these dresses are quite seasonal. I recommend taking advantage of sales at Nordstrom or during their biannual promotions to purchase these dresses. Which dress is your favorite? What House of CB dress is on your wishlist? What feminne clothing brand should I review next? Comment below! Let's Chat, Dolls.

  • Homemade Oatmeal Strawberry Bars Recipe

    Hello Dolls, One of my favorite not-so-guilty guilty pleasures would be these delicious strawberry oatmeal bars. You can swap the strawberries for blueberries, your preferred seasonal fruit, or even some delicious chocolate chips! This recipe only needs a few common ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It's ideal for a quick morning treat, a tasty midday snack, or a sweet dessert after dinner. And guess what? Each bar is just 100 calories! That's why these treats are my guilt-free pleasures. I share this recipe in my Spring & Summer Doll Diary vlog, so be sure to give the video a watch if you'd like to see how I bake this recipe! I also think this is a simple & easy enough recipe you could make with little chefs-in-training. I know sometimes baking with kids can get a bit messy and can turn into a hassle. This recipe doesn't require more than 8 ingredients and the preparation time is pretty quick! It would make for a nice bonding activity to do with kids in the kitchen. Alright, Dolls. Let's begin baking! 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup light brown sugar 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 6 tablespoons unsalted melted butter 1 cup of small-diced strawberries 1 cup of blueberries, optional 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice from about 1/2 small lemon 1 tablespoon granulated sugar divided Vanilla Glaze 1/2 cup powdered sugar sifted 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 tablespoon milk Oatmeal Bars. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, ginger, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the melted butter and whisk until it starts to form little clumps and mixture is evenly coated. Evenly pour the half of the mixture onto a buttered or parchment paper-lined 8x12-inch baking pan. Evenly place half of the chopped strawberries over the first layer of the mixture. Lightly dust the constrach evenly over the first layer. Sprinkle 1/2 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Then sprinkle with the lemon juice. Evenly place the remaining chopped strawberries, then sprinkle on 1/2 tablespoon of sugar. Lastly, top with the remainder of the oats mixture. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbling and the crumb topping is brown. Let cool. Vanilla Glaze. While the bars bake, prepare the glaze. Whisk the milk, vanilla, and powdered sugar together quickly in a small bowl until smooth. After bars are cooled, drizzle the bars with the glaze. With a knife, evenly slice into bars. et voila! A delicious low-calorie snack to enjoy anytime throughout the day! Dolls, if you try this recipe, be sure to tag me in your post! What's your favorite low-calorie snack? And whats your favorite summer sweet treat? Comment below! Let's Chat, Dolls.

  • Easy Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe Made with Fresh Peaches

    Hello Dolls, A classic dessert I enjoy preparing for social events and holiday gatherings is the delightful and indulgent peach cobbler. This crowd-pleaser is sure to impress with its sweet flavors and satisfying richness. Quick and easy to make, it's a perfect treat for any occasion. I shared this recipe in my upcoming homemaking vlog, and prior to that, I gave a sneak peek to this recipe on my Instagram and TikTok! Whether it's served as a special weekly dessert at home or as a hit at summer get-togethers, Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or Christmas celebrations, this dish never fails to satisfy. I recommend making peach cobbler with fresh peaches. If not, I recommend using pre-sliced frozen peaches. This way you're able to dictate the cut of the peaches along with the amount of sugar & taste versus using canned diced peaches. My cobbler filling is the same one I used in my 'Southern Apple Cobbler recipe'. It's my forever favorite in my recipe box! Let's start baking! PEACHES FILLING 5 fresh peaches 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1/2 of cinnamon, optional COBBLER TOPPING 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 cup whole milk 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Preheat the Oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 9x6 baking casserole dish. Set aside. Core, then evenly slice or dice peaches. I prefer sliced peaches, but sometimes I like to half the sliced peaches. In a medium-sized bowl, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Then fold in sliced peaches until evenly coated. The sugar will cause the juices from the peaches will emerge. Add the peach filling into the buttered baking dish. In a separate medium-sized bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Whisk together. Then add in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Pour the cobbler topping on top of the peach filling. Bake in oven for 40-45 minutes until top is golden brown. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla icecream and a drizzle of caramel. et voila! A delicious and filling Southern Peach Cobbler dessert! What's your favorite quick & easy dessert? What dessert recipe should I share next? Comment Below & Let's Chat Dolls

  • How to Instantly Look Polished & Elegant

    Hello Dolls, More and more often, I've needed to quickly gather myself and look polished whether I'm meeting up with a friend for lunch or making a run to the grocery store. I dare to mention my behind-schedule dress up time when I'm running late to head to an event. Nevertheless, I've learned some lessons along the way. I've came to realize what parts of an outfit are most essential to highlight, what ensembles makes a statement while keeping an effortless look, and what makes for the best grab-and-go accessories. I want to share a mini go-to guide to instantly look polished. Every lady can uphold a polished appearance every day by doing these few simple practices. Whether you're lounging at home, running errands, heading to work, or meeting for the occasional brunch, these easy styling tips and daily routines may make it effortless to look polished, sophisticated & elegant. In my most recent video, How to *instantly* Look Polished & Put Together, I shared 5 simple things every lady can do to instantly achieve a polished look. I'll elaborate on some of my go-to primp & pamper practices and favorite products that adds to a sophisticated, clean appearance. Follow the Classic Rule: Match Your Accessories Shoes, belt, purse, hat... Call me old fashion, but this classic rule just works. Some people may be reluctant to go for the matchy-matchy look that may look too perfect, but on the contraire, the end result is dependent on how you style the accessories. Of course, the shoes and purse does not have to match perfectly. Your gray ballet flats does not have to be the exact same shade as your gray tote bag. This is where the 'close but no cigar' phrase is actually positive. When your accessories, coordinate with each other, it creates a more uniform look. I don’t know about you, but personally, I always go for black shoes and a black purse. Black becomes a reliant base color in my wardrobe. I know whether it’s winter, spring, summer or fall, these black accessories are my go-to dependable pieces. It makes throwing on an outfit and heading out the door a lot easier. When you’re heading to the gym, wear accessories that have matching tones. Coordinating your baseball cap with your shoes and bag, crates a more polish look. That works even if you’re going to the gym. Darling & Chic Coordinating Styles Building a Sophisticated & Chic Wardrobe Focusing on Lifestyle + Personal Style When you're looking to elevate your wardrobe, it's important to gather pieces that works for you right now. It's tempting to shop for the future 'you' who is attending brunch twice a week and heading to the winery with the ladies after a posh trip to the spa. All attainable activities for us soft living ladies, but for the majority days of the week, where do you find yourself going the most? The top 3-5 places you go every week, should be the focus of building your wardrobe. In my case, I'd look for casual and comfortable pieces to wear when I'm running errands, like going to the grocery store or when I'm heading to the gym. I'd also prioritize smart, casual pieces for when I need to stop by the HQ to pick up items for an upcoming event. Remember, fashion and styling is supposed to cater to you. Sometimes one can be very passionate and interested in specific style aesthetics. Hence the circling trend cycles, ie. coquettecore, cottagecore, balletcore, the mob-wife aesthetic, the old money aesthetic and the list goes on & on. It's a good thing to become inspired by trends and aim to achieve a cohesive look. Yet, it’s better to take inspiration from your favorite trending aesthetic or Pinterest board and decide which styles would realistically work best for you. Whats worth investing in? That doesn't mean everything you buy has to last you minimum 10 years. Makeup Balancing Sometimes it's best to color within the lines A simple rule to follow. Blush, lipstick and eyeshadow colors should coordinate. At least 2 out of the 3 should be complimentary colors. The unsaid obvious tip, is to wear makeup colors, that doesn't just 'pop' on you, but compliment your skin tone complexion. Thats something to keep in mind. DARLING HANDBAG GO-TOS As I mentioned before. There are times where I'm running late and I'm relieved to look into my handbag and see my mini pouches filled with beauty items and little accessories. Click to Shop Dolls, what is your favorite tip I share with you in this post or in the video? What video do you want toes next? Comment below & Let's Chat Dolls

  • 5 Mid-Tier Feminine & Elegant Clothing Brands You Need to Know About

    Hello Dolls, It's a new year, and now is a great opportunity to look at new clothing brands that cater to the feminine & elegant styles.  Our style umbrella is defined as feminine, but it also includes other style niches like  preppy, minimalist chic, fun & flirty, romantic, and elegant styles. Each brand I share below has something to offer for any feminine style aesthetic. In my first feminine fashion video of 2024, I review each brand and share a bonus feminine style brand. Watch my overview for more darling style inspiration and descriptions of each of these & what to buy from each brands. Let's take a look at these darling pieces from each brand. first brand. Vince. second brand. House of CB. third brand. Staud. fourth brand. Self-Portrait. fifth brand. Alice & Olivia. sixth brand. Reformation. Dolls, which brand is your favorite to shop? Share your favorite mid-tier feminine clothing brands below! Let's Chat, Dolls.

  • Unboxing My Dream Chanel Item: A Luxury Wishlist Must-Have

    Hello Dolls, I finally checked off one of my luxury wishlist items. In my first Doll Diary Luxury Shopping Vlog, I shared the long-awaited Chanel unboxing. In the vlog, I went to luxury boutiques and shared mentioned some lovely handbags that I'm thinking about adding to my capsule luxury handbag collection. At the end of the video, I unboxed my long-awaited wishlist item from Chanel. This item was given to me as a gift by the love of my life (gushy, cheesy, romantic, I know xD). This is a timeless Chanel classic and a must-have for any Chanel aficionado. Item: 1059195 Style # A86506Y09902 Z2953/9999/998 Retail: $650 These Chanel CC pearl drop earrings have a timeless elegance and are very versatile. You can wear these earrings day or night and for most events, including casual outings, work, date nights, and special occasions. If you plan on purchasing these earrings from the Chanel boutique, I highly recommend capturing a screenshot and bringing the style code with you. The resale price for these earrings, whether new or slightly used, is notoriously higher than the retail price. Fortunately, I discovered other similar lovely styles that are strong noteworthy choices. Chanel's iconic style has always influenced my style. I don't think I can count how many times I've highlighted the iconic pink Chanel tweed suit worn by our most fashionable First Lady, Jackie O. Chanel's classic style is timeless in general, and it's seamless with my personal style well. As a result, I'm excited to stock my wardrobe with some iconic Chanel pieces. Chanel CC necklace This was not originally on my Chanel wishlist, but after receiving the CC earrings, I realized a CC necklace is my next jewelry must-have. Earrings are my favorite jewelry accessory, and necklaces are a close second. I think a small everyday CC necklace would be a great way to get a daily dose of Chanel in every ensemble. Collecting Vintage Chanel. I have a strong love affair with 90s Vintage Chanel. Very camp, quintessentially Chanel and iconic to say the least.  My wardrobe has always had strong 90s Chanel influence from tweed sets, flirty skirts with a subtle Malibu barbie influence. Chanel CC chain belt This is a classic belt style with a playful and edgy twist. This will never go out of style, in my opinion. I'd wear my chain belt like the spring/summer 1994 look seen below. I'd also wear this belt with a simple form-fitting midi or maxi-length dress for a more sophisticated evening look. Chanel 90s Vanity Case I am set on acquiring one of these little fun vanity cases. Its darling, feminine & very Barbie. Chanel CC sunglasses I must confess that I'm not a very big sunglasses girl. Nonetheless, I envision myself owning no more than three different types of sunglasses. I saw this sunglasses style roughly two years ago and I also featured it in my recent shopping diary vlog. I've been in love with these since the first time I tried them on. Dolls, what do you think about my Chanel unboxing? Are you in love with these timeless earrings like me? What is on your Chanel wishlist? Comment below! Let's chat Dolls.

  • Soft Life & Homemaking Vlog + Impromptu Chit Chat Time!

    Hi Dolls, Recently I posted a Soft life & Homemaking vlog featuring a delicious peach cobbler recipe, museum visits and a home decor haul. I was reading through your comments and wanted to do a quick chit chat & respond to some of your comments! Share your thoughts with me in the comments below!

  • Must-Have Items for a Chic Feminine Capsule Wardrobe for Fall & Winter

    Hello Dolls, This year, I focused on buying everyday casual clothes in my color season for my fall and winter wardrobe. In my first cozy season fashion video, "Styling My Feminine Fall & Winter Capsule Wardrobe", I present the essentials and key pieces in my Feminine Capsule Wardrobe for the Fall & Winter season. You can see the majority of my wardrobe staples that I've continued to wear since last year in this blog post, Fall & Winter Capsule Wardrobe Essentials. Feminine Capsule Wardrobe Color Palette. Creating a color palette for a capsule wardrobe serves as a guide for future purchases. It's a great way to create a cohesive & versatile capsule wardrobe. Here's my latest additions to my fall & winter capsule wardrobe. The Lighter Neutral Wrap Coat. A cozy & warm wool & Cashmere coat from Vince for everyday elegance. Shop. Vince. Sofia Cashmere. The Everyday Maxi Dress. Skims Soft Lounge Long Sleeve Dress. Full SKIMS Brand Review: VIDEO BLOG POST SHOP. Effortless Elegance Jacket. The throw on & go jacket that elevates every casual ensemble. SHOP. Zara SOFT JACKET : 3046/262 Shop the Haul & Read the Review: VIDEO BLOG POST Mock-Neck Bodysuit. The versatile piece perfect for all seasons. SHOP. Express Maxi Ruched Skirts. Another multi-season, versatile wardrobe staple. SHOP. Black Skirt. Blue Skirt. The Mix & Match Set. A matching top and pants is my go to for all casual occasions. SHOP. Matching Pink Top & Bottom

  • Easy Sweet Pumpkin French Toast

    Hello Dolls, Undoubtedly, French toast is my FAVORITE breakfast meal. This easy sweet pumpkin French toast recipe is one of my favorite ways to celebrate the fall season and switch up a classic recipe. This recipe is quite simple to make and you'll be done within 10 minutes! I shared this recipe in my Cozy Season Morning Routine 2023. I create this lovely autumnal breakfast as part of my fall & winter slow, peaceful morning routine, as well as doing some light homemaking, indulging in self-care, and feminine hobbies. I recommend making French toast in this larger serving size. It's so good that you'll have to restrain yourself from eating too much of it. You can always eat the leftovers the next morning or when you're on the go! I could eat this recipe without syrup since it is so delicious. If I were eating the French toast on the go, I would have it with a a cup of vanilla yogurt and a small apple, another wonderful fall fruit. Let's start cooking! serving size - 12 slices 12 slices Brioche sliced bread 4 eggs 2/3 cup milk (I used evaporated milk) 1/2 cup pumpkin puree 1 3/4 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice 2 teaspoons of sugar (sugar is optional, but highly recommended if you have a sweet tooth) Melt a small amount of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Combine the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice in a medium size bowl. Dip one side of the bread into the mixture, then flip it over and dip the other side. To allow the extra batter to fall off, give the bread a gentle shake. Next lay the bread on the heated skillet. Cook for two to three minutes on each side, or until golden brown on all sides. Add small amounts of butter to the pan if needed. Repeat with the remaining bread. To help the French toast stay warm, I like to place the finished French toast slices on top of a plate topped with tin foil. I've also placed the oven on low and sit the finished French toast in there. Serve hot, sprinkle with powdered sugar, then drizzle with maple syrup. et voila! A sweet and warm autumnal French toast. Add your favorite topping and sides. Diced apples is a yummy seasonal side option. Id also love eating French toast with 2 tablespoons of syrup and a scoop of vanilla yogurt. What's your favorite autumnal breakfast? What fall recipe should I share next? Comment Below & Let's Chat Dolls

  • One-Pan Homemade Spaghetti & Meatballs under 30 minutes

    Hello Dolls, I love a large plate of homemade spaghetti and meatballs. The more meatballs the better. The anatomy of a delicious spaghetti and meatballs dish is simple. It consists of al dente noodles, a simple, yet tasty sauce and flavorful meatballs. I shared this recipe in my End of Summer: a Week of Soft Living Vlog. Click to join me in cooking this delicious meal. This is a one-pan pasta dish. Its pretty methodical, but its an efficient sequence that saves me from washing an extra pot or two :) Plus, cooking the pasta sauce in the same pan as the meatballs adds extra flavor. My sequence is as follows: Cook pasta in a pan, Place pasta in the tupperware dish you'll use for leftovers, then Prepare meatballs in a seperate bowl, Cook meatballs in the pan, Transfer meatballs to the side (I use the my dinner plate or lid of the tupperware dish, because again I like to minimize dish washing), Add the tomato sauce ingredients into the pan, Add back in meatballs, bring to a simmer, Then add the cooked pasta back into the pan. PASTA SAUCE 28 oz of canned crushed tomatoes 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fine sea salt 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley 1/2 teaspoon peppercorn medley, or freshly grounded black pepper 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2 tablespoons of onion powder or 1/3 cup of finely chopped onions or 2 tablespoon of sugar, to taste (Adding onions and/or sugar are known ways of cutting acidity) MEATBALLS 1 pound ground beef 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs 4 cloves of garlic, minced 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon onion salt 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley 1/2 teaspoon peppercorn medley, or freshly grounded black pepper 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes PASTA In this recipe, I use linguine which is a personal preference. Feel free to use your favorite pasta, whether that be spaghetti, angel hair, fettuccine, linguine, etc. Just be sure to adjust the cook time. Bring a pot of water to boil, add in your choice of pasta & cook al dente. Drain then place pasta to the side. Leave a bit of the pasta water so the noodles will not dry out. MEATBALLS Add ground beef into a separate bowl. Break apart & mash with a spatula or spoon Add in panko bread crumbs & mix together until fully combined. Add in all seasonings & chopped basil. Mix until fully combined. Form the ground beef mixture into small to medium equally-sized meatballs. (The bigger the meatball, the longer it takes to cook) On medium-high heat, add in meatballs and allow each side to cook until brown. Then gently turnover meatballs to cook on the next side. Once meatballs are almost fully brown on every side, lower the stove to low heat then cover the pan for about 3-5 minutes so the meatballs can finish cooking on the inside. Once fully cooked, add the meatballs into a different dish. (As mentioned before, I place the meatballs in my dinner plate or lid of the Tupperware dish, because I like to minimize dish-washing.) PASTA SAUCE On medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and stir in minced garlic for about 60 seconds. If you're using finely chopped onions, now is the time to add it in and cook until soft. Pour in the 280z of crushed tomatoes into the pan and bring to boil. Stir occasionally. Stir in all seasonings and chopped basil. If you're using onion powder or sugar, now is the time to do a taste-test to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Season to taste. Bring to simmer and cover pan & allow it to cook for about 5 minutes. Stir in cooked meatballs, cover pan & allow to simmer for about 3 minutes. Lastly add in cooked pasta & stir in until fully combined. et voila! A one-pan, homemade creation of spaghetti & meatballs. Enjoy this homemade creation with garlic bread and a light side salad topped with my homemade Italian dressing recipe! What's your favorite one-pan or one-pot dinner? Share your favorite Italian recipe with me below! Comment Below & Let's Chat Dolls

  • Lets Review SKIMS: Shapewear, Bra & the Viral Soft Lounge Dress

    Hello Dolls, For a while I've had my eyes on SKIMS. Completely intrigued by its minimal, feminine, cool girl aesthetic created by Kim Kardashian. The SKIMS Soft Lounge dress went viral and ever since then I've been curious if SKIMS is worth the price tag. We all know Kim for her hourglass shape, but could wearing SKIMS actually mimic that look of a small waist & voluptuous hips? In my experience, shape wear is tight, uncomfortable and worn only if you absolutely need it for a special occasion. Sure, I'd consider wearing shape wear if I were to attend a special event, but not as an everyday essential as SKIMS advertise. Nonetheless, I satisfied my curiosity about 2 months ago when I purchased the SKIMS Solutionwear: Core Control Thong, Seamless Sculpt Sculpting Mid Waist Brief, along with their Seamless Sculpt Sculpting Bra and of course the Soft Lounge Dress. In my SKIMS review video, I try on each item, compare SKIMS to dupes and alternatives and try on the soft lounge dress with each shape wear. I will also share me and my mom's personal size, sizing tips and my recommendations. SKIMS Soft Lounge Dress. Wearing the SKIMS Soft Lounge dress with SKIMS Core Control High-Waisted Thong Size. Large. Color. Wine. Price. $78, Shop. Here. Shop Color Wine. Here. I purchased the long sleeve soft lounge dress in hopes of wearing it in the fall and winter season. The fabric indeed is soft with a silky touch to it. It's made of a lightweight, slightly stretchy, casual ribbed fabric that is easy to slip on and off. It's a maxi style column style dress that effortlessly drapes to the ankles. You can feel your legs move against the fabric as you walk, but its not restricting. It does not have a slit, opening or back vent, but you can still walk around in the dress with ease. Although its lightweight, it does not feel cheap. It is not comparable to your typical $20 ribbed fabric you can find at a discount clothing store. Is it slimming? No, this doesn't have any shape wear constructed into the dress. It makes sense why it doesn't since it is indeed a lounging dress. You want to feel comfortable enough to snuggle up at home and get hours of comfortable wear. With that being said, the silhouette of the dress is very flattering to the feminine body shape. It drapes itself to your body beautifully. How does it compare to dupes? If you want an affordable maxi dress, then you can buy one anywhere. In my review video, I tried on a simple, cheap maxi dress from Temu that I genuinely like. Its nice, but there's nothing special about it. It's a completely different feel of fabric than the SKIMS soft lounge dress, but it will do for casual outings. Wearing an alternative to the SKIMS Soft Lounge dress with SKIMS Core Control High-Waisted Thong Yet, the special part about the SKIMS soft lounge dress is the softness and quality of the fabric. It's soft, comfortable and doesn't feel lackluster after 3 washes. Thats what its all about in my opinion. Just like with any other brand in the world, there will always be a cheaper alternative. Yet, I believe SKIMS stands tall against it's dupes. When I do my next haul, I will compare SKIMS soft lounge dress to a favored competitor on Amazon and share my thoughts with you Dolls. I appreciate the honesty in Skims advertising. It doesn't show a plus-size model wearing this dress and suddenly her tummy disappears and she has a flat stomach. Realistically, a body con dress will not mask any natural lumps and curves, it does the opposite. I don't have a flat stomach either and I appreciate the normalization of that in Skims advertising. So if I'm not sucking in, my little tummy will show in this dress. Is it worth the price tag? Well yes, it actually is. This dress is versatile as you can wear it lounging at home or out shopping or on a casual date. The casual fabric is comfortable, of good quality, and holds up in the wash. I'm looking to purchase this dress in another style and color for the spring and summer season. The soft lounge dress comes in a variety of styles from crewneck, to tank style, to short sleeve and the list goes on and on. SKIMS Seamless Sculpt Sculpting Bralette. Size. Large/Extra Large. Color. Clay. Price. $32, now $38. Shop. Here. This bra has zero padding or wires and yet my size 34 DD chest feels supported and comfortable. It's made out of a lightweight, thin and stretchy material. This bra is not your bff in hiding your nipple print from showing through when wearing tight tops. It has a silicone band trimming. This band is what I assume to be the major support system to such a lightweight bra. Oddly enough, wearing this bra gives me a 'water balloon' effect. Have you ever held a water balloon upside down from its tail end? That suspension is similar to the way this bra holds my chest. It's not uncomfortable by any means. In fact, its one of my favorite bras to throw on in the summer and for casual days. Would I recommend? I wouldn't say this is a necessity when it comes to buying from SKIMS. It is a nice addition to my bra collection and my favorite bralette. Yet, this is not a strong, must-have recommendation. I would recommend if you're looking for a lightweight bralette. SKIMS SOLUTIONWEAR. sizing. My Typical Sizing. Bra. 34 DD Top. Medium or Large. Dress. 8. Bottoms. Size 8. Jeans. 29 or 30. I tried to use the SKIMS size chart to figure out my size. My waist measurements match a size medium, but my hips measurements match a size large. I was definitely confused on which size to order. I contemplated again and again while looking at the size chart and the online pictures showing different models wearing both sizes. As you would assume, if I'm looking to get that tiny waist effect then my best bet is to order the size medium as it would snatch my waist in more. Well in that case, I was wrong. I ordered the size medium and it was overall a hair too snug when it came to the hips and butt area. This caused panty lines, bulging and took away from the desirable smooth silhouette. Core Control High-Waisted Thong. Strong, targeted compression for shaping & sculpting. Support Level. Strong. Size. Large. Color. Sienna. Price. $34 Shop. Here. I successfully ordered the correct size with this one. Now, let me cut to the chase. I am in LOVE with this shape wear. The top of the thong has a stiff hold while the bottom area is soft and stretchy. Around the back of the waistline is a silicone band designed to keep the shape wear up. I asked earlier, We all know Kim for her hourglass shape, but could wearing SKIMS actually mimic that look of a small waist & voluptuous hips? I mentioned earlier, In my experience, shape wear is tight, uncomfortable and worn only if you absolutely need it for a special occasion. Sure, I'd consider wearing shape wear if I were to attend a special event, but not as an everyday essential as SKIMS advertise. Somehow SKIMS did it. Yes, by wearing SKIMS, you can mimic the curves of an hourglass. This solutionwear as Kim calls it, is indeed the solution, the answer and the everyday essential to achieving that look. It's not a corset, so your waist won't disappear by 4 inches, BUT it does impressively bring your waist in to mimic the hourglass effect. When I first tried this on, I started to glow and feel so beautiful and confident. My friend asked me about SKIMS a couple of weeks ago and I couldn't help but rave to her about it. It truly smooths your shape, gives you that Kim K effect to your silhuette and it is truly comfortably so you can wear it every single day. Is it worth it? Um, a thousand times YES. It's priced very well, has a variety of nude colors and it's everyday wearable. I would recommend to any lady even if you're a size zero. Seamless Sculpt Sculpting Mid Waist Briefs. Strong, targeted compression for shaping & sculpting. Support Level. Strong. Size. Medium. Color. Clay. Price. $32 Shop. Here. This shape wear has a silicone band that wraps all the way around the waistline. Although this size medium did not fit me perfectly, it was still on par and as comfortable as the core control thong. Despite the tightness around the bum and hips area, this shape wear did give my bum a nice little lift as I showed in the review video. When in doubt, size up. I would like to try out the strapless bodysuit shorts shape wear next. My Mother's Review. As I mentioned in my review video, I will share my mother's sizing and review of her SKIMS order. She ordered the core control thong in a size extra large. While I rave about this item, she feels otherwise. She mentioned her core control thong rolls down. Thats the same thing I experienced when I tried on the mid waist brief in a size medium, when my suitable size is a large. Thats her only complaint which definitely interferes with the use and purpose of purchasing shapewear. OVERVIEW. I couldn't recommend the items I purchased from SKIMS enough. More specifically, my favorites number one favorite, control control thong and my second fav, the soft lounge dress. Purchasing the correct size, makes all the difference. If you notice, I was most happiest with the shapewear in a size large, which fits me best. If I only ordered shapewear in a size medium, then I would be very disappointed. Truth be told I would most likely, not buy another shape wear item from SKIMS. With that being said, sizing truly matters. Sales & Launches. Skims is currently having a sale which I recall being ongoing since August 2023 and now its the end of September. I originally purchased my items from Net-a-porter since these staple items were on sale when it's not on sale on the SKIMS.com. SKIMS primarily has sales for their seasonal launches of swimwear and other style launches like the shimmer line, cozy line, loungewear sweats, and items in seasonal colors. As I'm creating this post, SKIMS launched a new 'Fits Everybody' line of items in 4 different seasonal colors. I notice sizes run out quickly during sales and new launches. I'd recommend purchasing your basics and staples in your desired colors first. Then for any 'maybe' styles, consider purchasing those items during sales if you're willing to risk your size running out of stock. I'm excited to style my soft lounge dress and purchase more shapewear and casual styles from SKIMS. Darling Picks. Watch the SKIMS Try-on Haul & Review video to see how SKIMS look in motion and on the body. Have you tried any items from SKIMS? What items from SKIMS should I review next? Comment below! Let's Chat Dolls.

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