Saturday, January 31, 2015

Brand Spotlight: Nine West Flax Pumps


If you have been following my blog, you will see that I am constantly wearing Nine West Flax Pumps. I have tons of shoes spanning many brands and prices. These $69 (and sometimes priced less) pumps are one the most comfortable and affordable pair of pumps I own. For the price, you really can't get anything better. The sleek pointy toe makes your legs appear longer, and bonus, there is no toe cleavage!

These can be purchased at:

Zappos.com
6pm.com

and just a simple google search....

Friday, January 30, 2015

Brand Spotlight: Sally Hansen Big Matte Top Coat


My throat has been killing me lately. On my way to pick my prescription antibiotics at the pharmacy, I browsed around the nail polish section (naturally). I bought Essie Sand Tropez (literally the best nude polish EVER) and wanted to buy a new top coat.

Around the other end of the shelf, I noticed this Matte Finish top coat by Sally Hansen. Naturally, I was skeptical. I didn't think it was even possible to get a decent matte finish from an over the counter polish. Boy was I wrong! I tried it last night and despite the fact that I am impatient on painting nails and they look less than perfect (actually, pretty terrible) the matte coat did an excellent job.

For work, I really don't want to show off a bright, shiny polish. This matte finish makes my nails look part of my nails. It's so clean and muted that it doesn't draw extra attention to my nail.

Now don't get me wrong, I love a great shiny top coat, but every know and again, I think matte is something different and cool. This Sally Hansen product is on my highly recommend list :) It's only about $5.99 at the drugstore, which is a steal!

Here is a photo of my nails on the left and another photo I found from Globe & Nail on the right (it's a better finish and just looks much better than my amateur nails so I had to post it)


Photo: Globe & Nail

What Farah Wore 1.30.15


Shirt J Crew Factory: Gingham Shirt  Vest Zara: Puffer Vest in Navy (similar)




Thursday, January 29, 2015

What Farah Wore 1.29.15

For all my fellow #basicbitches

I definitely get the #basicbitch hashtag but #comfybitch seems more appropriate. This post goes out to all my basic bitches and my favorite "basic bitch" items.

North Face: I am obsessed with my North Face Osito 2 Jacket in black with gold detailing. I am a sucker for any gold detailing (as it looks so much more chic than silver). This jacket is so soft and warm. Definitely one of my favorite gifts I have received this Christmas.

Ugg Australia: I just really like the classic tall Uggs. I'm a size 6 so I can easily fit into a big kids 4 (check out my post on petite wear and sizing) which is awesome (and less expensive). I have a pair of the black and chestnut and wear them all the time during the winter. If you are looking to branch out of the typical "Uggs", the Callie Style is super flattering and looks great with denim and leggings (this is the kids sizing, but I am sure they have a similar one for adults). Also, I read a Vogue article stating Uggs are back (although, let's be real, they never left!)

Leggings: I own about 20 leggings from Forever 21 in black. They are about $3-4. It's so cheap that I constantly stock up! My favorite expensive leggings are the Lululemon Wunder Pant or the Fabletics Long Leggings. Cheaper leggings often appear transparent (especially when you sit down), these are my "going somewhere fancy" leggings... because in my world you can wear leggings in all situations!

Purse: My favorite purse right now is my Tory Burch Robinson Tote. Might as well look good when you're being #basic. I love the structure of this purse which actually makes it more timeless. If you want to splurge (even more), the YSL Sac de Jour tote is TO DIE FOR. I can't wait to one day get my hands on this. If my boyfriend is reading this post... this is a hint for him ;)



Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

I had some basmati rice leftover in my fridge for about a week now. I hate throwing things away so I thought to make a vegetarian thai fried rice (mainly because I had no poultry at home)

Recipe

2 cups of cooked basmati rice
2 tbs vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
2 roma tomatoes, diced
1 tbs of fresh cilantro, diced
4 pieces of basil leaves, teared
2 stalks of scallion, diced
2 tbs of sesame oil
2 tbs of soy sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tbs of thai chili
1 egg

Heat up your wok or frying pan with the vegetable oil. Fry the onions in the oil until translucent and then cook the egg (scrambled).

Add the tomatoes and half of the scallions and cilantro. Cook till the tomatoes are mushy! Add 1 tbs of the sesame oil and 1 tbs of soy sauce to it.

Once cooked, add the rice, remaining sesame oil, soy sauce and toss. Add the basil leaves, salt, pepper, cilantro, scallion, and the tbs of thai chili sauce. Toss and stir and add more soy sauce, if desired.



Monday, January 26, 2015

What Farah Wore 1.26.15

I love a great neutral pallet! Midi skirts are so in right now. Paired under a chunky cable knit is on trend for the winter. As a petite woman, midi skirts can drown me, so I tend to wear pointy-toed heels to elongate my legs (I don't recommend round-toe, it'll make your legs look shorter). For a casual, around the town look, wear some tennis shoes. It' seems strange, but this has been all the rage recently!

Skirt  Zara: Midi Pleated Skirt (similar)
Sweater  Zara: Camel Cable Knit Sweater (similar)


Sunday, January 25, 2015

Brands Spotlight: Dry Skin Moisturizer

I have the worst dry skin during the winter months. It's constantly tight and I need so much moisture to get through the day. I like to switch out my day cream after my container is out so my skin doesn't get used to the ingredients. I wanted to share the ones I have used and my rating. Hope this helps you all!

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Face Cream: (4.5/5)  - $31 (extra 20% off right now with code HERO!) This is my favorite face cream right now. It has a great clean smell (a cross between Nivea and La Mer). It's not very heavy/oily, but instead light. Instantly hydrates my skin!

Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream: (4/5) - $42.95 (extra 20% off right now with code HERO!) I have read Jennifer Lopez uses this on her skin. I got a small sample of it at Whole Foods and I thought it smelled very clean and fresh. Definitely full of hydration. Lasted all day.

Fresh Youth Preserve Face Cream: (4/5) - $42 - Cream gets great reviews. I only rated it a 4 because I thought it was a little pricey (but I guess you are paying for the name). It's also very light on and smells like cucumbers! So fresh and clean! I have't bought this one in a while, but it will appear on my rotation again soon enough.

Origins GinZing Moisturizer: (2.8/5) - $26.50 - I got this one purely based on smell one day. It smelled like oranges and I was in love. I give it a 2.8/5 only because it made my skin really sticky when I used it. I wouldn't recommend this for dry skin. It hydrated my face, but I felt like I had to use a lot of it to get my face hydrated.

Vichy Intensive Nourishing Cream (3/5) - $26.40 - This works really well but I did not like the smell (or lack thereof) and I thought it's just a little too heavy. If you have intensely dry skin, maybe this would work better for you, but I didn't like the feel of it it. It's almost as if it was still on my face after I rubbed it in.

I wanted to discuss La Mer Face Cream that most people are in love with! I had a small sample that I got and it definitely makes my skin soft, but the price tag makes it SO overrated. Also, why does it smell like Nivea cream? I know that it has a following, but there are so many other brands that provide the same effect for 1/10th of the price. I would like to be proved wrong on La Mer, so thoughts and opinions are appreciated and encouraged!




Friday, January 23, 2015

Brands Spotlight: Athletic Wear


I am obsessed with workout clothing. For someone who works fives days a week and has to dress well everyday, I enjoy my downtime during the weekend with the ability to wear athletic-wear out and about. I love Lululemon workout gear, but I always enjoy finding alternatives (less expensive brands) that provide close to what Lululemon gives to their customer. Here are some my favorites:


1. RBX: You can find these at any Marshalls or TJ Maxx. They cost about $14.99 a pair and have amazing fun patterns for yoga crop pants. I rate this 3/5 stars only because the fabric is a little slippery. I prefer mine to feel like it's part of my body and just really soft. Although as far as working out, I bet this fabric is great for a sweaty endurance-filled workout.

2. 90 Degrees Flex: This may be one of my favorite brand for the price! They cost about $14.99 a pair and can be purchased at any Marshalls and TJ Maxx. I am obsessed with wunder under crops from Lululemon and their crops and tank quality somewhat resemble Lululemon. Of course, the quality isn't as superior, but you also aren't paying $72-$102 per pant. I recently got a pair  and they are so soft and comfortable. You really can't beat the price! update: can be bought on amazon.com

3. Zella: This is Nordstrom's brand for workout gear. It's amazing!! The crops are great quality. They run for about $58 and come in pant and crop form. I'd say these and the Fabletics MOST closely resemble Lululemon (if that is your benchmark for best quality workout gear)

4. Fabletics: Kate Hudson's line (Fabletics) is fantastic! The only downfall is I wish I could buy their stuff without having to subscribe. You can always "defer" for as many months as you want, but I really don't want to commit myself to remember to do so. You get your first outfit for $25 when you sign up, which is a steal!! The quality is actually comparable to Athletica and Lululemon and not as expensive. 



What Farah Wore: 1.23.15 (Rainy Day)

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Brand Spotlight: Nubian Heritage

So last night I had my weekly dinner with some of my girlfriends. After dinner, we headed to our local "Healthy Home Market" just to browse. During, I ran into the brand Nubian Heritage. Body lotions and hand creams always grab my attention, especially during the winter months.

Do your hands and skin get as dry as mine?! It's awful! So of course I'm sampling like 10 different scents (scent obsessed over here!) but noticed right away how my skin instantly had moisture! The Olive Oil & Green Tea smelt the best to me at the time (at that point I needed some coffee beans.. I was going through scent overload!) I used it last night and my skin still feels so soft.

I did some research on the brand today and they are just amazing! They are heavily involved in communities all over to raise awareness for poverty, hunger, etc.... The company had humble beginnings in Harlem and now have blown up!

You can buy their stuff at any organic/healthy grocery store (Earth Fare, Publix, Whole Foods, even Amazon). They use ingredients to help skin retain moisture yet still nourish.

I love the organic nature of this product and the community involvement of this company!




Saturday, January 10, 2015

Recipe: Bon Appetit's Chicken Khao Soi


Tonight we decided to make Bon Appetit's Chicken Khao Soi (see recipe). We modified it a bit by adding more chilis and adding two ancho chili pods. We also added kaffir lime leaves (dried) and sriracha for taste. Feel free to modify this recipe to your liking! We loved it!



Photo courtesy of the same recipe featured on Epicurious


Obsession: Triangl Swimwear

I am currently (and actually have been for about a year) obsessed with Triangl Swimwear. They are an Aussie company and have amazing swimwear! I linked the North American page to this post for all my US shoppers.

I recently ordered the Poppy in blue and the fit is amazing! I am a little hesitant to purchase bikinis online, but they have an online chat that really helps you pick the right size. I feel like it runs a bit small (i.e. European) and I prefer more coverage so I just went up a size. I'm a 32C and 25 waist and bought the top in size small and bottom in XS. I probably could have bought the bottom in small. Debating if I need to return.Regardless, it fits like a glove. The definition and the black outline really hugs at the right places. my next purchase from them will probably be the all leather one (so fab and chic)!


Friday, January 9, 2015

What Farah Wore 1.9.15

Sweater  The Limited: Chunky Sweater

I actually bought the sweater two sizes up to a MD and I love the baggy feel. It was on sale,and I just found it on the website! Order now. The photos don't do it justice!

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Recipe: Mahi Mahi & Mango/Pineapple Slaw

Recipe

Serving size: 2

2 5-6 oz Mahi Mahi
1/2 cup chopped pineapple
1/2 cup chopped mango
1 tbs cilantro
1/2 tsp crush red peppers
Dash of salt and pepper
2 corns

Season Mahi Mahi with your favorite seasonings. I love the whole foods seafood seasonings (comes in Jamaican jerk, thai curry, habanero chili, etc... ) Put on the grill for 5 minutes per each side.

For the salsa, mix the remaining ingredients (aside from the corn) to put on top of the grilled fish.

Season corn with your favorite seasonings (I used paprika, dried dill, Mortons seasoned salt, fresh pepper, McCormick's garlic&herb seasoning, and Bett's Seasoning). Grill for 10-15 minutes


What Farah Wore 1.8.15

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

What Farah Wore 1.7.15 (Two Ways)

Love this look with navy slacks or camel slacks for an all neutral palette! I decided to wear the navy slacks because I love a great contrast but it's up to you!

 Sweater  Zara: Knit Sweater (camel) ($19.99)
Pants  J Crew Factory: Camel Wool Slacks ($43.99 with an extra 40% off)

Sunday, January 4, 2015

5 Staples Pieces to get you through Winter



1. Turtlenecks: just so timeless and great at any age. I love solid and striped ones as you can easily wear these under vests and chunky sweaters. It adds great pattern and texture to an otherwise boring look.

2. Blanket Scarf: these are everywhere and a perfect accessory during the cold winter months. I own about twenty of them and am obsessed! You can buy these practically everywhere (Zara, Target, Amazon) so grab yourself one!

3. Cable Knit Sweater: I basically only wear chunky cable knits. They are heavy, warm and look great with leggings, dark denim, or tucked under a skirt. The cable knit texture also gives your outfit more definition. Perfect to wear over a turtleneck and under quilted vests

4. Quilted Vests: These have blown up! So many styles are sold out but you can go to Lands End, Old Navy, etc... and find some great vests on sale. It's great layering piece under a jacket, sweater, button down, etc..

5. Statement Necklace: I think everyone already owns a ton of these. They can really dress any outfit up. During the winter months, I tend to wear a lot of sweaters. This is a perfect accessory (aside from a blanket scarf) that makes my outfit pop!

Honorable Mentions: Dark Denim Jeans, Ankle Boots and Fur Vests

Photos courtesy of google.com

Saturday, January 3, 2015

My Favorite Italian Chopped Salad

My favorite recipe from A Cozy Kitchen is their Italian Chopped Salad. So hearty and a great, filling dinner. I added some beats and green beans to mine to add more flavor, so make it your own!




What Farah Wore 1.13.15 - Layer on!


I love layering during the winter months. Mainly because I hate wearing big jackets all the time with lighter clothing. My favorite is layering on turtlenecks with sweater/vest and then a light jacket on top. It's so warm, comfortable and stylish! Happy layering!

Friday, January 2, 2015

Attention: New Blog Title

Hey all!

Start updating all your bookmarks because I just changed my blog name. I have been wanting to do this for a while now and thought it's better to do it sooner than later. My last title was so long, that I just didn't find it catchy at all!

I was looking back at my contents and thought "what describes my blog the best" and Rustic Chic came to mind.

Rustic: all my recipes and home ideas (and my general taste overall) 

Chic: fashion style and trends I recommend

It's quite a juxtaposition but I love that! I don't fit in a "blog mold" as I really tend to write about everything and anything.... so my title now reflects that.

Welcome to Rustic Chic!


What Farah Wore 1.2.15

Thursday, January 1, 2015

What Farah Wore: NYE 2014

Skirt BCBG Generation: Gold Skirt (on sale for $24!)
Blouse  Banana Republic: Silk Blouse (similar)
Blazer  Zara: Black Blazer

A simple outfit for NYE is to buy something gold and glittery and then go straight black! So classy and chic!

Original - Beer & Shot Chicken Tacos (Modified - Braised Chicken Tacos)

So my boyfriend and I are on quite a Mexican Food kick due to this cookbook I bought him. Tacolicious has great recipes for tacos and salsas - including the one we made today. We adding some variation to our recipe but it tasted great nonetheless! I didn't add the EXACT recipe because I really want you all to buy this cookbook.

Recipe

3 lbs mix of chicken breast and thighs - browned in a dutch oven with 2 tbs of oil
1/4 cup oil
2 small onions, diced
2 whole jalapeños
4 garlic cloves, smashed
3 ancho chillies, (stemmed and de-seeded) toasted for 30 seconds on a pan for fragrancy
3 chipotle chillies, (stemmed and de-seeded) toasted for 30 seconds on a pan for fragrancy
3 hatch chillies, (stemmed and de-seeded) toasted for 30 seconds on a pan for fragrancy
2 tbs salt
1 tbs cumin
1 tbs mexican oregano
1 cup diced tomatoes
2 1/4 cup of chicken broth
1/2 of a lime, squeezed (optional)
2 tbs of the guajillo chili paste (featured in tacolicious) - optional


Add the oil, onion, jalapeños and cook for 5 minutes after the chicken is browned earlier. The juices will help brown the onions faster. Add the garlic, chillies, seasonings, tomatoes and broth and let simmer for 15-20 minutes. We added some jalapeño chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, chilli powder and fajita seasoning mix for more taste. For a secret ingredient we added the guajillo chili paste featured in the cookbook.



Once simmered, blend the sauce. Put the chicken back in with the sauce and let cook for 2.5 hours. Add more oil if need be and half of a lime (preferable). Shred the chicken at the end and serve with your favorite guacamole and salsa.

I won't post the exact recipe of the guajillo paste because I really think that this cookbook is a great addition to a household. Although, I am sure you can google one ;) I do highly recommended purchasing the book for the correct recipe overall as we modified it to our liking!

We also ending up making homemade corn tortilla. Such a better taste than the processed store bought ones!

Recipe

2 cups Masa Corn Flour
1 1/4 cup water

Knead and roll into balls (should make 9)

Add a splash of water if the dough becomes dry and starts to crack during the rolling.

Flat out by putting sheets of parchment paper in between both sides.

Use a flat heavy surface to flatten the dough and use your hands to thin it out.

Heat for 50 seconds on each side using a skillet. No oil is necessary but we sprayed a little coconut oil at the beginning so nothing sticks.