Fashion Friday: Costumes You Can Wear Again.

Well its almost that time of year again folks, time for pumpkin flavored and scented everything, bulk bags of candy being put on every end cap of your local markets, and terrible expensive prepackaged costumes. Honestly I have no idea why Halloween costumes are so expensive, because lets get real the quality of fabric choices and over all construction is sorely lacking, and if that wasn’t enough you’re only going to wear this outfit once! This is why for the next couple of weeks I am going to be posting Halloween costume ideas made from pieces that you can wear again and might even have in your own closet.

This week’s look is Belle from Beauty and Beast…Belle has always been my favorite Disney princess so pulling this look together was quite  a bit of fun for me. 

White Blouse: Cold Water Creek/Similar 

Dress: Pollypop Yes my dress isn’t quite the right color but I was working with what I already had…However the link I provided is to the same cut of dress but its a better shade of blue.

Apron: Vintage/Similar and honestly a waist apron would be easy to make on your own.

Book: Carry around your favorite book, hey it could make a great ice breaker!

Flats: Payless/Similar 

I really hope you all enjoyed this post! What are your thoughts on it? Who is your favorite Disney Princess? What was the best costume you ever wore? I’d love to hear from you. Have a happy Friday!

Best Ever Egg Sandwich

Hello my loves I thought a might share a fun recipe with you all. I’d consider myself a foodie and I really love unique eats and fussy french dessert recipes and the like, but sometimes you just gotta step away from the frills and fuss. Some days you just don’t feel like tackling a 20 ingredient 3 hour recipe. Sometimes you just want something you can throw together and have it taste amazing, and in my opinion this sandwich fits the bill.

• Ingredients
• Eggs
• bread
• salt & pepper
• olive oil
• butter
• tomatillo salsa
• cheddar cheese
• garlic clove

I start out by prepping with the most important aspect of any sandwich, the bread! As you can see I was cooking for 3. Drizzle a little olive oil on one piece of bread, then on the opposite piece place your cheese. Now set aside while you cook your eggs.
I used to have the hardest time making a fried egg, it seemed absolutely impossible and I always ended up with a scrambled mess. Turns out I never had enough oil in my pan and I had the heat up way too high! So oil your pan with whatever you prefer butter, olive oil etc… my family and I love Kerrygold, and heat your pan to low. Now its time for the eggs! I understand that not everyone can afford to eat naturally or you just don’t buy into the crunchy mother earth image it brings to mind. But I can honestly say when it comes to eggs the more natural the better. Caged chickens who scarcely see the sun and eat a diet of nothing but corn produce some really gross eggs, in fact I used to think I didn’t like eggs because of that.But I have recently been converted to an egg eater when my family and I started buying eggs from Vital Farms.  What makes these eggs so delicious is that their hens are pasture raised, not to be confused with pasteurized, I actually saw another brand advertise pasteurized eggs and was rather confused…are they heating these eggs up? Is that what they’re saying? Vital Farm’s chickens are eating precisely what nature intended, as well as being provided with best dark leafy greens year round, so even during these upcoming fall and winter months you’re still guaranteed to have the most beautifully rich orange yolked eggs ever! Turns out I just wanted my eggs to taste like real eggs, I urge you to give this brand a try, they’re so good. Who knows you may be converted into an egg eater like me?

Okay now that you’ve got your egg in your heated skillet (preferably cast iron) its time to season. Just a little salt and pepper is all you need. Speaking of salt I just recently discovered that the old brand of Kosher Salt my family and I had been using had trace amounts of cyanide in it. CYANIDE In our food!!! Needless to say that was remedied quickly by switching over to Real Salt. No cyanide just honest to goodness flavor.

I never want to come across as that judgmental crunchy hippie type, but I do want to encourage you to be an advocate for your health and research your food. Yes this does mean you might have to make sacrifices and stop using your favorite brands, and even buy more expensive alternatives, but I bet you’d rather pay it at the grocery store than the doctor’s office.Okay well after a while your egg will start looking like the picture above and now it is time to turn your oven onto broil, toast your bread, and flip that egg over! Cook to your desired yolk hardness. I like my yolk a little runny for this particular sandwich, it really adds a whole other level of flavor!After the cheese has melted and your bread is a golden brown take your toast out of the oven, and rub a clove of garlic on the oiled pieces of bread. Now finish off with a couple of spoonfuls of tomatillo salsa and you’re done! Voila! The Best Ever Egg Sandwich!

I really hope you all enjoyed this post and that you try the sandwich for yourself. If you do, be sure to let me know, how did you like it? Did you add your own spin on the recipe? What are some of your favorite easy go to dishes? I’d love to hear from you.

Happy Wednesday!

Fashion Friday Featuring Atomic Swag

Oh my goodness guys I’m so stoked for this week’s feature. As you all know I really enjoy rocking the pinup/rockabilly look, but unfortunately that style can be a bit too dressy. Now I’ve actually come to the point where I no longer care about people thinking I’m too dressy, but some day’s I’d prefer to be a little more chill, and what is more chill than a t-shirt? Well I’ll tell you, a t-shirt from Atomic Swag Apparel. I’m not sure I’ve ever worn a more delightfully soft shirt, seriously it’s like wrapping yourself in your favorite cozy blanket…except these bad boys are way more stylish than walking around wearing a blanket.

Atomic swag’s shirt designs are just fabulous and could fit anyone’s taste, men included, this post isn’t just for the ladies. The different styles offered range from rockabilly, motorcycle, state, to hotrod racing t-shirts and all these designs are printed on 100% cotton t-shirts using waterbased inks so they won’t chip, peel, or fade. Huzzah for excellent quality! Looking good isn’t enough, I need style and quality and Atomic Swag certainly delivers on both accounts.

Shirt 1.

Shirt: Atomic Swag Apparel I just love how delightfully cheeky the design on this shirt is don’t you? I’m just so pleased with this soon to be “overworn” piece. Since I’m a pinup and a Texan I’ve always had a bit of a softspot for pinup cowgirls and this shirt could not combine those two styles more perfectly.

Shorts: Target

Boots: Atwoods/Similar

Shirt 2.

and of course I had to do the pistol hands dance

Seemed like an appropriate sign to stand under 😉

Shirt: Atomic Swag Apparel Oh my word, I didn’t even know it was possible to love a shirt this much you guys. I have a ridiculous amount of state pride and if you’re a fellow Texan you know what I’m talking about, this shirt could not be more perfect! The cream colored background, the vintage soft feel, and the Texas design just combine so beautifully and I am not even a little sorry about how much I am going to wear this shirt. It’s a Texas thing Ya’ll 😉

Shorts: Target

Boots: Atwoods/Similar

I hope you all enjoyed this post and that you get yourself some Atomic Swag gear…In fact both the lovely people at Atomic Swag and myself so badly want you to experience their brilliant combo of style and comfort that we have a 20% off discount code for you to use, its sarahforshaw20. So what are you waiting for? You’ve got a discount code and everything, this could be the smartest decision you make all weekend.

Happy Friday my loves!

Fashion Friday Featuring Malco Modes

Hello guys and dolls, that is assuming the occasional guy stumbles across my blog, I keep it pretty girly here haha.  Anway this week I will be doing another feature on the best petticoat/crinoline company around, Malco Modes!

To me there isn’t anything sadder than a swing skirt or dress not living up to its full voluminous potential, all that fabric deserves to be delightfully puffy and cloud like, am I right? But where is a pinup girl to turn? There are soooo many petticoat and crinoline options out there it can be seriously overwhelming, and if you’re anything like me too many options result in a choice not being made at all. Well let me take you by the hand and guide you to where you and your swing skirt/dresses need to be getting their support.

I’m still in the beginning stages of putting together my dream pinup wardrobe so as of right now I only have two petticoats, both of which are from Malco Modes. Now this may sound as if I’m not in a position to really tell you who you should be buying from but keep this in mind, just because I only own from one company doesn’t mean I haven’t tried on other companies. I may look a little more high maintenance than most but I do not sacrifice comfort, I’ve tried on different petticoats and crinolines from other companies and everytime they have felt incredibly itchy and uncomfortable, stiff fabric is great at holding out that skirt of yours, but it also feels a bit like a cheese grater on your skin…thanks but no thanks.  Malco Modes on the other hand is incredibly comfortable, their petticoats are made from cotton candy soft chiffon, and their crinolines are made from nylon net with a nylon organza as the bottom layer so it doesn’t scratch your legs in the least, and because of the handcrafted quality of these pieces the volume pay off they provide is stunning!

To me the answer as to who you should get your petticoats and crinolines from couldn’t be any clearer. Malco Modes is a 100% made in the USA company, all of their pieces are hand crafted ensuring phenomenal long lasting quality, and the comfort level their pieces provide is out of this world! What more could you possibly want? I can only keep the whole dignified modeling thing up for so long…I mean do you really expect me to not jump on the bed?

My dog Charlie wanted to join in on the shoot too!

As you can see things got progressively sillier…

But we managed to pull it together at least for a little bit anyways.

aaaand back to giggles-ville… As you can see this shoot was a lot of fun.

Glasses: Claires/Similar

Corset: Corset Story

Bottoms: Onzie

Crinoline: Malco Modes I was a bit worried that nothing could live up to my first petticoat but Malco Modes knocked it out of the park yet again. The size chart is spot on, this crinoline is so bouncy and full and gives such a fun life to any swing skirt/dress, and the variety of colors offered is just insane. I’m already trying to decide which colors I need next haha. I have a petticoat and crinoline addiction and I have no intention of giving it up either 😉

If you’re in the market for an excellent petticoat or crinoline just do yourself a favor and order from Malco Modes, you won’t regret it I promise!

Hope you all enjoyed this post and that you have a great weekend full of giggles and big skirts

One Piece Multiple Possibilities

Hello all I hope you’re having a great week so far. I thought it would be fun to do another “transitional fashion” post but instead of a from day to night look I thought it would be fun to show you all how with the help from some select accessories and styling tips you can change the look of a romper completely.

I decided to go with my two favorite style aesthetics, both of which could not be more polar opposite, but seriously where is it written that you can’t like a little bit of everything when it comes to style?

Look 1. Pinup Inspired

Because of the casual nature of a romper I decided to keep my hair simple, rolled bangs, a little bit of a bouffant working, and the rest of my hair down and curled all set off with a cute little bandana. I of course ignore how casual the romper is when it comes to my makeup though, a classic red lip and a winged liner is just a must have to for me, and to set the look off I paired a wide red belt to define my waist and a pair of heels to make my legs look a little longer and leaner than they actually are.

Bandana: Target

Earrings: Kohls

Bra Top: Onzie

Romper: H&M/Similar 

Belt: Vintage/Similar

Heels: DSW/Similar

 

Look 2. Bohemian inspired.

See what I mean about polar opposites? For a fun bohemian look I went a little more “intricate” with my hair doing a fun twisted crown and some soft romantic curls to set it off, kept the makeup very simple and luminous, piled on the jewelry I’ve never heard of such a thing as too much turquoise, added a brown braided belt, again to define my waist, and kimono to give the look some movement. Then threw on some cowboy boots for a bit of a rustic edge.

Jewelry: The choker my mother made and I believe all the other pieces were bought at pow wows. Honestly pow wows are the greatest places to find gorgeous turquoise jewelry and I like supporting artists as opposed to companies. Do a little research and see if there are any pow wows taking place in your town, and don’t worry if you’re not Native American every pow wow I have ever been to has been open to the public. However if there aren’t any pow wows taking place near you I did find this site (Indian Village Mall) that sells gorgeous Native American wears.

Kimono: Cotton bought it ages ago but I love this Kimono from Forever 21 as an alternative

Romper: H&M /Similar

Belt: Vintage/Similar

Boots: Atwoods supply store/Similar 

Which look was your favorite? Do you have a tendency to have polar fashion favorites or is it just me? Drop me a line I love hearing from you guys.

Hope you all enjoyed this post as much as I did. Happy Wednesday!

Fashion Friday: Onzie’s Fall Line

Its that time of year again folks, Fall! Now while it may not mean cooler temperatures for everyone (its still upper 90’s here in Texas) it does mean companies are releasing their fall lines, and no one does fall better than Onzie. I just adore this company, they’re 100% made in the USA which is difficult to find these days, their designs are so beautiful its impossible to be in a bad mood while wearing them, and the obscenely comfortable fabric choices and cuts are out of this world!

This year Onzie’s fall line is inspired by “Mystic Metal” and this resulted in me wanting one of everything in every print! Honestly I’ve never had a more difficult time narrowing down what I wanted. The metallic finishes and rich pigments really create something special.

Eventually I was able to make a firm decision and I’m thrilled with my two different looks that I get to share with you! They’re both a little different than my usual style and I’m so thrilled I decided to branch out and try something new!

Look 1.Sweatshirt: Onzie A sweatshirt cut, onzie’s ultra lightweight fast drying free flow jersey material, and stunning “Chicago” print combine perfectly to create the ideal fall workout top. Whether you live in a cooler climate or you’re still putting up with the heat like me this top is still an excellent choice, the longer sleeves will fight the cold, but the fabric still breathe and is quick drying for all that sweating you’ll be doing during your yoga practice or all the sweating you do just by living somewhere warm ;).

Bra top: Onzie I was a little concerned this particular cut wasn’t going to be very flattering on me, that the back might result in some unsightly back fat rolls or something due to the cage like structure, I’m happy to report not only did that not happen, but the cut is in fact fabulously flattering and ever so feminine, I already want it in more prints. Onzie really understands how to dress everyone’s shape. Their bra tops keep you supported but they’re far more gentle than traditional high impact sports bras. Hooray for not worrying about falling out of your top, and hooray for not wearing something with a comfort level comparable to that of Kevlar.

Capri’s: Onzie I have no idea why it took me so long to finally get a pair of capris from Onzie. I swear capri yoga pants will now forever be in my rotation. They are sooooo comfortable and actually flatter my super short legs. These capris are the perfect option when you want bottoms that are a little cooler but don’t feel like showing quite as much skin by wearing shorts, I have found a new favorite you guys.

Look 2.

Bra top: Onzie Seriously I need more of these babies. I’m in love.

Leggings: Onzie How fun are these leggings? The royal navy blue and mesh tuxedo stripe really take something as basic as leggings over the top turn them into one heck of a fashion statement. It never ceases to amaze me how Onzie can take something that I consider “risky” to wear and turn it into something that makes me feel unstoppable. Leggings can quite literally be the most unflattering garment a lady wears in her lifetime, but through quality construction, brilliant color choices, and supportive fabric Onzie beats the odds. I also want to stress that while yes I preach on and on about how supportive Onzie pieces are, they are equally comfortable and breathable. Its like wearing a second skin, your movement isn’t the least bit restricted, the clothes move with you, which is so vital in yoga. I mean does anyone want to be tugging at their clothes while their trying to not fall over in standing bow pose? No.

All in all I couldn’t be more thrilled with my Onzie gear and highly recommend you check them out, this new fall line is one of their best yet! Working out isn’t always fun but that doesn’t mean your clothes shouldn’t be fun either. Happy Friday my loves! Hope you all enjoyed this post as much as I did.

 

 

Keith Harkin at Poor Davids

Hello all! Today’s post is all about my fabulous Saturday night. I was fortunate to attend/handle merch at Poor Davids Pub for the Keith Harkin gig, and man it just never gets old…I look forward to every gig of Keith’s like its the first time, and when its all over I leave even happier than the last.

Fortunately this go around I was actually able to step away from the merch table for a bit and snap a couple of pics of the opening act, Phoebe Hunt and Connor Forsyth. All I can say is wow! The amount of style and artistry they brought to each song was astounding. Both are phenomenal writers Connor is master of the keys and Phoebe’s voice is the kind of voice that you would want to have singing the soundtrack of your life. The depth, soul, and incredible variety this lady displays is absolutely mind blowing, not only does she have the voice of an Americana bluesy gypsy angel she can tear it up on the fiddle as well as the guitar. Can you tell I have a bit of a girl crush working? This duo is musical perfection and I implore you to see them live. Keep up to date with Phoebe and Connor through http://phoebehuntmusic.com/home 

Odds are if you’re a regular here on my blog you know my love for Keith Harkin’s music. If this guy is in town I go to his show, simple as that. Keith is not to be missed. I am constantly in awe of this gentleman, his vocals are so strong and invoke so much emotion, his skills as a song writer are incomparable, and his ability to merely play the guitar in such a way you’d swear he was playing with a full band is just outstanding.  I’ve been pretty blessed in my concert outings and have see many a highly skilled artists, but I can truly say Keith still stands out as one of the most talented acts I’ve ever seen. The man doesn’t hold back, he pours his heart and soul into everything he does and it so evident in his music. The crowd, setting, and how tired this weary traveler is have no bearing on his performance he truly lays it all out there and its pretty magical to experience firsthand. If you’re fortunate enough to live somewhere Keith has a gig you really HAVE TO GO! Keep up to date with this phenomenal guy through his website and his various social media platforms (facebook, twitter, and instagram )

As always Keith absolutely killed it, and was kind enough to play several of his new songs. Just when I think this guy cannot get any better he does, the new songs are just out of this world amazing and have me chomping at the bit for his next album…which according to Keith shouldn’t be too far off now. YAY! So now more than ever is the time to hop onto the Harkin bandwagon because I know he’s only going to continue to grow stronger and stronger as an artist, which is really saying something because this guy has Herculean musical strengths 😉
describing his parents’ “domestic bliss” 😉
Everytime this guy plays he shares his soul and its just beautiful.

This guy is the best and that’s all there is to it.

Now here are some pics my sister snapped of me working the merch table…and amazingly I don’t look as lazy as last time 😉
See I’m even grabbing shirts here!Of course it wasn’t all hard work though haha 😉

I had such a wonderful time and want to thank everyone of you who came out to show your support, and an extra thank you to those of you who had to put up with me selling merch again. I really hope you all enjoyed this post and that you show these multi-talented musicians your love because they really deserve it. Happy Wednesday.