Carrie Bradshaw Lied

Green Midi Dress Under $35

I have been so excited to share this green summer dress with you guys because I’ve now worn it a few times, it’s so comfortable, has pockets and best of all – it’s under $35.

I wore it recently to a little dinner in Dallas with the Mary Kay team, and I wanted to photograph it to share how I styled it with sandals and a little pop of leopard!

It’s 100% cotton, so you can travel with it and iron it easily, and it looks just as cute with a heeled sandal as it does flats. I think it would pair perfectly with some espadrilles! Honestly just looking at these photos taken by the pool at the Mansion on Turtle Creek is giving me the feels. I need some warm weather, stat!

photos by Infinity Portraits

Tell me if you could see yourself wearing this dress. It’s such an easy summer piece and I love pretty much everything in Who What Wear’s collections for Target. I definitely also need this dress and this one!

**Update: of course this dress sold out right before this post went live, so I’m linking some similar styles! Loving this one, this one and this one.

Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Friday’s Five

– the most gorgeous hydrangeas I’m determined to keep alive for two weeks! –

– the best designer loafer dupes I’ve seen yet (I might need them in all the colors) –

– a necklace organizer that is saving me –

– new headbands that are going to make lazy hair days a little easier (L to R: 1, 2, 3) –

– trying the Furbo with Bailey (don’t judge me it’s on our bar… there are limited spaces in this little apt!) –

Happy Friday! I worked on this post a little early as I had to leave my office Thursday and Friday because the wood floors above our apartment are being redone… for the second time since we’ve lived here. So in our 10 months of living here, we’ve listened to someone move out. Almost a month of construction. Then someone move in. Then hearing them move all the things out of the living room for the floors to be redone a second time. Then moving their stuff back in.

And in case you are blessed to live within no shared walls, remember that the echoing of boots/boxes on wood floors is always louder than if you’re in the room. It’s like… tripled below I don’t understand it. Working from home during this SF year has been at times… brutal. I’ve yet to find the silver lining here – this is very expensive, old building apartment living in San Francisco. I am going to appreciate our next living situation SO much more… no matter what it is!

However, we are officially on the 8 week countdown, it hasn’t rained in weeks and I can see the light. I know that in a few years all of these challenges will be a memory of the past and when I am living within my own non-shared walls, I’m going to feel like a Queen. A royal QUEEN!

I had started a Bible Study that was put on hold because everyone’s April schedules were hectic, but we hopped back into this week and it really is so good for my inner peace. I think I can really underestimate the positive impact of being vulnerable with other likeminded women. It is uplifting, comforting and encouraging all rolled into these once a week two hour sessions. A bright spot in this week for sure.

Christian and I are looking forward to a weekend getaway next weekend that will be so peaceful, I can’t wait! I plan on sharing a full blog post about it so I will be able to share more details as we get closer, but I know it will be a great refresher all around. It’s a great weekend destination for all my California girls and a place we’ve never been, so I’m looking forward to sharing more of that!

He’s also got me watching some of Jack Ryan – do any of you watch this show!? It’s honestly a little violent for me… but it’s certainly captivating. When I get stressed I just remind myself that John Krasinski is actually married to Mary Poppins and then I can relax! I love those two as a couple. Sweetest.

What do you have going on this weekend? C will be working so I might need to get out the cat stroller and take some walks… who knows what we’ll find! Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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Sleek Bodysuit

I’ve had this mock neck sleek bodysuit for a few weeks now and have been looking forward to sharing it here! It is so stretchy and comfortable, it’s really become the perfect layering piece for so many looks.

I think this look would totally work for the workplace, for all my office-appropriate ladies! It’s stylish, fun but still professional, especially with the blazer layered on top. When I worked in the corporate world, I realized blazers took me far. Don’t underestimate the power of a chic power blazer! Loving this one and one and it’s on sale right now in two colors.

And you can’t tell how windy and chilly it was by these photos, but I was silently screaming every time we would take a break. I did not consider how icy cold I would be shooting spring looks here. They say that being cold burns more calories so I mean… maybe I should reward myself with nachos!? Thinking about it.

photos by Christian Barnes

You can find more office-friendly looks here, here and here.

Thank you so much for reading! And tell me if you’re also loving bodysuits right now. Do we need more bodysuit inspo!? XO –

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VIDEO | Southwestern Quinoa Bowls

I’m excited to bring another video to you guys from my baby of a YouTube channel – and today, we are entering a new realm… my fake cooking show.

I love sharing recipes and kitchen tips with y’all on Instagram Stories (many are saved in the “Cooking” saved stories), so I thought I would try sharing a recipe on YouTube for you guys to see how it goes over. I also share a lot of my favorite bites and drinks in the “food + drink” category of this site, but let me know if you guys like this video version.

I would be happy to do more if it’s something that you guys find helpful or fun… even from this little apartment kitchen!

chambray shirt | apron | pasta bowls

And the recipe details for this Southwestern Quinoa Bowl (serves 2-3).

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup quinoa + 2 cups water

1 tbsp olive oil

1/4 – 1/2 cup onion, roughly chopped

1 clove garlic minced

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed

1/4 tsp chili powder

pinch cayenne pepper

salt

1/2 fresh lime

Trader Joe’s Frozen Street Corn

arugula or lettuce

Optional Toppings: shredded cheese, Greek yogurt + hot sauce to make a crema, tomatoes or salsa, sliced avocado

DIRECTIONS:

1) Rinse quinoa. Put in pot with 2 cups water, bring to a boil and then simmer for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.

2) While quinoa is cooking, add some olive oil to a mediums sauce pan and sauté your onions and garlic. Add two cans of rinsed black beans, 1/2 cup water, salt, cayenne and chili powder. Cook until water is absorbed.

3) Follow directions for Trader Joe’s frozen street corn. So delicious and so worth it!

4) Assemble! Quinoa, arugula, black beans and onion, corn. You can top with tomatoes, your spicy crema, avocado and shredded cheese!

And thank you SO much to those of you who have subscribed to my YouTube channel. It’s a completely new world for me but I really, really appreciate it. Greatly!

Thanks so much for reading and let me know if you guys try it! There’s also a fun giveaway happening this week on IG Stories (saved under “April Prize!” saved stories), so be sure to check that out if you follow @kathleen_barnes on Instagram! XO –

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Everyday Black Sandal

April can be that in-between time where it’s not fully warm enough for sleeveless but you’re ready to bring out some lighter pieces so you can ditch the heavier pieces from winter. This is my go-to outfit for those days – a light trench, classic tee and denim and stylish sandals.

When I discovered these slides at Nordstrom, I bought them in black instantly. I think they look so luxe and polished, I know they’ll go with everything this summer. I then realized I loved almost everything made by this brand. Their pieces are versatile in their neutral selection while also being ultra chic. I’ve already ordered these sandals in another color!

Nordstrom’s spring shoe selection can’t be beat, and whenever I need a refresh it’s one of the first places I go. It doesn’t hurt to remember they have free shipping and returns, so when in doubt I’ll order two sizes to be sure I get the exact fit I need before something sells out. It only takes one time of ordering the incorrect size and not being able to get the correct size before I learned that lesson. A girl needs her shoes.

photos by Christian Barnes

sandals (if you’re in between sizes, size up_, also love these and these | similar trench here (mine is vintage) and look for less here and here (on sale) | denim (I sized up one size), also love these and these | similar tee here and here | similar sunglasses here and here | similar bag here and love this one shared in last week’s wish list

I am newly in love with the casual chicness of this shoe brand, and I’m linking some of my favorite sandals of theirs below! Let me know what you look for in a great spring/summer sandal. The perfect color? Elongating your legs or an ankle strap detail?

Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

brought to you by Nordstrom

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Friday’s Five

– waking up to chocolate chip protein pancakes –

– a fresh refill of one of my favorite face washes from Mary Kay –

– new earrings for summer –

– a midi shirtdress that is so perfect for spring –

– still loving my new metallic Michele watch (and hello to my reflection!) –

Happy Friday! I am writing this from Texas but know that when it goes live I’ll be back starting off the weekend at home… and that’s a lovely way to start the weekend, right? Although I can’t complain. I spent two nights in the most beautiful hotel in Dallas, I felt like a queen in my own room all to myself. I took advantage of the clean gym (I love a hotel gym), and had the entire fluffy bed to myself. It felt less like a work trip and more like R&R, but more on that later!

We spent last weekend with friends, picnicking in the park and getting lunch after Easter church. This weekend Christian might attempt to go fishing, and I’ve been listening to Chelsea Handler’s new book on audible. I love to read actual books (not a kindle person), but I decided there’s no time like the present to try audible. It’s $15 a month (and the actual book is only $16)… but I’m always walking Bailey, traveling, trying to drown out noise from my apartment neighbors and so on, so listening to books does make sense for this season of life. I am breezing through this one faster than I realized so I’m wishing I could get more than one book credit per month! Are you guys kindle readers, tangible book lovers or audio listeners?

Anyone watched any good movies lately? We thumbed through so many movies last weekend and of course just ended up watching La La Land again on E!, so I need to venture out a little more! Thanks so much for reading and sharing and have a beautiful weekend! XO –

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Leopard Slip Skirt

If you haven’t picked up on my love of leopard yet (other declarations of love here, here and here), it’s official. I’m addicted. This slip skirt from Abercrombie & Fitch has a flirty little side slit that makes it more of a weekend piece, but still totally works with sneakers! I paired it with a tee and denim jacket, but threw on heels because I always stand a little taller in a heel. This is true.

Like most of us probably were in high school, I was always begging my mom to let me buy something from A&F at the mall. But did you guys know they still have so many adorable pieces for spring and summer? Like this jumpsuit and this maxi dress. Don’t even get me started on this linen blazer. LOVE.

And please know we shot these photos on the coldest and windiest day in the city (forgive all the baby hairs and flyaways everywhere!). If you guys follow CBL on Instagram, I shared some outtakes on stories of myself running in the wind while Christian is literally wearing two jackets. And I woke up the next day… sick. But it was worth it. Spring fashun – I have to have it!!!

photos by Christian Barnes

similar skirt here, love this dress | shirt, also love this one and this one | similar jacket here and here, how fun is this one!?

Do you have a leopard statement piece in your closet? I’d love to hear what it is! I think a skirt or top is a great way to introduce the trend into your closet. Try it. I think you’ll be surprised by the versatility (and the compliments you get!).

Thanks so much for reading – XO –

brought to you by Abercrombie & Fitch

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Wednesday Wish List

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16

By all the fresh pieces that I’m seeing on my favorite shopping sites, spring is here! I found so many sweet pieces that would be so great for the fabulous weather that comes with spring, like this seashell barrette, this little wicker purse and this sweet pink gemstone ring.

I am have a major thing for belts right now, and I love this red one – so unlike everything I have!

I recently noticed my skin was looking dull and I was having more breakouts than normal. So I reached for this luxurious sheet mask and by the next day my skin looked so much clearer. It’s a splurge for sure but check out some of the reviews online – it’s something special.

I love all the lighter colors that come with spring. A time to brighten up our wardrobe and leave all the baggage from winter behind. Lately I have been less motivated to “get dressed” every day when I’m just working from home. But I remember forcing myself to not wear lounge clothes everyday in Orange County and it always affected my productivity (and confidence) for the better.

I’m currently traveling again, but once I get back and unpacked, I am going to challenge myself to put a little more effort into my daily “getting dressed” routine and see what it does for my energy level. You gotta start somewhere!

If you have any tips for getting motivated to put in some effort even when you’re not leaving the house, I’d love to be inspired by you! Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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Karen’s Bloody Mary Recipe

While I’ve shared a great Bloody Mary recipe on this blog before here, you guys keep asking for Karen’s recipe after I shared her 2.0 so I thought we would get into it today!

Ingredients:

1 46 oz. V -8 (she uses low sodium)

4 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 Tablespoons lime juice

4 Tablespoons Worcestershire

1 teaspoon black pepper

3/4 teaspoon celery salt

1/4 heaping teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dill

1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped very fine

2 Tablespoons horseradish (or more if you wish)

Vodka

Directions:

Mix all ingredients except vodka. Add it right before serving. And the tomato mixture is even better the next day!

And we all know it’s the garnishes are what can really take a Bloody Mary to the next level. Mom rubbed a lemon wedge around the border and rolled the edge of the glass in paprika. She adds vodka first and then the tomato mixture.

She used wooden skewers and before stacking, lined up the garnishes on a cutting board to make sure she liked the color/shape pattern. Then place your finished skewer in the glass along with a celery stalk (always with leaves!). Add a lemon and/or lime wedge. Voila!

Other garnish ideas include: cucumber slices, a cube of cheese, dill pickle spears, green olives, baby pickles, pickled okra, radishes, lemon slices, parsley, basil, bacon, pickled jalapeño and even hard-boiled eggs! You can also sprinkle paprika on some of the above for extra interest.

If you would like to fill up the entire skewer you can and when complete place it on top of the glass horizontally, but have a celery stick with leaves vertical for height (you’ll see that on the ones photographed above). Karen also found this site that has a TON of garnish ideas!

Enjoy and let us know if you try it for yourself! Thanks so much for reading and more recipes in the “food & drink” category of this blog, including a Whiskey Rebellion recipe that is definitely a favorite. XO –

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LBD 3 Ways

We all know there is nothing more classically chic than a great LBD. I wanted to show you guys how to make three looks with the same pieces in a very quick and easy way.

For the office, throw on a blazer and belt it to keep your shape. Remove the belt for happy hour and show a little more curve! And of course, once the weather warms up, ditch the layers altogether and wear your LBD on date night, to a wedding or any event. So simple yet fabulous.

photos by Christian Barnes

I really think an LBD is one of the most versatile staples you can have in your closet. More ways to style a classic black dress here and here.

Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Friday’s Five

– missing being home and Karen’s Bloody Mary 2.0 (her garnishes are next level) –

– but feeling so loved by all the happy people/pets who were waiting in SF to greet me at midnight when I finally arrived back in the city –

– fresh kicks from a new brand (to me), Shoeology –

– two classic pieces from Tuckernuck (shirt | dress) that I can’t wait to wear this spring/summer –

– the best surprise travel-sized goodies from one of my favorite haircare brands, Moroccan Oil –

Happy Friday! I’m writing this post from my desk in our bay window, and it feels so long since I’ve written from this apartment. I always have mixed feelings about being back, but alas I must return to real life, so here we are.

We have a lot of exciting projects to shoot this weekend since I’ve put creating content on the back-burner while I’ve been away, so I will be keeping my nose to the grindstone until I leave town again on Tuesday. I was having some light PTSD about flying again after being delayed over 6 hours in the Atlanta airport because of maintenance issues (I saved the entire comical saga on the “Delta Drama” saved stories on Instagram – a 15 hour journey home) but we have new neighbors above our apartment moving in and construction down the street… so escaping the sounds of city life is now welcome and I am happily repacking my bags. I think sleeping with the sound of trees whistling and birds chirping back home spoiled me. Now I’m waking up and am like, “where am I!?” Ha!

But onto some more HAPPY thoughts! I got to spend last night catching up with my girlfriend Emily who was in town and stayed with us one night. She and I have been having similar years on separate coasts, so she’s one of the girls I just 100% get where she is right now. It was therapeutic in the best way.

The weather has been beautiful this week – no rain in sight! It’s made walking Bailey so much more enjoyable. It feels amazing to get some fresh air with no umbrella or wet dog paws. I definitely feel my energy increase from the sunshine, so that’s something I never take for granted anymore.

This week I’ll be trying some new recipes like this spring cauliflower salad and kale and farro salad. They both sound so delish and fresh! What are you cooking up this weekend? Thanks so much for reading and sharing! XO –

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Karen’s Germ Tools

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15

After 96% of those polled in an insta-story said they wanted more of my mom’s germ-avoiding tips, we had an Instagram Live Sunday night. It ended up being 40 minutes long and was somehow hilarious. I was floored by how many of you also have your own creative and sneaky tips to avoiding germs in public restrooms, hotels, movie theaters, gas stations and more. It turns out, avoiding germs at all costs is a common subject of which many unite. Who knew!?

I wanted to share some of the things Karen mentioned during the Live that she uses and how she uses them. And if you missed it, I saved the first 10 minutes on IGTV (you can only upload 10 minutes on IGTV and I thought I’d spare everyone 4 separate videos). My PSA: I DO NOT do all of these things. Sure I try not to touch anything in a public restroom, but sometimes I just know I’m touching all kinds of germs and I’ll wash my hands, shower and wash my clothes later. You do what you can and blissfully try to ignore the rest.

That being said, here’s a short recap of some of her tips:

Inexpensive Flip Flops, Disposable Slippers, Shoe Booties | When traveling, bring your own slippers so your feet don’t ever have to touch the floor (I collect them from hotels but you can also buy them in bulk). Karen takes it to the next level and sometimes will bring flip flops to wear in the shower (excessive for most but you do you), and you can also have booties if you have construction or something of the sort going on in your home!

Sensor Soap Dispenser | Mom has now bought these for all of us and it is a dispenser that will drop some dish soap on your hands or sponge by sensor. It’s really quite handy!

Latex Gloves | This entire germ saga started with a video of Karen wearing a latex glove to pump her gas. She literally has a box in her car because she refuses to touch the pump. I’ve since found out from a friend that even mechanics don’t like to touch the gas pump… so that’s something.

Hoodies | SO many of you suggested a great tip for airplanes and movie theaters – wear a beanie or hoodie sweatshirt so your hair doesn’t touch the seat.

Phone Soap | This brilliant device will sanitize your phone and kill 99% of germs with a UV light. So many of you also have this little machine – so smart!

Essential Oils | I also always travel with a small peppermint rollerball in case weird airplane smells are getting to me. I found this Germ Fighter one on Amazon that also sounds fascinating!

Inexpensive Socks | Karen brings an extra pair of socks to the airport in the instance she has to take off her shoes. She will double sock and then throw away the cheapie pair she brought with her. I don’t go to this extreme… but no judgement. Whatever brings you peace!

THANK YOU to everyone who checked in, watched our live video and shared your own brilliant tips for avoiding germs. If you want more of the topics we covered in the Instagram Live, I can go deeper on this subject. But I don’t want to overshare if y’all are more relaxed in germ-filled scenarios – so let me know! Karen feels justified and relieved that she’s not the only one fighting germs one latex glove at a time.

Next week we’ll be back to our regular wish lists – thank you so much for reading! XO –

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Explore The Blog

Shop Around

Green Midi Dress Under $35

Friday’s Five

Sleek Bodysuit

VIDEO | Southwestern Quinoa Bowls

Everyday Black Sandal

Friday’s Five

Leopard Slip Skirt

Wednesday Wish List

Karen’s Bloody Mary Recipe

LBD 3 Ways

Friday’s Five

Karen’s Germ Tools