A SUCKER for the Season

With the celebration of freedom during Memorial Day weekend, we also welcome the warmth of summer. I know that the first official day of summer isn’t until June 21, but something about Memorial Day just brings the image of summertime. As the daylight hours get longer, the lemonade gets colder, and outdoor adventures get more frequent, summer is such a fun time of the year…it’s kinda like Christmas, with a tan!

As you are attending all your fun festivities of the season, you want to make sure that you find yourself in the Kings Court of the Season…The House of SEERSUCKER! Not just for slow talkin’, southern politicians anymore, seersucker is available in a variety of pieces that make it easy to incorporate it into your warm weather wardrobe. Not to leave you hanging, I have come up with some inspiration pieces to get you started.

Ladies, you have tons of opportunities to bring the King into your looks.

From dresses to jackets and anything in between, you can effortlessly embody the traditional southern image.

• Look fun and flirty in a great strapless number from Old Navy. Paired with a white denim jacket, this is the perfect casual and classy look that would have you ready for any evening shindig.
• Straying away from the traditional blue seersucker, a tan print cropped pant is an essential summer item to pair with anything from a t-shirt to a gauzy top.
• For a completely casual look, pair a utility style jacket with a pair of shorts in a pop of color like green or coral.
• A seersucker skirt with an eyelet overlay gives a dramatic look of texture and pattern without being too fussy.
• A classic cut long sleeve button up in a colored seersucker is cool and casual and compliments anything from white, denim, or a bold color.
• For a dressier look, don a more structured blazer with a simple top and a great chino. This look is even suitable for summer casual wear to the office.

Gentlemen, I haven’t forgotten about you either! The quintessential fabric of any southern gentleman, seersucker is the denim of the summer. Pair it with anything, and dress it up or down.

Cool and breathable, you’ll definitely be a dapper dandy by incorporating any of these great items into your looks.

• Attending a wedding? A dressier summer soiree? Or just want to turn up for cocktails and dinner? A seersucker blazer has you covered. If you’re feeling froggy, go ahead and buy an entire seersucker suit so you can mix and match all season long.
• Fun and festive, these two color seersucker shorts are the perfect piece for summer outings. Pair with a t-shirt for a casual look, or a white button up for a more classic feel.
• Found in a variety of color options, this slim fit long sleeve button up could easily become a weekend go-to. Whether you join it with shorts, chinos, or denim, this shirt can take you from morning adventures to evening outings.
• Every girl’s crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man! This suit vest is a sleek and polished look for an alternative dressier look. A simple white button up and almost any color chino will complete this outfit with ease. Throw on a bow tie and you’ll be the beau of the ball.
• Summer is the perfect time to experiment with more graphic looks like these seersucker pants with embroidered details. I mean, what goes better with seersucker than glasses of lemonade.
• Tie one on this summer with a slim cut seersucker tie. A perfect addition to your favorite jeans and a button up, add a touch of southern prep to an otherwise simple outfit.

So whether you’re headed to the pier for a day of sunshine or rubbing elbows with old money at an evening event, these affordable seersucker options will definitely keep you in the KINGS court during the heated season. Take this warm weather time to add some classic seersucker to your wardrobe. Even in the humid heat of summer, being a SUCKER for the season is a sure way for you to stay stylish!

Spring/Summer Fashion Must-Haves

Spring has FINALLY sprung! The bitter chill of winter is hopefully gone for good and we can begin to look toward rising temperatures and refreshing sunshine. As we turn our thermostats away from heat, we also start bringing those brighter colors and lighter garments to the front our closets. As you prep from the season change I have your 5 Must-Haves for Spring/Summer.

Flower Power
Whether it’s a big and bold or minute and delicate, the floral print is going to be seen everywhere. This print is great to incorporate into you looks because they always come in a variety of color palettes. Find a specific print that suits your taste and build a eye catching look.

Available in so many styles, the floral print is seen in a multitude of garments, complementing any outfit whether dressy, casual, or anything in between.

Denim, Denim, Denim
A staple item since Noah loaded the ark, denim continues to make a showing during the upcoming, warmer months. This iconic piece will be seen this spring and summer in all shades and shapes.

Polished and structured or casual and flirty, denim goes with everything. Venture out of your comfort zone and try some pieces that you haven’t worn before. Bring in a denim tunic with your chinos, rock a dark wash denim dress, or even pair your lighter wash denim jacket with dark wash jeans for an all over denim look. Regardless your choice, denim is dominating!

Spring ’em Gingham
We aren’t in Kansas anymore, Dorothy! This print, commonly associated with picnics and Dorothy Gale, is bringing life to your wardrobe during the warmer months.

This must-have is by far my favorite. I am a huge fan of gingham. It has such a southern vibe and is a great print that layers well, but is also strong enough to stand alone.  From shirts and skirts to accessorizes, gingham is a print that you definitely want to include in your looks during spring and summer.

Lacey Gracey
The epitome of femininity, lace is abounding in the upcoming season. A simple top or a dramatic full lace dress, these pieces are not trendy at all, but a classic and timeless piece of grace and elegance.

She’s got style, she’s got flair! There is no wrong way to wear lace. If you are intimidated by it, consider trying a simple lace flat. Adding a small accessory of lace is a great way to baby step into this look.

On The Fringe
Tapping into a Bohemian look, fringe is making a big appearance in fashion this season. One must be careful as this look can get…what’s the word I’m look for? Trashy? Cheap? Scandalous! This look can get scandalous. However, with careful placement and selection, fringe can be a wonderful wardrobe piece.

Find that mix between Woodstock hippie and Gatsby party-goer and you have hit the jackpot. From accessories and shoes to dresses and tops, fringe is everywhere. Creating movement and life, fringe pieces showcase an eye-catching look.

Spring has sprung! Take time to stop and smell the roses…and do it in style with these 5 must-haves for the season. Take spring by storm and revamp your wardrobe with some awesome statement pieces that are sure to turn heads. Warmer days are coming! Are you prepared to stay stylish?

 

The Guest With The Best

Tis the season to be jolly.  And party!

With the Christmas season in full swing, I am sure you have a list of parties and events to attend.  If you’ve ever hosted a party then you know how involved it can become.  As you make arrangements to attend the many holiday festivities on your calendar, make sure that you don’t show up empty handed.  In my opinion, showing up to a party without a hostess gift is like showing up to a potluck with brown and serve rolls…still in the pack.

Your friend or family member has gone to a lot of trouble to prepare an evening of fun and excitement with food and drinks aplenty.  Take this time to be the guest with the best and bring a token of gratitude to your host with the most.

Now I’m sure your host/hostess would love another oddly scented candle to add to their closeted collection, but let’s be a little more creative.  I have some great options for you that won’t break the bank, but will definitely get you on Santa’s nice list.  You are sure to be a hit and no one will ever guess that you’ve spent less than $20!

FOR YOUR “BOOZING” BUDDY

If you have that friend who is always showcasing new drinks and loves a glass of wine now and then, consider bringing a great bottle of wine in a creative display.

World Market has an impressive and inexpensive item that is the perfect gift to help make spirits bright.  This Faux Fur Wine Bag is a steal and would be a beautiful presentation of your planner’s favorite wine.

FOR YOUR “CHEESY” CHUM

Maybe they aren’t cheesy, but they do love a good fruit and cheese platter.  If your festive friend loves creative ways to display food and is known for a good spread, consider something functional for them to use at future parties.

This Slate Cheese Board is a fantastic way to display and label your tasty treats.  With stone chalk included, this ingenious board can be wiped clean and reused again and again.

FOR YOUR “OLD SOUL” SERVER

It’s no secret that I am a lover of all things vintage.  If you have a friend like me who loves the antiques, consider a hosting gift that taps into their obsession with the oldies while still providing them functional use.

With old world charm and classic elegance, these Vintage-Style Pie Servers will serve up more than just a slice of pie.  This set of 2 servers will be the perfect pairing for your old soul, baking buddy.

FOR YOUR “CUP PATROL” CRONY

We all have them, we just call them different names.  Whether your merry mate is anal, OCD, a neat freak, or just plain controlling, this is a practical and personalized gift that is sure to please.

Beyonce may want a ring on it, but if your host sure doesn’t.  To help your crony keep the circles off the coffee table, these Monogrammed Jute Coasters (set of 6) will be just what the doctor ordered…and maybe a prescription of Xanax to take the edge off.

FOR YOUR “CAFFEINATED” COMRADE

Hi, my name is Chad and I am addicted to coffee.  If your high-strung holiday planner is like me and loves a good cup of Joe, gift them something to enable their addiction.

This box set of 4 Geo Star Print Mugs are the ideal addition to your java loving friend’s collection.  Not only would these festive colors add excitement during the holidays, but could easily be used throughout the year.

From one end of the spectrum to the other, our party planning friends should be appreciated for gathering the group together for holiday cheer.  As you prep for your upcoming parties, think outside the box and show a little love to the one who started it all.  Hopefully these ideas have sparked your creativity and will make you the guest with the best.  Eat, drink, and stay stylish!

Some Like It Haute

Winter activities and holiday festivities are in full swing!  During this chilly time of the year there are always fun events happening around every turn.  Whether you’re out for an old fashion evening of caroling or taking a spin around an outdoor ice skating rink, you have every opportunity to encounter Old Jack Frost.  After a fun outdoor outing, it is a necessity to have a winter warm up beverage.  It’s easy to head around the corner to a coffee shop for a seasonal treat, but why not turn this need for warmth into a party at your place by inviting your cronies over for a hot beverage that is sure to help them thaw out from the winter winds.

This foolproof recipe makes a rich and robust Haute Chocolate Mix that is perfect for entertaining or to bag up, as pictured above, for party favors/office gifts.  This recipe is one that my mother has made from time to time and always hits the spot.  You can even turn it into a little Haute Toddy for the adults by adding something subtle like Kahlua.

Haute Chocolate Mix

• 10 cups Powdered Milk
• 1 large container of Cremora
• 1 large container of Nestle Quik
• 1 cup Powered Sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Cocoa

Mix together.
To serve, fill cup 1/2 full with powdered mixture and add boiling water.

Words cannot express how much I love this Haute Chocolate.  There is such a full body flavor, with an indescribable sweetness that completely evokes the feeling of lounging fireside in a rustic lodge nestled among the snow capped mountains.  Aside from being utterly amazing, this is also a budget friendly mixture to have around the house for guests or to divide up among friends, family, and coworkers.

So instead of drinking out, gather the group at your house for some games, gossip, and cup of greatness.  Having friends over for the holidays doesn’t have to be elaborate and stressful.  Toss some cookies in the oven and bring the water to boil and you are set to combat the cold while you stay stylish!

Take a Bite out of Christmas

There is truly something magical about Christmas!

As I drive down Main Street in my small town and see the twinkling lights adorning the lamp posts; as I stroll past the North Pole displays in the mall centered around Jolly Old Saint Nick; as I watch yet another Lifetime Holiday movie “for the first time;” as I read the words of my amazing god-daughter’s letter to Santa asking him to give all her gifts to kids that don’t have anything for Christmas…all of these things bring the magic of Christmas alive in my heart. This magic so easily takes me back to my childhood. It seems like only yesterday that I tossed and turned in bed on Christmas Eve, hoping that Santa hadn’t forgotten something on my list. It was just a mere moment ago that I awakened to the smell of sausage balls, country ham, and breakfast casserole (the Steed’s really love pork!) on Christmas morning.

Nostalgia! I could wander down Memory Lane for hours, but that wouldn’t get this blog post completed.   I say all that about the magic of being a child at Christmas to introduce you to an amazing holiday goodie. It is not Christmas until the Steed kitchen has a batch of Tiny Christmas Bites on display for continual snacking.  I proudly present to you The Stylish Steed’s favorite childhood Christmas treat.

Christmas can officially begin!  This recipe, handwritten and folded on notebook paper, is tucked away in a ragged cookbook at my parents house.  The amazing mouthfuls of Christmas are super easy to make and I highly suggest you whip up a batch…like, this weekend!

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 1 cup chopped dates
• 14 oz. shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup candied cherries, chopped (I prefer 1/4 cup red and 1/4 green just to be festive)
• 1/2 cup candied pineapple, chopped
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325*.  Mix together butter and graham cracker crumbs.  Add sweetened condensed milk and remaining ingredients, stirring to blend.  Drop by 1 tablespoon scoops into paper lined miniature muffin pans.  Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.  Cool.

Yields 6 dozen (those will last about two days…if you practice self-control)

Think of a modern twist on a Christmas fruitcake.  These tasty bites are the perfect combination of gooey inside and crispy outside.  I could talk forever about these, but you don’t have time to read…you have to get to the grocery store for dates and candied cherries and pineapples because I know you don’t have any at home.  I don’t really think those are staple pantry items for most of humanity.

As we enter this 6th day of December, I hope you are already feeling the Christmas spirit and are looking forward to cherished time with friends and family.  If you are planning for another stylish Christmas, these Tiny Christmas Bites are the perfect addition to any gathering throughout the season.  As you deck the halls, don your stylish holiday apparel, and take to walking in a winter wonderland, don’t forget a tasty treat along the way.  I hope these evoke feelings and memories of the magic of Christmas for you as well!  Merry Christmas and stay stylish!