BEAUTY: Frizz Busters

Everyone has something that they do not like about their hair, for me—it is frizz. And in my case, my “frizzy” hair is the byproduct of damaged, porous hair that has stretched and then broken off.

Unfortunately, there is no reversing this damage, but it can be made less noticeable by using the right product. The right product will temporarily seal the ends and will use ingredients that smooth the hair shaft by coating it and making the hair lay flat.

I am currently using the Monoi Repairing Anti Breakage Spray from the Carol’s Daughter haircare line, which I was introduced to at the Lucky FABB conference. It is a wonderful product and really helps with the detangling which is one of the first steps in preventing further breakage. I also included the Monoi Repairing Split End Sealer. I have not used this product yet, but based on the one I am currently using, I do plan on purchasing it.

I am also considering the Caviar Perfect Iron Spray, it is supposed to protect hair up to 450 degrees and if you are like me and have to blow dry and flat iron your hair on a daily basis, a product that protects it from heat is a must have. The Hot Toddy Heat Protecter by Drybar has also piqued my interest. I like that this product helps to reduce friction, because friction will also make damaged hair look more frizzy. I discovered this when I use to curl my hair by wrapping it around the barrel and not using the clamp. Curling your hair using this method causes it to slide up and down the the barrel, which is more or less like rubbing it against the barrel — and we all know what happens when you rub your hair on a balloon—not pretty! But a product that helps cut down on friction will certainly help with the appearance of frizz.

And the Climate Control Gel by Ouidad, this I must try. A gel that combats heat and humidity? Bring it on! I live in New York which is famous for it’s hot, sweltering, and humid summers. So come next June I will be adding this to my shopping list for sure. Finally, The Full Thickening Cream by Living Proof is a product I have used in the past, it is very light and has a wonderful scent—not too sweet. It helps by adding volume and coating the hair shaft. Damaged hair is generally thinner then healthy hair due to breakage, so a thickening cream can definitely be a big help. Well I hope this helps you bust your frizzies!


- post by alicia

9 hottest nail polish

Today we're talking about nail polish.

With Spring headed our way - a lot of us girls will be looking for the newest trend in polish color. The HOTTEST nail polish in my opinion is Tom Ford. Why?

Because it stays on.  A few weeks ago I bought only (1) by Mr. Ford to try it out, Bordeaux Lust & it's lasted me up to 4 days without even chipping! On top of that, the color is gorgeous & rich. The price is on the high-side, so if you can't see yourself scooping up $35 - I would opt for Illamasqua which is only $17 (mid-range) and is also long-lasting.

What is your favorite polish brand & why??

-top image via YSL

-post by jen ramos

New at MADE BY GIRL

How about adding a bit of Paris to your day?  The newest print over at MADE BY GIRL - I love this handwritten print - it's now one of my faves! It says-  "Love Conquers All" in French & would look fantastic in any space. I can definitely see this on a dresser or in a gallery wall setting! Available now for pre-order at Made By Girl. 

-image by jen ramos

FOOD: Asian Super Slaw Salad

Hi Made By Girl readers, it is Amanda from A Life Well Lived  here to share one of my all time favorite salads with you. I am just going to put it out there - this might be the best salad that you ever make. This Asian Super Slaw Salad is super healthy but also super tasty. It is crunchy and creamy all at the same time. Plus this is one of those recipes where everyone loves it, picking eaters and vegetarians alike. It is just that good.

This salad is really adaptable. You could top it with peanuts for an extra crunch. Adding green onions or mint would be delicious. You can use all purple cabbage or even all carrots. The sky is the limit. If someone in your family can't eat peanut butter, try it with tahini or almond butter. It might taste a little bit different but it will still be creamy and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup walnut oil 
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons (packed) golden brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons minced peeled fresh ginger
• 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 5 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
• 2 cups thinly sliced purple cabbage
• 2 large red or yellow bell peppers, cut into matchstick-size strips
• 2 medium carrots, peeled, cut into matchstick-size strips
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• sesame seeds 

Whisk the first 8 ingredients in small bowl to blend. (Dressing can be made 1 day ahead. Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes before topping the vegetables with it.)

Combine remaining ingredients in large bowl. Add dressing and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Serves about 6 people. 

- post by Amanda

Teaching HIM to cook for HER

Hey everyone! I'm so excited to announce the new cooking classes my husband Mat, is teaching here in New York City! 

THE INFO:

As some of you may know, my husband & I will be embarking on an adoption journey.  Adoption is quite expensive & an emotionally draining process from what we've heard, but the end result (bringing a baby home) should be well worth it!  This is something I've never been sure about sharing on my blog before, but I felt this was the right time.

With that said, we also have our own donation page where you can read more about our story, as well as the cooking class that my husband is starting this month in order to raise money for our adoption.  His site is called, Pot Pan Knife, a NYC-based culinary workshop to teach men 'how to cook for HER'.   Ladies, I don't know about you, but I love when my husband makes breakfast for me - it's so special & I appreciate him even more. Showing LOVE through little gestures like cooking can mean a lot to someone.

So, feel free to tell the men in your life......

WHEN:

If you're a man in NYC - and would like to attend the first class on March 13th called - "Make Her Breakfast" - you can get your ticket here.  The class is about 2 hours & should be a lot of fun! Only 8 slots available.  The 'Make Her a Dumpling Dinner' class will be coming up the week after - stay tuned!

You can sign up for his mailing list here to get info on upcoming classes. Again, THANK YOU all from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support on our adoption journey & the classes!

"And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me".  - Matthew 18:5

Beauty: Two Toned Lips

Hi ladies, it's me again- Rachel from Life Unsweetened. Today I'm going to give my thoughts on how to pull off the two-tone lip. I know what you're thinking- two colors at once, that seems a bit scary- but I promise it's not. The best part about this trend is that there are a ton of different ways to wear it. So whether you're a lipstick newbie or a daring lady who wants to make a statement, here's how to pull off the two-tone lip trend.  

Beginner- A touch of color on the center. If you're scared to try the two-toned lip, this is the best way to start. Apply your regular color, a tawny pink like Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Lipstick in "Nude Beige" works well for most skintones, lightly all over your lips. Then add the pop of color to the center of your lips with a glossy red stain, like Tarte LipSurgence™ Lip Tint in "Swank". Pat it on with your fingers to control the amount of color you want, this way you can't go overboard. If you've applied too much, simply blot with a tissue and you're good to go!

Intermediate- A true ombre lip. If you want to try something a bit bolder, an ombre lip is the way to go. The basic look of an ombre lip is dark on the outside and gradually gets lighter as you go to the center. The best part about this look is you can choose any color group  you want. For example, for a red ombre lip, you'd use a burgundy lip liner, a brick red lipstick for the middle and then a pinky-rude on the center. To copy the look above, first apply a deep red lip liner (like NARS Lipliner Pencil in "Amazon"). Fill in your lips with a perfect red shade, like Maybelline Color Sensation Lipcolor in "Are You Red-dy". Finally, add a fuschia-pink (like MAC "Candy Yum Yum" Lipstsick) to the center for some drama. Top it off with a clear gloss if you dare!

Expert- Different colors on bottom & top lip. I've only seen this look on the runways or in pages of Allure, but I commend any woman who tries this in real life. While it may not be appropriate for work, you could try it for a fun girl's night out. As crazy as it may look to you, it's actually the simplest look of the three. Apply two contrasting colors to your lips- one on the top and one on the bottom. A color combo that can't go wrong? A hot orange on top and a bright pink on the bottom. I suggest Revlon Super Lustrous Creme Lipstick in "Siren" and Sephora Collection Rouge Shine Lipstick in "Just Dating".  

Which one of these looks would you try? 

-post by rachel 

FASHION: pretty & edgy

Hi everyone! Adri here of Adri's World. It's been so cold this winter that I honestly can't wait for Spring.  A big trend for Spring are FLORALS, and I love a floral shirt that can be styled many different ways. Here are two great options, a pretty and colorful look that can be worn to a brunch or a day out and an edgy and leather look for a date night or cocktails with friends.

By adding colored pants and pretty accessories the look is very feminine and soft. Switch the pastel pants for leather pants add black and white sandals, edgy accessories and a fringe clutch and you are ready for a night out and your look is completely different.

What about you, are you ready for Spring? Are florals part of your wardrobe? 

Pretty Look: [1.faith connexion shirt, 2.kate spade ring, 3.zara velvet pants, 4.loeffler randall tote, 5.dior nail polish, 6.schutz sandals]
 
Edgy Look: [1.faith connexion shirt, 2.rebecca minkoff bracelet, 3.topshop pants, 4.marc jacobs lipstick, 5.jeffrey campbell sandals, 6.rebecca minkoff clutch]

- post by Adri Reynoso

7 Trendy Graphic Sweaters

Spring is not that far away - & we'll be getting rid of the heavy coats & throwing on some sweaters. I love all the cute collections out there, especially the graphic ones - with BIG words and French sayings, so chic don't you think? Funny my husband & I have this thing where we like to joke around & say "EauYeah" - and then I come across this sweatshirt that say the same thing, ha! Must-have!
Here are my current favorites right now, including Do EPIC Chic from eLUXE.

1. river isalnd /// 2 mango  /// 3 mango /// 4 each x other /// 5 eLUXE /// 6 zoe karssen /// 7 each x other

OK....So, which of these can you see yourself wearing?

- post by jen ramos

DESIGN: Sheepskin Rugs

Hi Dear decor lovers! It's Monika here from ohmydeco!  As the winter continues to make us wanna stay under the covers, it's more than necessary to make our homes as cozy as possible! And I don't now a more efficient way than to add some good old piece of fur to it! Really, is there anything more pleasant then get out of bed and feel the furry softness under your feet?

Sheep skin rugs are something I really love in the interiors as they are beautiful and totally affordable and create effortless and relaxed yet glamorous look. You can lay them on the floor or put over the furniture for even more coziness and, they match any style and add a bohemian, warm feeling to the space, making it more eclectic and personal. I love them most in simple spaces matched with colorful accessories and vintage pieces of furniture.

 Bedroom Via Smallshopstudio :: Living room Via :: Classyinthecity

Entry Via @mariskameijersamsterdam :: Work Space Via Pinterest

:: 1 Zebra print chair  ::  2 Wood bowl ::  3 Tea-light holder via Calypso St Barth  ::  4 Sheep ski rug  ::  5 Silver leather pouf  :: 6 Cork tray via CWonder :: 7 Steel and glass side table ::  8 Pink peonies in vase  ::  9 Brass and marble table lamp  ::  10 Grey lamb fur pillow ::

post by Monika

6 snow boots

I think it's safe to say winter has really shown us its true colors this year. In fact, we had a few sunny days last week here in NYC & I thought the snow was gone, but nope, it's back again today!  Can the city hold anymore snow?? Who knows.  What I do know is that it's probably a good idea to be prepared. And I also know that statement snow boots are one great accessory.

Whether for this winter season or next, let your inner snow bunny do some shopping! There are so many cute snow boots out there to choose from-- I've selected 6 different styles to get you started. Enjoy!

Which style do you prefer ??

1. Sorel Women's Tofino Boot /// 2. Sorel Caribou Snow Boots via Bloomingdale's  /// 3. Sorel via Dogfunk /// 4. Pajar via Dogfunk /// 5. Sorel Women's Glacy Lace Boot  /// 6. Tory Burch Denai Quilted Rain Bootie

- post by jen ramos

Follow MBG on instagram

If you want to follow MADE BY GIRL more closely - head over to my Instagram page. I post about 2-3 x a day - sometimes 4x. You'll get a taste of all the things I'm inspired by + what I'm wearing as well as beautiful parts of NYC.  It's a bit more personal - in photos.  Here's a sample below! Follow here.

Get your own Le Chat print via MADE BY GIRL.

DESIGN: Inspired by Goethe

Hi everyone, its Lisa with Gem Daily! When I first came across these gorgeous doors at the Goethe Institute in Prague, I couldn't get them out of my head- so stunning, so detailed and all together amazing! I am so drawn to that perfect hue of peach/salmon/heaven, combined with the brass. With these doors glued to my brain, I found myself shopping for goodies with similar traits, whether it be the color, finish or detail and I discovered this can be the most fun way to shop for things.

First, find a source of inspiration that you gravitate toward-whether it be an architectural element, a piece of art or something as small as a detail on a handbag. When that sucker gets engraved in your brain, you'll find it's actually really easy to pull elements or aspects of the inspiration and help it guide you in shopping for inspired gems. In my case, it was the color of salmon, the brass and the handcrafted detail.

Check out my finds that are inspired by this amazing set of doors in Prague and next time you're in a design rut, use a source of inspiration to help guide your shopping!

1 // Milo Baughman Lounge Chair
2 // Valdes Chair 
3 // X Marks the Spot Rug, Adobe
4 // Robert Abbey Delta Petal Table Lamp
5 // Gorka Mirror
6 // Pink Sea Urchin
7 // Maitland Smith Tesselated Coral Console Table
8 // John Robshaw Laal Decorative Pillow
9 // Izmer Hammered Brass Transitional Cocktail Table


-post by lisa fisbeck

Schutz Shoes

Hi everyone! Welcome back to Monday! So.... I'm here to share one of my favorite things – shoes. What girl doesn't love shoes??

Well,  Schutz Shoe has some of the nicest & unique pairs of shoes around... or as they like to say, Brazilian shoes with NY style. Their shoes are gorgeous! I personally love their booties the most - there are so many chic styles to choose from. And for a girl who loves her leopard print, they sure know how to entice me with all things leopard!! Too bad they don't have my size in the leopard print anymore - so bummed out!

Anyhow, here are a few of my favorites, including my absolute favorite leopard print pair. I'm a thin-heel type of girl - I can't stand clunky (gothic-looking) heels, I would feed like Frankenstein. What about you?? Do you own any Schutz shoes? 

1. Lyra /// 2. Irma /// 3. Gorgeane Leather /// 4. Aissa /// 5. Alameda /// 6. Ginny Camouflage

- post by jen ramos

FOOD: Fresh Cucumber and Tomato Pizzettes

Hi there MadeByGirl! This is  Jen from Pretty Eats bringing you a pretty and fun appetizer that can also fit the bill for dinner (if you eat all 6, like I did). Who else out there is dreaming of Summer during these Winter months? I know I'm not the only one raising my hand. These fresh and tasty Cucumber and Tomato Pizzettes will have those Summer daydreams feel like reality.

Easy, super quick, and adaptable to your favorite ingredients, I know you'll find ways to make these pizzettes your own. Try my summery cucumber and tomato version first and feel that cold weather melt away.

Ingredients:  makes 6
    •    6 mini pitas
    •    4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
    •    1 cucumber, thinly sliced with a vegetable peeler
    •    1/2 c sliced cherry tomatoes
    •    Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
    •    High quality EVOO and fresh micro greens for garnish

Directions: 
    •    Preheat broiler on high
    •    Place mini pitas on baking sheet, top with sliced mozzarella, sprinkle salt and pepper on top
    •    Broil cheese-topped pitas on high for 1-2 minutes, until bubbly and slightly golden
    •    Allow pitas to cool for 2 minutes before adding remaining toppings
    •    Top with slices of fresh cucumber, tomato, and micro greens…drizzle with EVOO and enjoy!

- photos by jen olson

Fashion: Lush Jewelry

Hi everyone! Today I'd love to tell you about a super cute jewelry company called Lush Jewelry.  This is your 'go-to' place if you're looking for that one small - simple & dainty piece of jewelry! They have the cutest rings, bangles, necklaces and more. And I personally love the delicate material of each item– rings and bangles sit freely and don't feel too bulky! Who doesn't love that??

And here's some exciting news.  Now YOU can shop at Lush Jewelry and take 30% OFF your order! All through the end of February! Just use code MBG30 at checkout.  Keep in mind, the code is only valid thru the end of February!

Here are some of my favorite pieces, feel free to browse the site and find what suits you!!

1. Mini Heart Ring // 2. Chevron Cuff // 3. Infinity Chain // 4. Heart You // 5. Mini Teardrop Ring // 6. Right Angle Cuff // 7. Free Ring // 8. Heart Bangle

- post by jen ramos

Decor: Animal Instincts

Hi-this is Lisa from Gem Daily! I don't know about you, but I can't get enough of the animal accessory takeover going on right now! It is one of my absolute favorite ways to accessorize a space and add some funk and character. Even the smallest horn accent or leopard print can instantly create a sense of eclecticism and a bit of the unexpected. And I just love an overstated animal graphic for its bold artistic statement.

 

What's even better is these accessories tend to come in my personal holy grail of black, white, brass & lucite finishes- can you say instant glamour? Like the pair of lucite antlers from Arteriors for instance, just screams modern glam on top of a stack of coffee table books. Or the Cheetah print from the Aestate would be just perfect featured in a gallery wall. My favorite and most versatile has to be the cowhide pillow; the perfect addition to any contemporary, eclectic or even traditional spaces, it is a definite design staple.

ONE // surya animal leather espresso pillow

TWO // jonathan adler animalia coasters

THREE // jonathan adler pablo lamp

FOUR // the aestate cheetah twins print

FIVE // shopten25 brown polyresin sitting dog

SIX // lulu & georgia byzantine wall mount, ram

SEVEN // 1st dibs steer horn bookends

EIGHT // natural curiosities tylinek zebra

NINE // dwell studio bright gold elephant

TEN // barbara cosgrove turtle shell 

ELEVEN // arteriors desoto white small sculpture

- post by lisa

Beauty: Mascara for Every Lash Type

Hi, I'm Rachel from Life Unsweetened. I'm so excited to share my first post as a MADE BY GIRL beauty contributor. As a beauty-obsessed woman, finding the perfect mascara formula has been a longtime goal of mine. While I haven't quite found "the one", I have found a bunch of different brands and formulas that work for each type of lash.  So whether your lashes are lacking volume or you're searching for a mascara that stays put all day long, here are a few of my personal favorites.

Volumizing- Just as the name says, the L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara is a cult-favorite for a reason. From the classic packaging to the awesome price tag, this product has it all. Years ago, I turned to online mascara reviews to find a solution to my naturally thin lashes, and this formula was a clear winner. I suggest choosing the "Carbon Black" formula- it's truly the darkest shade that provides thick and lush lashes that everyone will envy.

Lengthening- Unless you were born with butterfly lashes (in which case, I envy you), falsies are a solution to add some length. However, applying them every day can be a bit time-consuming and expensive. Benefit's 'They're Real" Mascara gives my lashes the falsie effect- without the eyelash glue and mishaps. Although it's a bit pricier than what you'll find at your local drugstore, the formula lasts long and is worth every penny. I personally love the long brush with a spiked end to coat each and every corner for a doe-eyed look.

Colored- I typically reserve colored mascara for a fun night out or special event, but some ladies prefer to wear it daily. If you're tired of the same makeup routine, colored mascara is an easy way to make your eyes pop. Almay Intense I-Color Volumizing Mascara comes in 4 expertly-crafted shades to enhance the natural color of your eyes. I love the plum shade- it draws attention to my big brown eyes.

Waterproof- Waterproof mascara is a must-have for summer heat, busy days at the office and weddings. Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof Mascara is one of the few waterproof formulas that worked for me. It not only gives your lashes thickness and length, but stays put during a full day at the beach.

Natural- For the ladies who prefer organic beauty products, natural mascara can be tough to spot. My go-to is the tarte lights, camera, lashesô 4-in-1 Mascara. †The olive esters conditions, treats and protects lashes without any harmful chemicals. In addition, I'm in love with the mascara brush and cute packaging. Win- win!



- post by rachel

Winter Capes

Hi everyone! It's Monday and the sun is shining bright here in NYC...(rare). Good break from all the snow we've been having. I've been unfortunately sick with a cold, but hoping to feel better soon! How are you??

Speaking of winter & chilly weather.... I think I'm not alone when I say I've just about had it with the cold!!! But hey - since it's here to stay for a little bit longer, might as well make the best of it, right? I've been seeing a lot of fabulous winter cloaks lately – a very stylish way to stay warm, don't you think? I've selected a handful, let me know what you think about the trend!

What's your favorite style coat to wear in the winter??

1. Loro Piana Vendome Cashmere Cape /// 2. Marc New York Funnel Collar Capelet /// 3. Modern Chic Women's New Camel Cloak Coat via Amazon /// 4. Rachel Zoe Wrap Cape Collar  /// 5. Dark Grey Fur Hooded Buckle Ruffles Cape Coat

- post by jen ramos

My Husband Makes an Ombre Cake

I LOVE Valentine's day - but I didn't love it so much when I was single.  Back as a single gal, I used to secretly hope that as I walked down the street on Feb. 14th,  some guy would ask me out! Needless to say, it only happened once.

I guess I enjoy Valentine's day because it's the day (besides anniversaries) we celebrate love in a BIG way.  Personally, I think love should be celebrated as often as possible - and with that said, let's talk about this post.  Lately I've been asking my husband to bake a cake.... but not just any cake - an Ombre cake.

So, I had to show him the many photos of ombre cakes featured on Pinterest & like a good sport, he was game!  Keep in mind, Mat loves to cook & teaches himself new recipes all the time, but this one was a definitely a challenge.  Either way, he made it for me today as one of my Valentine's treats. How cute is this??!??!  Some of you may also recall, two years ago on V-day - he also made me a cake, you can see the photos here.

I loved it so much I had to show you!  Below Mat take over the post & explain how he made this cake.  I'm impressed - aren't you?

 Ingredients:

1 stick (8 Tb) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 Tb teaspoons baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 large egg whites
1/2 C "milk" (soy or almond is fine)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Hot pink food coloring

Prep:

Preheat to 350 degrees. Beat butter and sugar in a mixing bowl for 5 minutes. Stir flour, baking powder and salt together in a separate bowl. Combine egg whites, milk and vanilla extract in another bowl. Add half of the dry mix to the butter mix, then half the milk mixture, and combine well with beater. Repeat, scraping bowl and beater often.

Prepare your pans. For this I used 4.5" non-stick springforms but you can use any type of pan. If it is not non-stick, you will need to grease it and use parchment to prevent sticking. Pour 3/4" deep of the mix into the baking pan and let settle. Carefully add food color to the remaining mix, 2 drops at a time blending completely so that the color never gets more than a few shades pinker. Pour 3/4" deep of the mix into a second pan. At this point, I had to bake them for 18 minutes, remove, and cool. Repeat the coloring each time you fill the pan and bake. Be sure to cut the puffed top off before layering the cake, and put a good dose of frosting between layers.

Frost with any good frosting - I recommend coloring a light shade of pink (about the same as the second or third layer). Buttercream is always a good choice but any frosting will do.

PS - if you don't want to go through the effort of scratch, you can use a box mix just as easily.

-images by jen ramos

'WE LOVE YOU' Sale

There is a SALE going on now at MADE BY GIRL.  Get 15% off your total purchase - starts now & ends on 2/14 at 6pm est.  The discount code is in the heart below. Happy shopping!

Decor: Emerald Crush

Good Morning MBG readers! It’s Stasia from Primp and Prime.  Yesterday while I was scoping out West Elm’s spring collection, I fell completely head over heals for their sleek emerald agate jewelry boxes.  The layered colors of green, gold, and black are so luxurious that it inspired me to design a living space around them.

I wanted the space to reflect the detailed dimensions of the boxes. I pulled some ideas from magazines and scoped out pieces with that perfect tone of emerald green.  The space has charcoal gray and black velvet fabrics with touches of gold and emerald. The space is not only luxurious; it invokes a feeling of refined sophistication. 

Living room interior from Lonny Magazine.

Living room interior photo from Better Homes and Gardens Magazine. 

Office interior photo from Lonny Magazine.

Photo of agate jewlery box from West Elm.

1. Starburst Chandelier 2. Charcoal Velvet Couch 3. Malachite Candle   4.Abstract Print 5.Brass Table Lamp 6.Agate Jewelry Box 7. Brass Woven Bowls 8.  Black and Emerald Silk Pillows 9. Greek Green and Gold Tray Table

- post by stasia

FOOD: Brownie Roll-out Cookies

Hello! Jen of Lemon Drop Love here to share a fun, chocolatey Valentine’s Day treat. I like this recipe because the end result is a unique cross between a brownie and a cookie; crunchy on the edges and chewy in the center—perfect with a cold glass of milk! And if there wasn’t already enough chocolate for you, I added a little flare to the recipe—chocolate almond spread topped with sprinkles! These are surprisingly simple to make, plus you'll have so many cookies you can share the love with friends and coworkers.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa
3/4 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions: (recipe adapted via The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook)
Whisk the flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder together in a bowl, and set aside. Beat butter and sugar with electronic mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl. Mix in vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Roll out cookie dough on a floured counter. Cut into desired shapes, brushing extra deposits of flour off the top. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 8 to 11 minutes, until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft and puffed.
Transfer to wire rack to cool.
**Addition: once cookies are cooled, use your favorite chocolate spread, Nutella would work—I used Cocoa Almond Spread from Trader Joe's. Then top with your favorite sprinkles.**

- photos by jen

Note Cards

The new Cocoa & Hearts stationery is so pretty! Makes a perfect gift for anyone who loves writing a handwritten notes! There are 6 note cards, blank on one side for the perfect note along with 6 pointed flap envelopes! Gold foil lettering on the front as well! The note card colors are reminiscent of Essie Nail polish & Lipstick don't you think? You can buy them via MADE BY GIRL.

FASHION: Hearts

Hi everyone! Adri here of Adri's World. It's February and that means it's the month of LOVE!

I love hearts and that wrap dress is just the perfect pattern. Not too red, not too flashy. Wear it with some delicate gold heart earrings and a simple long heart necklace. Love!
 

Those black pumps with gold hearts are the cutest, I think they would look great with that cream shirt with black hearts and your favorite black skirt. Perfect for a night out! If you want to add a bit of hearts in a fashionable way, what better way with a black and white clutch? That clutch is definitely on my list of wants!

And of course no outfit is complete without the perfect lipstick and an amazing scent! Do you like hearts?

[1.ariel gordon earrings, 2.vivienne westwood for melissa pumps 3.jennifer zeuner necklace, 4.lancome lipstick, 5.a wear dress, 6.ariella collection ring, 7.dolce & gabbana fragrance, 8.topshop shirt, 9.stella mccartney clutch]

- post by Adri Reynoso

FASHION: Valentine Gift Guide for Her

Hi everyone, Sandra from Blasfemmes here. I bet you can tell I love gift guides so here's another, this time dedicated to Valentine's Day. Though I know this is not a date everyone celebrates or even likes I think it's a great opportunity to have fun, with or without a romantic partner. What are your plans for this day?

1. Valentino Rockstud Pink Bag // 2. Stella McCartney Red Bra // 3. MadebyGirl Personalized Necklace  // 4. Wonderelle Roses Floral Arrangement // 5. Kate Spade New York - Eat Cake for Breaksfast Mug // 6. Paris Clutch - Kate Spade NY // 7. Leopard iPhone Case - Kate Spade NY // 8. Mac Cosmetics Lipsticks // 9. Salvatore Ferragamo Varina Flats // 10. MadeByGirl LOVE (dark gold + pink) Print // 11. Wonderelle Love Bunnies Ring Holder // 12. Shop Ban.Do Hearts

-post by sandra lopes

FOOD: Orange Chocolate Truffles

Hi everyone, I am Amanda from the food and lifestyle blog, A Life Well Lived. This is my first post with Made By Girl and I am super excited to share some of my favorite recipes with you all.
 

First up, Orange Chocolate Truffles - perfect treat for the upcoming Valentine’s Day. These truffles look hard to make but are incredibly easy!  My favorite kind of recipe. With just a couple of easy-to-find ingredients, you have the perfect Valentine’s Day treat for that special someone or even better, a Valentine’s Day gift for yourself.
 

Personally, I love this combination of intense semi-sweet chocolate against the sweet
floral and citrus notes of the orange zest. By using just the zest of the orange you get
the the great orange flavor without any bitterness. It elevates the chocolate just a little
without overpowering it.

But, the best part of this recipe is that it is totally adaptable to other types of chocolate
truffles. I have added some other recipe ideas that would be delicious combinations.

Chocolate Orange Truffles

 
Truffles

3/4 cup heavy cream

8 ounces semi sweet chocolate, finely chopped

2 teaspoons finely grated fresh orange zest

Pinch kosher salt

Toppings
1⁄2 cup chocolate sprinkles
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar

Heat the cream in medium sized heavy saucepan over medium high heat. Bring cream
to a simmer then remove the pan from the heat. Do not boil the cream. Add the
chocolate to cream and let sit for a minute or two, until chocolate begins to melt. Add
orange zest and salt and whisk until completely smooth. Transfer to a bowl. Cover and
refrigerate preferably overnight. If you are short on time, you can spread the mixture into
a thin layer on a cookie sheet and refrigerate for one hour.

Remove the chocolate mixture from refrigerator and let soften just slightly. With a melon
baller or spoon, roll 1 tablespoons of the mixture at a time into balls until round and
smooth. Roll each truffle in a topping of your choice. If the mixture gets too soft return it
to the refrigerator. 

Truffles can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for two days or in the refrigerator up to two weeks. (Note if using powdered sugar as a topping it tends to get absorbed by the chocolate over time. So it you plan on storing these truffles or making them ahead, I suggest using only the sprinkles or cocoa powder as toppings) Makes about 25 bite-sized truffles

Other possible combinations based on the above recipe. Remove the orange zest and
try some of the below ideas:

Toasted Coconut Chocolate Truffles - Instead of the heavy cream, use coconut cream
and then roll the truffles in toasted coconut flakes

Nutella Truffles - Add 1/2 cup Nutella to chocolate and reduce heavy cream to 1/2 cup.
Then roll truffles in finely chopped hazelnuts.

Pistachio Truffles - Add 1/8 teaspoon of almond extract (a little goes a long way) to the
chocolate and cream, then roll the truffles in crushed pistachios

- photos by amanda