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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Decor: Moody Hues

Hey there, here is Monika from ohmydeco, with my first post and new exciting decor trends for the seasons to follow! This year, we make a decorative statement at home by choosing a darker color scheme and playing with the shades.
 

 When choosing the wall color, try to stay away from clear neutrals, try dark greys or peacock blue instead of safe whites. Go for accessories that blend perfectly into the background, darker hues will work particularly well with glossy brass and wood accessories,  calming creams and textured, graphic fabrics. Velver upholstered furniture are great when it comes to creating a sexy, yet sophisticated look with a romantic touch to it and will bring softness and coziness to the space.

 Via Sukio

 Via iseecubed

 Via Sketch42Blog

 

1 Cowhide rug // 2 Coffee table // 3 Grey velvet sofa// 4 Accent table // 5 Floor lamp // 

6 Cushion // 7 Feather wall decor // 8 Tray // 9 Metal boxes

- post by monika


 

BEAUTY: Tory Burch

Hi MBG readers Allie here of ALLIE NYC, and I am super excited to talk about Tory Burch’s latest endeavor. If being a fashion icon is not enough, the designer now has her own signature fragrance. The fragrance simply named “Tory Burch” is like a warm garden breeze. Think sun dappled picnics and lazy lunches on the terrace. Spicy and fruity with hints of Grapefruit, Neroli, Rose, Peony, Vetiver, Cedar, Bergamot, and Sandalwood, it is a light, refreshing scent that is never too sweet. My favorite kind. And can we talk about the packaging!

 I just love the beautiful, understated elegance. From the fretwork, to the beveled glass, to the gold and coral palette, to the now icon logo—this bottle would be at home on the chicest of vanities. Am I right? Such a lust worthy purchase, I just may break the bank if I bought the entire line. Thankfully there is a Rollerball!

So what are your favorite types of scents? Floral and sweet? Spicy and fruity? Or more sensual and musky?

All images via Sephora

- post by alicia 

FASHION: Pop of Color

Hi everyone, Adri here of Adri's World. Since my last post was about winter neutrals, I felt that a "pop of color" would be the perfect follow up! 

Sometimes all you need to brighten up your look is a great bold bag, jewelry or maybe a pair of gloves for those cloudy, dark days. If you want to have a daily pop of color, how about a bright wallet in bubble gum pink? I think it would make shopping even more fun!  Color can be added to a monochromatic look or can be worn together to really make a statement. I love how that coat adds a bit of color to an otherwise classic and simple black and white look and with Valentine's Day around the corner, those sexy sandals would be the perfect addition to any outfit.

Do you wear bright colors in the winter or do you prefer them for the warmer weather?

[1.rebecca minkoff tote, 2.baublebar cuff, 3.zara top, 4.asos coat, 5.bcbgeneration gloves, 6.michael kors shoes, 7.rebecca minkoff wallet]


- post by Adri Reynoso

FASHION: French Chic

Hi everyone! Sandra from Blasfemmes here. It's that time of year when I'm both tempted by sales and at the same time I'm also curious about the Spring/14 collections coming out, can you relate?

So, while some of us are still debating between hunting good investment pieces from sales and coveting next Season's novelties why not go back to the classics? Today it's all about Parisian style, an old favorite of mine. Are you also fans of French chic?

 

1. Eugenia Kim Cat Beret // 2. Oasis Striped Coat // 3. MadeByGirl 'Un, Deux, Trois' Print // 4. DVF Drop Waist Dress // 5. Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Bag // 6. Chanel Nº 5 Eau De Parfum // 7. Burberry Polka Dot Scarf // 8. Zara Cap-Toe Shoes // 9. Asos Beret // 10. Chanel 2.55 Blush Bag // 11. T By Alexander Wang Striped Tee // 12. Chanel Nail Polishes in Blue Boy, Beige and Rouge Noir // 13. Parisian Chic: A Style Guide by Ines de la Fressange Book // 14. Topshop Skirt // 15. Repetto Ballerinas // 16. Lenox Eiffel Tower Mug (also love this)

-post by sandra lopes

 

Food: Carrot Apple Juice

Hello, MBG readers! Fallon, of Sage + Sparkle here, sharing a healthy treat...Carrot Apple Juice. At the start of a new year, who doesn't love a good detox, and juice or smoothies are the perfect way to start. I typically have a fresh green juice every morning, but there are days that I love to throw in a little variety and this juice is the perfect way to do so. Carrots are really the star in this recipe, helping to cleanse the digestive system, on top of being an antioxidant, and boosting your immune system. Add in the apple and ginger, plus lemon and chia seeds and you have a winning, healthy combination.  

*Please note: you will need a juicer to try this recipe, I recommend the this one. 
 

Ingredients:

• 1 green apple (cut into pieces, removing the core)
• 4-5 large carrots *
• 1 sm piece of fresh ginger (about the size of thumb)
• 1 lemon (peeled)

Fun Fact: When it comes to carrots, the deeper the orange, the higher the concentration of beta-carotene

 

Directions:

Now it's time to add everything together and enjoy this delicious, fresh juice! Add all ingredients to juice in the following order (the order does matter):

• Apple
• Lemon
• Ginger
• Carrot

The last step is to add the chia seeds. Make sure you stir the juice first, to mix in the foam. Pour in chia seeds and stir. Enjoy! To learn more about the health benefits of chia seeds, click here. For more of my juice recipes, visit Sage + Sparkle. 

-post and recipe by Fallon Carmichael, Sage + Sparkle