Handpicked - Fall 2010 Trends, Military Inspiration

If you watched last week's Project Runway {SPOILER ALERT!} with a win for Team Military and Lace, you know that Military Inspired (link to winning design) looks are all the rage this Fall season. Take a tip straight from Project Runway by keeping the look feminine - pair a army green twill jacket with a soft flowy dress for the perfect look.

Since Piperlime and Project Runway are working hand-in-hand this season, all of these picks are straight from the Piperlime shop!

1) Fossil Lizette Crossbody in Brown - $98

2) Sequin Metal Ring Status Necklace - $45

3) Michael Antonio Ohare in Brown - Seriously, these couldn't get much sexier, especially for such an affordable price!! - $78

4) BCBGeneration Jules in Black - $110

5) Elizabeth and James Band Jacket in Olive - I am in LOVE with this cropped collarless jacket!! - $395

6) Hive and Honey Leather Wrap Bracelet - $24

7) Nanette Leopore Dr No Jacket in Army - $498

8) Hive and Honey Gold Stud Earring - $22

9) 7 For All Mankind Skinny Cargo in Grey - $169

Tomorrow - Lace-up Boots!

Handpicked - Fall 2010 Trends, Over-the-knee Boots

Two specific things have inspired me to do what I'm about to do for the next two weeks. . . each day for the next ten (week)days I'll be highlighting this Fall's Top Trends. First and foremost, the e-mail I received last week from Piperlime entitled "The Fall Trend Guide: Our 10 favorites." gave me the confirmation that the trends I was spotting were right on and secondly, I was finally able to watch "The September Issue", which is all about choosing the proper Fall trends! So today I'm starting off with Over-the-knee Boots. . . a trend that started late last year and is rockin' full force this Fall.

1) Stella McCartney Black Faux Leather Over-the-knee Boots from Bluefly - These channel Julia Roberts circa Pretty Woman, so sexy!! - $956

2) Frye Sarah Over-the-Knee in Dark Brown available at Piperlime - $458

3) Via Spiga Maddy in Black from Piperlime - $498

4) Frye Taylor Over-the-Knee in Curry, Piperlime - If you're going to rock out the cowboyesque boots, why not make them mustard yellow? YUM!! - $428

5) Dixon Over-the-Knee Boots in Black from J. Crew - $425

6) Chinese Laundry Night Owl in Cognac at Piperlime - Bonus, these can be folded down to create gorgeous knee-length boots, too! - $109

7) Rampage Kourtney in Black from Piperlime - $69

8) DV by Dolce Vita Bronson in Gray Leather, Piperlime - $175

9) Cole Haan Talia Over-the-Knee Boot in Black Stretch Suede from Piperlime - Seriously sexy!! - $498

Tomorrow. . . Military Inspiration!

Restoration Hardware, Home - My Current Wish List

This Wish List is pretty heavy on the wish since everything is from Restoration Hardware ;o) Since I generally fall in love with every piece I see at Restoration Hardware I narrowed it down to just the Home section, maybe I'll move on to the others soon!

1) I would stop sleeping my bed and start sleeping on the couch if this were my couch - Lancaster Leather Sleeper Sofa. 2) This Printmaker's Sideboard would be SO beautiful in my office. . . heaven!! 3) I would start sleeping in my bed again is this were mine - French Empire Bed!! 4) I am still looking for the perfect industrial + salvaged wood bookshelf for our living room and this French Library Shelving has certainly become a contender.

Ashley's Bachelorette Party | 08.2010 {Put in Bay, Ohio}

Earlier this summer my sister, Jami, asked me if I could design Bachelorette Party invitations for a soiree she was planning as a bridesmaid in her friend Ashley's wedding. Of course I said yes, but being the creative set that we are we took it one step further by dreaming up matching attire for the bride and bridal party to rock out on their big night!! This was such a fun project to work on, especially since it meant I got work with my sister every day :o)

The party's theme was "Buy a Shot, She's Tying the Knot" so I started by designing an invitation, complete with adorable shot glass artwork, detailing the weekend's events on the front and then completed it with a fun checklist of things to bring along for the trip on the back. Each card was printed by baci on either a pink or yellow card which was stuffed inside an envelope of the opposite color. Each envelope had the same shot glass artwork printed on the front and was finished off with a fun Celebrate Stamp from the USPS. I continued the artwork onto Ashley's Bride Shirt which was printed locally by Young's Screenprinting & Embroidery on a bright pink tank top .

In typical Bachelorette Party fashion, the bride was to complete a list of fun - mildy wild - things on the night of her big party. . . so I incorporated the checklist right onto her shirt, mimicking the one on the back of the original invitation. The night of the party, participating party goers checked the items off right on Ashley's back :o)

We couldn't forget the bridal party, so once again I continued the shot glass artwork onto black tank tops, also printed by Young's, and put each girl's name on the back of her shirt.

I had to post at least one shot of the lovely ladies having a good time at Put-in-Bay in their baci designed gear. . . you've got to love the guy in the background who just had to jump in with the Bachelorette Party - lol!!

Thanks again to my sister for allowing me to create something so fabulous - I'm glad you ladies had a wonderful time!!

* Photos by Jami Lee

Wedding Wednesday | Real Wedding Inspiration

I love wedding blogs. Seriously, love them, so it only makes sense when I find inspiration each time I visit one. That's what happened when I checked in on Once Wed recently - leah + jon's Northern Georgia Wedding took my breath away! Their wedding was held at Crane Creek Vineyard, stylized by the uber talented Joy Thigpen and photographed by the incredible David and Kendrick of Our Labor of Love. . . not to mention paper goods by Chelsea Petaja of Oh My Deer Handmades!! The talent this wedding incorporated is amazing! Here is the beautiful inspiration board I created from Our Labor of Love's images, enjoy!

For more images and details from this gorgeous big day (including what Joy made those gorgeous flowers from!!) go here, here and here, oh and here, too :o)

baci's baking - Mexican-style Grilled Chicken

We're trying to get as much grilling in as possible before the weather turns and this is one of our favorites!

Mexican-style Grilled Chicken

6 chicken breasts
½ cup lime juice
⅓ cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 T. paprika
1 t. chile powder
2 t. salt
2 T. chopped cilantro

1) Place the chicken in a 9x13-inch pan.

2) In a medium bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and pour over the chicken.

3) Marinade for one hour or, ideally, overnight in the refrigerator.

3) Take the chicken out of the refrigerator an hour before cooking.

4) Heat the grill to medium-high. Grill chicken about 10-12 minutes per side, turning often to avoid burning.

5) Remove and serve on a platter.

Boyfriend Cardigans - My Current Wish List

At the end of Spring this year I purchased a gray boyfriend cardigan from Old Navy. . . since Spring didn't last very long I only got the chance to wear it once. Now the nights are getting chilly so I've brought it back. I totally forgot how fabulous it was and how wonderful the size and comfort of a boyfriend cardigan is. Obviously I want more, so here are four that I think would be lovely additions to my Fall wardrobe :o)

1) Women's AE Boyfriend Cardigan in Tower Navy, $29.50 2) Banana Republic Hidden Placket Cardigan in Sunwashed Taupe, $79.50 3) Laurie B Headliner Boyfriend Cardigan in Jewels from Piperlime, $70.99 4) Halogen Stripe Boyfriend Cardigan in Black/Heather Gray Combo from Nordstrom, $69.00

Wedding Wednesday | Power Plums Inspiration

Inspired by Sephora's Power Plums Look, yet executed with Fall nuptials in mind, this All Purple Inspiration Board is seriously fierce!

Flipping through the Sephora Fall 2010 Catalog, I saw this quote from Founder of Sephora by OPI, Suzi Weiss, "The biggest news is that all skin tones can wear purple! Purple is a combination of opposites - hot red and cool blue - making it skin tone neutral. Choosing the depth, tone and texture is more about how you want to accessorize with purple, how you want to express yourself and your mood." This not only goes for beauty, it totally applies when choosing your wedding color palette as well!!

Row One: Style Me Pretty; Vera Wang

Row Two: Sarah Yates Photography; Power Plums Look by Sephora

Row Three: JL Designs

baci's backing - Gourmet Chicken Fingers

Seriously this recipe is an all-time family favorite, no matter how old or young you are it's so delicious!! I took the original Bisquick recipe for Ultimate Chicken Fingers and made it my own tasty thing with an incredible honey glaze. . . yum!!!

Gourmet Chicken Fingers

3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into ½" thick strips
⅔ c. Original Bisquick mix
½ c. grated Parmesan cheese
½ t. garlic salt
½ t. paprika
½ t. chili powder
1 egg, slightly beaten
3 T. butter or margarine, melted
1 T. honey

1) Preheat oven to 450°F.

2) Line cookie sheet with foil; spray with cooking spray.

3) In a 1-gallon resealable food-storage bag, mix Bisquick, cheese, salt, paprika and chili powder.

4) Dip half chicken strips into the egg; place in bag of Bisquick mix. Seal bag and shake to coat. Place chicken on cookie sheet; repeat with remaining chicken.

5) Combine honey and butter - drizzle over chicken.
6) Bake 12-14 minutes, turning halfway through bake time, until no longer pink in the center.

Handpicked - Boden, Autumn 2010

As promised, here are a few handpicked items from Boden's Autumn 2010 Catalog.

1) Circle Applique Dress in Winter White - $148 2) Boyfriend Blazer in Black - $168 3) Casual Dress in Mouse Cord - $88 4) Ravello Silk Top in Mercury - $78 5) Ruffle Shoe Boots in Black - $198 6) Pleated Scoop Neck in Sulphur - $68 7) Chic Wrap Cardigan in Grey melange - $88 8) Urban Biker Jacket in Black - $198 9) Drapey Jersey Cardigan in Washed Navy Stripe - $58

Need a little extra inspiration? Check out Boden's Outfit Ideas (they put it together, you buy it. . simple as that) and Outfit Maker (you put it together online so you can try before you buy)!

Boden, Autumn 2010 - My Current Wish List

When I received Boden's new Autumn 2010 catalog in the mail the other day I immediately picked out some of my favorites and here I am, sharing them with you :o)

1) Boden's Merino Roll Neck Dress (in Aubergine, of course) would be hands down the most comfortable dress to wear in the Fall EVER! 2) I've been on the hunt for new, cute, black flats and these Corsage Pumps might just be the ones - I adore the jewel embellishments. 3) You all know I'm obsessed with the perfect pencil skirt. The Sixties Skirt - in any color - would be a great addition to my warm-weather wardrobe because of the heavyweight jersey material. 4) Once again, I looked all last Fall and Winter for black coat to replace mine (I've had it for way too long) and the Islington Coat is to die for!

Check out Monday's Handpicked for more fabulous Boden looks!

baci's baking - Low Country Boil

I love recipes that remind me of our time living in the south and this one is at the top of my list! Low Country Boil was created when a National Guardsman needed to create a meal for 100 soldiers so you know it has to be simple. Low Country Boil can be served on newspaper-lined tables for a quick clean up and can be doubled and easily doubled again the larger the crowd you're feeding, all you need is a bigger pot :o)

(Image from Cajun Express USA)

Low Country Boil

seafood seasoning, 2 t. per quart of water (I only use Old Bay!!)
12 red new potatoes
1 lb. smoked kielbasa, cut into chunks
6 ears of corn, cut in halves
1½ lb. uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

1) Fill a large pot with enough water to cover all ingredients. Add seafood seasoning and bring to a boil.

2) When water boils, add the potatoes and sausage. Cook on medium heat for 20 minutes.

3) Add corn and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

4) Add shrimp and cook for no more than 3 minutes. Drain and serve. Sprinkle with additional seafood seasoning and topped with fresh squeezed lemon if desired. Serves 6.

* Recipe adapted from the Food Network

Chaviano Couture - Guest Wish List

I am INCREDIBLY EXCITED today because baci is featuring it's very first Guest Wish List and we are lucky enough to have the drop-dead gorgeous, insanely talented and oh-so-sweet Annette Thurmon of Chaviano Couture be our first guest blogger!! Annette is not only an amazing gown designer, she is an ICU nurse. . . each time I see something new from Annette I am constantly amazed at how she does it all while still remaining so calm and well put together. She's a kind-hearted soul with a purpose behind her dream - 20% from the sale of each wedding dress goes to a certain mission project or charity. Annette is such an inspiration to all of us in the wedding world! Here's what she had to say. . .

My Current Wish List

When Amanda asked me what my current wish list was, I had a lot on my mind…it’s kind of hard to pick my top 4. I decided to go with a variety of things that describe a little about what I love and me. Thank you to Amanda for considering me for this feature.
Here we go.

1) My first item on my wish list is to eat at Fressen Restaurant in Toronto Canada. Not only do I love vegetarian food, I try to be vegan, and this place has been recommended to me. Sad to say, this Item on my wish list might not get accomplished very soon, but at least I can dream right? On a side note, if you have never been to Toronto you should consider going, it’s a fabulous city.

2) Mally Makeup- So I just heard about this makeup a few weeks ago and I am fascinated! A friend of mine just bought some and her skin looks fabulous. The perfect prep poreless primer looks amazing, and I’ve heard their eyeliner is pretty awesome. I see myself online shopping at this site very soon.

3.) Anthropologie Shower Curtain- I’ve wanted to spruce up my bathroom lately and I found this shower curtain, which I love. It reminds me a little bit of a wedding dress, which is probably why I like it, but nonetheless I think it’s pretty fabulous. I love the thought of a clean, white, crisp looking bathroom.

I could live at antropologie. I love everything about the store. The look, the smell (which takes us to my next wish list item) the clothes. It’s just a fabulous place to go to altogether. If you’ve never been, I recommend it.

4.) My last item has to be the Volcano Candle from Anthropologie. It is literally the best scent ever. The scent is of tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons, and limes, redolent with lightly exotic mountain greens. It is so delicious. I’m always burning a candle at home not matter what time of day. Someone gave me this candle as a gift years ago and I have not gotten another one since. After going to the store last week and smelling that amazing scent I have decided that this candle is on my wish list. Won’t be on my wish list for long though…because I’m going to buy it and use it. :)

A huge thanks to you, Annette, for being our first Guest Wish List Blogger! You rock and so do your choices. . . I might be taking a little trip to Anthropologie soon :)

** If you would like to be considered for a spot as a Guest Wish List Blogger, please contact Amanda {amanda@bacidesigner.com} with your interest - we'd love to hear from you!!

Wedding Wednesday | Real Wedding Inspiration

My best friend, Katie, is getting married next summer and I have the pleasure of not only being her Matron of Honor, but of helping her plan the glamourous details for her big day! Katie has so many incredible visions for her wedding and they all start with her amazing color scheme - peacock blue, moss green and gold. I created an inspiration board to show you just a little of what's making of swoon when it comes to her big day - texture, deep tones and just the most tasteful touch of bling!

Row One Images: The Knot; Style Me Pretty

Row Two Images: Ryan Phillips Photography; Garrett Nudd Photography; The Knot

Row Three Images: Jenny Yoo Bridesmaid Collection - Phoebe in Baltic Blue; M.A. Belle; Sarah Yates Photography

Row Four Images: Garrett Nudd Photography; Ryan Phillips Photography

baci's baking - Quick Mediterranean Chicken and Pasta

Here's a tasty (and healthy!) treat that's light and refreshing for summer from my trusty Better Homes and Garden Cook Book!

Quick Mediterranean Chicken and Pasta

1 6-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts
1 T. olive oil
12 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
3 cloves garlic, pressed
1/4 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup dry white wine (I used Chardonnay)
1 t. dried oregano
1 7-ounce jar roasted red sweet peppers, drained and cut into strips
1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives
2 cups hot cooked whole wheat angel hair pasta
1/4 cup (1 ounce) crumbled feta cheese (optional)

1) Drain artichokes, reserving marinade. Set aside.

2) In a large skillet heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and garlic. Cook and stir until chicken is no longer pink.
3) Add the reserved artichoke marinade, broth, wine and oregano. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, covered for 10 minutes.

4) Stir in artichokes, roasted peppers and olives. Heat through.
5) To serve, spook the chicken mixture over pasta. If desired, sprinkle with feta cheese.

Handpicked - Fall 2010 Looks

I'm trying something a little different with today's Handpicked. . . instead of just picking nine items, I'm doing four full looks for Fall. Bear with me though, I'm just starting to experiment with the set-up of these photos :o) I'd love your feedback!!

This Fall is going to be all about textures, soft grey tones mixed with warm browns and pinks and layers galore. . . I can't wait!!

Look One: 1) J. Crew Crystal Chain Grosgrain Bracelet in Heather Petrol - $68.00 2) Ann Taylor Pleater Trim Tank in Winter White - $48.00 3) Banana Republic Racerback Vest in Mushroom Heather - $69.50 4) Banana Republic BR Monogram Grey Slouchy Skinny Jean - $89.50 5) Banana Republic Calico Cut-out Zipper Heel in Smoke - $140.00 6) Banana Republic Double Layer Wrap in Concord Purple - $49.50

Look Two: 7) J. Crew A.R. Trapp Quadra Sunglasses - $450.00 8) J. Crew Getaway Tunic in Stone Blue (P.S. Tunics are my new favorite things to wear - they are SO comfy!!!) - $69.50 9) Express Large Double-handled Satchel (Bonus - it's synthetic!!) - $79.90 10) American Eagle Jeggings in Deep Indigo - $39.50 11) American Eagle Zebra Ballet Flat - $29.50

Look Three: 1) Banana Republic Silk Lace-front Shell in Cocoon - $69.50 2) Anthropologie Clinton Trench - $188.00 3) Anthropologie Higgledy-Piggledy Pencil Skirt (I am in LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!) - $148.00 4) Hive and Honey's Lorna in Makeup from Piperlime - $59.99

Look Four: 5) J. Crew Perfect-fit Stripe Boatneck Tee in White - $39.50 6) J. Crew Fiver Ring in Rust - $58.00 7) J. Crew Wool Tuxedo Short - $88.00 8) J. Crew Solid Opaque Tights in Dark Charcoal (My favorite Fall trend!!) - $16.50 9) Steve Madden Ultamit in Taupe Suede - $79.95