TheFashFoodie

Serving Fashion, Food & Lifestyle Inspiration 💋

[thefashfoodie]

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

The great people of Food 52 want their new book, Baking to be the most flour-caked, milk-splattered book in your collection. Because these recipes won’t have you hunting for obscure ingredients or equipment or cleaning up a huge mess, you’ll gladly want to make them over and over again.

Take Care my Sweets, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

#TastyTuesday A SNACK WORTH A MILLION STARBUCKS Earlier today I picked up a little snack at Starbucks. This DELICIOUS cookie was tasty down to the very last crumb. The creativity took my breath away. I paired it with a cup of Rooibos tea in a cup I got from the clearance section of Starbucks. Red Rooibos Tea is so good and contains many health benefits. According to the US Department of Agriculture, rooibos tea aids in the reduction of cancer and heart disease. Snacks that contains both tasty and healthy aspects is a win, win to me! Thanks for reading and Take Care my Sweets, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

#TastyTuesday

PUBLIX DELI TO THE RESCUE

Yesterday was another one of those days when cooking dinner just wasn’t in the cards. I had an extremely long day at work and I was going home to more work. Over the weekend, I had the genius idea of following the principles of the #1 New York best-seller, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing.

In the book, author Marie Kondo’s organizational manifesto proclaims that if you declutter things category-by-category, you will gain better results in keeping a clutter-free lifestyle. She challenges readers to gather alike items into one pile and make instant decisions on whether to keep them or part with them. So the irony is that my apartment is in a state of distress, because I started the project and didn’t follow through. As a result, there are tons of piles scattered about my tiny one bedroom. The book is great and I recommend it to everyone, however I should have read it in its entirety before I tried to implement any of the steps…cart before the horse, I know.

Earlier on my lunch break, I took a trip to the Publix grocery store near my job and picked up a few things. In the front deli area of Publix, there were pre-made sandwiches, salads and plenty of sides to choose from. Luckily my office's break room contains two fridges, so I was able to keep the things I planned for dinner refrigerated until I left for the day.

When I got home I added a hand full of baby spinach leaves to the salad for variety, cut a slice of the sandwich and threw a portion of the mac in the microwave. Afterward, I added a little salt and pepper, then garnished the top of the macaroni and cheese with a few flakes of dried parsley, then plated.

Nothing brings me more joy than beautifully plated food. I don’t care if it’s pb&j, it should be pretty before eaten. For dinner, I was able to get a quick meal completed and onto a plate in less than 10 min and still be satisfied with its look before I started to eat like had never eaten before! Lol today was busy…but today was also a really good day.

Link to Book: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

Thanks for reading and Take Care my Sweets, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

2015 ATLANTA STREET FOOD FESTIVAL

For the fourth annual Atlanta Street Food Festival, Piedmont Park was packed with food truck fans. People were able to taste some of the best mobile dishes around, all in one centralized place. Trucks were stationed in the park from 12-10 p.m. In addition to the food, there was live entertainment and local merchants. It was just an overall good time.

Of the many food choices I had to choose from, I landed on Tex's Tacos. I got a chicken fresca taco with a sample side of lime fries. OMG it was delicious and well worth the 45 min wait! Although I’ve ordered tons of street tacos off of restaurant menus, I've never had the pleasure of getting one from an ACTUAL food truck. It ending up being a really cool experience, despite the extreme heat Mother Nature provided.

After fighting off a little heat exhaustion, I was able to enjoy friends, family and the happy vibes of the atmosphere. What I found most exciting is that The Atlanta Street Food Festival has teamed up with The Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit whose mission is to provide crisis grants to members of Atlanta's restaurant community facing unanticipated hardship. A portion of the festival's proceeds will be given to support the local charity.

Hat: Old Navy Sunnies: Claire's

Tex's Tacos: texstacos.com

For more information about the festival and The Giving Kitchen: atlantafoodfestival.com

Take Care my Sweets, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

MASON JAR TOMATO SOUP

I love to cook, but sometimes lazy cooking is a necessity. Today I was so hungry, but I had no energy to put effort into a tasty meal. Instead of ordering out, I made this super easy tomato soup that I was able to drink right out of a mason jar. The flavor was amazing and barley any clean up!

Ingredients: 1. Trader Joe’s Organic Creamy Tomato Soup 2. Mrs. Dash Original Blend 3. Parsley 4. Black Pepper 5. Salt 6. Shredded Parmesan Cheese

Cooking Steps: 1. Add soup to mason jar 2. Microwave 3 min 3. Stir 4. Add Ingredients 5. Stir 6. Microwave 2 min 7. Stir 8. Microwave 1 min 9. Stir

THEN DRINK!

Take Care my Sweets, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

HAPPY NATIONAL CHOCOLATE DAY!

I was visiting the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, TN and of course I visit their onsite Starbucks. Look what I found…chocolate! This Southern Artisan chocolate bar is the perfect treat for this wonderful occasion.

www.oliveandsinclair.com

Hope you all enjoyed your day. I sure did 😊

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

HAPPY STAR WARS DAY!!! MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU!

In honor of Star Wars Day (May 4, 2015), I decided to come up with a work appropriate outfit that I could geek out in, while blending with my corporate counterparts. For my recent birthday, I received these awesome pair of Star Wars Vans that I had to wear, because these shoes are so freaking cute and comfortable! For my hair, I was inspired by none other than Princess Leia, and had to dawn her famous buns. However, I couldn’t risk this look being too “costumey,” so I went with only one side bun; cause a girl has to keep it classy! As far as my makeup, I went barefaced, except for a bit of Kate Moss red lipstick from Target. Keeping with the “less is more” theme, my jewelry was minimal. I wore gold accent pieces in honor of the only android I’ll ever love, C-3PO. Team Apple for life! Lol

Jacket: Goodwill

Dress: Goodwill

Necklace: American Threads (@threadsatlanta)

Earrings: Target

Shoes: Van store

Lipstick: Target (Rimmel Kate Moss)

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

EASTER SUNDAY 2015

No Easter would be complete without PEEPS and an official Easter Tree.

Growing up, in my grandmother’s yard, my sisters and I had a designated tree we’d decorate to celebrate Easter Sunday. My aunt would give us lots of colorful plastic eggs that we strung on the limbs. It’s a tradition that was passed along to my younger cousins and I’ll probably pass along to my kids (if I ever have any).

Between the bunnies and the chicks, the bunny PEEPS are my favorite. These pastel goodies are the perfect treat to top off the day. I like to open a package and let them slowly harden before I eat them. It’s almost a two week process to get to the perfect consistency. I prefer to eat them that way. There’s something about the firm texture that appeals to me better than a freshly opened package.

Where to Buy: I picked up the table top Easter Tree, PEEPS and string lights at www.target.com.

Happy Easter my Sweets and thanks for stopping by.

Take care, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

IPSY GLAM BAG - MARCH 2015

March’s bag is adorned with a lovely bold flower print to announce that spring is here! This month I received five products, but one stood out the most and ultimately became my favorite. I’m truly loving NYX’s butter lipstick. It’s the perfect spring color.

If you want to join ipsy, click the link! [www.ipsy.com]

Below is a list of all the products I received and where you can get them yourself.

1. NYX butter lipstick: BLS12 “Little Susie” [www.nyxcosmetics.com] 2. Crown Brush: Shadow/Crease Duet [crownbrush.us] 3. pixi by petra: Apricot Glow Mineral Duo [www.pixibeauty.com] 4. pūr~lisse: 4-in-1 gentle soy milk cleanser and makeup remover. [purlisse.com]

5. Leeanni Eco: 3-in-1 toner, serum and moisturizer [leeanni.com]

Also, Generation Beauty tickets are available! This year I’ll be in NYC at the October.

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

KICK ASS GIRL POW WOW!

Saturday, March 21, 2015 is a date I will remember for the rest of my life. For that’s the day my life was pointed in a new direction and I owe it all to social media. A few days earlier, I was trolling through the search section of Instagram, when I came across this photo announcing a FREE event in Atlanta. I read that it would be a way for creative female entrepreneurs to gather and support one another.

There was a panel of 5 women giving their personal perspectives. They focused on how they each approach business and offered feedback to specific setbacks audience members faced. They also provided many uplifting words of encouragement.

I felt so empowered as I sat among a group of relatable women that had the same struggles as myself, even though they are more “visible” in the social media realm. To know that this dream I have will come to fruition if I am a “responsible woman” and if I am “persistently, consistent” in my efforts. It’s not like those words have never been spoken before, but in a moment of uncertainty about business decisions I’ve recently made, it was exactly what I needed to hear.

The information I received was given so openly and from a sincere place, that it went straight to my soul. Usually anxiety builds up when I’m in new environments with unfamiliar people, but in that space, nothing blocked the messages I believe I was destined to hear that day. My ears, brain and heart were all aligned to affirm that the recent rebranding decision I had made was the correct choice to make. And ultimately it will provide the best life I can possibly attain.

The event was hosted by Sam of Sam Off Tha Record. Sam is a fearless and free spirited individual with creativity oozing from her veins. This girl is the real deal. She greeted everyone with a hug and doesn’t believe in being anything other than herself. Her personal journey will do more than just move you…it will inspire you to make goals and actively plan ways to achieve them.

The Food: There was champagne being served, orange juice, strawberries and mini cupcakes.

The Attire: It was a “come as you are” type of event. There were people rocking the latest jewelry and fashion trends, to wearing plain hoodies.

For those of you that don’t know, I had a Youtube channel and website called, POPeyeliner. My brand positioning was unclear and people couldn’t connect the name with the content I created. So I changed it. I am so proud to be know as TheFashFoodie now.

To everyone that’s still with me after 5 long years, I thank you dearly. And for all the newbies, welcome and thank you as well. Please stay on this journey with me, for it means more than you know.

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

Sam Off Tha Record: www.offtharecord.com

The Bazaar Bohemian: www.bazaarbohemian.com

Project Tribe: www.projecttribe.org

SmashCoreTV: SmashCoreTV’s Youtube Channel

[thefashfoodie]

OPA!

I went to this social event called, Worldwide Culinary Adventure. It’s so cool. Every month, the group leader picks a different country, then finds a local restaurant with authentic food. This month was Greece. So I got dolled up (after a few other events) and went to this amazing place called Taverna Plaka. We had pita bread and fresh hummus ground right at the table as an appetizer. For my entrée, I just went with a simple Greek salad. I consider myself somewhat of a cheese connoisseur, so I was impressed with the beautifully chopped feta; it was my favorite. When ever I get a Greek salad, I always take the jalapeño pepper and break it open, then empty the juice all over the salad. It gives it a little kick that makes my taste buds dance.

The atmosphere was so lively. The waiters threw up paper napkins that cascaded in the air, while belly dancers kept the entertainment level on 10. I truly enjoyed myself and definitely will be going back. For anyone visiting Atlanta or current residents, this is the place to be on a Saturday night.

Taverna Plaka 2196 Cheshire Bridge Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324

www.tavernaplakaatlanta.com

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[photo credits: 1 Shon S. & 2-3 Nadine M.]

[thefashfoodie]

THE ST. PATTY’S DAY THIRST

My apartments breakfast bar will be the only bar I sit at tonight for a drink. Not that I’m a heavy drinker by any means, but I’ve decided to go the entire month of March alcohol free. For this reason, I’m sipping on some drinks that add value to my health, as well as quench my thirst. 

First, I’m having an organic raw Kombucha drink that I picked up at Publix. This multi-green flavor will provide lots of enzymes and probiotics for your body. It’s a raw food, so there are strands of visible culture in the bottle. It’s totally normal to see things floating toward the bottom. It’s all good stuff, now give it a chug!

Next, I’m going to “chase it” with a little mason jar full of infused water, or a #mixedbevvy as I like to call it. I filled an ice tray with small pieces of kale and honeydew melon, froze them for about 20 minutes, then dropped them in some filtered water. They make it taste so delicious and fresh.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day my Sweets!

Take care, XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

PINEAPPLE EXPRESS

Remember when you had to “find the pineapple” in episodes of the USA Network’s TV show, Psych? Well now they are popping up in almost every fashion line, like Forever 21, H&M, PACSUN, Wildfox and ASOS, just to name a few. The fashion world has been obsessed with this tropical fruit since 2012, when Rihanna sported several outfits dawning pineapple prints throughout that entire summer. Fast forward to three years later and it’s now become my obsession. I really enjoy the taste and smell of pineapples. Right now there’s one on my kitchen counter and I find myself memorized by it’s beautifully textured outer skin, with that gorgeous ombre coloring. I decided to express my inner #pineappleprincess by putting my hair up in a high bun. To give it that “pineapple look,” I made it a little wild and carefree.

Nutritional Values: Pineapples hold anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting and anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that consumption of pineapple regularly helps fight against arthritis, indigestion and worm infestation. So you can keep your insides just a pretty as your outside! LOL JK

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

COUCH LOUNGING

Saturdays should be filled with mindless enjoyment. So that’s what I’m doing! After a long work week, I don’t want to do anything but thumb through fashion magazines and eat a little sugar.

I’ve Got You Covered: Elle’s Spring edition, features Katy Perry; post Super Bowl. The cover photo is okay, but it’s not my favorite. So let me give you the rundown. There isn’t enough balance between the top of the photo and the bottom. The graphics are great, but the styling is a little off. Her hair should have been fuller to give weight to dress. I suppose they thought the posing of the arms would balance it out, but in my opinion it doesn’t. Also, the necklace and the Chanel belt compete with one another. However, the soft makeup is stunning! This fresh look really compliments her best features. This 10 page spread is a really good read. Perry gives in-depth insight to her upbringing and how she plans to do things differently for her future family. She talks a lot about being at the forefront of her brand and equates it to being a “boss.” I think that was the inspiration to the photo spread. She wears clothes that convey a sense of power, and I enjoy those choices. Overall, the editorial was great.

Go pick up a copy of the March 2015 issue today and see if we arrived at any of the same conclusions.

Sweet Treat: Malvi’s are like sophisticated “moon pies.” They were exactly what I needed to get my sugar fix. These marshmallow confections are infused with “spiked” expresso and chocolate!!! I picked them up at my local American Threads [http://www.shopamericanthreads.com].

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

PAINTED LADY

For the “Soda Boy” look, I want to share my lipstick and nail polish choices.

Lipstick: Wet n Wild [Dollhouse Pink #967]

Nail Polish: SinfulColors [Endless Blue #1052]

Soda Boy Look: http://thefashfoodie.com/image/113406866383

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

IF I WERE A [SODA] BOY

Last weekend, I made a much needed trip to my local Cost Plus World Market. That place is visually inspiring! As of late, I’ve been making strides to try new things. My FAVORITE drink is Coca-Cola; however, I want to expand my taste buds to a new “poison” of choice. This Soda Boy-Strawberry Cream is such a cute drink. It gives a throwback to the classic drinks of the 50s.

The Look: The colors on the product label are so vibrant…I don’t think the photo does it justice. When putting this look together, I tried to play off the refreshing colors of the graphic, yet use shades that went well with my skin tone. The combination of classic nostalgia and modern elegance is reflected in my interpretation of the reimagined soda bottle.

Dress: TJ Maxx | Lipstick: Wet n Wild | Necklace: Groop Dealz | Earrings: Target

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋

[thefashfoodie]

TOMATO, TOMATO!

I was inspired to put this outfit together based on this beautiful photo of tomatoes, by Svetlana Karner. Right now in Atlanta, I am subjected to gloomy, winter weather and it makes me sleepy. However, the vibrant hues of the tomato arrangement affords me a sense of cheerfulness. Because of this, I was drawn to the idea of gathering a similar color pallet. In using that peplum top with its bold color, I decided to go with a nude shoe to provide a sense of balance. 

Clothing Story: In March 2014, I had an opportunity through StyleHaul, to visit L.A. and attend a Simply Stylist fashion event. It was my first (and currently, only time) to the west coast. I boarded a plan all by myself and headed across the U.S. to meet up with an old college classmate. It was so nice to get away, but in my usual fashion (pun intended, hehe), I rushed to pack. When I arrived, I was offered the opportunity to go out for a night on the town, but I didn’t have any party clothes with me. My friend Carmen dashed us off to Ross at about 8 p.m. and I found that gorgeous peplum top to wear. In all the running around, we had forgotten to inform the person that invited us out, that we indeed wanted to go. Well she left without us and we were all dolled up with no place to go! LOL, life…..

Shirt: Ross [$9.99 in L.A.], Cropped Mustard Pants: gifted, Necklace: gifted, Nude Shoes: Charlotte Rousse [$9.99 in Atlanta]

[inspiration source: instagram.com/ingwervanille or @ingwervanille]

Take Care my Sweets,

XOXO Shon 💋