Budget Friendly Style - Camo

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Oh camo, how I loveth thee!

Camo is another one of my favorite patterns that are so versitile.

It is a great option to dress up or dress down.

The key to camo is that you just want a touch of it.

Whether it is a camo pant that you are wearing or a camo scarf, you want the rest of your outfit to be neutral for the most part so you can pull of a chic and sofisticated look, without looking like you are playing dress up!

 

Here are a few budget friendly camo items that you can check out to replicate any outfit similar to those above.

 

 Camo Skinny Jeans $22.80

Camo Crop Pants  $24.99

Camo Hoodie $22.90

Camo Surplus Jacket   $24.97

Camo Jacket $69.90 $39.99

Camo Scarf $11.99

Camo Flats BOGO $12.99

 

Are you a camo fan?! What item are you looking to add to your closet?

 

Tori

 

 

 

The Sak Rocks

 

 

Recently I got to review a tote bag from The Sak.

Is it to early in this relationship to say that I love them? Not only do I absolutely adore all the product styles that they carry, but all of their products are great quality and well made.

They are known as the "house of texture" with their woven and leather goods, making each piece stand out in a crowd of plain Jane purses and clutches.

 

Above are 5 of my favorite rockin bag picks for fall this year. Check them out for yourself!

Mariposa Satchel in Black

The Sak Pack Backpack in Cherry Ikat

Ventura Crossbody in Tobacco

Iris Clutch in Black Tribal Suede

Indio Large Tote in Tobacco

 

 

Since I am such a jewelry hoarder as well, here is a little taste of the awesome and unique jewelry pieces that they have on sale right now as we speak. I had to grab the bangles asap before they sold out...I love 'em!

Signature String Chain Bracelet

 

Mojave 3 Piece Bangle Bracelet Set

 

 

 

Batik Bar Necklace

 

 

 

Check out The Sak and let us know which products are your favorite!

 

Tori

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Friday Faves! Meow

Friday Friday! Woot woot. We made it through another work week and here we are, face to face with our beloved Friday. As per usual it's time to whip out our Friday favorites, so lets just get right to that, shall we?

Favorite Quote:

This is honestly one of my favorite quotes of all time!

found here

Favorite Recipe:

Mac and Cheese is an absolute comfort food for me. Being able to cook it in the slow cooker makes it just that much better! Crock Pot Crew Fo Life yo! =P

found here

 

Favorite Fashion Pic:

I love everything about this outfit!

The hat, the coat, the pants. I am such a fan of super flared pants and a chunky shoe together.

It makes me happy =)

found here

 

Favorite Funny:

 

#TheStruggleIsReal

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Please someone, do all of these things and record it for me!

Especially #3

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I can not promise you anything!

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Favorite Article:

You WILL NOT be disappointed. This mother is absolutely bat sh!t crazy and that is that!

She apparently brought in cookies shaped as women's whohas as a treat for her child's class and wanted the teacher to teach them about it...2nd grade class. Read it here. The texts that the mother sends to the teacher after she refused to serve the cookies proves her craziness further!

 

What are you lovin this Friday?

 

 And that is all my friends! Until next time. Enjoy your weekend and see you beauties Monday!

 

Tori

Budget Friendly Style-Leopard!

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Fall fashion is one of my ultimate favorites! It is so fun to layer and accessorize and gives you such a great excuse to combine bold patterns into your everyday wardrobe.

Today it's all about the leopard print!
Whether it is the main focal point of your outfit or just a little touch of it to add some spice, it is always a fantastic pattern to play around with.
This season leopard print is all over the place and I don't see it going anywhere for a very long time.

Here are a list of  (budget friendly) leopard printed pieces that you can add to your closet, similar to those above!

Leopard Cardigan $30
Leopard Draped Cardigan $41.30 (my fave originally $60)
Long Leopard Kimono $23.99
Leopard Kimono $23.99
Leopard Infinity Scarf $6
Ombre Leopard Print Scarf $4.99
Leopard Flats $14.90
Leopard/Black Flats  $19.99
Leopard Button Down Top $22.50

Are you into leopard print? What item are you planning on adding to your closet?

P.S. For the next 4-5 weeks I have decided to do a "budget friendly style" post with a new pattern or color combo featured each week.
Hope you enjoy!

Tori

Super Easy and Delicious Peach Cobbler

If you follow Cupcakes & Crossbones on Instagram you probably saw that I was busy in the kitchen baking up some yummy peach cobbler this past weekend. This wasn't just any peach cobbler though. This sweet treat was made with peaches picked from my peach tree in the backyard.
Not only is this cobbler delicious, but it was super easy! 

P.S. If you are not a peach person, just substitute peaches with apples for something just as tasty, apple cobbler!

What You Need:

7 ripe peaches (or apples)

1/2 cup brown sugar

Sprinkle of cinnamon

1 18-ounce yellow cake mix

1 cup butter

What You Do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

Lightly grease a 9 x 13 baking dish

-In a medium saucepan combine 1/2 cup of your butter, brown sugar, and peaches

-Bring your mixture to a boil and cook for 1 minute constantly stirring the peaches and what is now a caramelized mixture of goodness.

-Remove your caramelized peaches from stove and pour the entire saucepan into your prepared baking dish .

-Sprinkle your dry cake mix over top of your peaches, and then sprinkle a little cinnamon (optional)

-Drizzle the other 1/2 cup of butter (melted) over the cake mix.

-Bake for 1 hour or until top is lightly browned and bubbling.

-Serve warm topped with vanilla bean ice cream.

This was a hit in my home and I know it will be in yours too!
Do you like peach cobbler? Is this something you would make in the future?

P.S. DON'T FORGET! head over to Friday's post for your chance to win a free Fleurty Bands headband!

Tori

Marijuana

So...Did you hear about Charlo Greene? She's the news anchor from Anchorage AK KTVA-TV news station who officially "dropped the mic" and quit her job on live TV. Why? For the green(e) pun intended.

Sunday evening, Greene was covering a story on the Alaska Cannabis Club, a medical marijuana advocacy organization that links patients to specialized medical marijuana dispensaries. After reporting her story she informed viewers that she is in fact the owner of the organization. She also stated “Now everything you’ve heard is why I, the actual owner of the Alaska Cannabis Club, will be dedicating all of my energy toward fighting for freedom and fairness, which begins with legalizing marijuana here in Alaska.” “And as for this job, well, not that I have a choice but, f–k it, I quit.” She then walked out....deuces! Check out the video here.

As you may or may not know, the on going battle for legalizing marijuana is occurring all over. Some people are all for it, and then of course there are people who are completely against it. Yes, there are more accidents and fatalities involving alcohol, which is legal vs. marijuana, and yes there is a total stigma when it comes to knowing who does and who doesn't like to smoke, but what I want to know is, where so you stand? Do you think marijuana should be legalized? Why or why not?

If you do your research you will see that there are a numerous amount of articles and information that share the pros of cannabis and all of its health benefits that it has to offer.

source 

Did you see the video about Charlotte? A 6 year old Colorado girl who uses marijuana daily? She has a rare form of epilepsy resulting in violent seizures..usually around 300...A WEEK. After nothing working and numerous ER visits her mother decided for her daughter to try cannabis oil (a strain that has a very low THC level which is the mind altering ingredient). By mixing it in Charlotte's food Charlotte now only has 2-3 seizures a week and is able to dance and play. A huge difference from not even being able to walk prior to treatment. So is pot helpful or harmful?
Charlotte is not the only child to be treated with cannabis either. There are a number of children in Colorado who hold medical marijuana cards, and the youngest? Less than a year old.

 So I'll ask you again.

 Where so you stand? Also, would you ever think about treating a child with cannabis?

Tori

*** P.S. This post does not reflect the opinion of Cupcakes & Crossbones or the authors opinion. It is based on information that has been researched.

It's All About The Boots

 

Hi my name is Tori and I am addicted to shoes. Ok, now that is out of the way...One of the many many reasons that I love fall is because I get to pull my awesome collection of boots out of the closet and add to the collection. Boots are always in style in the colder months but with all the different types of boots out there, how is a girl suppose to choose?! So, I put together a little list of some boot style must haves and you can choose which style best suits you! Best part...they are all around $50...or less!

 

The High Heel Bootie:

found here

These are perfect to pair with a dress or a pair of skinny jeans. Either way you will be looking hot!

 

Combat Boots:

 

found here

 

 

found here

 

Whether they are flat combat boots for a casual weekend around town, or high heel combat boots dressed up, you will be looking stylish and hot!

 

 

Chunky Heel Boot:

 

found here

Something with a low chunky heel like this is great for work or the weekend. It is so versatile and perfect for when you want to wear heels but want some stability and comfort as well.

 

 

Riding Boot:

found here

These are great for a business casual look. Pair it with some black pants, comfy tee, and a crisp blazer and you can pull off the comfy chic look like a pro!

 

Moto Boot:

 

found here

 

 

 

found here

I love the moto boot! I actually have that exact pair (the second pair) and I get compliments on them everywhere I go! Oh...and they make me feel like a total bad ass too.

 

 

Sexy Time Boots:

 

found here

Can you believe these are only $20?!

 

 

found here

 

I call them sexy time boots, some people have other names for them, but you need a pair of boots that when you put them on you feel hot and sexy and ready to take on the world. I truly believe that every woman should own a pair!

 

 

What style boot is your favorite?!

 

 

Tori

 

 

 

 

 

 

I Have a Gift For You!

It is Friday....right? I woke up yesterday morning (Thursday) thinking that it was Friday and was highly disappointed when I found out that I was a day ahead of myself. But yes, today is Friday! Woot woot! Now that we are all on the same page, it is time for some Friday Favorites...oh, and I have a gift for you too!

 

Favorite Quote:

I posted this on my social media accounts the other day and you all seemed to love it as much as I do.

#truth

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Favorite Recipe:

Maple Bourbon Brown Butter Peach Pie, need I say more?

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Favorite Outfit:

Everything about this outfit is perfect! The accessories, the casual pants and tank, the utility jacket, the boots. Give me all of it please!

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Favorite Funny:

  The sad thing is that I have actually seen similar situations on my commute to and from work....fu@! it! right? lol

 

 

 What if?!

 

Favorite Workout Accessorie:

 I had recently come across an adorable Etsy Shop called Fleurty Bands. Not only are the headbands totally cute, the owner is such a pleasure to work with! These bands have now become my go to accessory when working out because a) they keep the hair out of my face and b) they are no slip! Which means no hair sticking to my face while sweating away, and I don't have to adjust my headband ever 2 minutes. Score for me!! Not only do they have so many styles to choose from but they are so reasonably priced that you can pick out a different one for each day of the week if you wanted to! 

 

Now I want you to win one for yourself just to see how great these bad boys are. 

P.S. Jasmine (the owner of Fleurty Bands) hey girl!

Was nice enough to also give us our own special coupon code so everyone is a winner!

Head over to the Etsy shop and type in  CUPCAKES44 for 20% off (Set to expire 10/31/14)

Now enter to win! Good luck and Happy Friday!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Tori

Tell Us!

Hi loves!

Today we wanted to do something a little different on this Thursday morning. Today I want to hear from YOU! I want to know what your favorite posts and/or topics have been so far on this lovely little piece of the Internet. What do you like? What don't you like? (I'm good at taking constructive criticism...promise =) ) Do you have any questions? Let us know...spill it. Can't wait to hear what you think, it really means a lot!

Here are a few posts for easy access if you are new around these parts:
Fall Fashion Must Haves
DIY Designer Plate and Mug For Pennies
Strawberry Vanilla Chia Pudding
Home Remedies To Fight The Cold Bug
Update A Room In Four Steps For Less
 

 

 

Tori

 

P.S. We will be back to our regularly scheduled program tomorrow...Friday Favorites!

Jewel Trend Alert!

Have you seen the latest jewel trend that is exploding on the fashion scene?

No it's not the latest designer watch or chunky statement piece. It is temporary tattoos. Yes, you heard me right....temporary tattoos.

At first I wasn't quite sure what to think of them but after seeing them on, I fell in love. This metallic looking body decor is sleek, chic, and unique! Take a look for yourself.

 

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Now that we are all friends here, I'm going to let you in on a little secret. just go HERE to grab any style that you like. From feathers and dream catchers, to chains and geometric shapes, there is something for everyone to love (did I mention that they are budget friendly too?) They are non-toxic, easy to apply, sweat and water proof, and can last up to 5-7 days! Want to take it off sooner, just dab a little rubbing alcohol on the tat and wash it away.

 

 

found here

 

found here

 

Even Beyonce is rockin the look!

 

 

 

What do you think? Does this accessory get a thumbs up or a thumbs down from you?

 

Tori

 

 

Fall Fashion Must Haves

The pumpkin lattes are brewin and labor day weekend is behind us, which means fall is here! Now that my favorite season is upon us, I felt it was about that time to do a fall fashion 'must have' post.

 I mean, what's better than cozy sweaters and cute boots? Here is a little taste of some fall fashion staple items that every lady should have hanging in their closet this year.

 

1.) Vest

 

found here

Yes, the J. Crew quilted vest is all the rage now, but if you aren't willing to spend $100+ on a vest here is a budget friendly vest that is just as fashionable from Old Navy. This vest is perfect for layering over a long sleeved top or sweater on those chilly fall mornings.

 

 

2.) Over sized Sweater

 

found here

I love Zara because they have such fashionable high quality clothes and they are usually at great prices. This over sized sweater is perfect and multi functional. Pair this beauty with a skirt or with skinny pants and a pair of heels for work; or just change into some casual boots and you have a great weekend outfit.

 

 

3.) Booties

 

found here

Booties are a must for fall. These I found at The Red Dress Boutique for a steal! They are perfect for pairing with a dress or a pair of skinnies for a sleek and polished look. The color is perfect too! It goes with everything.

 

 

4.) Scarves

 

found here

Notice how I said "Scarves" as in plural! I love accessorizing with scarves in the fall and winter. They are perfect for adding that little pop of color, or get one with a bold print to stand out. This one was a steal at $12.90 and its nice and toasty too!

 

 

5.) Slouchy Beanie

found here

I looooove these slouchy beanies. They are so cute and perfect for not only keeping your head warm, but they are also great for those bad hair days to just toss on and go!

 

What are your fall fashion must haves?!

 

Tori



 



 

 

 

 

Salted Caramel Drizzled Blondies

 

I don't know about you, but one thing I love about fall are the desserts! Something about them are so yummy and comforting during those chilly days.

Here is one fall dessert that is sure to be a hit at home or at a holiday gathering this year.

Just don't eat the whole pan before everyone else gets to try a piece!

 

 

What You Need:

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup all purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

7 oz caramel chews unwrapped

1/4 cup evaporated milk

1 pinch of sea salt

1/4 cup sliced cold butter

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1/2 cup all purpose flour 

 

For Caramel:

4 oz caramels + 2 tbsp evaporated milk

 

What You Do:

-Preheat your oven to 350F.

-Line an a baking pan with parchment paper and set aside

-In a mixing bowl combine 1/2 cup butter with 1/2 cup sugar until it is nice and whipped.

-Add 1 egg and the vanilla extract continuing to mix well.

-Add 1 cup of flour and baking soda, mix that all up well too!

-Spread your concoction in your baking dish that you had set aside.

-Bake in the oven for 8 minutes, leave your oven on yet remove the baking pan after those 8 minutes.

-In a small saucepan you will make your filling by combining your 7 oz caramels and 1/4 cup evaporated milk. You want this to all melt together as you stir continuously. 

-Pour your caramel goodness over the crust in your baking pan and add your pinch of sea salt.

-To create your top layer of your blondie goodness, place 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg and 1/2 cup flour in your food processor and pulse it.

-These crumbles go over the caramel you blanketed your crust in.

-Pan goes back in the oven for 20 minutes.  

-Let your blondies cool, and before serving add an extra drizzle of caramel sauce. Yum!!

 

Are you more of a blondie or a brownie fan? What is your favorite fall dessert?

 

Tori

 

Home Remedies To Fight The Cold Bug!

I'm back! Whoopie! I feel like I have been gone for way too long. I wish I could say that I was off vacationing in Bora Bora or somewhere extravagant like that, but that is not the case. The middle of last week is when the itchy throat, sniffling, and coughing began, which turned into a full blown cold. UGH! Feeling like I got hit by a Mack Truck does not really even begin to express what I really felt like. But anyways....I have heard that there is a bug going around and since the seasons are changing, this makes us even more prone to colds and illnesses. With that being the case, today we are talking about home remedies that will get you feeling better ASAP if you end up getting a bug this year.

 

1.) Lemon, Honey, Apple Cider Cold Killer

 

 

What You Need: 

1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 Tbsp. honey
2 Tbsp. organic, raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (with mother)

 

What You Do:

Combine all of your ingredients in a microwave safe mug and place it in the microwave for 10 seconds.

Carefully take your mug out of the microwave and without burning yourself drink that baby up!

*be sure to dilute this with water if you are taking it regularly, as its acidic content is very high.

 Lemon juice - Lemon juice is amazing for many reasons, in this case it is packed with vitamin C.

 Honey - Fights infection, use organic locally grown for best results. Raw apple cider vinegar - Known as "natures own antibiotic"

 

 

2.) Raw Garlic

 

 

 

 

Raw garlic has great benefits for your health. It is an antiviral, fights infection, and helps boost your immune system. If eating garlic raw makes you want to gag, try taking 2-3 cloves of garlic and chop them up into tiny pieces. Sprinkle the chopped garlic on a teaspoon of honey and down the hatch! This method is really beneficial but I do not recommend it if you plan on going on a date or speaking in front of a ton of people. They also sell garlic capsules at your local pharmacy.

 

3.) Cough Be Gone

 

 

 

Here's a little old wives tale that seems to have worked for a lot of people in the past. If you are sleeping and can not stop coughing there is a solution! Before going to bed apply some Vicks Vapor Rub on the bottoms of your feet and then slide your nice cotton socks on. This is said to help prevent coughing that keeps you up into the wee hours of the night.

 

4.) Detox With A Bath

 

 

 

What You Need

1 cup Epsom salt
1/2 c baking soda
4 Tbsp ground ginger
Essential oils of choice (lavender works great)

 

What you Do:

Fill your bathtub with hot (yet tolerable and not scalding) water.

Once your tub is filled 1/2 way toss in all of your ingredients and stir it in with your arm to dissolve the ingredients.

Soak for at least 20 minutes. The first 20 minutes of your bath usually extracts toxins. If you decide to stay in for another 20 minutes (I wouldn't stay in longer than this) is when the body begins to absorb the minerals.

 

Once you are done with your bath, towel off and rest for about 30 minutes before showering. Do NOT do this detox every day

 

What are some home remedies that work for you when you or someone in your household is sick?

 

Tori

 

P.S. Please check with your doctor first before using any of these remedies as all people and their bodies react differently.