Spring Time is Here: Strawberry Cuppies

I have to admit that this was my first time having Strawberry Cupcakes, which is pretty surprising considering how much I love Strawberries. This recipe is courtesy of Sprinkle's Cupcake's which is one of my favorite little cupcake shops in town. These were absolutely delicious, and this recipe is definitely a keeper. The taste reminds me somewhat of a grown up Strawberry Shortcake. My only gripe was that the frosting was a bit too soft for me to properly dispense from my pastry bag; I suppose next time I will add a scant 1/4 teaspoon of Cream of Tartar to thicken it up a bit.

Sprinkles Strawberry Cupcake

Recipe Ingredients:
2/3 cup whole fresh or frozen strawberries, thawed
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 large egg whites, room temperature
 
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners; set aside.

Place strawberries in a small food processor; process until pureed. You should have about 1/3 cup of puree, add a few more strawberries if necessary or save any extra puree for frosting; set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a small bowl, mix together milk, vanilla, and strawberry puree; set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter on medium-high speed, until light and fluffy. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy. Reduce the mixer speed to medium and slowly add egg and egg whites until just blended.

With the mixer on low, slowly add half the flour mixture; mix until just blended. Add the milk mixture; mix until just blended. Slowly add remaining flour mixture, scraping down sides of the bowl with a spatula, as necessary, until just blended.

Divide batter evenly among prepared muffin cups. Transfer muffin tin to oven and bake until tops are just dry to the touch, 22 to 25 minutes. Transfer muffin tin to a wire rack and let cupcakes cool completely in tin before icing.

Icing Ingredients:
Makes enough for 1 dozen cupcakes.
1/2 cup whole frozen strawberries, thawed
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, firm and slightly cold
Pinch of coarse salt
3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:
Place strawberries in the bowl of a small food processor; process until pureed. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together butter and salt on medium speed until light and fluffy. Reduce mixer speed and slowly add confectioners' sugar; beat until well combined. Add vanilla and 3 tablespoons strawberry puree (save any remaining strawberry puree for another use); mix until just blended. Do not overmix or frosting will incorporate too much air. Frosting consistency should be dense and creamy, like ice cream.

 

My Hair Now: Bed Head

This is how I have been wearing my hair as of late; because honestly my hair just gets too "blah" after the first week. I have to be semi-creative because I do not like doing "touch-ups", or curling it w/a curling iron once I have already straightened it [I am trying to minimize my use of direct heat].

This style is pretty easy to do; and takes about 5 minutes [I usually do this before bedtime] which is a plus. This is how I achieve this look:

Grab sections of hair, and twist the hair onto itself until you form a knot [known as Bantu Knots]; secure the hair and any loose ends with a bobby pin.

I do not use ANY product when doing this because I don't want it stiff and stuck together. I want a free-flowing style with body and waves.

I make about 5-6 knots on my head; in no particular order. It doesn't even matter if they are all the same size [oftentimes I don't even look in the mirror when I do this]

Tie a silk scarf on your head; and let the style set overnight.

Take your hair down in the morning; you should be left w/nice deep waves. The tighter the Bantu Knot, the deeper the wave [my waves are always loose because my "knotting skills" aren't up to par].

That's pretty much it folks; fluff and go!

** For the people asking me how I keep my hair "straight" without touching it up; I simply put a scarf on my head the minute I get in the house. I notice if I keep my hair "under a scarf", the hair remains smoother & straighter longer vs not wearing a scarf until bedtime.

Estate Sale Shopping Tips

 [a few quick snaps of part of my lil collection]

1.Check your local PennySaver for Estate Sale Listings - Craigslist is also a good source to check.

2.Estate Sales usually last for 3 days [Friday, Sat & Sun] or 2 days [Friday & Saturday]

3.Pricing is FIRM on the first day [unless you are buying a lot; and I do mean a lot] - The staff is usually open to negotiating on the last day of the sale.

4.True Estate/Probate sales usually occur in the unfortunate event that someone has passed, or moved on to a retirement home - In those cases EVERYTHING must go. If you want the cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink; those are for sale [no kidding; there is a regular estate digger that attends just for the cleaning supplies and tools].

5.Show up early if you are looking for antiques or fine jewelry, as dealers will often be the first in line.
Moving sales are NOT estate sales; understand that people will call it that in order to get tons of people to come out!

6.If you hear words such as "contemporary", "ethan allen" "new" in the listing, it is safe to say they aren't selling vintage clothing, or antiquities.

7.Don't ask for a price on a single item; bring ALL of your items to the front; you will get a discount FOR SURE. If all else fails, you can put things back. - The staff that runs the estate sale will more than likely always quote a "outrageous" price when you hold up one item. Your bargaining power increases greatly if you have 5+ items. 

8.Check the armpits [I hate that word] of clothing in search of ripped seams. Also check for moth holes, that dress is no good if the moths got to it before you did. Check the hem of dresses as well.

9.Grab first, ponder later. I learned this the hard way. I was staring at a vintage 1920's flapper dress, and watched in horror as a dealer snatched it right under my sight. - Now, I grab anything that looks REMOTELY interesting, and keep looking for others. I make my final decisions upon checkout.

10.Hand wash all items that say MACHINE WASHABLE in Dreft or Woolite. If in doubt; or there is no care tag, take items to the cleaners!

11. Take good care of your vintage pieces; after-all you worked hard sourcing them. Use wooden or padded hangers, buy cedar to keep the moths at bay. And invest in garment bags. A lot of my things are stored together on garment racks [as pictured above]. - My jackets, furs, and delicate dresses are stored in a closet [with tons of lavender scented moth balls and cedar]

Adventures In Thrifting: The San Fran Edition

I love checking out the local thrift stores/flea markets/vintage shops when I drop into a new city. Sometimes the finds are reflective of the local culture; and it's always a refreshing change. Vintage shopping never gets boring, but it's nice to see items from the locals closet!


This spotlight features two of my favorite stores! Boneflower's & The Clothes Closet Thrift Store.

1747 Polk St
(between Clay St & Washington St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
Neighborhood: Nob Hill

(415) 359-0338

Let's start with Boneflower's since they were gracious enough to allow me into their store after hours, for a nice little meet & greet coupled with pics, and a brief history lesson behind each piece.

Boneflower's has a drool-worthy, well curated collection of Victorian pieces, vintage hats, "oddities" and quirky unique pieces from local designers. Those of you familiar with the vintage scene in San Fran may recall this spot being Mascara Vintage at one point. However there is a new sheriff in town now {Jenna, the new owner}, and this store has undergone a major re-haul. It's like walking into your grandma's closet during her "hey day". The prices are also very reasonable, which is a major plus.

Beautiful collection of 50-60s day and evening dresses!

The even have a nice collection of vint items for men items as well!

My hand is on/near the Victorian dresses/shirts. I was so enamored by the collection; I didn't think to pull them out for you to see :-/ They also carry your usual sequin glam attire if you are in to that kinda thing!

They also have a nice collection of vintage jewelry and doodads; they carry handmade Steampunk Jewelry as well.

Overall I would give this place a ten! It's definitely a gem in the city, and a favorite amongst the locals. You are sure to find whatever you are looking for; and often times more than what you bargained for! 
---------------+

1850 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109-3004
(415) 929-8019

Next up; The Town School Clothes Closet; the layout is a little less glamorous for sure...but stellar finds nonetheless. If you are into labels; this is your place to shop; there was Gucci, Chanel, Prada, and Pucci all within eye-shot! The prices are very reasonable; think $20 for a St. John's suit in flawless condition, or $30 for a pair of authentic Chanel Ballet Flats [oftentimes the shoes are 50% off; SCORE]. They also have a nice collection of books, and China as well! - The kicker is that this store is used to help cover tuition for boys who wouldn't otherwise be able to attend Town School due to financial need. Most of the items donated are from the parent's association, and members of the community. So you can feel good when you walk out of that store with a vint Emilio Pucci bikini [scored at a mere $12] just in time for summer!

Yup; those are Prada's.

That was a Chloe' silk mini I was holding up - yup.

This was a Dolce & Gabbana leather skirt - Tip: all of the "high end designer items" are to the left of the store entrance!

The era's run the gamut; from 60's - present. I found a ton of Bianca Jagger-esque pieces [a 'la Studio 54]

My fav section of the store! The little tea cups are adorable!

Another Sunday Morning: Hodgepodge Edition/My Recent Estate Sale Finds

This past weekend, I went to an estate sale in Glendale. The woman that lived there must have been a compulsive shopper, as she had an entire room converted into a closet! Most of the clothing still had the tags attached, and were in impeccable condition. All of the clothing was about $2 a piece, with the exception of some $1 items! I left with loads of clothing, belts & purses!

I definitely favor estate sales over thrifting because the clothing seems to be in better condition; and often times the prices are much more reasonable than shopping in thrift stores. -

 

1) 60s Camel/Wool Suit - This suit was in impeccable condition; I thought it would be fun to pair with my vintage I Magnin hat. This look is very "Mad Men".

2) Everything pictured came from the estate sale [except tights & hat]; and was brand new with tags.

3) This wool blazer, poly shirt, shorts, and top was also purchased at the estate sale!

4)Cream pin-tuck polyester shirt w/tan shorts & Mexican inspired belt - These items appeared to have never been worn. I paired it with a vintage floppy hat; and felt very "Mahogany" lol

5) White & Blue Striped Romper; if you look closely, you can still see the tag attached [by my right arm].

6) Heavy Sequin Trophy Jacket - The pictures do not do this jacket justice. The jeweled buttons are nothing less than exquisite; and the sequined paisley print on the top of the jacket is a nice little embellishment.

7) Sequin Scalloped Beaded Slouchy Top - This was another impeccable find straight from her closet. I love the slouchy fit of this top!

Each Man Kills The Thing He Loves - Oscar Wilde

No matter what my mind tells me; I am afraid of wide open spaces. It never fails; I will work my butt off at something, and when it comes time to take THE next step; I pause. I retreat. Sometimes I feel that my fear of failing hinders my creativity. I find it hard to put things out there because I am afraid of how it will be received. When you create something; it comprises pieces of your heart and soul. Being that open, and that vulnerable scares me; and honestly makes me want to retreat to what is comfortable.

I wanted to start my non profit, for the past two years. I wanted to sell my jewelry to the public. I wanted to have a "french general" type store. I have the means and the support to make these things happen; but the common denominator in why those things haven't happened resides in ME. - I made a bucket list this past weekend and decided to just do it. I feel like if I am not confronting my calling; then I am not really living at all. And what is the purpose of life if I am not living my legend?

Whatever we decide to do in life should be done with as much enthusiasm and passion as humanly possible, as those feelings coincide with living your personal calling. - Sorry for the rant; just sharing with you a little insight as to the happenings in my life lately; as it aint always thrift shopping, and DIY projects [lol]! I will keep you all updated as to the progress I have made on my lil bucket list :-)

Big shout out to my mum who is the best little picture taker there ever was...lol

Wearing:
Blazer: H&M
Dress: H&M
Tights: H&M
Boots: Jeffrey Campbell
Jewelry: Forever 21

The Secrets To Bouncy, Swingin' Pressed Hair

[Source: Black Fashion]

Techniques for uber straight, silky hair starts way before you pick up those pressing combs, and that flat iron. - Obtaining salon results at home is easy if you employ these methods.

1. Shampoo your hair thoroughly with a clarifying shampoo. This will rid your hair of excess oils, and products that will weigh your hair down causing it to be dull, lifeless, and limp. - I usually shampoo my hair until it is squeaky clean [i rub the hair between my fingers until I actually hear a squeak], then I follow up with a moisturizing shampoo to impart some moisture back into my hair. Pay special attention to the crown area; as this tends to have the most buildup.
2. Condition, and condition well. You want your hair to be in the best shape it can possibly be in prior to thermal straightening. I usually deep condition for about 30minutes w/heat, or an hour without heat. A good deep conditioning treatment will ensure that your detangling process is a lot smoother [reducing tangles, shed hair, damage from combing], and it will also impart sheen, and softness to your hair that will greatly affect the final outcome.
3. Rinse THOROUGHLY, I can't say this enough. If you still have conditioner in your hair; you more than likely will not get the body, and "swing" you desire. Rinse with cold water; as this closes the cuticle, and makes for shiny hair. You will know if you still have product in your hair if the pressing comb is smoking. It should not smoke. Steam, is ok. Smoke means there is still product residue present [pressing your hair w/residue will also cause an odor to be left behind on your hair as well]. I will more than likely re-shampoo at this point if I notice smoke.
4. Use GOOD pressing combs. All pressing combs are not created equal. Trust; I have had almost every brand known to man, but always come back to Kizure. They are supreme in my book. 
5. TEMPER your pressing combs. This is SUPER important. I would like to point out that Kizure advertises their combs are "pre-tempered", however I temper them ANYWAY. Well tempered combs hold heat evenly along the comb which ensures an even, straight press [this also cuts down on heat passes]. If you have ever had to put your comb back in the oven several times before getting one section straight; your combs weren't tempered properly. I can straighten 2-3 sections with my pressing comb before needing to place it back on the heat source - Temper the combs by leaving them in an oven [hair oven] for 6-8 hours. After that point, they should well tempered, and ready for use. Another bonus for tempering is that it removes any finish left behind from the manufacturer of the combs. 
6. Use smaller sections to press hair; I suggest parting in 11/2 inch sections. 
7. Avoid using a STOVE TOP for pressing. Invest in an oven, pressing your hair on the stove top can cause serious dryness as that is a completely different source of heat. All heat sources are not created equal. 
8. When pulling the comb through your hair; flip your wrist so that the hair somewhat wraps itself around the comb; it is the BACK of the pressing comb that does the pressing, not the teeth.

My Favorite Model of The Moment + The Kinky Curly Winner!!!

[source: tfs]

The winner of last weeks Kinky Curly Contest is.....GOD'S FAVORITE SHOES! - Thank you to all who participated! I have some serious goodies up my sleeve for the next giveaway; *evil grin* lol 


GOD'S FAVORITE SHOES! Please send me an email w/your name and address to claim your prize!


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Adesuwa Aighewi ; I think she is absolutely gorgeous; and that lip color is calling my name. [as is the yellow turban-like wrap on her head] I love the idea of rocking a turban at the beach; my hair gets SUPER crazy with all of the moisture in the air, so this is definitely giving me some serious style inspiration.