Design: Abstract Art

Hello lovelies!! It's Brooke from The Modern Sophisticate to share with you my love of abstract art. 

There is not another single item you can add to your home that screams "I have taste" more than a gorgeous piece of abstract.  They fit in traditional settings just as well as they do in uber modern spaces (which can be a God-send sometimes).  

Lately, I've even started to see a lot of abstract-inspired fashion, as well!

1. Room by Nicole Cohen

2. Abstract by Nicole Cohen, Dress by Lela Rose

3.  Room by Jan Showers

4. Dress by Alice+Olivia, Abstract by Richard Aldrich

Do you like the look but not sure how to style abstracts for your own space?

Here are a few tips:

1. 'Camellia' Original Painting by Jen Ramos 

2.  Field Bench with Back by Dering Hall

3. 6 Light Chandelier by Currey&Company

4. Side Table from One Kings Lane

5. Polyedres by Hubert le Gall via 1st Dibs

6. Suzy Gold Leaf & White Marble Side Table by Worlds Away

7. Estelle Display Lamp from Circa Lighting

8. Colors 97 Original Painting by Jen Ramos

-post by brooke

Food: Three Ways to Serve Crostini

Hello there! Heather Freeman of The Lovely Cupboard here, and I'm back to share a recipe with you today. Actually, I've got three easy ways you can serve crostini at your upcoming New Year's Eve party. 


Crostini is such a fancy name for little toasts, but that's really all it is. However, this bite-sized crispy bread can be topped with anything from hummus to chutney. To begin with, you'll need a baguette, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and slice bread at an angle. (This allows more surface area for yummy toppings.)
2. Lay on a baking sheet or stone and brush each piece with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes. If desired, rub a fresh garlic clove over the surface of each toast. (It gives just a hint of garlic flavor.)
4. Next, top with any assortment of spreads, meats, and veggies. I've got a few suggestions for you below...

This tastes like a caprese salad with a crunch. Spread fresh or jarred pesto. Top with fresh mozzarella and half of a cherry tomato.

For this spread, mix two parts herbed goat cheese and one part cream cheese. Top with thinly sliced cucumber. I used a cranberry chutney, but any fruit chutney would work. Mango tastes delicious with it.

This is such a classic combination that you can never go wrong with it. Cream cheese, smoked salmon with dill, and capers. This one is my favorite.

These make such great appetizers for a party since you can assemble them shortly before guests arrive. So hang the mistletoe, light the candles, and bring on the white elephant gifts. You've got crostinis and you know how to serve them!

Cheers and warm dishes,

-post by heather freeman

Fashion: Holiday Wear

Hello hello! I'm Casie Mace from Whipped Style blog. I'm so excited to bring some style inspirations & join such a talented bunch here on Made By Girl!

Let's talk holiday wear. We've all heard the rule: No white after labor day. But--like many, I don't believe in that rule one bit!! 

I LOVE winter white. Especially when it's paired with my all-time favorite holiday staple: sparkle. Pairing some winter white with sequins is the perfect way to get festive while breaking away from the traditional holiday dress. 

Here's a few of my favorite winter white + sparkle pieces. How fun is that All Saints skirt!? 


Happy Holidays everyone! I so look forward to many more posts together.

1. Faux Wrap Sequin Skirt | image via farfetch.com 2. Sequined band skirt | image via stylebymarina.com 3. Erodes Skirt | image via allsaints.com 4. Sheer Yoke Blouse | page via reissonline.com 5. Kaelen Luanne Pleated Skirt | image via tenover6.com 6. Sequin Clutch | image via warehouse.co.uk 7. Sequin-Embellished Crepe Top | image via net-a-porter.com 8. Brown Stripe Sequin Tee | image via dorothyperkins.com 9. Vanessa Bruno Ankle Length Trouser | image via boutique1.com