2016 Beauty, Home Decor and Fashion Trends to Invest In

Contribution by: Derek B. Lotts-Editor, SmoothDecorator

We all know that trends change rapidly by the hour because such small upgrades and even revolutions are a product of imagination combined with the wonders of ever-progressing technology. Everything has put a pedal to the metal when it comes to reinvention. Still, the easiest way to see what changes in designs and approaches to aesthetics dominated the scene is by summing them all up on an annual basis. The year 2016 may be at its beginning, but certain trends in beauty, fashion, and home décor have already been set, so prepare yourself to toss the old stuff and make room for the new.

ByDerek LottsFebruary 6, 20160Comments

Sherita's Street Style

Monochromatic Mauve

The weather in New York is pretty chilly, so getting dressed is all about boots, outerwear and sweaters. For a winter escape I will be traveling to Florida for my Christmas vacation for some sunshine and relaxation. Packing is always a pain especially when you're traveling to a different climate. Even though it's not technically winter in Palm Beach, I don't want to pack strictly summer clothes for my trip. This monochromatic look has the feel of fall, but it's perfect for warm weather travels. My coated plum denim was featured in a previous post last winter, but they are still very much on trend. I paired these jeans with a light pink lace top and my favorite Stuart Weitzman's pumps. All of my mauve accented jewelry can be found at Greenwich Jewelers.

ByadminDecember 9, 20153Comments

Sherita's Street Style

Cocktail Fancy

I love getting all dressed up, especially when it's for a good cause. Last week my husband and I attended the American Australian Association's Benefit Dinner, a fundraiser for the Association's Education fund. This evening of cocktails, dinner and hobnobbing was held at the glorious ballroom of Cipriani's Wall St. For the event I pulled out one of my favorite cocktail dresses, a Badgley Mischka pale pink number with gorgeous silver beading at the bust line. Originally I wore this dress to the rehearsal dinner for my wedding. Since I hate wearing something only once, I was thrilled that this dress fit the occasion perfectly! With the holidays right around the corner, a great cocktail dress is always key. Be sure not to miss my holiday dress guide coming soon...

ByadminNovember 10, 20152Comments

Korean Beef Bowl

Looking for a simple and flavorful dish light enough for summer and packed with delicious Asian flavors? Look no further, my Korean Beef Bowl will definitely hit the spot! This dish consists of stir-fried marinated beef tossed with a salad of crisp green beans, carrots and scallions, plated on a bed of fluffy rice. The meal is a perfect way to enjoy an Asian dish without all the deep frying and heavy sauces.

BySherita JanielleJuly 30, 20150Comments

Irresistible Shrimp and Grits

A classic Southern dish that you can enjoy for brunch or dinner, Shrimp and Grits is super simple to make and packs a lot of delicious flavors. As the saying goes, "Bacon makes everything better"—and in this recipe, you use bacon drippings to cook the shrimp! Parsley, garlic, jalapeño, and lemon brighten up the entire dish.

BySherita JanielleJuly 14, 20154Comments

Grilled Lobster with Shrimp & Corn Salad

It's summertime which means it's also lobster season! For me, this dish is the ultimate feast! If you love lobster as much as I do, then this will definitely be a treat. Grilled lobster is the perfect meal to impress at your next dinner party, but this dish is also simple enough to serve any night of the week. For this recipe I par boiled the lobster and finished it on the grill along with the shrimp and corn to create a delicious salad that compliments the meal.

BySherita JanielleJune 26, 20151Comment

Salt & Pepper Shrimp and Calamari

Salt and pepper shrimp (or) calamari is a dish I frequently order when at Chinese restaurants, but have never thought to make it at home. It is the perfect appetizer or can be served as a main course. I love that the shrimp has a crispy texture even without being heavily battered. The garlic and scallions add a lot of flavor without being overpowering. I typically like things spicy, but with this dish the jalapeno is just the right amount of heat. You can make this recipe with the mixed seafood or just choose your favorite, the preparation is simple and easy.

BySherita JanielleJune 13, 20150Comments

Mini Taco Salads with Crispy Shells

In honor of Cinco de Mayo my neighbor hosted an amazing party and asked me to assist her with the planning by bringing some of my delicious homemade Mexican dishes. I don't know the history behind Cinco de Mayo, but I do know it's a great excuse to eat some tasty Mexican food and Salud with Margaritas! The party featured my signature Guacamole Recipe, a tasty taco bar with a selection of chipotle chicken, grilled shrimp, ground turkey, chorizo and all the toppings you could ever need. I also made my Jalepeno Deviled Eggs, garnished with spicy chorizo. The highlight of the table were my Miniature Taco Salads, topped with some guacamole, crema and a slice of radish.

BySherita JanielleMay 5, 20150Comments

Sherita's Street Style

Track Star

You can easily turn a sporty look into something chic with the right styling and accessories. My track suit inspired look is adorned with Sorellina black and diamond jewelry from Greenwich Jewelers. I grew up wearing DKNY, it was my go to brand for almost everything. For years, I felt like they lost their edge, but I was shocked with how much I loved this DKNYC Dip Died Jacket. I paired it with these Pink Tartan Track Pants, elastic ankle pants are very popular this spring and give a sporty feel to the look. My Dolce Vita cutout booties were purchased last season and are still very much in trend.

BySherita JanielleApril 25, 20152Comments

Lemon Shrimp Scampi Pasta

There is nothing like an elegant homemade dish that is quick to prepare for yourself or the whole family. Lemon Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a twist on a classic seafood dish that will leave you wanting more. The most important element to this pasta is the tender and juicy shrimp. The lemon juice adds a brightness to the…

BySherita JanielleFebruary 16, 20152Comments