How To Elevate Your Space With Dark Academia Decor

 “Have no fear of perfection—you’ll never reach it.” —Salvador Dali

                         Dark Academia Living Room 

         

In recent years, a new aesthetic trend has taken the world by storm – Dark Academia. Inspired by the mysterious and intellectual atmosphere of Ivy League campuses and classic literature, Dark Academia has become a popular choice for those seeking to infuse their living spaces with a sense of erudition and timeless elegance. In this blog post, we will explore the captivating allure of Dark Academia decor and provide you with tips and ideas to bring this sophisticated style into your own home. Prepare to embark on a journey where literature, art, and refined aesthetics intertwine.

Embrace Earthy and Muted Tones:

To capture the essence of Dark Academia decor, begin by embracing a color palette dominated by earthy and muted tones. Think deep burgundy, forest green, rich brown, and charcoal gray. These colors evoke a sense of history, wisdom, and intellectual depth. Use them as your base shades for walls, furniture, and textiles to establish a foundation of sophistication in your space.

Incorporate Classic Furniture Pieces:

When selecting furniture for your Dark Academia-inspired decor, opt for classic and timeless pieces. Embrace dark wooden bookcases, vintage leather armchairs, and sturdy writing desks. Furniture with ornate details and antique finishes will add a touch of grandeur and authenticity to your space. Look for items with intricate carvings, claw feet, and brass accents to create an atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional library or study.

Build a Haven for Books:

Books are the cornerstone of Dark Academia decor. Create a haven for your literary treasures by incorporating bookshelves and cozy reading nooks into your space. Consider floor-to-ceiling bookcases, library ladders, and hidden alcoves. Arrange books by color, size, or subject to add visual interest and a sense of organization. Accessorize with vintage bookends, magnifying glasses, and old globes to enhance the scholarly ambiance.

Enhance with Natural Elements:

Incorporating natural elements into your Dark Academia decor will bring an air of authenticity and tranquility. Introduce potted plants, such as ivy or ferns, to add a touch of greenery and life to your space. Display dried flowers or botanical prints to capture the essence of a Victorian conservatory. Natural textures like worn leather, distressed wood, and exposed brick can also contribute to the rustic charm and character of the aesthetic.

Curate Art and Curiosities:

Art and curiosities play a pivotal role in Dark Academia decor, reflecting a love for classical paintings, vintage photographs, and intriguing artifacts. Hang framed prints of famous artworks, such as Renaissance portraits or impressionist landscapes, to create a gallery-like ambiance. Showcase old maps, vintage typewriters, or scientific instruments to evoke a sense of exploration and intellectual curiosity.

Illuminate with Warm Lighting:

Lighting is crucial in setting the mood for a Dark Academia-inspired space. Opt for warm, soft lighting that creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Table lamps with vintage-inspired shades, chandeliers with dimmable bulbs, or candlelight can all contribute to the desired ambiance. Incorporate task lighting for reading areas and accent lighting to highlight artwork and decorative elements.

Dark Academia decor offers a captivating and intellectual aesthetic that appeals to the lovers of literature, history, and refined aesthetics. By embracing earthy tones, classic furniture, a haven for books, natural elements, curated art, and warm lighting, you can transform your living space into a sanctuary of intellectual elegance. Allow this trend to inspire you and create an environment that encourages learning, contemplation, and the pursuit of knowledge. 

This post was originally published at https://vocal.media/lifehack/how-to-update-your-abode-with-dark-academia-decor

Level Up Your Fashion Style: 7 Expert Tips to Elevate Your Wardrobe

 “It’s worth remembering that it is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change.”   Queen Elizabeth II

Fashion is a powerful means of self-expression that can help you make a lasting impression. Whether you're aiming to upgrade your everyday look or enhance your personal brand, refining your fashion style can significantly impact how you feel and how others perceive you. In this article, we will explore seven expert tips to level up your fashion style and elevate your wardrobe. By incorporating these suggestions into your fashion routine, you'll be well on your way to becoming a fashion-forward individual with an unmistakable sense of style.

Define Your Personal Style:

Begin by understanding your personal style. Reflect on the types of clothing, colors, and patterns that resonate with you. Consider your lifestyle, body type, and the image you want to project. Are you drawn to classic, minimalist, bohemian, or edgy styles? Defining your personal style will serve as a foundation for building a wardrobe that reflects your individuality.

Curate a Versatile Wardrobe:

Focus on building a versatile wardrobe that offers various styling options. Invest in high-quality basics like well-fitting jeans, a tailored blazer, and neutral-colored tops. These timeless pieces can be mixed and matched with trendier items to create different outfits. Look for garments that can transition seamlessly from day to night, allowing you to effortlessly adapt your style to different occasions.

Experiment with Accessories:

Accessories have the power to transform any outfit. Incorporate statement jewelry, scarves, hats, and belts to add flair and personality to your look. Experiment with different textures, colors, and sizes to create visual interest. Accessories are an affordable way to update your wardrobe and showcase your creativity while staying true to your personal style.

Embrace Tailoring:

One of the secrets to a polished and put-together appearance is well-fitted clothing. Seek out a trusted tailor who can make adjustments to your garments to ensure they flatter your body shape. Tailoring can transform an ordinary outfit into a standout ensemble, enhancing your overall style and confidence.

Stay Updated with Fashion Trends:

While it's important to define your personal style, staying aware of current fashion trends can help you infuse fresh elements into your wardrobe. Follow fashion influencers, read fashion magazines, and browse online platforms to stay updated. Select trends that resonate with your style and incorporate them in moderation, ensuring they align with your overall aesthetic.

Pay Attention to Details:

Pay attention to the details that often make a significant difference in your overall appearance. Ensure your shoes are well-maintained and match the formality of your outfit. Pay attention to grooming, including well-manicured nails and styled hair. The right handbag or briefcase can add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble. These small but essential details can elevate your fashion style to new heights.

Confidence is Key:

Lastly, confidence is the ultimate accessory that can enhance any outfit. Embrace your unique style choices and wear them with self-assurance. When you feel confident in what you're wearing, it radiates through your presence, making a lasting impact on those around you.

Leveling up your fashion style is a journey of self-expression and exploration. By defining your personal style, curating a versatile wardrobe, experimenting with accessories, embracing tailoring, staying updated with fashion trends, paying attention to details, and exuding confidence, you can elevate your fashion game to new heights. Remember, fashion is an ever-evolving art, so don't be afraid to experiment, take risks, and have fun with your style. With these expert tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a fashion-forward individual with an unmistakable sense of style.

                                    Source:  Pinterest 

Appetizers How To Make Jalapeno Poppers

                                  

                               Source:  Allrecipes
 

"What is not to love about the hot and spicy? There is something alluring in the thrill of the spicy buzz, the zing that travels up and down your tongue, the tingling of the tastebuds when you eat hot and spicy food." ~Mike Hultquist & Patty Hultquist

Ingredients:

1 (8-oz.) pkg. reduced-fat cream cheese softened

½ cup shredded CHEESE

¼ cup plain Greek-style yogurt

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh HERB

1 tsp. salt-free Seasoning

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded (about 16 peppers)

2 Tbsp. whole-wheat panko bread crumbs

Directions:

1. For filling, stir together cream cheese, CHEESE, yogurt, HERB, seasoning, and garlic in a bowl.

2. Transfer filling to a piping bag (fitted with a tip) or a small zip-top plastic bag and snip off a corner. Pipe filling into each pepper half. Put panko in a small dish. Dip peppers, filling sides down, in panko to coat. Lightly coat panko with cooking spray.

3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Air-fry peppers, panko sides up and working in batches as needed, until tender and lightly browned, about 8 minutes. (Keep cooked poppers warm in a 200°F oven while air-frying remaining batches.)

Garrnish with additional fresh herbs.

How To Make A Healthy California Egg White Sandwich

Unlike the yolk of an egg, egg whites have no cholesterol and are low in calories. 

Egg whites are packed with nutrients and offer several health benefits such as being high in protein (4g of protein in a single egg white), low in calories and no fat. 

A single egg white includes a supply of folate, selenium, calcium and magnesium, and phosphorous. 

California Egg White Sandwich

Ingredients:

2 egg whites

2 slices fully cooked Turkey Bacon

1 Tbsp. Low Fat Ranch Dressing

1 tsp. hot pepper sauce

1 whole wheat English muffin toasted

Avocado slices

Directions:

In a microwavable bowl whisk egg whites until blended.  Microwave on a high setting for approx.  30 seconds, until whites are set (stir every 15 seconds). 

Place turkey bacon on microwaveable plate and cover with paper towel.  Microwave for approximately 30 seconds.

Mix together the ranch dressing and hot sauce and spread onto toasted muffin halves and fill with the eggs and turkey bacon.  Top with avocado slices.   Enjoy!

How To Make Delicious Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Toasted Pecans

Eating cruciferous veggies on a regular basis like the Brussells Sprout (which gained its name from the town of Brussels, Belgium) helps to protect our bodies from various cancers such as breast, prostate, and lung cancer.  Packed with vitamin C, and K-1, this superfood has only a few calories per serving and is a good source of Vitamin A (beta-carotene) a must-have for healthy skin.  

Brussels Sprouts are the ideal vegetable to consume in the winter as this is their growing season.  

                                           Source:  Google 

•  Ingredients

• 1 pound thick-cut bacon
• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved through the stem
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups coarsely chopped pecans
• 1 tablespoon lightly packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• Balsamic Reduction to taste (recipe follows; see Cook’s Note)

• Balsamic Reduction:
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange the bacon slices on 1 or 2 separate baking sheets. Bake until crispy, about 20 minutes. Line another baking sheet with paper towels and transfer the bacon to the paper towels to drain. Chop crosswise and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a rimmed baking sheet cut sides down. Roast until browned and the edges are crisp, about 30 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally.
4. In a large sauté pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pecans, brown sugar, and garlic salt and cook, stirring frequently, until toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
5. Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a large serving bowl. Drizzle balsamic reduction over the top and sprinkle with the pecans and bacon.

6. In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer until reduced to 4 tablespoons, about 30 minutes. Pay attention as the reduction gets closer to the targeted amount, as it can go quickly toward the end and will burn if it gets too low. Remove from the heat and let cool.
7. Store in a tightly covered container at room temperature if using on the same day it’s made, or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature before using to make it easier to drizzle.

This recipe is courtesy of Magnolia by Joanna  Gaines

7 Ways To Increase Your Vibrational Frequency And Live A More Positive Life

 

“Where thoughts go, energy goes. There is nothing else here besides energy. Thoughts create form. Moderate your thoughts because they affect the entire energy field. When we are at a high level of vibration, we naturally attract high-level experiences and vice versa. Experiences are a direct reflection of your thoughts.” Anonymous

Living a more fulfilled and positive lifestyle is intentional. We all know negative thoughts cannot produce a positive life. So in saying that, we need to be intentional to increase our vibrational frequency to have a high-vibe life.

7 Ways To Increase Your Vibration

SELF LOVE/SELF CARE

Self-love is the appreciation of one's own self-worth, well-being, and happiness. Self-love is not selfish. It is giving yourself permission to set healthy boundaries, prioritizing yourself, and being kind to yourself (e.g. not beating up yourself for something you did). Another aspect of self-love is self-care. Self-care is more related to taking care of your mind, body, and spirit. Some examples of self-care would be paying attention to your diet and making healthy choices, exercising, and listening to your body when it needs rest/relaxation.

GRATITUDE

Practicing gratitude is one of the fastest ways to increase your vibration. The benefits of being grateful are enormous! First and foremost it heals and relaxes your mind, it helps to boost your immune system, improves sleep, and lowers your stress level. When you are grateful for the things you have, you develop a sense of contentment rather than an attitude of lack. Lastly, this practice will help you to stop focusing on yourself and enrich the lives of other people.

BE ONE WITH NATURE

Nature is the cure for many things. Spending time in nature improves your emotional well-being, reduces stress associated with anger, and is beneficial to your cognitive health. Awakened souls must be in nature to experience the full effect of being in a high-vibe state. Nature is therapy. If you suffer from anxiety and/or depression, take a walk in nature it will be a valuable commodity to you

SPREAD KINDNESS

Kindness is contagious and is paramount to increasing your vibration. When you spread kindness it will come back to you over and over again. Kindness is free - just a simple act like complimenting someone, supporting a friend's business by sharing it over social media, or just encouraging a person who feels a little lost can do wonders. Raise your vibration with the power of kindness.

MEDITATION

Meditation is a very important tool to aid in the raising of your vibration. It is a spiritual practice in which one focuses the mind on a particular thought (or object) in order to gain mental clarity. When you are still, you will be able to receive guidance and wisdom from the universe which leads to inner peace.

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Repeating positive affirmations daily can help you alter subconscious thoughts while giving you the power to change negative thinking patterns into positive thinking patterns thereby altering your self-concept and raising your vibration. Thoughts become things. Here are a few affirmations to get you on the high-vibe track:

I am always protected by the universe

I am confident and an unstoppable force of nature

I love the person I am becoming

I am destined for success

Everything I desire is on its way to me

I effortlessly attract wealth

I am focused on my goals and dreams

My talents are worthy of me being paid abundantly

I am creating the life of my dreams

I am resilient and can get through anything

When you incorporate all the above steps 'daily' your life will dramatically change for the better and that high vibrational frequency you long for will show up. Be intentional always.

                                 

                                    Meditation  Room

                            Source:  Pinterest 

The Benefits Of Working From Home

 

                                                                           Cottage Style Home                                                                                                                                            Source:  Google

THE BENEFITS OF WORKING FROM HOME

You can find this article here Vocal Media

https://vocal.media/lifehack/why-i-love-working-from-home-vs-going-to-an-office

Fall Decor Inspiration From My Etsy Shop

“Notice that autumn is more the season of the soul than of nature.”    - Unknown 

Fall is upon us bringing cozy interiors, carved pumpkins and hot beverages to keep you warm.  Those hot sticky days are gone, ushering in cooler temperatures and autumnal breezes.

Interiors are transformed from cooler tones to neutral warmer tones making your abode a cozier place to retreat.  

Getting that cozy vibe is easy by adding neutral pillows, textured throws, and by illuminating your surroundings with fall candles.  

Etsy is a great place to find unique fall decor pieces to incorporate into your fall collection, no matter what your design style.  If you haven't shopped at Etsy before this is a great time to take advantage of one-of-a-kind seasonal decor.

These are just a sampling below from my Etsy shop  

                          Graphic Fall Throw

                                  Shop now

                  Patterned Burnt Orange Pillow 

                     Colorblock Neutral Pillow

                         Pumpkin Patch Pillow

                              Shop now

       

                  You Are Golden Pillar Candle 

Browse the collection DawnsboutiqueFinds. 

How To Make Quick Beef Stir Fry

 

“A recipe has no soul. You, as the cook, must bring soul to the recipe.”

– Thomas Keller

Beef contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals such as iron, B12, niacin, B6, selenium and phosphorus and meat is a complete dietary source of protein.  

Beef Stir Fry

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds skirt steak, cut into 4-inch-long pieces, then cut against the grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1 serrano chile pepper, seeded and finely chopped

2 teaspoons sugar

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (1 to 2 limes)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, grated

1 bunch of scallions, thinly sliced

6 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced

1/4 pound  snow peas or green beans

1 12-ounce can of baby corn, drained

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

Directions:  

1. Season the steak with salt and pepper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chile pepper, sugar and lime juice until the sugar is dissolved. Add the beef, toss to coat and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil until shimmering, about 1 minute. Add the beef and cook, stirring, until cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. Allow the liquid in the pan to reduce until thickened, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and scallions and cook 1 minute more. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more. Add the snow peas, baby corn and bell pepper and continue cooking until all the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Return the beef to the skillet and toss to combine.
4. Total Time:  30 mins  Serves:   4   
5.                 Source:  Food Network