California Girl at Heart

WEARING: YELLOW GATHERED SLEEVE TIED OPEN BACK TEXTURED TOP | CACTUS GREEN HIGH WAIST CARGO DENIM MINI SKIRT | SNAKESKIN KNOTTED STRAPPY SANDALS | IVORY BAG | STATEMENT EARRINGS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SHEIN, PUBLIC DESIRE & UNPUBLISHED, BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

This week on the blog I shared my five ways to style a white shirt dress (here) where many of you chimed in on the yellow blazer outfit/look #3 being your favorite. There’s a bit of an L.A. vibe to that look as the inspiration came from the Los Angeles Lakers colors: Gold and purple. Since you guys really dug this bohemian, fun style, I wanted to do another twist on the California girl style - this time with an interesting colored denim mini skirt! The color is cactus… need I say more? Continue reading to see full visual story along with direct links to shop each individual piece! Happy Hump Day, folks :)

When I saw this high waist cargo mini skirt, the first thing that caught my attention was definitely its color. It’s in the military green family, which is suiting in anything cargo-based, but this shade is much lighter to which the brand, Unpublished Collection, has coined the color as cactus. This style hits right at your natural waist and fits comfortably through the hips. The raw hem detailing adds an effortless, casual feel. Anything utility-wise is super trending this summer, and this denim mini skirt is my latest obsession. You can pair it with a simple white tee, a black halter top, and more but I went with a more vibrant, summer hue.

When I think of a backless top, I immediately think of warmer seasons. It’s fine to wear it during the fall and winter season too with necessary layers but I find these kind of tops best for summer. They’re breathable and sexy, showing just the right amount of skin. This yellow top with the gathered sleeves make it such a good one. Can you believe this top is only $12?! That’s right! I love to find affordable pieces that look like top quality - kind of a treasure hunt for me. Lastly, I accessorized with bold ivory statement earrings that complement with my ivory bag, and a pair of snakeskin strappy sandals. Thanks for stopping by and checking out today’s post! I hope you enjoyed this Cali-vibe post along with its playful, fun outfit.

LOVE & XX’S,

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Black, Pink and Lavender Outfit

WEARING: FUR JACKET | WHITE BODYSUIT | FADED BLACK DENIM | LAVENDER BOOTS | SILVER EARRINGS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY HEARTLOOM AND NIA DANA BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Happy Monday! In light of my pretty packed week, I’m keeping it short and sweet on here with little bit of contrast in today’s look. It can look great on anyone as these colors are flattering on all skin types. We’re talking pink, lavender, and black. Plus it’s an outfit that I feel good in, on top of being fashionable. And I’m sharing two brands I’ve recently discovered that I wanted to share with you in what I styled today. One is outerwear and the other is jewelry. And these staple pieces can be worn in many other different looks. So continue reading to see more details from casual, feminine yet edgy look with direct links to shop.

How beautiful is this light pink fur coat? It is rex rabbit, with a relaxed fit and hook eye closure. Fits true to size, I love that this coat can be dressed up or down. I love the slate pink color mostly, as it’s a very unique pink shade. And let me tell you how warm this baby is! I literally only had a white bodysuit underneath (with a bra) and I was snug as a bug in a rug! This coat is valued at $370 which is a bit expensive, but it’s definitely an investment piece! Luxurious I might add as well :) Check out more clothing items by Heartloom!

I love these long geometric statement earrings. Very lightweight as they are made from 0.3 mm silver sheet - I discovered this jewelry brand from Barcelona on Instagram!. Nia Dana Jewelry designs minimal chic pieces with quality metals and each piece is individually handmade. These earrings for example took about 10 days to produce, so you know the added details to everything will be perfect. In which case, they were! Check out more of her designs here www.nia-dana.com

These two-tone ankle boot beauties in lavender feature a pointed toe and stiletto heel. They’re 5” heels, so I wouldn’t recommend these if you’re not about the height. But I’m quite petite (only 5’3”) so anything that can add length especially to the bottom portion of my body is a good thing. One of the best ways to elongate your legs as a petite woman is to wear cropped pants with statement booties as such. Not only will it give you height, but the two together looks great while really showing off your new pair of shoes. And how much do you love the frayed hem on these faded black pair of denim jeans?!

Hope you enjoyed this more laidback casual look today on the blog! I think this outfit would also be perfect for Valentine’s Day, whether hanging out with the girls or with your date. A definitely day-to-night kind of look - easy peasy. What would you guys like to see more of? Styles like these or more polished up looks? I definitely have a few projects in mind when it comes to editorial work, but these will take a good second. Got an idea you’d like to see on M + S? Drop your thoughts in the comment section down below! Wishing you a great first week of February!

LOVE & XX’S,

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5 Reasons Why You Should Take a Social Media Break

WEARING: MINT GREEN CARDIGAN | WIDE LEG JEANS | WHITE ANKLE BOOTS | BLACK & WHITE BAG

When I first was building MaQ + Suz, which I still am, times have changed in the past three years. And even though I have remained consistent throughout this time, it has come to my realization now more than ever that as a creative person, it is vital to my well-being to un-plug from the social media world. I’m constantly on it for work, and lately the daily cycle of cranking out content has felt like it’s never-ending and yes, everyone can burn out! When everything is all about instant-gratification these days, I still think it’s completely acceptable to take a detox/break from something that isn’t always necessarily beneficial to you. As much as I love to share my life on social media, I also can really appreciate when to say no to certain things when it comes to what I do for a living. So in today’s post I’m sharing 5 reasons why you should take a social media break from time to time. Continue reading for more.

1. IT HELPS YOU SET BOUNDARIES

For many of us, social media can feel like an anxiety-fueled space, and it’s up to us to decide when to say enough is enough and not let any form of negativity into our personal space. Even on an everyday basis, I try and restrict myself to about 2 hours of social media postings and scrolling. But by setting a daily routine like a time limit of my time on my phone and taking mini-breaks even this way can be the healthiest boundary you set for yourself , which is the ultimate form of self-care. This weekend, I forbade myself from posting on social media, no matter how guilty I felt not doing so. I am exhausted, sick (migraine all day Sunday) and in need of recuperating from my job where there are literally no days off. And you know what? It led to learning other reasons why this is great to do every so often. (or as much as you like… you are your own boss, no?)

2. GET YOUR CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING

Whenever I really start to feel burnt out, I will go off the grid for a couple of days. I also have a tendency to do this when I’m suffering from writer’s block. This doesn’t bring forth my creativity per se, but you’d be amazed how great you’d feel after a full weekend of rest and just doing things you love to do, like read a book, go to the museum, have a phone call with a friend, taking a long walk with my dog, these mini-breaks not only take my mind off and recharge my batteries, it is then when these types of activities help influence my creativity. Sometimes freeing the mind and not trying to think so hard about the next amazing photo shoot actually will bring the next amazing photo shoot. Trust in the retreat your mind and body absolutely need to take every now and then.

3. RECLAIM YOUR TIME

You know you can’t buy back time, but you can reclaim it. With Apple iOS 12's “Screen Time” feature, you can track your social media usage. I'm currently using this tool and discovered that I could have likely read Murakami’s new novel in the time I spent scrolling Instagram last week. YIKES. Which in turn gives you more time for other things in your life aside from social media. Because I guarantee this is not the most important part of life by any means... it doesn’t define you as a person. Life is short. Spend it wisely.

4. KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE

Others’ comments or who has viewed your Insta-stories, or what’s currently trending… Yet another distraction when it comes to social media. It all leads to nowhere. I always remind myself why I started the blog in the first place. And I think the immense desire to someone’s “15 minutes of fame” is more and more outweighing the desire to create quality content and/or visual story-telling. So when whatever I see online all starts to become white noise and very little is inspiring me, it’s time to take a breather from the overly saturated social media world. When I de-tach myself from it temporarily, it always brings me back to where I started and why. Which is really important if you want to continue visualizing the big picture, too. Remember why you started.

5. RECONNECT AND COME BACK STRONGER

This kind of coincides with number 2 in this post. But this is more about our inner work. As I just said, social media is not the definition to life, nevertheless, it doesn’t define you. It’s a brand, a label, a front to what really is reality. Because in the world of advertising, not everything is ever the complete truth. And the same goes with what I do. Every photo is staged. Choreographed with makeup, hair, clothes, location, a lens, etc to end the final result with a quality image and a story behind it. It’s simply never just a snap. So when it comes to comparing yourself to others, for example, be clear about your goals and do the self-work IRL to come out confident; it will help curb the anxiety that the Instagram comparison game creates. Focusing on other parts of your life aside from social media/work isn’t just a simple “distraction” from the other not so glamorous side to what I do, it’s always a resetter. It helps me regroup and reconnect with loved ones and yes, myself. Sometimes a little self-care goes a long way, and if you’re feeling a bit unsure about what you’re doing online, it’s time to take a step back and regroup, reset and reconnect. And in the long run, you will always come back stronger. Remember this too… social media isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

LOVE & XX’S,

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treStiQue Makeup Sticks

WEARING: NICOLE FRANK FRUZSINA TOP | CHICWISH DENIM SKIRT | 
STREET LEVEL HOLOGRAM CROSSBODY | TELEPORT SHOES ECLIPSE BOOTS | 
FOREVER 21 FISHNET CREW SOCKS

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THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY TRESTIQUE, TELEPORT SHOES AND NICOLE FRANK.

trèStiQue is on a mission to simplify and empower the lives of REAL women of all ages. They believe makeup should be easy to use + apply. Their products enhance your natural beauty (not cover it up). With this mission in mind, they developed their Essential 8 Set to simplify your everyday makeup routine. Everything you need, nothing you don’t: 8 shade matched 2-in-1 essentials that combine high-performance formulas with tools for easy application. Their routine takes 5 minutes, weighs .05lbs and fits in a compact makeup pack. From your home to your office, to your gym or travel bag trèStiQue make touch-ups mess-free with portable makeup in both full and mini sizes for life on-the-go! I love this makeup brand so much, which is why I've got a giveaway going on my Instagram account! Continue reading to learn more about the 3 products that are being given out, how to enter, and where to shop this casual but edgy outfit!

1. treStiQue Tint, Moisturize & Blend Face Stick Paradise Island Beige

A two-in-one, weightless tinted moisturizer and built-in face blender. Less is more with this new two-in-one, cream-gel, tinted moisturizer. Light as air and powdery soft, this modern makeup glides onto skin to give you the perfect no-makeup, makeup look. Skin appears fresh and flawless with a naturally radiant, finish. This portable stick with sheer to medium, buildable coverage is perfect for use all-over face, or for quick touch-ups. This weightless tinted moisturizer is infused with Coconut Oil, known for its hydration properties. Its custom magnetic sealing cap keeps your makeup travel-friendly and spill-proof, while the built-in treSwitch Refill Face Blender allows for easy hands-free application on-the-go.

2. treStiQue Color & Contour Blush Stick St. Barths Pink

A lasting cream-gel blush with a built-in blender for the perfect pop of natural-looking color. This two-in-one, high-performance cream-gel blush gives your cheeks an instant pop of customizable color. Just blend it into a subtle flush or layer it on for added intensity. This cream-gel formula has a cushiony light-as-air feel, and it glides seamlessly onto cheeks, leaving skin instantly smoother and softer. It's also infused with coconut oil, and I love to use it on the eyes and lips on top of its functionality as a blush. It's probably my favorite multi-purposed item in my bag right now. 

3. treStiQue Conceal, Cover & Correct Crayon Porcelain 

A long-lasting creamy concealer in a portable crayon for under-eye or spot touch-ups. This two-in-one, long-lasting, creamy concealer is paired with a blender sponge for easy application. This high performance concealer crayon glides on in one swipe with smooth, fluid application and blends seamlessly into skin for buildable, medium-to-full coverage. Perfect for both under eye or spot touch ups.

SHOP THE treStiQue SET

If you are interested in winning these three selected items from trèStiQue (in your selected shade of course), all you have to do is go to my Instagram account and find the image above and follow the rules in the caption. It's super simple, I've made the rules in three easy steps: Follow me, follow trèStiQue, and like the photo. That's it! The selected winner will be chosen randomly on Monday, May 21st at the end of the day. I will DM the winner on Instagram for further information. If you have any questions about the products or the giveaway, feel free to send me a message through my blog or on my Instagram! I look forward to announcing the winner on Monday. :)

The Eclipse booties are a wardrobe essential. These silver leather lace-up booties can be paired with any looks, to complete any outfit. Made with 100% leather, they are really comfortable to walk in while looking pretty darn chic doing it! I paired it with this holographic crossbody to bring out the silvery features. Plus I love anything that is a hologram, it is such a trend right now! Definitely bringing back the 90s. Also to keep the black color of the outfit, I wore my favorite Forever 21 fishnet crew socks. They give the boot a little more of a sturdy support while running around in them (which I did the other night - two events back to back) plus an edgy touch within this look.  

And just when I thought it was safe to put away what's in my autumn/winter wardrobe, New York wanted to bring back some chilly weather. Thanks to Nicole Frank, this black Fruzsina top can go from day to night with interchangeable zip-on sleeves on top of keeping you warm during those unpredictable spring rainy days. This top comes with your choice of black, leopard print or shearling sleeves (which would be perfect for the colder season). The fabric is mostly made out of nylon so it has that stretchy comfy feel to it. You can even wear it without sleeves to have that 3/4 sleeve look. It's quite the versatile piece, check more of Nicole Frank's designs at nicolefranktwe.com  

What do you guys think of this look? Don't forget to enter my giveaway on my Instagram account! My handle is @suzannespiegoski and there are 3 easy steps to enter! Winner will be announced on Monday. I also have a really cute shoot coming the same day, and it's the kind of look that's just perfect for wedding season! Did you watch the Royal Wedding this morning? If so, what was your favorite part? I think mine was the impromptu kiss outside the church - just so sweet and tender. And that Givenchy dress was to die for! Also, the reception dress by Stella McCartney had me swooning along with the Jaguar E-type car of MY DREAMS! Yes, I'm a woman who LOVES cars. :) Have a lovely rest of your weekend!

LOVE & XX'S,

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Sporty Footwear with SOREL

WEARING: GANT RUGGER CRINKLE DREAMY OXFORD KNOT SHIRT | AMERICAN EAGLE DENIM SHORTS 
| SOREL ELLA SANDALS

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THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY GANT & SOREL. 

Hey guys! I don't know about you but I always have the toughest time finding the perfect summer sandal. Since I'm a very active gal and literally run around doing a gazillion things at once, I need footwear that's comfortable enough to wear but also stylish. I need good quality support, something that's enough to take it from day to night, especially during those crazy warmer months where I'm not home as often as other seasons and therefore have no time to change outfits if I'm going out. Which is why these SOREL sandals in today's post are the bee's knees when it comes to summer footwear. Continue reading to see how I styled this casual but chic summery look and also where to shop these items directly.

The quality of the sandal material is very good and the sole has great traction and feels surprisingly thick. I'm wearing the Rose Gold with white straps and they are so cute and will match with so many outfits. This particular sandal also comes in a variety of colors such as black and camel, grey, all black and white. They are all a great sporty but sophisticated look to any summer look. And I find them very easily packable for travel for those jet-setters who are always looking for a little extra room in their luggage, these multi-purpose sandals would look amazing on anyone. The Ella sandal runs at $80.

The Crinkle Dreamy Oxford Knot Shirt takes its cue from classic American sportswear styling with its knot detail at the front. Made from crinkled Oxford cotton, (which is one of my favs) this shirt has an exaggerated shirt shape, with extra-long cuffs, point collar, and button down placket. I think the features really ties well in together with the American Eagle denim cutoff shorts and the SOREL sandals that are both also sporty - the ripped hem thanks to myself makes it a little country which I don't mind... I guess you can take the girl out of Michigan but you can't take Michigan out of the girl! :)

Again I can't stress enough how great these sandals are. If I can leap up in the air with them and have no trouble whatsoever, I either was born with cat feet-like tendencies or the SOREL sandals are legit amazing and everyone should own a pair. I'm already considering a different color to add to my collection but I must resist the temptation! I have too many shoes as is! More content coming your way soon, I'm sorry for the delay this week in posts! Too much going on - and in a fabulous way! Catch ya back on M + S very soon. 

LOVE & XX'S, 

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