Periwinkle Floral Dress

June 18, 2018

WEARING: ZEFINKA BOHO FLORAL DRESS | EGO BOOTS | ALLES BAGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZEFINKA.

Got a case of the Monday Blues? Fear no more! This dress will kick any start of the week's ass! It's really great for summer as the material is thin and super breathable for even those hot summer nights! As usual, I love to do mix-plays on styles, combining them together and making them work! So in today's post, I'm combining this very bohemian blue floral dress with some of my more edgier staple pieces in my accessories. Think biker chic mixed with the boho! Continue reading to see the complete shoot (let's just say we had fun shooting in the wind!) and to directly shop the items to kickstart this Monday! Woo Hoo!

My blogger babes will relate to this. Ever go out to shoot and you get to your location, everything is set up, you get to your first frame and suddenly the weather becomes uncooperative. Gusts of wind, God forbid downpouring rain, hail, sleet, snow, or all of the above, there's nothing more frustrating than not having any control over Mother Nature. This happened while shooting this dress, but instead of whining about the strong winds I embraced it while laughing and dancing! So when creating content, there are no excuses, and you should be able to get something out of it if you're a true creator. Obviously, you don't want to shoot a bright-colored sunny outfit in crappy rainy weather, as the aesthetics may not complement well with each other, but then again, how do you know until you try? Like Tim Gunn says, "Make it work!" and just adapt. Any blogger using an excuse of a rainy day for not being able to shoot is just lazy and not as ambitious as they 'claim'. #SorryNotSorry

Of course, I adore floral prints and the color periwinkle. It's probably one of my most favorite colors, ever! And I just love this dress from Zefinka. At only $34, the price is right with the quality of the dress. It's tailored to fit you well along with very cute black tassels at the sleeve to keep with the boho feels of the floral print. I paired the dress with my black Ego boots and black fringe bucket bag from Alles Bags. I think the dress would work well with black open toe heels for the summer or even a pair of light blue espadrilles, but I went with something a little different to show you how much you can style with just one dress! You can even tuck it into jeans or a skirt and make the dress into a floral top! I know that would look very chic as well.

It's going to be hot as hell in the city today so if you're in town, be sure to stay cool and stay hydrated! So so important, especially when the humidity is legit unbearable. Ugh. Good thing I have a ton of editing to do indoors. If you need me, you can find me behind my computer for the next couple of days. I have a few exciting events later in the week that I can't wait to share with you guys so be sure to follow me on Instagram to follow along on my stories! Have a great week everyone, catch y'all back on here very soon

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

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Crazy Indigo Courageousness

January 12, 2018

WEARING: CHICO'S PETITE DENIM TRENCH COAT | 
ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | EGO SKYE KITTEN HEEL SOCK BOOT
 IN NAVY BLUE | ALLES FRINGE BUCKET BAG | ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL DATE VINTAGE WATCH |
 14TH & UNION MULTIPLE HOOP EARRINGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY EGO SHOES.

“You know, sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage. Just literally 20 seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come out of it.”

— Benjamin Mee

I wrote this in a caption on Instagram about a week ago. And I wanted to talk more about the significance of stepping out of your comfort zone and yes, sometimes doing things that might seem crazy at the time, but somehow always manage to bring something great out of it in return. Recently, I was having a conversation about this with a close girlfriend and how this applies to everything in life. From relationships to work, when was the last time you did something that was considered 'safe' and was rewarded for it? You know what I'm talking about. That job that pays the bills and gives you security but you hate it... that relationship you're in that sort of makes you happy but not entirely... because there's still something missing... or that trip you took and planned a thorough itinerary (don't get me wrong, it's good to make plans regarding any kind of travel) instead of letting go and getting lost, discovering hidden gems along the way. I find that especially when it comes to visiting a new place, to just let it flow... the unexpected always brings great adventures (and stories) out of it.

Now to the bit more complicated: Relationships. Ugh. As I mentioned during the conversation with my friend, "How many love stories have you heard of that was logical and easy?" Because to me, the greatest love stories aren't happily-ever-after fairytales. They are NOT those couples that gush and proclaim, "We never fight" or "We met and that was it." A deep love is extremely rich in an assortment of complications and takes a shit ton of work. Think about it. What's braver, fighting for what you want regardless of how 'sticky' the situation may be or just letting it pass, just like a wind, without a care in the world? Because whether it's a friend, lover or something more, these kinds of loves don't come around very often. It's not as if you can just hop on the next train or another great love, so to speak. To be willingly committed to someone or something takes true strength and courage. You can't cop out because it's too hard or you're too chicken shit.

Now... have I ever run from something truly great? Oh, you betcha. Why? The one and only single reason: FEAR. Running away doesn't solve your problems, in fact, I sometimes think they'll become greater if you don't face them. And it doesn't matter what it is, but I think it's so important to stand up for what you believe in and to never avoid/digress in that feeling. I never once had the emotion of fear bring me anything except pain and regret. Even if you think you can't, trust me... you can! For me, it's always been mind over matter and you can set out whatever your heart desires. But you have to be the one to take the first step. Remember, if you want BIG rewards, you better be willing to take even BIGGER risks.

What are your thoughts on today's post? Is it better to take chances, carry a big set of balls and crazily just going for it in life or to be reasonable, taking precautions and/or only dipping your feet in the water (instead of jumping in, full throttle)? I want to know what you think! Leave your comments below. I've been getting a ton of responses to these navy blue sock booties by Ego Shoes. You can shop them HERE or down below in the "SHOP THE LOOK" section. If you haven't heard about the UK shoe brand, you best get to their site NOW! www. ego.co.uk Have a fantastic weekend, everyone! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Chico's Women's Indigo Rain Petite Denim Trench Coat, Size: 1P

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Watch Women's

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Faux Leather Biker Chic

October 9, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL ZIPPERED FAUX LEATHER BELTED MINI DRESS | 
FOREVER 21 OVERSIZED CUTOUT SHIRT | ANGELINA SHOETIQUE OTK BOOTS | 
LEVI'S WINTER WOOL BERET | FOREVER 21 OVERSIZED ROUND GLASSES | 
ROSEGAL SILVER BEAD HOOPS | ALLES FRINGE BUCKET BAG

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL.

A gloomy, rainy day doesn't exactly set the perfect tone to start any week, does it? But whenever I'm feeling a bit down and out, I just continue on and keep doing me. It doesn't matter the amount of pressure I receive on a daily basis, either work-related, personally and/or more, I'm not a quitter and I refuse to let anyone that I know or do not know, to make me feel anything less than worthy. I have come a long fucking way and to those who think they know anything about me, YOU DON'T. You don't know the half of it, and to the ones who do and have never left my side, with full support and no judgment, I thank you and I love you. I have endured and survived through so much shit in my life. I should have died at least three times already, but by the stroke of luck (or hopefully) for some greater purpose, I'm still here standing. And I'm here for a reason, goddamnit. Excuse the language today, but I never said I was all ladylike and ish.

So in today's outfit post, I'm presenting my bad-ass self in a biker-chic inspired look completely made out of faux leather. I was really inspired by Moschino's SS18 collection and all of the 'butch' ballerina vibes straight off the runway and wanted to create a similar style pertaining to my own from this inspiration. The zippered, belted mini dress can be worn in all sorts of ways: unzipped/zipped with or without a shirt, layered with one, or without the suspenders, and more. But for this look, I went with a black and white color scheme to keep it fresh and clean. I think other colored shirts would appear just fine as well when it comes to the layering game but I don't always feel vibrant or colorful. I love that about fashion. You can look the way you feel in colors, textures, shapes and more. And whenever I feel more of my weaknesses rather than my strengths, I also will dress more like a baddie to feel more confident and secure. Trust me, an outfit like this can go a long way, even when you're feeling like crap. (Physically, emotionally... perhaps both.)

To accessorize the look, I wore my favorite hat at the moment. I'm indecisive as to grow out my bangs or not, so for days where I'm not feeling them as much, I just put on a hat and keep moving forward. I wanted to give it a little European edge and a hat can help do just that! My bag is from Alles Bags, and this fringe bucket bag is definitely a staple in my closet. I've had this baby for a little over a year and I still can't get enough of it, it's such a wonderful bag! To keep with the faux leather from the dress, I wore a pair of faux leather over the knee boots from Angelina Shoetique. I actually wore these bad boys during last February's NYFW on the first day when there was a blizzard outside. I trekked in these throughout the day and THANK GOD for them. They're super comfortable, giving me a tiny extra height from the platform sole, and are just so bad ass! I secretly feel like a superhero when I wear them, and how can that ever be a bad thing?

What do you like to wear when feeling extra insecure or down in the dumps? Are you more of a sweatpants kind of gal that would rather stay in or do you like to dress up a little more into something extravagant or in character and go out? I'm in between. Sometimes I really enjoy being alone when feeling this way, but I also believe that sometimes, no matter how shitty your circumstance might be, you just gotta dress up and show up. As my father always used to say, keep on keeping on. And to anyone that wants to directly or indirectly (you might as well say it straight to my face because I'm fucking fearless, so watch out) try and bring me down, here's the bird for you. Have a nice day and don't forget, I'm not doing any of this for anyone but me. Don't seek validation from others, seek it within yourself. Having a rough day like myself? Leave your comments down below and let's hear how your day/week/month has been.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Zaful Zippered Faux Leather Belted Mini Dress

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How to Layer a Romper Differently

August 11, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL GINGHAM ROMPER | VAGABOND HONEY JAKARTA DENIM PANTS | 
ZAFUL RED TASSEL EARRINGS | ALLES FRINGE BUCKET BAG | FOREVER 21 SOCK ANKLE BOOTS

HAIR CUT + COLOR: TAYLOR & DAVID ADAMS FROM FOURTEEN JAY & AVEDA.

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL.

Happy Friday! It's been a long and crazy week and I've been working on overdrive... sleeping at the bare minimum but it's all good. I'm always aiming for more and continue to keep trying, which can never be a bad thing, so hopefully sooner rather than later I'll have some news to share with you that I've been dying to show you guys! The waiting game is the hardest part and I don't really want to say that much (because I always jinx it when I do) so just keep those fingers (and perhaps, toes) crossed for me! Today's post is on the easily wearable summer rompers, but because I'm a gal who likes to make the most out of her wardrobe, I wanted to style and layer a romper differently but one that is transitional for the fall season as well! Want to see how you can wear a good pair of boyfriend jeans with a romper? I know it may sound a bit strange at first, but come take a look! It's a bit of a mix with Western style and rocker chic, fun trends I enjoy playing around with.

I've styled this romper this past spring (you can check out the post here), but all on its own. This time I wanted to wear it differently, and though initially, I wanted to go with a long, black maxi skirt, the romper looked a bit too 'poofy' under the skirt. I then tried it with a pair of oversized boyfriend jeans from Vagabond Honey and even though it took me a minute to adjust to what felt like wearing a diaper (LMAO), I got used to it especially after seeing how cute the pairing looked! The added detail that I'm obsessed with? I love how the romper adds a 'patched' layer to the top cut out of the jeans. You can never have enough gingham print, am I right? ;)

Not only is the romper from Zaful, so are these gorgeous deep red tassel earrings! I love how they give any outfit an extra bold statement and because the color palette is quite minimal in this look, I knew these earrings would bring the perfect pop of color. And I love the jeweled detail within the earrings too, that gives it a little more sophistication to them. The sock ankle boots are from Forever 21 - I'm completely smitten with these shoes! They're super well-fitted and that clear chunky low heel makes running around town in them fun and comfy! Lastly, the fringe bucket bag is from Alles Bags. Have a great weekend, everyone!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Zaful Rhinestone Tassel Water Drop Earrings

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Weekend Ready with Embroidered Florals and Bell Sleeves

July 13, 2017

WEARING: PERIDOT BOUTIQUE EMBROIDERED BELL SLEEVE TOP | BDG JEANS | 
MATT BERNSON MEZZA | ALLES FRINGE BUCKET BAG | 
KOHL'S SILVER TONE BEAD CHANDELIER EARRINGS

HAIR CUT + HAIR STYLIST: TAYLOR FROM FOURTEEN JAY & AVEDA.

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY PERIDOT BOUTIQUE.

Hey, guys! Thank goodness it's almost Friday! I've had a rough and busy week. The summer heat in New York is legit, NOT cool at all and I've always been super sensitive when it comes to change in temperature. The humidity is not just poofing my hair into catastrophe but also my mind as if it's clogged up - literally feels hard to breathe! And imagine running around and being cooped up in subway cars or venues with no A/C, the struggle can be real! Aside from that and some family stuff, I made it through the week still with a smile on my face. A few reasons... One, I'm in love with this new black embroidered floral bell sleeve top I received from Peridot Boutique. (I talked more about the boutique in my last outfit post, read here). Two, I'll be taking off tomorrow to the Hamptons for work (and a little play) and three, though life can be tough sometimes, I'm just beyond thankful for all the opportunities and connections I've made in the last couple of years since launching my blog, MaQ + Suz. I've been enjoying the fruits of my labor and I have so much work coming up it makes me really excited about the future.

I sometimes have difficulty in cranking out three regular blog posts per week, even posting on Instagram every day now, not because of lack of discipline but rather a lack of a team. I'm a one-woman show. I'm doing it all with my own hands, aside from having my main photographer, I don't have anyone else helping me out. I try to keep my blog posts running consistently every week all the while managing other social media channels, answering hundreds of emails daily, editing photos and video, running around the city to meeting and events, and trying to maintain some sort of social life simultaneously. It can be hectic. And because of my schedule becoming crazier and busier than ever, I'm heavily considering hiring an intern and/or assistant. But I've mentioned this before; I'm nervous to work with someone I don't know that well, let alone trust, so I'm not really sure how to start. Any fellow bloggers have any advice on assistants and what your first experiences were like?

Let's get to today's look! I'm a sucker for anything bell sleeves, especially during the summer. Call it the hippie in me, but I'm a such a fan of boho style during the summer season. And this top is absolutely gorgeous with the embroidered florals with subtle lace detail on the shoulders. This Peridot Boutique top is also super light and comfy for even warmer days, very breathable and so cute at the same time! I styled it with a pair of BDG jeans I've had for a while (also super duper comfy) with my favorite Spring/Summer 17 flats from Matt Bernson. The adaptable suede straps on the shoe give it extra chicness to any look.

My fringe bucket bag is from Alles Bags and my earrings are from college! I think I picked them up at a Kohl's store, so since I can't link you the exact ones I'm wearing I've linked a very similar pair for you to shop should you want to style an outfit with chandelier earrings. They're great droplet earrings to polish up any kind of look. My eyeshadow from Naked Cosmetics and I went for a deep coral shade since I've never done an eye look as such. What do you guys think of the richness in the hue? I really love it, because you can use it from summer to fall. Perfect for many different types of skin tones too! Well, everyone, I need to finish up some errands and meetings for the day and then I need to get ready for this weekend! I'm so excited for my weekend getaway, stay tuned to my Insta Stories... You won't want to miss out on all the action! It's going to be so much fun! Catch ya'll soon! :)