Pink and Blue Ombré Dress

June 10, 2019

WEARING: PINK AND BLUE MAXI DRESS | BLUE MULES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY GGB BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

One of my favorite types of dresses for every season, and especially during the warmest season of the year, are maxi dresses. They look flattering on all body types and there’s so many different patterns, prints, and materials to use for this type of dress. Ombré - the gradual blending of one color hue to another, usually moving tints and shades from light to dark. This multi colored ombre maxi dress featuring accordion pleats, gold halter neck strap, and elasticized open back screams summer. Continue reading to see complete visual story of this cotton candy - colored ombré dress.

This pink and blue ombré maxi dress is available in a variety of colors, such as an orange/red and purple, yellow and pink/orange, and lavender and blue/purple. The dress is from GEEGEEBAE and are $45. Use my discount code SUZANNE for 15% off your purchase from GGB. I don’t recommend this brand to petite women, unless you’re okay with many alterations at your tailor, it’s all good, but if not, try a different brand amongst the many I wear and share on my blog.

The blue mules are from EGO Shoes and matched quite perfectly with the blue part of the dress. The heels are over four inches and are a bit hard to walk in (not something I’d wear all day long) but for the office or even a nighttime outing would be completely doable. They run at about $40 and the brand has a 50% off online sale happening right now you guys can check out here. As always, thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoyed today’s photos! Until next time, xo.

LOVE & XX’S,

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Babushka Chic

March 27, 2019

The word, ‘babushka’, has its origins in Russian and means, ‘grandmother’. It also makes reference to the manner in which ladies in Russian, use this type of scarf, covering the head and knotting it under the chin. The last reference was taken to name the famous, ‘Lady Babushka’ who was suspect of recording the Kennedy assassination while wearing this garment. A trend that has come and gone, from Audrey Hepburn to the film, ‘Thelma & Louise’, to the Queen of England and even A.S.A.P Rocky, the rapper, has kept this style alive, even breaking boundaries which is something I definitely enjoy doing. And I really wanted to style this in a great setting instead of the usual street style photos we sometimes take. So continue reading to see the complete shoot along with where to shop the pieces in this look today!

I love a good rib-knit dress in a cotton blend. This one is great for spring. Small stand-up collar, short sleeves, and slits at sides, it’s movable and very comfortable. Since the the weather is not quite springlike here in New York yet, I layered the dress with a faux fur coat with contrasted cuffs to bring out a more Russian-feel to the look. I even wore sheer nude tights to also keep with the overall mood of this outfit. I also mixed with the stripe print with an animal one, as snake print anything is super hot in trends at the moment. Don’t worry, they’ll still be around this coming fall/winter as well.

These snake print booties are awfully comfortable too! Super sleek pointed ankle boots featuring exposed zip and sock style fit, you would think 4.5” in terms of heel height would be too much on the feet, but they’re so well-fitted, like a glove, makes it easy to walk around in. I wouldn’t say this if you’re on your feet all day, but for an afternoon or evening will do just fine. I like my shoes to be practical.

So I’ve mixed in animal print with stripes. You’d think I’d stop there, right? Nah. I love playing up on the beauty of print and patterns. There’s something about pushing boundaries like I mentioned earlier in today’s post, I find that when you do, in terms of fashion & style, you can really find out if these rule-breakers work or not. I wore a blue and white floral scarf around my head, a standard must in a babushka chic outfit. :) This scarf in the post is not intended to be a headscarf and is no longer in stock so I linked a very similar one that can definitely be intended for a headscarf/headwrap.

Other accessories featured in today’s look are a luxe burgundy crossbody bag and gold statement earrings. I hope you enjoyed this more stylized editorial shoot! I am working on doing more of this kind of content, but it takes more time, therefore, a longer waiting period. What did you like the most about this babushka chic look? The headscarf? Coat? Perhaps, you’re wanting to see a trend/concept on MaQ + Suz that you haven’t seen and would like to? Drop your messages down in the comment section below!

LOVE & XX’S,

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Just a General Making Sure My Soldier's Straight

August 6, 2018

WEARING: L'ATISTE FRINGE JUMPSUIT | TELEPORT SHOES BOOTS | SUNGLASS WAREHOUSE PRESLEY

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY L'ATISTE AND SUNGLASS WAREHOUSE.

This past week I left a question up on my IG stories asking you guys to drop questions relating to blogging. There were so many that I could no way put it in my usual Sunday IG post, where I've been selecting ten and answer them. So today's post is dedicated to a selected ten questions I've chosen to answer relating to my work and the world of blogging, which is more like the Wild Wild West. Just a General making sure my shoulder's straight ;) Continue reading to learn more about my experiences as a full-time blogger, where today marks three years since M + S launched. Happy Blogiversary to me and Happy Monday to you!

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO START BLOGGING?

Right before I started MaQ + Suz, I had endured some pretty heavy-duty, life-changing experiences which encouraged and led me to my new platform. Along with my desire to find an outlet where I could put both my visual eye and the written word together at the same time had always been apparent, but it wasn’t until I entered the world of blogging before everything came full circle.

WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY LIKE AS A BLOGGER?

Every day is different depending on my schedule for that week, such as what deadlines are approaching, upcoming events and so on. Overall, I spend over 40+ hours a week working on the blog and that includes responding to emails, meetings, posting on social media, editing photos, writing blog posts, working on SEO, going out for photoshoots and events, writing contracts - the list goes on and on and on. We have shoots every day so I try to stick to a routine that way I don't have to organize as much. So I usually start my mornings with emails, walking the pooch, a photo shoot, and/or meetings/events. It's never a day off when it comes to my job and there's just never enough hours in a day to get it all done.

HOW DO YOU GAIN MORE FOLLOWERS?

I get this question a lot and I have to say it's really all about the quality of your content! This, and being consistent every day and being patient. Remember, the number of followers you have is just a number. What's important is the engagement you have with your audience and what you do every day to give them something that makes them want to follow you. That being a source of inspiration, or a special skill one can learn from, it should be something that makes you stand out and be unique. Now if you're in this for instant-gratification, I'm telling you right off the bat, don't do it! Gaining a substantial amount of readers/followers takes TIME and a ton of work. You have to be okay with the fact that it could take years.

Also, AUTHENTICITY. I believe if you stay true to yourself and your branding image, along with high-quality content, then new and old followers will genuinely want to follow you and your business. Sharing the process of your journey keeps things real and I love people for that, and I know others will love you for it too!

So here are a few tips to help you grow your audience:

Create Killer Content – The more often you do something the better you'll get at it. And that goes for content, whether you're behind or in front of the camera, don't be afraid to think outside the box, take risks, and try new things you'd normally not try. This will help you find your aesthetic/style.
Post Daily – Consistency is key. I can't tell you how many times back in the earlier days when I wouldn't post every single day and my engagement dropped nearly half its size. YIKES! Don't be out of sight, out of mind in terms of posting!!!
Engage With Your Audience – I always try to comment back on comments whether its on IG or the blog, but I also comment others within my niche.
Tags & Hashtags – Yes you should abuse the #30 rule for IG. Don't be shy to tag promo accounts within your niche to get a possible repost after using their hashtag of some kind. You can tag up to 20 accounts in a single IG post. So take advantage!

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE DEMANDS/PRESSURES OF WHAT YOUR JOB?

As demanding as it can get, I take perseverance & determination, hard work, and discipline and yet at the same time it also requires you to not take yourself too seriously. Otherwise, it’ll no longer be fun anymore and life is also meant to be enjoyed. I guess it’s all about finding your own balance, and everyone has a different path and in variated times in our lives.

WHAT CAMERAS/LENS DO YOU USE?

Canon 5D models, Olympus EMD-5, lens Canon 28-135mm 3.5/5.6

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO GROW YOUR FOLLOWING & WHEN DID YOU START TO BLOG?

I launched my blog in August of 2015. For the first year or so, I really didn't know what I was doing. I wasn't sure what my niche was, how I wanted to brand my image, etc; and most of the time felt completely lost. I experimented with a lot of different topics from interviews to meet and connect with other like-minded people in my field as well as attending events to network. Once I started to hone in on my style I felt more confident in pursuing blogging full-time. In two short years, I've gained over 35K on Instagram with a total reach of over 70k. I work with global brands such as L'Oréal, Aveda, Kiehl's, Dove and more & have been featured in WWD, BFA and Getty Images.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A BLOG/LIFE BALANCE?

It's always important to prioritize what you NEED to get done versus what you want to get done. Now that I do this full-time, I am always on deadlines, so these come first. Afterward, it's a matter of what else I can get done for that day. I never feel like I get enough done every day, but it's only because there's so much and so many hours in a day! Learning to accept what I cannot control has helped me so much, and has kept me grounded. I'm not as hard as I am on myself (which is super difficult for me, if you know me at all) as I can be onto to others just as much. Also, taking it easy more and more is actually healthy and well-balanced. For example, I rarely ever work on Sunday mornings.

WHAT DO YOU DO ON THOSE REALLY BAD DAYS?

Whenever I’m having a pretty awful day, I cut myself loose and leave the ‘office’ for the day. I’ll go and take a long walk with my German Shepherd, MaQ and the city always is an escapism from another escapism. New York has a way of clearing your head and at the same time eating you alive (if you’re not careful enough). And sometimes there are days that’ll defeat you, where you’ll feel so bad about everything that getting up seems hard enough on its own. But then I think of all the shit that’s brought me to where I am today and I do believe I made it here for a reason. Perhaps the past has made me who I am today, but it has certainly motivated me to keep going and to keep pushing boundaries I didn’t think were possible. You have to keep on keepin’ on…

HOW DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR CONTENT?

I gather inspiration from everywhere. The sights and sounds of the city. From traveling. From people watching. Food, books, music, film. The list is endless. If I ever find myself in a rut in terms of finding inspiration for content, I just take a break from thinking too hard about it and enjoy a good book/film, walk, bath, etc; and it always comes to me. If really stuck I am not afraid to ask my readers for feedback and what they want to see more of. Listen to your audience!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER BLOGGERS?

Word HARD. Be NICE to people. Always appreciate what you have rather than wanting what you may not have (yet). Just because someone else's journey is on a different (maybe even faster/or so you think) path than your doesn't define you or your work! It's not the destination that matters, it's what we go through along the way that does which is what I try to share with you guys more and more. And, the glasses are ALWAYS half-full, guys, I swear! 🙂

LOVE & XX'S,

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Bikini Questa Sera

May 29, 2018

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK KNIT TOP | MAVI JEANS ANIKA CROP FLARE | 
TKEES JO SUEDE GEORGIA SANDALS | CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN BIKINI QUESTA SERA

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN BEAUTE.

Hi, everyone! How was your MDW? I have a new post up with an editorial video! For those who didn't catch my last post, I had been wanting to create more video content but given that video editing is not one of my favorite things to do, I do not create this kind of content often. However, so many of you, along with my peers have been strongly urging me to do more video so voila! When it comes to making a video, there's so much more that goes on besides a photoshoot. I feel like a like an internet browser... 19 tabs open, 3 of them are frozen, & I have no idea where the music is coming from! In all seriousness, that's another reason why I don't do videos often. It takes a lot of time and effort and if I don't see some sort of visual that I need to come to life, I wait until the inspiration comes. And when I received the Bikini Questa Sera perfume from Christian Louboutin, a strong sense of summer encouraged me to create this for you guys.

We literally had a total of two people in production and on set for this video. My husband and I are a team: He is the photographer & videographer - I am the creative director, location scouter, stylist, hair and makeup, and editor. While shooting photographs, you're too thinking a million and one things at the same time. Is my shirt tucked in properly? What about my hair? Are the sunglasses on straight? Am I on the good side of my face? Where is the light? Don't blink. Okay... car coming. Back to my mark. Another cat call? Great... oh where did I put my phone? Is it almost noon? I have a meeting to run to, I have to leave in a bit. Honey, now there's car behind you! Phew! See what I mean?

And doesn't even get to the shooting film, imagine doing all that again plus the multiple takes to get the shots you envision. And the more specific the frame gets, the more time and patience it will take, which to be honest can sometimes be challenging to me. But videography strengthens that along with my visual eye and apparent need to create film. I'm sure many other photographers, writers, and artists feel this way, where you get so many visual images in your head and this sudden outpour, this compelling conviction to bring it to life. To try to show others what you see, think and feel.

I hope this video (scroll toward the end of this post to view) brings you a certain feeling and appreciation for the artistic notion of oneself. I am still trying to get to a level where the content is super-glossy editorial, but alas, no one is perfect. But I am, every day trying to elevate my skills and to exercise them in the best way possible, and to me, I think that is through writing, photography, and film. So enjoy, and please leave me any feedback! I really appreciate and listen to what you guys look forward to on MaQ + Suz.

Lastly, a footnote on this summery outfit. The coral knitted top with shoulder straps is from Saku New York, the faded black crop jeans are by Mavi, and the coral suede sandals are by TKEES. You can shop the entire look at the beginning or at the end of each blog post. Don't forget to drop a comment in the section box down below. You can also subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay updated on new videos! Happy Tuesday. :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Chocolate Browns and Mustard Yellow

January 26, 2018

WEARING: s a k u NEW YORK TAILORED WOOL LONG VEST | H&M TURTLENECK SWEATER |
VVA CARLINA YELLOW LEATHER HANDBAG | 
GENUINE PEOPLE HIGH SLIT WOOL SHIRT SWEATER | EXPRESS PANTS | 
NINE WEST HADDRIANA POINTY TOE PUMPS | LINEA PELLE STUD AND GROMMET CHOKER | 
H&M TRIBAL SPIKE DROP EARRINGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BE s a k u NEW YORK & NINE WEST.

Phew! I don't know about you but I've had one of those weeks where it all went awry. Every single thing felt off as if the cosmic stars weren't aligned the way it should be. My website even went down, and though it was only for a couple of hours, you can imagine the stress that came along with it. But the true lesson, when faced with any adversity, is to adapt and overcome. These kind of moments, I believe, are testaments to our perseverance. And in the end, if you stick with it, things do tend to work itself out. I wanted to get this post up earlier in the week, but there is only so much one person can accomplish on their own. Everything nowadays is so fast-paced, the art of taking one's time seems to be non-existent. When did quantity become greater over quality? It is all about creativity and I think that sometimes in order to achieve a really good content, you do need to slow down and work your magic. It's like when film used to be the only medium for photographers. They didn't post-produce something in a day (YES I have done that SO many times) and time was on their side. It's like a first kiss. The longer you wait for it, I think the more you'll savor and linger in it. Rather than something instant. You appreciate it more, no? Continue reading to find out why I'm posting less on the blog and why less is always more.

Even when it comes to styling, I never like to go over the top. It always ends up looking like someone is just trying too hard and it never really quite right. Shock value? Sure. Attention-seeking? You bet. But sometimes a subtle detail can make an entire outfit. Like in today's post, I styled my hair a little differently. I used a Linea Pelle choker that is adjustable, so I gave my neck a lot of breathing room and used it to loosely 'bob' my hair. For us girls who have long, thick hair but don't have the face/features for a short bob, this styling tip is one I love dearly! It's even fun to play a joke on your gfs - send them a quick picture and tell them you chopped your hair... the responses are hysterical. This hairstyle with the use of a choker is ideal for layered hair, but I bet it would look just as smashing on hair that is also just one length.

Remember me mentioning s a k u New York, my favorite Korean designer? I wore a couple of her pieces during fashion week and have also done several editorials. (Check here and here) Well, she's back with a whole new collection and it is amazing! Look at the long wool chocolate brown vest. The structure and cuts are beautiful along with the quality of the fabric. And thanks to the wool, it is super warm for winter and perfect for anyone who loves to participate in the layering game. I paired it up with a wool sweater dress by Genuine People and some mid-rise pants by Express.

To balance the strong masculine color of chocolate brown, I went with a mustard yellow in some of my accessories. This is probably the only time I think mustard and chocolate sound good together! Ha ha ha! The gorgeous springbok bag is from VVA by Sarah Haran and my pointy toe pumps in faux snake print are by Nine West. My tribal spike drop earrings are no longer in stock (they're over ten years old from H&M) but I linked a very similar pair in the 'Shop the Look' section at the end of this article. They're from Steve Madden and are also really affordable! Thanks for stopping by and as always, feel free to drop me a line in the comment box! Enjoy the rest of the weekend, stay tuned for a lot of upcoming content next week!