5 Ways to Style A White Shirt Dress

June 24, 2019

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY STYLEWE AND THESIS CRISIS BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Happy Monday, everyone! How was your weekend? Over a month ago I had styled an indigo shirt dress to which many of you went crazy over the dress. The blue color is a shade I wouldn’t wear everyday, but white I definitely can! So, today on the blog, I’m sharing 5 different ways to style a white shirt dress for the summer season. I’ve switched it up from casual to more dressy, but these looks can definitely be carried throughout the rest of the season. There is also a video I’ve posted on my Instagram channel showcasing the five looks. Check it out here. Continue reading to see full visual story and also to find direct links to each piece from every individual look.

WEARING: WHITE SHIRT DRESS | MELON BAG | BEIGE PEARL HEELS

The first way is to wear the white shirt dress by itself. No belts, no jackets, nada. Just solo. This type of dress would also work great as a beach cover-up aside from wearing it in the city during a hot summer day. Since wearing white alone keeps the look pretty plain, I thought it would be best to style the dress with bold, luxury statement pieces to bring the outfit to life. I paired it with my new favorite bag from Thesis Crisis and these luxurious slingbacks from YUUL YIE. I also wore a pair of resin hoop earrings, to balance with the accessories.

WEARING: WHITE SHIRT DRESS | RED BAG | WHITE LACE-UP SANDALS | BERMUDA SHORTS JEANS | PEARL HAIR CLIP

The second way I styled the white shirt dress is a variated criss-cross top. It’s a little sassy and a little business-y, which makes it a perfect look for an afternoon filled with meetings even through the evening should you have other events to attend to. I like that I feel like a boss even though it’s a more casual vibe. The bermuda short jean is super trendy this summer. If you want a more serious type of look, you can style this shirt dress and jeans with a sleek black blazer. Other accessories in this look are my favorite red Furla bag, white tie-up sandals from Linzi and pearl hair clips from Atelier des Femmes.

WEARING: MUSTARD YELLOW BLAZER | WHITE SHIRT DRESS | YELLOW BAG | WIDE LEG JEANS | RUBY PATENT SLINGBACKS

The third look is all about my favorite summer color at the moment: Yellow! Inspiration from this look? Lakers girl! I’m a die-hard fan and also kept my California roots to this outfit. Casual, slightly boho, chic and fun. Very L.A. kind of gal. The yellow blazer is from Akira and the bag is from Forzieri, the brand: Le Parmentier Paris. You can get your Peyote bag from Forzieri. Use the code name: SUZANNE15 for 15% OFF on Le Parmentier bags collection at forzieri.com valid until July 4th. The white shirt dress is styled in a very similar way like look 2 except instead of the tie being criss-crossed to the back, I took it to the front and did a simple tie around. I also unbuttoned a few more buttons located in the back which opened the dress a bit more to show off the wide leg jeans. Other accessories include bold statement hoop earrings and vintage Calvin Klein ruby patent slingbacks.

Another great way to style a white shirt dress is by making it into a cardigan/kimono/beach wrap. In look #4, I went with an all-white look. Perfect for a beach day, picnic, or an all-white party (just hold the marinara sauce away from me LOL) this casual look is a recent fave and will definitely be a repeat offender this summer. The trick to an all-white look is wearing different shades of white. This will help to not have you look washed-up and creates more dimension to a simple look. That and play on textures and materials, such as this headband scarf from Atelier des Femmes and these chunky sole buckle detail sandals in white from Ego Shoes.

WEARING: WHITE SHIRT DRESS | POLKA DOT HAIR SCRUNCHIE SCARF | BLACK MERMAID SKIRT | BLACK MARY JANES | GOLD STATEMENT EARRINGS

Last but not least is the most dressy of looks. I got the inspiration from sonatas in classical music as they are one of my favorites in this genre. Chopin, specifically. So I wanted to style the white shirt dress in a more refined, polished up look. First thoughts that came to mind was black and white, gold accents, and a bold vampy lip. I chose to tuck in the front of the dress shirt - you’ll need a skirt that has breathing room like this black mermaid one I’m wearing that’s perfect for date night. The back of the shirt dress has a simple but chic bow tie that I feel works wonderfully with the polka dot hair scrunchie scarf and gold statement earrings. The black mary janes seal the look with its gold accents and sleek fit. Another favorite look. What were some of your favorite outfits from this post? I’d love to hear from you - leave your thoughts in the comment section down below!

LOVE & XX’S,

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Lilac is the New Neutral

April 10, 2019

WEARING: LILAC TRENCH | SILK BLOUSE | JEANS | TWO-TONE SANDALS

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

If there’s one color during spring that I can never say no to, it’s the beautiful lilac shade. It’s light and strong, pure and elegant, but playful and intriguing. This color has really been making a scene, especially since last spring season in ‘18 - so much so, that’s it’s become an acceptable color for all seasons. There are several color schemes/combinations to work with lilac, and in today’s post, I’m keeping it very casual with a pop of extra color in the footwear. Continue reading to see and find where you can shop these pieces online!

#TodayWeWill share our stories - to remember and enjoy, as we should every day. 💜🌸✨ My mother always had difficulty finding a shoe brand that carried her size (she was a US 4.5!) I too, have trouble, like mother, like daughter, when it comes to footwear; we’re both very petite. Naturalizer was one of the first shoe brands that my mother loved and wore, since they were one of the first brands to have her size. Now, here I am following her footsteps in comfort & style. These two-toned ankle strap sandals are only $90 and come in a variety of colors! I think my 엄마 would’ve chose white or a lovely shade of pink for spring.

This stretch silk charmeuse blouse features a hand drawn artisanal floral print for feminine style and charm. Side slits allow for flexible movement throughout your day. That’s why I love wearing it with a pair of trousers, or in this case, a pair of jeans. I’m such a denim-loving gal, literally cannot live without jeans! I loosely tucked in the silk blouse to give it a more casual vibe with the trench. Unfortunately the lilac trench I have on is sold out in the US and Japan, so I’ve linked very similar lilac trench coats above, in the beginning of this post.

The jeans I have on are also sold out, but I’ve linked a very similar pair from the same brand. They’re the perfect boyfriend jeans. I really love any style when it comes to jeans, but a frayed or distressed hem really gets me going, I always think it brings a bit more edge to a casual look. What do you think? This look could be styled with a skirt or trousers as well. I’d probably go with black to keep is less busy since the blouse is great on its own with no other prints.

Stay tuned for Friday’s post where I’ll be styling an iconic accessory in five different ways. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time, so it is a special kind of post. I hope you’ll enjoy it along with today’s post! As always, shop at the top, middle and end of each outfit post with direct links, with the exception of the trench today as I have said the one I’m wearing is sold out. Thanks for stopping by, I’ll see you guys soon!

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

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5 Tips to Nail Your Next Meeting

October 9, 2018

WEARING: CHICWISH TWEED COAT | GUESS SWEATER | JOES JEANS | PRETTY LITTLE THING SLINGBACKS | ODETTE & ODILE MARBLE POUCH

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY CHICWISH & PLT.

I've been to hundreds of meetings. Some you nail right out of the park and then there are others that don't go as well. First impressions do count-down to the very last detail and after a lot of trial and error, I wanted to share my tips on how to nail your next big meeting! Whether it's your first time meeting with a client you've been dreaming of working together or a quick pow-wow meeting with those you already work with, these essentials will not only make your life easier but the lives of others around you as well. So without further ado, let's get started with my two cents' worth of my top 5 main suggestions for landing your next gig/client.

1. BE ON TIME

Nothing irks me more than those who are regularly late. Biggest pet peeve. Sure, in a city like New York and with all the congested traffic, running 5-10 minutes late is a norm but anything longer than that is just rude and unaccountable. It tells two tale-telling signs (to me): One, you don't take the meeting very seriously if you show up that late and two, it also shows me that you are not reliable (or even worse, irresponsible). So the next best thing for everyone? Just show up a few minutes earlier. If you have to set your alarm fifteen minutes earlier than usual, do it because it'll also save you the hassle of rushing as well, where that's when everyone makes the most mistakes.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH

I can't tell you how many times I went into a meeting and the person did not do their homework, let alone, know anything about me and/or what I could bring to the table. Eeeek! Don't be that person. If it's more than one person meeting with you, you better research everyone in the room. We're not talking a background check, but yes, know their position and abilities before talking smack about what you can do for them. Demonstrate your preparation by asking questions about the person(s) and not so much about yourself - don't worry they will be asking about you too but don't forget the give and take rule. Listen first, speak later.

3. BE UPFRONT

Now, this doesn't mean opening up your "Dear, Diary" and spilling the 411 on your entire life story, let alone anything super personal. What I mean is don't be afraid to answer with conviction about your skills and knowledge. It doesn't have to be a novella of an answer, but one with a couple short sentences wrapping up your talents with a nice 'bow' if you will. It also doesn't look like you're trying too hard, because who wants to listen to your lists of accomplishments (that you probably memorized off your resume) Keep it short and sweet but with purpose.

4. BE PRESENTABLE

Both physically and mentally. Being present is key along with a first good impression by the way you dress and yes present yourself. Polish those shoes, wear that tie/dress that hugs your hips and makes you feel extra confident but remaining true to you. Obviously, don't show up looking like you're ready to perform in a risque cabaret, but dress the part. The second part is all mental. This has to do with body language, leaving your phone in your bag, to even that initial handshake. They all count. Being present in the moment during a meeting goes a long way, and shows that you're invested and committed to that meeting, and in turn, the job at hand.

5. FOLLOW UP SOONER RATHER THAN LATER

Once you've worked your angles and made your impression to the client, the next best thing is to touch-base rather quickly. Now you don't want to look overly desperate so waiting a day or two is fine, but in this day and age where we are constantly on the go, meeting with other potential clients, and then some, it's easy to forget people and things once too much time has passed. So be diligent and follow through with an email or phone call, thanking them for their time with some sort of continuing conversation regarding your meeting.

Have any questions regarding this post? Well... then GO FOR IT! Drop me a line in the comments section down below or send me an email! We love engaging with our readers and are always down to continue the conversation. Last piece of advice? If you want something badly enough, first and foremost, you have to go for it. Be audacious. Others will know through your actions and words if you really are dedicated in achieving something, whatever it may be. Until next time...

LOVE & XX’S,

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Indian Summer – Wear a One Piece Swimsuit into Fall

August 23, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL TIED CAMI PLUNGING NECK HIGH CUT SWIMSUIT |
VAGABOND HONEY JAKARTA DENIM PANTS | NA-KD FASHION WORN OUT LEATHER JACKET |
STELLA & DOT LAYERED FEATHER NECKLACE | CALVIN KLEIN RUBY PATENT SLINGBACKS
ZAFUL TRIANGLE CLUTCH | MAD-STYLE IGGY SUNGLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL AND STELLA & DOT.

Happy Wednesday, guys! NYFW is right around the corner (starting after Labor Day) and I am in full swing getting ready for the crazy but fun-filled week! I love this time of year as the weather is changing, but the season doesn't click right away as if it likes the period of transition as well. So today's post is dedicated to those unpredictable days where like a woman, can go from hot to cold in an instant. What better way to keep wearing those adorable (and yes, some racier) one-pieces into fall instead of putting them away now that summer is coming to an end?! These kinds of swimsuits I feel can be styled in so many different ways, I had to share my take on it with you! And this gorgeous army green is one of my favorite colors to wear come autumn season! Come take a look and see how you can still wear your swimsuit come fall!

The tied cami plunging neck high cut swimsuit from Zaful is not only a showstopper but actually really comfy to wear! I love the back to it too. And the tied-up spaghetti straps? Too cute. I paired the one piece swimsuit with my favorite jeans from Vagabond Honey. I think I'm in need of a new pair as I've literally worn these ones out (or you could say I'm a jeans-addict too... whichever you prefer...) To bring down the oversized look from the denim, I wore a pair of Calvin Klein slingbacks. They are circa 2008, I believe, and yes, you bet your ass I still wear them! I love them so much, especially the ruby color and shape of the shoe.

I styled the swimsuit with a worn out jacket from Na-kd Fashion to complement with the jeans and edgy look. Plus, tell me a girl who doesn't wear the crap out of leather jackets come fall?! Ha ha ha! Guilty as charged! And I have no shame because a great leather jacket can make any outfit stylish! And let's not forget about this incredible, layered feather necklace I received from Stella & Dot... With three different ways to wear the possibilities are endless! Wear as one cohesive statement or remove the feather strands to wear the top piece for a simple everyday layering look. In this look, I wore it as a whole because I loved each piece so much and couldn't make up my mind! But I'd love to show you the different ways of wearing it, perhaps on Insta-Stories?

Lastly, my triangle clutch is also from Zaful (can you tell I dig this store?) and my round sunnies are from Mad-Style. You can still use my code, 'maqandsuz' for 20% off your purchase today at www.mad-style.com. Also, I get a lot of questions about my makeup, so here's a little more info on today's look: Yves Saint Laurent Beauty Women's Smoker Eye Duo in Smokey Green and Lancôme Matte Shaker High Pigment Liquid Lipstick 272 Energy in Peach.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Zaful Cami Plunging Neck High Cut Swimsuit

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When Life Gives You Lemons, Make a Jumpsuit out of It!

August 16, 2017

WEARING: FOR LOVE & LEMONS LIMONADA JUMPSUIT | 
LOUIS VUITTON BROWN MUSETTE TANGO BAG | 
STEVE MADDEN CHERISH RUCHED TOE SLINGBACKS | DANIEL WELLINGTON GOLD MESH WATCH

Enjoying the last few weeks of summer before the chaos of fall season begins, you can be sure to see me wearing this around town - When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade out of it right? Oh no... why not do something more fun for yourself and make a jumpsuit out of it?! Yes, you heard me right! Today's style post is solely on this way too adorable lemon-print jumpsuit from For Love & Lemons and I got it from the coolest on-demand clothing rental in Manhattan called TrendlendNYC. Come get a better look at this cute, summery look and to read more about the recently discovered TrendlendNYC!

Maggie is the founder and created TrendlendNYC because she kept finding all her 20-something year old friends in NYC were always complaining that they never had anything to wear, but were too broke to go spend $100 on the pieces that they actually wanted to buy while they endlessly shopped on the internet during their day jobs. Her vision for TrendlendNYC has been years in the making and she is determined to create a new way of affordable on-demand shopping in Manhattan. I can definitely say nothing but the best things about TrendlendNYC! I had a prompt and timely pick-up and drop-off delivery services with the messenger (they bring the clothing pieces to you) and had no trouble with sizes and the way the item looked, it was exactly the way it was on the site! And you get to schedule the time of your choosing either dropping off or picking up.

I love this jumpsuit not only for its lemon-print, because honestly how stinking cute is the entire style of this jumpsuit?! I love the short, flutter sleeves and the dainty fabric-covered buttons along with a tie belt that cinches from an elastic waistband. This is probably the most lively, citrus print I've ever worn and I'm completely enamored with this jumpsuit! And there's patch hip pockets!

To accessorize the already eye-popping jumper, I wanted to neutralize the color palette and veer away from vibrant colors. So, with my newly colored hair, I went with a pair of Steve Madden slingbacks with a ruched pointy toe that I've owned since my college days! One of my favorite kinds of shoes are slingbacks, I feel so great in them! What shoe makes you feel powerful and sexy at the same time? To keep in the same color scheme with the shoes, I paired it with my favorite Louis Vuitton musette bag. Lastly, my gold mesh watch is my new favorite accessory. Clean and luxurious, it's the perfect watch to wear day to night! Use my code, 'SUZANNESPIEGOSKI' to receive 15% off your purchase at Daniel Wellington. Don't forget to leave your comments down below and to follow me on Instagram! Happy Wednesday, everyone.