Maria Bonita Spa & Salon

January 16, 2018

WEARING: AGNES B GREY FRONT BUTTON SHIRT | VIP ME CAMEL LAPEL LONG COAT | 
NA-KD WORN LOOK LEATHER JACKET |BDG JEANS | 
GUCCI BELT | EGO JAMILA THIGH HIGH LONG BOOTS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY MARIA BONITA SPA & SALON AND EGO SHOES.

Hi guys! Yesterday for MLK Day I was treated to a blowout from a New York salon I've never been to. Maria Bonita Salon & Spa, located in SoHo, NYC, is a refuge for Manhattanites and is the only full-service salon and spa downtown. Co-owned by Manuela Giannini and created by Fernanda Lacerda in 2003 (recognized as one of the 100 most influential Brazilians living in New York by Vogue Brasil), the salon marries cutting-edge technology with traditional Brazilian beauty treatments to create an impressive mix of services and innovative spa treatments that rival those of the best spas in Brazil. Let's just say it was the perfect way to finish up the long weekend. Continue reading about my time at Maria Bonita and to see more photos from this fantastic location!

The fun, energetic vibe of Maria Bonita Salon & Spa is a full experience that morphs fashion and art into an intimate and professional environment. They offer facials, massages, waxes, and manicures in a gorgeous setting mixed with industrial and eclectic charm. Can this space be my new apartment, please? ;) I had my hair done by hairstylist, Junior. You definitely need to ask for him should you plan a visit to this salon. He is quick on his feet (did my blowout in under an hour... usually takes over that) and is very sweet. Did I mention this is a favorite salon in NYC for the models of Victoria's Secret? I definitely want to go back and try a facial, as this my latest obsession when it comes to skincare and beauty regiments. Look how sleek the blowout is!

With the variety of skillful Brazilian techniques ranging my haircare to nails, I'm offering a personal code that you guys are free to use to receive 20% off of anything at the salon! Use, 'Spiegoski20' during your next visit to Maria Bonita Salon & Spa. Watch more behind-the-scenes on my Insta-Stories before they disappear! But I'll probably put it under my Highlights so you guys can still go take a look. Lastly, if see anything I'm wearing from today's post that you'd like to purchase, I've linked the pieces in the beginning and end of this article. Got questions about the salon or what hair products they used during my blowout? I'm more than happy to answer back! Drop me a line in the comment box and have a great week! Catch ya guys soon! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

VIPme Apricot Plain V Neck Long Sleeve Fitted Women's Coat

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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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Winter Makeup Routine with Neutrogena®

January 7, 2018

With the harsh winter weather causing havoc on my skin, it's good to know there are not just skincare brands doing the legwork to keep our skin well-moisturized and healthy, but also makeup collections like Neutrogena® - which is doing both! Naturally found in skin and in their HydroBoost Cosmetics Collection, hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge and can absorb up to 1000X its weight in water, helping these formulas boost your skin’s hydration levels. In today's post, I'll be sharing my favs from this line by Neutrogena® to achieve a simple clean and natural winter makeup look. And it's with only four products, that's it! Easy peasy and takes less than ten minutes to do! Continue reading to see how to get this beauty look.

When it comes to makeup, I always start with the base, or rather, my face. I first begin with the Neutrogena® HydroBoost hydrating tint foundation in 85 Honey. It refreshes thirsty skin for 24 hours and is a liquid foundation for dry skin. Not only does it boost hydration, but also plumps the skin as well. Next is concealer, especially for dark circles under my eyes. I used the Neutrogena® HyrdoBoost hydrating concealer in 10 Fair. It definitely leaves your skin feeling hydrated all day while minimizing the look of imperfections. Containing hyaluronic acid, this concealer works to leave skin feeling quenched. It applies flawlessly and is available in five blendable shades designed to match multiple skin tones. This lightweight concealer is non-greasy, oil-free, and non-comedogenic.

One thing I'm always paying more attention to during the colder season is my lips. I tend to have extremely dry and sensitive lips and they tend to get quite chapped so I do lip scrubs and lip masks to keep them healthy and nourished. However, with the Neutrogena® HydroBoost lip treatment, my lips have never felt smoother! I always carry with me some sort of lip balm, and you can bet this is my new go-to lip treatment! The last and final touch to this look is the Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Hydrating Lip Shine in 80 Deep Cherry. It has the vibrant color of a lipstick, shine of a gloss, and conditioning of a balm. It plumps the look of lips and keeps them looking smoother, juicy, and more supple. The lip shine actually improves the healthy look, softness, smoothness, and condition of your lips over time. What do you guys think of this natural winter makeup look? If you like any of the Neutrogena® HydroBoost products from this post, all products are available at Walmart. You can also shop directly down below.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE PRODUCT

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12 Memories, 12 Years in New York City

January 5, 2018

WEARING: FOREVER 21 MOHAIR SWEATER  |
ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | ODETTE & ODILE BANKSY BLACK | 
LEVI'S WINTER WOOL BERET | LEVI'S 711 ALTERED SKINNY JEANS | 
ZEALMER STATEMENT HUMAN FACE SHAPED EARRINGS | ANGELINA SHOETIQUE OTK BOOTS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ODETTE & ODILE.

Happy Friday, guys! I'm working from home and am sick as a dog. Completely congested, puffy-eyed, stomach ache and all, I still managed to crank out a post dedicating the past 12 years of living in New York City! (Cuz I'm a true f*Ck&ng New Yorker!) It's still hard to believe, but I wouldn't have made it this far without hard work, kindness and then some. I did a bigger post on my ten year anniversary (here and here) showcasing lessons learned from being here along with what kind of adventures I did to celebrate such an occasion. However, because of a bomb cyclone, freezing temps and not being in top physical shape, the idea of venturing outside to do anything is not exactly appealing right now. We did go shoot this out in the snow yesterday after the storm calmed down, and yes I froze my patooty off from it. But being from the Midwest and with the power of makeup, it wasn't so bad freezing while sick to enjoy the winter wonderland. So today's celebration is 12 memories I wanted to share since being in New York 12 years ago today.

1. My first night living in New York, I went out with one of my roommates and her friends. We went everywhere from McSorley's to Le Souk to Brass Monkey and eventually ending the night in Koreatown with the last ones standing, chowing down on some late night Korean grub. I remember even having Tteokguk (떡국) or sliced rice cake soup which is a traditional Korean dish that is eaten during the celebration of the Korean New Year. Even in my drunken haze, I wished for good luck from the rice cakes.

2. Why did I come to New York? To join the NYPD. I'm serious. But after having my heart broken back home, and now with the opportunity to start fresh and heal from the breakup in a completely new and exciting town, I was still very much a believer in love. And I did secretly hope to fall in love before I even came here. And you know what? About a year after being here, it happened. How did I know? After our first kiss. (which was on a cobblestone road in the wee hours of the night), and when he put me in a cab to go home, this sudden rush came over me. And you know how you hear people say it's nothing like they've ever felt before? That's the feeling I had.

3. During my days as a figure skating coach, I worked for a non-profit organization that provided skating lessons to inner-city girls that would most likely never be exposed to a sport like this. And there was one particular student who was troubled and came from a tough background. I also photographed for the Org and one day while shooting she came up to me and started asking questions about my camera. When I finally asked her interest in photography, she told me she'd probably never get far doing anything with it. I told her that was complete bullshit and that you can do anything if you put your mind to it. Sure enough, she is older now and in college, but making moves and is a working photographer. We even bumped into each other in the middle of the street a few years ago where I commended her for her work and growth. It always brings such a smile to my face and I hope I had some sort of influx to her life.

4. One of the greatest secrets in New York is a place called Fire Island. It's about 2 hours away from the city and thanks to a dear friend for introducing it to me, it holds a special place in my heart. It's one of those places where you feel you're thousands of miles away from home but you're a hop, skip and a cab back into the city. Many memories of Rocket Fuel's, lobster dinners, badminton and long perfect days on the beach. It's been a few years since I've been back and I sure do miss it!

5. If you know me, you'll know my deep passionate obsession with opera. I've been heavily involved since I was a teenager and anytime I visit the Met here in New York is such a treat. But the most memorable moment was when my husband proposed to me after an evening of Tosca and just as I was about to tell him I was profusely starving after taking countless photos of me at the parterre (plus we hadn't had dinner yet and it was a late show) he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Definitely one of those nights for the books.

6. On a particularly early morning, I got off at Grand Central and started to head to work before I was stopped by a production company telling me I couldn't go anywhere as they were in the middle of shooting a scene for a movie. When they told me it'd be about twenty minutes before I could pass, I decided to book it in hopes that no one would notice tiny ole' me. As I started to look back thinking I was in the clear I smacked directly into a rather tall gentleman, who turned out to be Will Smith, who was shooting I am Legend at the time. He was very kind and no damage done because I managed to make it to work on time that day! One of the coolest celebrities I've ever crossed paths with.

7. In 2012, I lost my dad to a massive heart attack. I was crushed. About six months after, my husband and I decided on adopting a dog together but every shelter we went to didn't have any puppies. And as a first-time dog owner, I really thought it was best to raise the pup from the beginning. After countless disappointing visits, my husband decided to take us out on a day trip to a German Shepherd breeder "just to look" at puppies, given that this has always been my favorite breed. My father and I have always had a connection to these type of dogs. And this is where we met MaQ and brought him home with us on the very same day! It's probably my favorite memory in the past ten years. I literally cried tears of joy on the way home, it was the happiest moment ever.

8. Through Air BnB, I found an amazing cottage upstate in the Catskills where in between moving apartments in the city, we sought refuge up there, where there was a ravine adjacent to the house that would lead you to a sinking swimming hole. The water was so clear (and freaking cold) but our visit was well spent. I think my favorite memory from being up there was our last night when the power went out from a storm, and my husband and I sat out on the porch with candles and just talked all night, taking photographs and playing with the pup. It was perfect and so simple.

9. It took up to five years to have my debut novel traditionally published, but after a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, I will always cherish that moment of holding the first copy of the paperback in my hands. I spent four years writing it (with three jobs, a social life and then some) and another year getting countless rejections before anything happened. So it just goes to show that if you really want something bad enough, you better be willing to work your ass off for it and you better be PATIENT.

10. After about a ten-year career in figure skating (20+ if you count in the training), I gave it all up to start a new career in digital media and entered the Wild Wild West world of blogging. I remember that fleeting moment when I made that decision and thought, "Oh my gosh, was this stupid? Did I just make a huge mistake doing this?" Sure, it was really tough to walk away from skating - it was something I truly loved, but staying comfortable wasn't my idea of learning and in return, growing into becoming a stronger and better person. So the memory of jumping off that cliff so to speak will never fade. Sure, at first I was scared but any act of courage will bring out something good. I promise. It wasn't that long ago when I started out and thought, "I'll never work with a brand like so and so", or, "an opportunity like that will never happen to me" and here I am now working with global brands and am being presented insane opportunities I never even dreamed of!

11. During my second season at NYFW, I got photographed by street photographers over a vibrant green apple bag. It was such a frenzy that I literally lost my goody bag from one of the shows in midst of the commotion! But in return, I was featured in WWD and Getty Images. I remember a sweet colleague who sent me a DM on Instagram saying she saw me in the street style section in WWD and I was over the moon! Any fashion/style blogger knows the high of not only getting photographed but featured in an editorial magazine of that caliber.

12. Last but not least, probably one of the best highlights of my career from the past year was doing my first commercial with L'Oreal and La Roche Posay! This memory taught me so much, as it was a day to be engaging, supportive, patient, and most importantly, fun! As nervous as I was, even at times thinking, "I'm not so sure if I can do this", I did it and actually really enjoyed myself! It also taught me to always challenge myself because the best thing you can still do for yourself is to surprise yourself.

We are capable of so much more than we think we are capable of doing and I can promise you from all the memories that have been made from the past 12 years, both good and bad, from living in New York, is this: Keep going and keep pushing. Never let someone or something try to define you. You are you and that is your power. Now go and do you! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT

Zealmer Statement Human Face Shaped Earrings Hollow Out Dangling Color Gold Stud Earrings

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ClimateRight by Cuddl Duds: Cute and WARM Clothes that Won’t Break The Bank

January 2, 2018

WEARING: CLIMATERIGHT BY CUDDL DUDS WOMEN'S STRETCH MICROFIBER WARM UNDERWEAR LONG SLEEVE TOP | CLIMATERIGHT BY CUDDL DUDS WOMEN'S STRETCH FLEECE WARM UNDERWEAR LEGGINGS | KNITBEST GRAY CARDIGAN