What it Takes to Rule an Empire

June 7, 2018

This post is sponsored by USA Network but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

A new favorite TV show of ours is Queen of the South. Have you guys seen this series before? If you enjoy strong female leads and empowering, passionate, and action-packed stories, this is definitely a show you'd love! In today's post, I'm sharing what's coming up for Queen of the South and also what it takes to rule an empire. Because it takes one boss lady to another to know how much goes into it, let alone remaining on top. Continue reading for my top three pieces of advice to what I think is key in order to rule an empire.

1. BE UNWILLING TO COMPROMISE

In matters of ruling an empire, I believe the best way is by being pretty savage. Okay... correction: VERY savage. You have to be merciless and cannot have anything get in the way of your goals/ambitions. Many will want your time, will want to use you for their personal gain, will want your attention, but you have to remember that to rule and stay on top, you're not here to be anyone's best friend, and if anyone or anything is going to be standing in the way, you have to make the necessary sacrifices sometimes. This also means no compromises.

2. BETTER DO YOUR HOMEWORK

You think the greatest of anything became that way? Nope. Lots and lots of training, experiences, and more. And then more again. Oh, and let's not forget all the uphill battles along the way to climb your way to the top! You better be ready to give your blood, sweat, and tears... literally! Ha ha!

3. BEING A BIT CRAZY DOESN'T HURT EITHER

One does have to be a little insane to want to rule an empire (of any kind) so I do think it takes someone who's a tiny bit nuts to want to do that. Also, this is all kidding aside, but perhaps someone who is slightly a sociopath would tie in to not just being ruthless, but also having no time for any real human emotion, like remorse, fear, sadness. It's not like it wouldn't hurt or work in favor when it would come to ruling an empire. :)

Queen of the South returns for season 3 and Queenpin/Boss Babe Teresa Mendoza (Alice Braga) is finally on top and has seized the throne. While seasons 1-2 showed us Teresa’s start from the bottom and her rise, season 3 focuses on Teresa becoming Queen of her own drug empire. Although she’s obsessively hunted by Camila (Veronica Falcon), Teresa refuses to hide in a hole, continuing to live the luxurious lifestyle of a Queenpin. No longer the apprentice, Teresa enjoys being boss and the power that comes with it. After experiencing betrayal and heartbreak, she soon realizes the best way to rule is by being ruthless.

Queen of the South premieres Thursday, June 21st at 9/8c and will air each week on Thursdays at 9/8 c!

LOVE & XX'S,

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Aqua Seafoam Chanel and Yellow Florals

June 4, 2018

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK YELLOW FLORAL PRINT DRESS | CHANEL BAG | 
KOIO SNEAKERS | VINTAGE SUNNIES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY REBAG AND SAKU NEW YORK.

Us girls have heard of a few stores that offer a discount for a previously used luxury handbag. But not many matches up to top trends and top quality other than Rebag. Besides becoming a destination to find this season’s It bag for less than the retail price, Rebag has streamlined the process of buying and selling gently loved luxury handbags by simplifying the peer-to-peer sale process. Plus, for those in New York, the brand also recently opened a concept store so customers can experience the site in an IRL setting. (Aside from their app, which is awesome btw). Continue reading to see how I styled this beautiful aqua seafoam Chanel handbag with a vibrant yellow floral print dress, oozing retro 70s vibes with both European and Californian flair.

You know when you put on a dress and it just hugs you in all the right places; feeling so comfortable yet stylish at the same time? This long sleeved floral print dress with a deep yellow hue is it for me. I never ever want to take it off Seriously though, I love when you come across a designer that makes clothes that fit so well on you. Being a petite woman, it is hard sometimes to find pieces that fit right then and there without having to tailor them! But never in the case of Saku New York. This dress could be styled in so many ways, but I'm such a big time sneaker gal.

The yellow color inspired me to style the dress with aqua-colored accessories. Something just as rich in color but with a contrast that would complement well with each other. And colors that bring out the mood of summer. Well, to me at least. I find this outfit to be an inspiration between the Amalfi Coast of Italy and the West Coast of California. The aqua color reminds me of the sea, the shades of the ocean along with the yellow being the bright warm sun. I'd link these sunglasses in the post but they're one of a kind and I bought them on the streets of SoHo in one of the markets for $20. You know, one of those happy finds. How would you have styled this aqua seafoam Chanel bag?

If you have bags you don't use anymore, Rebag is a company that actually sells your bags for you. Perhaps you have a Michael Kors, Kate Spade or Coach bag you don't wear anymore, but you know it is in great condition. You can take some pictures of the item, submit it to Rebag, they'll give you a quote, let you ship the item to them for free and then pay you within 2-3 business days. As someone who normally sells things on Poshmark (that almost seem to never sell), it is amazing to know that there are companies that just pay you upfront for the item and sell it on your behalf. If you are interested in trying Rebag, use my discount code: SUZANNE for 5% off your purchase.

LOVE & XX'S,

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Lavender and Polka Dot

May 31, 2018

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK LAVENDER MATCHING POLKA DOT SET | 
CHLOE HUDSON MINI SHOULDER BAG | NINE WEST JANILLY LOAFERS | 
ODETTE & ODILE WHITE SUNNIES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SAKU NEW YORK.

Happy almost Friday, everyone! In today's post, I'm sharing two of my latest favorite trends: the wonderful color of lavender and the plentiful world of polka dots. I normally only see black or white polka dot within a print, but this one mixed with maroon and lavender is unique and super eye-catching! Throw me on a good graphic print and I'm ready! At first, I was thinking of styling this matching set in Coney Island or in a garden of cherry blossoms or magnolia. But I find the setting to be so crucial in setting the tone of an outfit and with a piece as 'busy' as this one by Saku New York, too much going on in the photograph can mislead the eye and completely change the way we see the outfit. Continue reading to see where our photo shoot was located... we've shot here once before for my ten-year New York anniversary, come check it out!

How adorable is this matching polka dot set from Saku New York? I simply am in love with anything lavender, and I found this set to be very graphic. I got several compliments while we were out and about taking photographs in it. I love how versatile it is as well, later that day after the shoot I changed into some jeans and only kept wearing the top with it to an event. I would imagine the pants to work very well with a white tee and blazer of some kind, maybe even a hot pink? How would you style these pieces separately? And look at that beautiful white trim on that top, how gorgeous is that?!

I went with a comfy pair of white loafers from Nine West and a Chloé burgundy saddle bag. I felt the colors complemented with the matching set very well and kept it from being too busy and distracting to the main piece. I wore my favorite pair of white sunnies from Odette + Odile, the cat-eye shape is so cute, right? Other features I forgot to mention from the set: the pants have an elastic waistband which makes it ultra comfy, and my favorite; pockets! The top can also be worn over the shoulder or shoulderless, which I prefer the latter.

Alright, I have to hop off here and catch up on emails. Yesterday was so busy, I had a shoot, editing for half of the day, plus three events in between everything. Today is a pampering day and will be spending most of my day at my favorite salon to have a little hair rescue session. Haha! I am in serious need of a cut + color. Stay tuned for the results on my stories later on today, I'm also heading to an event later tonight for a French makeup brand in a pretty cool location... more to come later! Wishing you a fantastic day. :)

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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May Beauty Favorites

May 25, 2018

BEAUTY FAVORITES: AVEDA FEED MY LIPS COLLECTION | 
LONDONTOWN GUILTY PLEASURE NAIL POLISH | KERASTASE COLLECTION | 
INNISFREE BRIGHTENING MASK | DIPTYQUE CHOISYA CANDLE | EVE LOM RADIANCE FACE MIST

Cheers to the long weekend! What's everyone up to this #MDW? We are keeping it low key and staying in the city to catch up on work and then some. We just filmed and shot for something pretty exciting yesterday, and I can't wait to share so I'll be spending some time on it for the next few days. This past month I was supposed to release a video I had done with a brand but when they decided to go in another direction, I was completely disappointed. All my work on the film was for nothing. But it's not! You see, I have been wanting to get more into videography and because of the original plans with the collab, it forced me to start learning more advanced stages in post-production in film. It's not easy, and quite frankly, I stress myself out to the max when doing it, but many of you have expressed your enjoyment in my film work, so I'm continuing my journey with it. My actual videographer is my husband, but I direct, style and edit the film. Just like with photographs. Wish me luck! I could just be relaxing on this long holiday weekend, but I'm a workaholic and way too giddy about the content we created! In the meantime, here is my monthly roundup of beauty favorites! Mint-scented, pigmented lipsticks that are actually good for your lips, the perfect summer pink nail polish, a collection of haircare products that'll make your head spin, a yellow brightening mask, orange blossom scented candle and the best face mist out there right now... it's all going down in today's post so don't miss out! Continue reading to learn more about these products and where the shop them!

You guys know I'm a big Aveda haircare user, and I've never tried their makeup before, but after trying this collection, it's safe to say I love both. 95% naturally derived, these long-wearing feed my lips™ lipsticks with nourishing certified organic cupuaçu fruit butter and botanical oils and their signature certified organic peppermint, vanilla and ginger aroma-flavor. You can choose from different shades in a satin finish created to complement your hair color. A balanced blend of botanical waxes helps deliver long-wearing benefits for color that lasts all day. Stays true for 8 hours and does not feather. The cupuaçu fruit butter helps nourish and moisturize for beautifully soft lips and the blend of botanical oils, including certified organic kukui, jojoba and sunflower help smooth lips. The lip liners are also well-pigmented and long-lasting and there's even a lip treatment with no shade to use as a lip balm in between shades. :)

Make that two martinis & a pop of cherry red! Give your nails the good stuff. Florium Complex infused Lakur by Londontown takes color to the next level by fusing bold hues with enriching botanicals to deliver long-lasting., high-shine wear that hydrates and strengthens with every application. My most favorite hot pink shade (without the shade being too bright) is their 'Guilty Pleasure' shade. Don't choose between nail care and color, pick both. Made in USA 9-Free, Cruelty-Free, Vegan Instructions Apply two coats of lacquer following an application of kur Nail Hardener; allow lacquer to dry for 10-15 seconds, then seal in nutrients with kur Protective Top Coat, kur Protective Matte Coat or kur Gel Genius Top Coat.

I've been using Kérastase haircare products since I was in college! They have amazing hair masks and lotions on top of shampoo/conditioners. With their new Reflection collection, it's the perfect regiment for hydrated, healthy summer hair! Especially if your hair is colored. To maintain my hair color and keeping my locks nourished, I've been using the Reflection shampoo, hair mask, hair balm and the new Incroyable hair lotion for a while now and the results have been amazing! Here's a breakdown of these four products:

Kérastase Reflection Chroma Captive Fondant

A multi-tasking styling hair balm. Features a half cream half paste texture. Helps tame and mold style with no sticky feeling. Provides medium, flexible and long-lasting hold. Leaves hair soft, shiny and manageable with a natural look.

Kérastase Reflection Bain Chromatique Sulfate-Free Shampoo For Colored Treated Hair

Kerastase Reflection Bain Chromatique sulfate-free multi-protecting shampoo for colored hair gently cleanses hair to protect and maintain healthy hair color. This shampoo not only cleans the hair beautifully, it leaves it feeling nourished too. Free from the nasty chemicals in so many shampoos means that there is no further damage to color-treated hair. Would not use any other shampoo. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Kérastase Reflect Chroma Rich Masque

Kérastase Reflection Chroma Riche Masque is a luminous, softening, treatment masque for dry, highlighted, or color-treated. I've been using their hair masques for years and this one has been by far my favorite! The texture is very rich, thick and concentrated and a little bit goes a long way. It makes my over-processed hair exceptionally soft and smooth!

Kérastase L'Incroyable Blowdry Heat Lotion

Create endless looks with our first-to-market* ground breaking Couture Styling innovation. Miracle heat-sensitive microwax technology allows the hair to set and re-set styles with ease. For fine to normal hair, apply two pumps of L'incroyable blowdry lotion into hands. Distribute on towel-dried hair and blowdry for desired look. Restyle or change the look easily with the use of heat tools.

A volcanic cluster yellow mask for sebum control and brightening. This is perfect for anyone with oily or combination skin. Aside from drawing out impurities from skin with the Jeju lava ingredient, this mask comes with special ingredients such as Vitamin C complex (yellow) for brightening. Perfect for when your skin is looking AND feeling a little dull.

When I think of one of the world's finest luxury candles, Diptyque is definitely one of them. This finely scented candle releases the clean, vibrant fragrance of Mexican orange blossom Orange blossom is renowned for its calming, soothing properties. There are a variety of scents, but the Choisya candle is my favorite during the summertime. Burns for approximately 60 hours

A versatile, effective skincare treatment in mist form that hydrates helps to protect against the effects of environmental aggressors on the skin, and gives the complexion a radiant glow. The perfect solution for: Dryness! Formulated with enhanced actives in a water-light form, the Radiance Face Mist delivers an immediate increase in skin moisture by up to 80 percent after application, and hydrates up to 48 hours after use. A key moisture ingredient complex in the Mist supports skin's natural ability to regulate water retention and adapt to changing fluctuations in humidity, keeping skin balanced and refreshed. The formula is enriched with antioxidants that protect against free radicals and other oxidative damage that can lead to premature aging. An antipollution active of wild indigo extract acts to calm skin and reduces visible signs of stress caused by air pollution.