A Twist of Flavor with S.Pellegrino Essenza

June 26, 2020

This post is sponsored by S. Pellegrino Essenza but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

More than ever it’s important to celebrate joy in life - both big and small. This month my husband and I have been together for 14 years!! We are so lucky to have our beautiful outdoor space as part of our Manhattan home. Since many know my passion for cooking, I felt like this month would be the perfect opportunity to make something fun and yummy like my leek and mushroom quiche with gruyere cheese.

But just because we’re home doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy and get ready to celebrate. With the perfect pairing of S.Pellegrino Essenza flavored mineral water, these drinks add a twist of flavor to any dish! I love the subtle tastes of leeks and mushrooms paired with the delicious flavor of Tangerine & Wild Strawberry! For my favorite quiche recipe, follow link here.

S.Pellegrino Essenza Flavored Mineral Water is versatile, and made with natural flavors, with zero calories and zero sweeteners. That's why it's my drink of choice! The Dark Morello Cherry & Pomegranate is great with cherries alone, but I would imagine it would be delish with a charcuterie plate too. The Lemon & Lemon Zest is wonderful all on its own as a refresher but any type of seafood dish would work well with this flavor. Citrus and salmon? Count me in on that!

Which flavor would you try first? Treat yourself the next time you shop online at Walmart and grab a pack of S.Pellegrino Essenza Flavored Mineral Water, it makes every meal a delicious masterpiece!

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE PRODUCT

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Ice Cold Turquoise

January 6, 2020

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY J.ING AND H&M BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

New Year, New Me! (?) The last couple of months in 2019 have been very difficult. I’ve never felt more lost in my career, had major family problems that will remain undisclosed because I still think some things are meant to be kept private and respected, but I will say have been quite emotionally draining, and then I guess what felt like the last nail to the coffin: my beloved, MaQ, had suddenly died. Those that know me knew how much my German Shepherd meant to me. The loss has forever impacted my life. I am no longer the same person I once was.

So in today’s posts, I’m sharing my intentions for the future while also remembering the past. Now that my co-star is gone, the blog doesn’t feel the same without him. He was part of the reason why I had started this blog in the first place. And now I’m lost without him. I took the month of December off to mourn, reflect and sort out many unexpected circumstances resulting from what had occurred. Doing anything creative-wise was a no-go for me, as most holiday campaigns we’ve done in the past were with my boy. I still find it hard for me to be motivated or inspired right now. I’m deeply hurting but I know I’m not defeated. Time does heal wounds, and I know I will be needing it.

This month has brought so much insight for me. I’ve realized where I was heading into my career, unintentionally becoming an ‘influencer’, and all the while being relatively happy with collaborations/projects, what I became aware of was my dissatisfaction as well. I started to become more and more anxious as my following grew and I was more and more in the public eye. All I have ever wanted to do was create and in return, give people something to feel and think about. Even for only a fleeting second. My passions run deeper than just stylish outfits. However, I love expressing myself through fashion and beauty. But I’m first and foremost a writer and a photographer. And now that it really feels like an end to an era now that MaQ is gone, I cannot carry on as if nothing has happened. A part of my brand died too right along with him.

The legacy of MaQ will live on through my work. And in honor of my beautiful boy, MaQ + Suz will be transitioning from a blogging platform to a creative agency! It has been a big dream of mine for so long, and now the timing finally feels right. I am ready to embark on my new journey as a creative director. I will still share similar content as I have in the past, but going into 2020, the new goal is to create with brands but rather than having me be in front of the camera, I now will be more behind it! I also have a couple of very personal projects I’m working on and will not say much (would rather show you when it is ready) that will definitely be taking up a lot of my time. But a lot of my focus this year will be writing and photography. Now that the word is out, I’m excited for the next chapter in our story.

Last but not least, I incorporated this photoshoot for today’s post specifically because of the monochrome color. I’m feeling quite blue, as you can imagine, but also feel hopeful and at peace. The language of color is powerful and even though this outfit was photographed before MaQ’s passing, it’s ironically fitting for today’s message on the blog. Turquoise is a warmer hue of blue to me, and I found this color to be the best of both worlds when it comes to blue. Exactly like how I’m feeling: conflicted with mixed emotions, both good and bad. As always, you can shop the look down below or towards the end of this post. I want to thank everyone who has reached out the past month. This has been one of the hardest moments of my life and the friends who always have my back, your love, and support… there are no words. I’m just forever grateful.

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Burgundy and Cognac Fall Outfit

November 8, 2019

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY H&M, RHANDERS 1811 & HVISK BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Happy Friday! Who is ready for the weekend? I know I am! One of my favorite styles is casual chic, and it’s probably what you’ll see me most in but I always love to mix things up. In today’s post, I’m sharing a very fall outfit with two appropriate shades that work so well together, you’ll want an outfit just like it before the winter season rushes in. When it comes to drinks, burgundy and cognac are not going to be a good mix - but this combo will definitely score points in the fashion department! Continue reading to see complete visual story, which includes a very luxe pair of lamb leather gloves, a printed textile floral bag and more!

I’m wearing a wool burgundy blazer from H&M but unfortunately, it is no longer in stock. I’ve listed one that is very similar below. [link HERE] One of my favorite ways to style a blazer is with a really good pair of jeans, like these which are wide leg and very stylish together with the jacket. Since the color stands out on its own, I opted with a more subdued color for a sweater and went with a charcoal grey cashmere turtleneck sweater.

Diana is exquisitely elegant, yet free-spirited. She is classic and timeless, yet ultra-modern. She has the allure of speed, fun, and wind in your hair. You need her for the soft autumn and frosty spring days. Sewn with full piqué, which is the most delicate sewing technique – only mastered by few seamstresses in the world. The results? A sophisticated finish with a perfectly elegant feel, wrapping tightly around your fingers, as there are no inside seams. The finest and most exquisite lamb leather, offering a butter-soft touch with an astonishing world-class strength. The Diana gloves are my new go-to gloves for the season. Super luxurious. Super chic.

The floral printed textile bag is from HVISK, which I think makes a lovely juxtaposition with the gloves and blazer. I think the orange and black tones work well with the outfit, but the eclectic texture and style are what make the bag. The bag has one big compartment with three small inner pockets. The bag comes with a chain strap, which makes it possible to use it as a crossbody. Lastly, I wore snakeskin boots to complement the printed bag. I love mixing prints and when done the right way, it can look really great together. What do you guys think of this look? How would you wear the blazer and gloves combined with one another? Would love to hear your thoughts! In the meantime, wishing you a fantastic weekend. x

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

5 Must-Have Fall Jackets

November 4, 2019

If there’s one item of clothing one needs for the fall season, it’s a jacket. They come in all shapes and sizes, and since jackets/coats are somewhat of an obsession in my closet, I’m sharing five unique but trendy must-have fall jackets in today’s post. Ranging from floral to plaid to minimal style and even cozy, fuzzy ones, they’re here to stay! Continue reading to see which jackets I picked to keep you warm and stylish for the rest of the fall season.

FLORAL VELVET

This single-breasted long velvet coat with green floral pattern is a dream. When I first discovered this coat, it immediately reminded me of Monet. Literally looks like one of his paintings. And how can one resist velvet during the colder season?! Random fact: My all-time favorite material when it came to my figure skating dresses back in the day was velvet!

CHECKERED PLUM

A traditional checked print and a wide turn-down shawl collar makes this the perfect statement coat this season. I love the cut and color of this coat, especially the plum accents and tie-waist style which make it a very flattering jacket. It would look great in Aspen or in downtown NYC - so you know this coat is versatile!

FUZZY WUZZY WUZ A SHEARLING

What’s not to love about shearling? The material is fuzzy, soft and warm. All the good feels for fall. I love the fact that this piece of outerwear is not at all bulky and perfect for layering. This white shearling jacket works well with a fitted blazer or vest. A great casual but chic layering piece.

OVERSIZED AND CAMEL

Two staple features in my closet, and when combined, packs a strong statement. It doesn’t take much to be fashionable, as minimal chic as one coat can get, this is definitely one of my favorites for fall. This oversized camel coat works well with pretty much anything and I can definitely confirm this coat will be worn often for the remainder of the season.

FLANNEL CAMPFIRE STORIES

In honor of the tales told around the campfire under the great southern sky, the Campfire Stories Jacket with Topstitched Detail is truly effortless. This long jacket features an eye-catching notched collar, practical patch pockets, alluring side splits, and is fully lined. I wore this during NYFW and got many compliments on it. It is lightweight yet with beautiful details.

Which jacket was your favorite? Please leave your comments/thoughts in the comment section at the end of this post! Wishing you a great rest of your week, everyone! :)

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

7 Favorite Laura Mercier Beauty Products

October 28, 2019

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY LAURA MERCIER BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

When it comes to beauty looks, my favorite makeup is the ‘no makeup’ makeup kind of look. It is that flawless and effortless one, with no drama to be anywhere nearby. One brand that has definitely been a pioneer of that certain ‘face’ and inspires women to embrace their individual beauty is Laura Mercier. Laura Mercier has created some of the beauty industry’s most iconic products, such as the Allure “Best of Beauty” Translucent Loose Setting Powder, the first Foundation Primer, her beloved Caviar Stick Eye Colour, and so much more. In today’s beauty post, I’m sharing 7 of my favorite products from Laura Mercier. Continue reading to learn more along with direct links to shop for each product!

FACE ILLUMINATOR POWDER IN ‘INDISCRETION’

Laura Mercier Face Illuminator Powder highlights the skin with pure light-reflecting pigments for a color-true, multidimensional, and luminous finish that complements all skin tones. Its non-dusting texture allows for excellent color payoff and applies smoothly and evenly onto the skin without dragging. Designed to complement all skin tones, the unique formula brings natural-looking radiance to the complexion for an instant glow that lasts up to eight hours. I’ve tried many highlighters and this one is still the best in the market. My favorite shade is ‘Indiscretion’ which is a great goldish pearly tone for medium skin tones.

MATTE BRONZING POWDER IN ‘SOLEIL 1’

Matte bronzing powder delivers a natural-looking warmth to the skin. Silky, micro-fine powder feels weightless on skin, goes on smoothly and blends seamlessly to provide the ultimate sun-kissed glow. I enjoy using this product as a subtle contour when I want that to be as seamless as possible. It’s a great bronzing powder in general, and I really love how it looks on the skin.

TRANSLUCENT LOOSE SETTING POWDER

Cult-favorite and winner of multiple major awards, Laura Mercier's "best in beauty," #1 setting powder* is your go-to powder. I love the super smooth application, which goes on evenly, blends effortlessly and provides great wear. Sets makeup for 12 hours without adding weight or texture. Literally the best setting powder I have ever used to date.

MATTE RADIANCE BAKED POWDER IN ‘HIGHLIGHT 01’

The ultra-lightweight formula feels comfortable and weightless on the skin, applies smoothly and blends effortlessly. Features a smooth, silky, velvety texture and long-wearing formula that lasts up to eight hours and stays color-true without oxidizing for an even wear. Use for refined highlighting or soft strobing. This multidimensional highlight shade works on all skin tones. A very elegant looking highlighter.

VELOUR EXTREME MATTE LIPSTICK IN ‘VIBE’

Modern matte lipstick so seductive in color, touch, and texture, the sensation is irresistible. Mattifying powders and silky conditioners envelop your lips in the softness and comfort of velour, sans drying and cracking. The collection of 24 vivid, full-coverage shades provide intense color with a dramatic, matte finish. The slim precision bullet allows the formula to grab and glide over lips, defining and filling in one seamless stroke, while the built-in shaper customizes the tip for precision lining and detailed filling. It is ideal for creating edgy effects and everyday extremes, with no liner needed. One of my favorite shades is a medium pink-beige called, ‘Vibe’. Perfect nude color for everyday wear.

CAVIAR STICK EYE COLOR IN ‘GILDED GOLD’

This extremely versatile cream eyeshadow stick delivers effortless application, intense, buildable color and up to 12-hour wear. Pigment-rich shades in creamy shimmer and matte finish glides seamlessly onto the lids, staying crease and transfer-resistant. The luxe formulation gives you plenty of time to smudge, blend, line, fill or define, so you can effortlessly create any look. Don’t be afraid to be playful! Caviar Stick Eye Color layers easily over or under other eyeshadows, including powder. A favorite shade I like to use all the time is called ‘Mystic Gold’.

FOUNDATION PRIMER HYDRATING

Moisture-rich face primer nourishes, soothes and conditions skin as it creates a smooth surface for flawless makeup application. The formula provides a soft-focus effect to help minimize the look of pores, fine lines and imperfections. Laura created this expert hydrating primer specifically for dry, dehydrated skin. Lightweight, creamy formula creates a protective moisture buffer, with an enhanced antioxidant vitamin "cocktail" that helps protect skin against harmful, aging effects of the environment.