Never Too Late to Apologize

August 2, 2017

WEARING: MAD-STYLE LAYERABLE JERSEY TANK SHIRT | HUSH PUPPIES MARIA TOTE |
MAD-STYLE OCTAGON WATCH | MAD-STYLE NAIL BRACELET | HUSH PUPPIES MAZIN CAYTO BOOTIE | 
80S PURPLE FALA ROUND FRAMED SUNGLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY MAD-STYLE.

It's never too late to apologize. And it's never too late to forgive. Trust me, I wouldn't have survived through half the things I've been through without forgiveness, and yes, owning up to when I've done wrong. But sometimes saying sorry can be quite difficult for people, myself included... especially if it's something I really effed up on. Though I am a firm believer in growing a pair and when it comes down to it, being really brave. Just do it, because if it's someone you care about, you got to be willing to be the one to jump first. And put yourself in the other person's shoes: Would you want it to be this way with you? I know it's easier said than done but if whatever the issue is is still on your mind, I think you got to look into it. In today's post, I'm talking about the do's and don'ts when it comes to apologizing.

Don't apologize for someone else's feelings! There's nothing that irks me more when I hear, "I'm sorry you're mad; I'm sorry you feel this way; etc;) This is not a form of an apology and is just condescending. What could be a better approach? Apologizing for your own actions and attitude. For example, "I'm sorry I was rude," is an apology that takes ownership. Be specific about what you did wrong. Saying, "I'm sorry for whatever made you upset," just isn't going to cut it. Even if you do make your claim, don't slide in an excuse with it.

"I'm sorry I was rude but I was irritated," means you're not really sorry. You feel justified for the way you acted and you expect to be excused from your behavior! One way to remember this is that when you say, "I'm sorry, but..." you're really just a sorry butt. That's like meeting halfway except it's only a quarter ways, maybe even less. That doesn't make any sense, right?! And this isn't going to have anyone want to forgive you. However, asking for forgiveness when you apologize is a humble request that can rebuild a relationship. But don't expect someone to forgive you right away, depending on the situation, it can take time. Just be grateful when you do receive it, I always am! Lastly, don't expect a reciprocal apology either. You have to own your part of it and move on. If you do get through the brutal, "I'm sorry, will you forgive me?" it's best to make the next step and ask if there's anything one can do to make it right/better, etc;.

What do you guys think is the best ways when it comes to apologizing to someone? And how important do you think it is when it comes to the effects of that relationship, regardless of what kind? Before I check out for the day, I want to give a shout out to Mad-Style for the gorgeous cream-colored jersey dress, nail bracelet, and octagon watch! If you are adoring the Mad-Style pieces as much as I am, use my promo code, 'maqandsuz' to get 20% OFF your purchase from Mad-Style! They also carry a variety of accessories such as jewelry, clothes and even dog apparel! You can also shop this look down below. Don't forget to leave a comment on your thoughts from this post! Follow me on Instagram too! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Oranges and Gingham

May 26, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL GINGHAM ROMPER | YOINS GREEN BATCHEL BAG W/ CONTRAST TRIMS | 
ZARA CORK & LEATHER WEDGES | VINTAGE JADE HOOP EARRINGS | H&M WOODEN BANGLES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL & YOINS.

IT'S LIKE APPLES TO ORANGES, PEACHES TO PLUMS, YEAH, I'M BANANAS!

My last editorial was a bit somber and because it's also Friday, I wanted to share some more upbeat content. 'Cause life's also too damn short to sit around and feel sad all the time too, am I right? One thing I'm not too keen on expressing is my insecurities ['cause we all have 'em too (from time to time)] since most don't understand why I would be this way or that I'm just full of crap. To be brutally honest, I've had low self-esteem my whole life and though it does have a lot to do with my upbringing, I only have myself to blame. How did I get here? I was raised to believe that nothing I'd do would be ever good enough, that even "my best would never do", according to my father. Of course, that's stuck with me since he's said that to my face, and even though he's no longer with me, I'm still trying to prove him and the world wrong. That I am enough. That I matter. That I'm worth more than just a pretty face.

What's upbeat about this you might be thinking? Well... the more time and energy I'm investing in what I'm doing when it comes to digital content, the more proud and courageous I'm becoming in sharing with you more about me, and also perhaps breaking the rules here and there while you follow me along the way. Because since taking creative content as seriously as I do, I've simultaneously have been healing from all the things from the past that do make us insecure and not feeling like we belong anywhere. No, I didn't need validation from social media. Did I perhaps in my past seek that kind of approval from a man? Perhaps... because no one's perfect – at least I have the balls to admit to my flaws. I create for myself because I HAVE to. Without it, I'd probably go insane, bananas, if you will... and hearing from you guys every day is what helps keep me going. Your support has been tremendous and just knowing I have some affect in your lives means everything to me. It has been so inspiring and I couldn't have felt this good about myself without you!

Be sure though that feeling good about yourself starts within. When I first started doing more editorial like shoots for MaQ + Suz, I was trying to elevate my skills & strengths to a higher level. Because of course, this, in turn, would make me feel productive and then really great. But the more involved I became in my research with fashion & photography, the more I craved to produce visual stories and to try and mix things up by taking risks and continuing to challenge myself. And the more story-telling I do, the more confident I am in my capabilities. That perhaps what I am doing is sort of right, that readers actually dig my work. It is true what they say, keep your head held up high and don't let 'em knock you down. The way you carry yourself and the way you let others treat you says a lot about you, so start from within and know that doing you without any compromise will not only get you far, but being an unapologetic badass and sticking up for what you want will reward you with all the self-love in return.

With my upbeat take on myself, I wanted to do a shoot with fruit but very much in street style mode. And because of the warm colors, I wanted to do a little spin on some good ole' 70s vibes. Mixing in my California roots with my saucy attitude, this gingham romper by Zaful is so freaking cute and comfortable! I love how breathable it is for hotter days and the girly cut on the bottom of this romper is too adorable. I knew I had to style it with chunky bangles and big hoop earrings. To keep it kind of pin-up girl-ish, I stuck with my favorites cork wedges by Zara and did my hair in a high ponytail (because let's face it ladies, when it's that hot out, you just got to put your mane up). Lastly can we talk about how amazing this green bag is from Yoins?! Stylish, iconic and versatile — a clever hybrid of the Satchel and the Briefcase, the 'Batchel' is the newest addition to my bag fam! And one of many of the summer gang... What do you guys think of this look? And when it comes to the insecurities we all face from time to time, how do you cope with them? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this! Comment and shop the look down below – wishing you all a lovely weekend!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Yoins Green Batchel Bag w/ Contrast Trim

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Neutrals with Black Satin, Velvet and Blues

November 3, 2016

WEARING: H&M TURTLENECK SWEATER | THEORY SATIN DRESS | 
OLIVER BILOU AMY BAG | EGO OFFICIAL VELVET BOOTS | 
ARGENTO VIVO GOLD HOOP EARRINGS | H&M WOODEN BANGLES

This post is sponsored by Oliver Bilou & Ego Official. All opinions are my own.

Fall staples this season in my wardrobe are definitely neutrals, black satin, velvet and blue tones! I'm not one of those girls that wears one piece once and that's the end of it. I like to economize. I like to get creative. AND I love to take risks and give fashion a play on its seriousness. Such as the ultra-trending 90s comeback. I even went to an pop-up event last night in the city that solely had collector items from this time period! The 90s Forever store was filled with vintage items from the 1990s bringing a nostalgic set of rare goodies ranging from all sorts of clothes to toys. I found a dope-ass burgundy velvet slip dress (you can get a sneak peek of it on my Snapchat/InstaStories) that I can't wait to style!

Velvet is really in right now and for all the right reasons. It's plush, fun and versatile. My newfound obsession is these rich purple velvet ankle boots from Ego Official. Aren't they bomb?! I love the luxurious feel without them being too over the top or gimmicky. It can elevate any simple outfit with its pop of color and chic look. I literally can't stop wearing them, on top of how great they look the ankle boots are extremely comfortable to wear while running around town all day. On average, I walk about 4-5 miles everyday so I'm not a frequent 5+ inch high-heel wearer. I gotta get that cardio in somehow... thanks MaQ! ;)

Blue complements with purple well. And this Oliver Bilou Amy bag goes perfectly with my purple velvet ankle boots. I love the vibrant royal blue hue as well as the quality of the bag. Only $100 bucks! When I received it in the mail, the packaging was flawless. It even came with a purse dust cover which is always a plus for me. Keeps the bags in top shape. The tassels and zips of the bag bring a playful twist on its classic structure, and I love the side pocket that can easily fit a cell phone or small wallet. Oliver Bilou also has other differently styled handbags such as a hot pink one and a sleek black with rose gold bag. Check out the purses at their site and use my coupon code, 'suzannespiegoski' to get 10% off your purchase.

I styled chunky wooden bangles with a camel turtleneck sweater both from H&M. The drawstring of the black satin dress from Theory is supposed to be tied around the neck as it has short sleeves, but I improvised and wrapped it around to give it a sleeveless look. The result also gave me pockets and the added detail from the drawstring finessed the entire outfit. Lastly, my gold hoop earrings are from Argento Vivo. You can shop similar products down below. What do you guys think? Fashion yay or nay?