Leopard Print for Date Night

June 28, 2019

Friday calls for date night! Summer is heating up and it is one of my favorite seasons for this. Days are long and nights are balmy, it’s the perfect time to spend that extra time with your boo. But what to wear on such a hot occasion? In today’s post, I’ve got a fun number for ya. Sultry, trendy yet super comfy, I’ve got the perfect summer date night look! Leopard print, strappy sandals, a bold red lip and some pearly accessories, this outfit cannot go wrong! Continue reading to see the complete look along with direct links to shop each item.

This leopard print matching set is the fountain of sexiness. The bodycon skirt and crop cami top is extremely flattering for many body types, as the material is stretchy. This screamed date night look to me, but as much as I styled it for a night on the town, you can easily wear this during the day as well with a pair of sneakers. I love two-piece outfits such as this one because you can mix and match for other looks. I’d wear that crop top with a nice black power suit or the skirt with a simple white tee - there’s a lot of different outfits that can be styled from this set.

Because it’s so hot out, I love to wear my hair back. Especially on those extra humid days in the city where anyone’s hair is a lost cause, it’s the perfect excuse to whip out those hair accessories! I wore this beautiful pearl hair clip by Atelier des Femmes with black drugstore hair clips to give my hairstyle a bit of variation. What do you guys think of the combination? When I think of leopard print for date night, this must include more black accessories and a bold lip.

These black strappy sandals I’m wearing in today’s post are pretty ancient. They are the first pair of heels I wore to a wedding, where it was also the first time a boyfriend had invited me to one. The experience was not so great, but these sandals lasted way longer than the boyfriend! Ha ha! They’re no longer in stock and NO I’m not going to tell you how long ago this was so you can start guestimating my age LOL - but I’ve linked similar pairs for you to choose from. Taking notes from '90s styles, this sandal is distinguished by skinny, elegant straps and a dainty squared kitten heel.

Even though it’s hot outside, it can get chilly inside. Which is why I stole this jacket from the hubby. A sleek tuxedo jacket by Calvin Klein goes well with the heels. To go with the bold lip (used a combination of lippies from Colourpop & LimeCrime) I went with a similar-colored red bag from Furla. Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed with leopard-y look. Wishing you all a great weekend. x

LOVE & XX’S,

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Black, Pink and Lavender Outfit

February 4, 2019

WEARING: FUR JACKET | WHITE BODYSUIT | FADED BLACK DENIM | LAVENDER BOOTS | SILVER EARRINGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY HEARTLOOM AND NIA DANA BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Happy Monday! In light of my pretty packed week, I’m keeping it short and sweet on here with little bit of contrast in today’s look. It can look great on anyone as these colors are flattering on all skin types. We’re talking pink, lavender, and black. Plus it’s an outfit that I feel good in, on top of being fashionable. And I’m sharing two brands I’ve recently discovered that I wanted to share with you in what I styled today. One is outerwear and the other is jewelry. And these staple pieces can be worn in many other different looks. So continue reading to see more details from casual, feminine yet edgy look with direct links to shop.

How beautiful is this light pink fur coat? It is rex rabbit, with a relaxed fit and hook eye closure. Fits true to size, I love that this coat can be dressed up or down. I love the slate pink color mostly, as it’s a very unique pink shade. And let me tell you how warm this baby is! I literally only had a white bodysuit underneath (with a bra) and I was snug as a bug in a rug! This coat is valued at $370 which is a bit expensive, but it’s definitely an investment piece! Luxurious I might add as well :) Check out more clothing items by Heartloom!

I love these long geometric statement earrings. Very lightweight as they are made from 0.3 mm silver sheet - I discovered this jewelry brand from Barcelona on Instagram!. Nia Dana Jewelry designs minimal chic pieces with quality metals and each piece is individually handmade. These earrings for example took about 10 days to produce, so you know the added details to everything will be perfect. In which case, they were! Check out more of her designs here www.nia-dana.com

These two-tone ankle boot beauties in lavender feature a pointed toe and stiletto heel. They’re 5” heels, so I wouldn’t recommend these if you’re not about the height. But I’m quite petite (only 5’3”) so anything that can add length especially to the bottom portion of my body is a good thing. One of the best ways to elongate your legs as a petite woman is to wear cropped pants with statement booties as such. Not only will it give you height, but the two together looks great while really showing off your new pair of shoes. And how much do you love the frayed hem on these faded black pair of denim jeans?!

Hope you enjoyed this more laidback casual look today on the blog! I think this outfit would also be perfect for Valentine’s Day, whether hanging out with the girls or with your date. A definitely day-to-night kind of look - easy peasy. What would you guys like to see more of? Styles like these or more polished up looks? I definitely have a few projects in mind when it comes to editorial work, but these will take a good second. Got an idea you’d like to see on M + S? Drop your thoughts in the comment section down below! Wishing you a great first week of February!

LOVE & XX’S,

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FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

My Best Tips for New York Fashion Week

January 28, 2019

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY HEARTLOOM & CULTRESSE BY ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Happy Monday! How was everyone’s weekend? I spent it working, while also preparing for next month, which is one of the busiest months for me. In less than a couple of weeks New York Fashion Week will be here. This will be my sixth season attending NYFW, and after a few years in the ‘rodeo’ I definitely have learned a few lessons along the way. It’s not all what it is cracked up to be, in that it’s not something you just show up to, like going to the movies. It takes weeks (more than that if you’re out of towners) to organize and plan for the week, from meetings with brands/pr agencies that you’ll be working with, to the shows you will be attending, and even squeezing in a couple of photo shoots and dinners/site seeing along the way. And if you’re visiting, you’ll need to handle your flight, hotel, transportation, etc; So in today’s post I’m sharing 5 of my best tips for New York Fashion Week. Whether it’s surviving or thriving (let’s hope both ha ha) - during the week here in New York, these tips will keep you moving and grooving!

1. IT’S ALL ABOUT WHO YOU KNOW

A blogger once told me that if the brand could not seat her front row, she would refuse to attend the show. So it’s not only about who you’re connected with, because in the 7-day binge of networking with other like-minded people you could potentially partner with in the future, it’s about how you are connecting (while certainly being kind to others) to begin with. And this is not in terms of logistics, but rather taking value in a person’s time and input, and actually connecting on a creative level. For example, getting in the Coach show because it’s a place to be seen is not going to get you in at all. You have to gain the experience in the industry along with a growing audience in order to achieve some sort of recognition, only then to have bigger opportunities in meeting with the bigger labels in fashion. I’ve been fortunate to meet many in the business just by chance, or even taking another chance on smiling at someone backstage and striking up a conversation, only to lead to some sort of connection. Nowadays it’s all about numbers and what’s on the phone, but I think in order to build any sort of successful business relationship (or any for than matter, not just business), there has to be a personal connection, first and foremost.

2. BE PREPARED

No matter how much you think there’s time to prepare for what’s a veritable buffet for fashion bloggers during NYFW, it goes by so fast and there is a ton of preparation to deal with beforehand. For example, the emails that are sent out and received. Hopefully, your emails are not automated/robotic-like and have some sort of ‘you’ in the message along with yes, your numbers, because stats are also important. Then the organization of what you chose to do everyday, from events to shows, meetings, shoots and, hopefully some sleep, along with preparing looks each day before as well. It’s a lot of work for only a week. And even more if you do more than just one fashion week, like I have been doing for the past two seasons attending London Fashion Week, where next month will be my third time visiting - I’m very excited! Bring a really good external/portable charger. With all the phone usage from ubering, texting, photo/video taking, and more, your phone’s going to die rather quickly. Here’s a little tip: To conserve your
phone battery during fashion week, put your phone on airplane mode during
fashion shows. You can post what you want afterward, of course after turning the airplane mode off.

3. EAT HEALTHY & STAY HYDRATED

I can’t tell you how many times I would only have one meal a day during Fashion Week because of my crazy hectic schedule. And I was the crankiest, hangriest b-ya there ever was, haha! Kidding, but really, no one is pleasant to be around when hungry, and it’s just not good for you. Duh. Yes, I confess on solely relying on caffeine, such as soda and coffee instead of water where I became extremely dehydrated. Now I try to drink water everyday, but I also tend to drink a ton more while traveling, especially while on the plane. I also will eat a bit more on the healthier side just to give myself as much energy as I can get - and obv. the overall way of eating and drinking properly while literally being on the go for a week straight.

4. WEAR WHAT YOU MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT

Every time I wore something I was even 10% unsure about, I would not get photographed by the street style photographers and I would just feel uncomfortable about wearing it the entire day. And this shows in photos. You got to know your style and own it! This is the time to have fun with your styling skills, but also shining on in that department! Who doesn’t want to look their best during Fashion Week? Again, if you’re a fashion blogger and you’re maybe doing it to just go- as in see and be seen, it may not be within your best interest then. You should want to go for the experience and to learn from it, to make you a better blogger and person, overall. But wearing what makes you feel 100% great about yourself, is something we all strive for and definitely want to showcase during this time of the year, while also sharing emerging talent/designers.

5. SERIOUSLY THOUGH, HAVE FUN!

You can kiss that “perfectly scheduled day” goodbye, so you might as well make the most of it! Each day you’ll maybe get around 5 hrs of sleep (if you’re lucky and have an editing team) will not eat perfectly, and will definitely not be stress-free. Don’t forget why you’re doing what you’re doing, and I hope it’s because you absolutely love it, want to meet other people and connect, and maybe learn something you haven’t yet, whether it’s your first time visiting New York or your tenth - from all there is to do in my city, I hope it’s out of support and passion for fashion. And when is it a bad thing to catch up with old friends, too? I love seeing everyone during this time period too :)

I hope you guys enjoyed today’s post! I do realize not everyone that comes to my blog is solely doing so for my fashion content, more so the content from fashion week. But rest assured, lots of more beauty and lifestyle content coming your way very soon! If you come here for fashion + styling tips, what would you like to see more of on the blog? And if you are attending fashion week, drop your comments down in the section below with your number one tip for NYFW! Wishing you guys a killer week, get it done and have a good time while doing so! Catch y’all back here soon.

LOVE & XX’S,

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Le-J Jewelry

January 2, 2019

WEARING: GOLD PEARL HOOP EARRINGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LE – J JEWELRY BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Don’t you love it after a nice holiday break, we come back to work thinking it’s a Monday, but it’s actually a Wednesday? Makes getting through that first week a little easier. Second post on the blog kicking into the new year is all about a newly discovered jewelry brand - where I had met the founder at a press preview for a cashmere line. I love how New York always has a tendency to bring so many people together. :) Read more about this great jewelry collection (more releases coming very soon!) along with a fun earring editorial shoot by clicking the button right below!

Founded in 2017 by designer & CEO Choco XU, Le-J is a luxury accessories brand. Fusing an innovative design aesthetic with the rich heritage of Italian craftsmanship. In 2018, Choco designed to bring this brand into New York, establishing Le-J’s influence on the luxury jewelry space. Le-J collaborates with multi-generational Asian artisan families allowing a fusion of traditional processes and quality materials, with innovative design ideas defining new Modern Luxury. I was fortunate enough to cross paths with Choco at a press preview for a clothing brand, but as soon as I took a look at her jewelry designs, I was immediately drawn to the aesthetic and craftsmanship of the pieces.

I have a pair of assymetric star drop earrings that I styled last month in a velvety holiday look (link HERE) along with these amazing gold hoop earrings with pearls perched ever so delicately – a classic look. I find these earrings perfect for someone who’s style is modern minimal chic. For some reason when I looked at these earrings I instantly thought of Robin Hood, but a female version. I definitely tend to feel more inspired/creative when working with quality people and quality pieces. It’s a no-brainer. How would you style these earrings? There’s a million and one ways, which is why they’re so perfect for everyday style, day-to-night looks and more.

These Le – J earrings are only $65, but I rounded up similar pieces for everyone to pick and choose to their liking, since I know how picky I can be with my jewelry! I hope your week is going as chic as these earrings and will continue to sparkle all throughout the week and into the new year. Tomorrow I will be getting my hair done… and I’m going to go a little different! So stay tuned for a change, nothing too drastic but yeah, I think it’s great to keep evolving as a constant. Just like my work, I’m hoping to bring you fresher, bigger, better content in 2019! So here goes!!!

LOVE & XX’S,

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My Jewelry with Wolf 1834

April 9, 2018

WEARING: VINCE CAMUTO MEN'S SHIRT | VICTORIA'S SECRET RED LACE SET | 
BO FACTOR BUGGY BABOUCHE SLIPPERS | WOLF 1834 CAROLINE JEWELRY BOX | 
WOLF 1834 CAROLINE TRAVEL CASE | WEST ELM FAUX FUR OMBRE THROW | 
WELDER MOODY WATCH | PERSOL EYEGLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY WOLF 1834, BO FACTOR AND WELDER WATCH.

Happy Monday! I hope your weekend was well spent with loved ones recuperating for the upcoming week. Sometimes there's just nothing better than lounging around and relaxing because after all we are human and we do need that break in between the non-stop on-the-go routine. Especially after a rough week that literally feels like it kicked your ass, you need to reset and reboot. Just a quick thank you to those who do take the time to read and look at my work - your support means the world to me and keeps me going; wanting to do better and share more. So thank you once again. ❤️

One thing that's been on my never-ending list of things to do is organizing my closet along with my jewelry for the spring season. Since moving I've barely had any time to clean up anything, so this weekend I really made the effort to do that! And it is my belief that whenever anyone feels down in the dumps, one of most therapeutic things you can do for yourself is making space and de-cluttering your life. In today's post, I'm sharing with you guys my jewelry (not all of it because I have A LOT), but more especially, my newfound love for WOLF, a company that has been crafting jewelry boxes since 1834! (Plus additional items you'll definitely want to learn more about.) Continue reading for more, as well as my new favorite pair of slippers and gold mesh watch!

The Caroline is a signature WOLF jewelry case, defined by its distinctive quilted exterior and classic shape. Includes quilted black leather, anti-tarnish LusterLoc™ allows the fabric lining the inside of your jewelry cases to absorb the hostile gases known to cause tarnishing. Under typical storage conditions, LusterLoc™ may prevent tarnishing for up to 35 years. LusterLoc™ lining, gold finished lock, glass mirror, 3 compartments and travel case with 4 compartments and 6 ring rolls. I received the small jewelry box along with the travel case (perfect for my wanderlust addicts) and found that I can pack a LOT in just these two compartments! WOLF has been a European icon since 1834. The luxury leather-goods company designs the world's most exquisite jewelry cases, watch winders and boxes. Still family led, WOLF prides itself on the undying pursuit of perfection, luxury, and style. Use my code, 'SUZANNE15' for 15% off your purchase at WOLF!

One new piece to add to my collection is the WELDER Moody Stainless Steel Mesh Dual Time Rose Gold-Tone Watch. Photochromic glass appears to change color according to the angle of the light and the color of your outfit; crown and pushers are placed at the left side as the signature of WELDER Watches, 38mm stainless steel, rose gold-tone case with mineral dial window, stainless steel mesh band with hook buckle closure; unisex watch for men and women, dual time quartz movement with date function, and more. It's also water resistant to 50 meters; in general, suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, but not diving or snorkeling. I would say the two colors I've been seeing firsthand from this particular watch are green and red. Isn't it gorgeous?!

Lastly are my new favorite slippers from Bo Factor! These PTYLO Babouches are so chic, I simply love the red velour and detailed embroidered bumblebees! Being partly Korean, I still hold certain traditions even as an adult and still can't wear shoes in the house! EVER! So these slippers are perfect for the home, but because they are so freaking stylish and I'm dying to wear them with an outfit, I think you'll be seeing these out and about on the town painting it 'red'... so to speak ;) Check out Bo Factor for a variety of styles - there's more minimal ones along with flashier too, such as a sequined pair... oh, la la! Side note: catching up on last week's NYT's (style section yasss) and The Photography Show (AIPAD). What do you guys think of my new items? Would love to hear from you, don't forget to drop your them in the comments section down below. You can also shop items/products from this shoot at the beginning and end of the blog post, cheers!