Casual LBD with a Side of Watermelon and Violet

July 7, 2017

WEARING: MAD-STYLE LAYERABLE JERSEY TANK SHIRT | 
MAD-STYLE WATERMELON CROSSBODY BAG | 
MAD-STYLE 7 TASSEL DRAPING NECKLACE | MAD-STYLE IGGY SUNGLASSES | 
MAD-STYLE NAYA EARRINGS | UO BLACK PATTI LOW HEEL MULE

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY MAD-STYLE.

Happy Friday! It has felt good being back at it when it comes to working, but raise your hands if you're loving this short work week though. Keeping it super casual before my next weekend getaway, I wanted to share my favorite kind of summer dress to wear: long, black and comfy. I have an assortment of these types of dresses: from maxi's to mid's, they also range from spaghetti-strapped to off the shoulder. But my new recent favorite black dress is a clothing brand I've been collaborating with from this past year called, Mad-Style. And guess what? Even the jewelry, both the earrings and necklace, the round sunglasses and crossbody bag are from there too! What I love about this brand is not just the quality of their products but also the affordability. I like to be able to mix all sorts of different pieces together, no matter their label, big or small.

The layerable jersey tank shirt is my go-to kind of summer dress. I'm able to move around in it while I run around the city but it's also fine for middle-of-the-day meetings or end of the day events/cocktails/dinner. You could layer it up with a cute cardi or duster jacket on those cooler nights, or accentuate your waist with a statement belt or layer it with a blouse, even with ruffled and/or bell sleeves, it'd work very nicely when transitioning between the seasons and the weather is temperamental. Let's move on to the accessories... :)

The watermelon crossbody bag is also from Mad-Style. I've also shown this bag from a previous post with an off the shoulder striped beach maxi dress and sneakers, but in this outfit, even though I wanted to keep it pretty chill, I wanted to contrast colors with the black all the while maintaining subtle femininity in the style. So to go with the bag, I wore a cute yet dainty pink tassel necklace with gold hoop earrings with a tiny dangle. I love when jewelry keeps a piece minimal and soft, like in this case with the hard black.

And how cool are these round sunglasses also from Mad-Style? I'm obsessed with the side of the frames, and how that extra black chunk really shapes the glasses together overall. Plus, the gold trim makes me feel like a total badass when wearing them, so one can't complain. Other little details worth mentioning when it came to styling this piece together, the Essie 'Sunday Funday' coral pink nails and my new favorite liquid matte lipstick, 'L.U.V' by Urban Decay / Kat von D. How gorgeous and different than the usual color when it comes to lips? I love the violet tone and the little pop it gives along with the pinks and reds. 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! Wishing you all a great weekend, excited for the upcoming week... it's going to be a productive, fun one! Stay tuned...

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

MAD-STYLE LAYERING JERSEY TANK SHIRT BLACK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Keep on Moving Forward

June 6, 2017

WEARING: TOBI OFF THE SHOULDER BLACK DRESS | ZARA BALLERINAS WITH STRAPS | 
LOUISE & ELEANOR SQUIGGLE BAG | H&M EVIL EYE/ITALIAN HORN NECKLACE

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY TOBI AND LOUISE & ELEANOR.

"THE TRUTH IS UNLESS YOU LET GO, UNLESS YOU FORGIVE YOURSELF UNLESS YOU FORGIVE THE SITUATION UNLESS YOU REALIZE THAT THE SITUATION IS OVER, YOU CANNOT MOVE FORWARD."

Moving sucks. You know it, I know it, we all know it. Hence, for my lack of social media posts and overall online activity as of late. I just packed up all my stuff and relocated to Union Square from the East Village, and even though the geographical change ain't too shabby, the process of any move can sometimes be overwhelming, let alone stressful. It can even trigger memories you've stashed so far in the back of your mind from many, many years ago. And because you guys have been so supportive of me opening up more on the blog lately, today's post won't be on how-to-move, or explaining the move, because who cares, really? Instead, I wanted to share with you more on my relationship with my father and my first-time experience moving... across the country.

I was originally born in the Los Angeles area but my time there was brief. As mentioned in previous posts, my parents fought like it was their full-time job. What made matters worse was the way they fought over me. Where to start? It all began with my father's tan Toyota truck. It wasn't anything special. It wasn't even brand new. But he and I rode in that thing everywhere. Anywhere he'd go, I'd follow. You know the arm rests that are located in between the two seats? I would sit right on top of the one nearest to my dad, just so I could literally be as close to him as possible.

During one summer afternoon when I was around 4 or 5 years old, my parents were fighting again when my father asked if I'd like to go for a ride in the truck. Little did I know it would be the longest road trip of my life. He had tricked me into thinking it was a quick trip to the grocery store. For three days straight, he drove from California to Michigan. All I really remember was the miles upon miles of the empty desert and spilling a glass of orange juice from McDonald's on one of the seats of the truck. I remember that accident quite vividly as I had never seen him get that upset before. I believe that was the first time I really started to see his true colors. It took me until my teenage years to finally realize how abusive my father really had been.

No, I was never physically abused. I once got hit a few times with a leather belt (let's just say I REALLY screwed up) but the kind of abuse I had endured was verbal; emotionally and mentally. It has taken me all my life to recover from this. I'm still working on it. I hate him for the damage he's caused. Not just on me, but on my mother, my brother, my estranged family... I almost want to say it's irreparable, but I also want to say I'm living proof that you can get through it. It can be pretty difficult, but with time, patience and the support from good friends, all wounds eventually heal. But just like a scab, you pick at it too long, it'll never have the time to repair itself back up.

Do I have issues with men & relationships now because of my father-daughter relationship growing up? Yes. I didn't have a father who was showing me right and wrong when it came to treating women. He not only verbally abused my mother but physically as well. And we're not talking some minor altercation where he's slapped her once or twice. (Which is STILL never f&%king okay!) We're talking throwing bows, even my mother chasing after him with knives and then some. All the while both of them screaming at me to call the police. I was just a kid and the idea of snitching on either of my parents, whom I both loved very much, was something I definitely didn't want to do. It was never about protecting them, but using me against each other. And therefore bringing guilt and shame into the situation. If I didn't call the cops, my mother would tell me I was a coward for not protecting her. If I did call the cops, which I did a few times, my father would tell me I betrayed him.

I felt like a rag doll being pulled from both ends through most of my childhood. And no matter what I did, I just couldn't manage (or so it seems) to ever be completely accepted by both of my parents. They were constantly competing for my love (i.e; "Do you know what your mother did? She couldn't love you like I love you if she could just leave you like that..." - "Did you know what your father did to me? Even my very own sisters told me not to marry such a monster...") Talk about toxic! I never knew what was completely true or somewhat fabricated.

But why stay together for over 25 years if it was all bad and nothing good? Well, I wouldn't say that either. My brother and I had the best birthday's, Christmas's, and every other holiday of every month because of my mother. She organized everything while my dad was the 'breadwinner' of the family. And even though we never had much, she made the best with what she had. And I truly miss those special occasions where she'd surround us with her warm, pure heart, making everything seem like it was going to be alright. And even though my father was far from perfect, he did manage to be present in my life, unlike some other father's I know.

I guess what I'm trying to say is, despite all the pain and heartache that can go on in any kind of relationship, know that it can't be all bad, and it can't be all good. And when it's like that, it's even harder to walk away from the toxicity, no matter how much you may love that person. I didn't become estranged from my father until my late 20s when I finally said enough was enough when he began to emotionally blackmail me with suicide threats for over three weeks straight. I stood my ground and told him I wasn't going to take any more of his abuse and that if he wanted me in his life, he'd have to get his life in order and be more present in his kid's lives. Unfortunately, we never got around to that.

The irony is the day he passed away was the day he finally was getting his life back on track. He has just left a job interview where he was hired on the spot, where while on his way out of the building, walking down the hallway, he suffered a massive coronary and died immediately after. I will always long to speak to him one last time, to reunite and tell him that even though he's caused so much hurt in my life, I still to this day will and always will love him. No matter what. Because love is about forgiving others and also, forgiving yourself. I still beat myself up for estranging myself from him because I know it hurt both of us too, but I had to do what was best for me at that given time. And I think he too, knew this deep down. So, don't burn every bridge you come across (even though some are meant to be burnt) because forgiving others is almost as powerful as empowering others or yourself. Without forgiveness, there is no compassion. No love. I don't mean to preach, but I've been thinking a lot about the best way to move forward, and to me, I think it all starts with the art of forgiveness.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Paint It Black

June 2, 2017

WEARING: TOBI TRENDY BLACK MIDI DRESS | ROSEGAL SILVER BEAD HOOPS | 
STEVE MADDEN LUXE BLACK OPEN TOE PUMPS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY TOBI.

BEFORE I TOUCH DIRT, I'LL KILL YOU ALL WIT' KINDNESS... I KILL YA, MY NATURAL PERSONA'S MUCH WORSE.

Have you ever had a dinner where the food is really great, the ambiance is dope but the company in which you keep perhaps maybe not as much so? Sure not every outing I've ever been on has gone swell. But sometimes, the people I have to converse with (not saying many but there are a few...) makes me want to scratch my eyes out. And there are all kinds of factors to set in as well. First, do you have something interesting to talk about other than Instagram algorithms or how vapid the world has become, you included? Or are we going to go around the exact typical merry-go-round of shooting the breeze? Am I one not to give a younger person a chance to talk to simply because they don't fall into the same age category as me? Hell, no! In fact, I've gotten very close to a much younger gal who is like my kid sister. She is half my age, but wise beyond her years. Age is yet again nothing but a number. To me, it's all about emotional maturity. I have no trouble relating with an 80-year-old just as much as with a 17-year-old; so long as you're not a complete baboon with nothing to offer me except wasted time. No, I'm not saying no one has anything to offer because we all do. But what really counts is what you do with it and your time while you're here. And nothing irks me more than wasted time. Because you'll never get it back. Tell me a story, share with me your ideas, beliefs, and passions. Secondly, do you know that saying, where it goes something along the lines of being kind to everyone you meet because you never know what kind of battle they're fighting? Seems fair, right? Trust me as I live and breathe it, there are a lot of people who are not kind at all. And if you cross me or do something that's not in the 'kindness' category to me or someone I love? You're going to see the Detroit-side in me that most people never see. And it ain't a pretty sight.

I grew up right smack dab in the middle of Detroit. No, not Bloomfield Hills or Birmingham, not even Troy or Livonia. And my childhood was quite difficult. My parents fought like cats & dogs, and the I grew up always either being afraid or anxious. My father was concerned for me while raising me in Detroit. For one, I'm Asian (where there was literally a total of three Asian families within our entire community) and being petite, my physical attributes had a tendency to put me in vulnerable positions. I was bullied and ostracized until I left for college. And so, even at a very young age, my father taught me how to fight, both physically and mentally. A boxer in his early -teens, he may have instilled too much fight in me. Some of my closest friends have confessed to me that I can come across intimidating, carrying a full-blown "don't f*&k with me" attitude, even up to the point of looking like Lucy Liu's RBF. Which hey, this I won't take as a bad thing... ;)

Which I guess can be one of the reasons why people may find it hard to approach me, but I promise you this - I do not bite... HARD. Ha ha ha! All kidding aside, I'm not going to say I'm the easiest person in the world to deal with. So what is this Detroit thing I speak of? Well, it's amongst a number of things - pride, frankness, and grit. It's all about fighting for what you want in life and standing up for yourself and being fearless with the power of your own voice. I know where I come from and I know who I am, and once people do get to know me, I'd like to think they don't see me as half-bad. What gets me into trouble though is my curiosity and the disappointments people bring because I'm so hard on everyone, including myself. During the dinner I mentioned, in the beginning of this post, I had brought up the question to several bloggers/influences (whatever the heck we're labeled these days LOL) on why they had begun their Instagram in the first place since this is where most of us began as we fine-tuned our blogs simultaneously. The answers were shocking. One stressed validation, another money, and the typical answer - to connect with others. Okay, two of the three I can slightly understand. I too, use Instagram as a platform to connect and make a living, but my sole reason is to attempt to make an impact on other's lives with my creativity and words. I want nothing more than to get you to think and feel; to be inspired. To let you know you're not alone, that others are fighting just as hard as you are and that we're in this together. We will carry on because there is no other way. Because we have to.

Perhaps I don't relate to those who come from money and never had to work a day in their whole life, even though they sleazily act as if they do (eyes rolling, you ain't fooling anyone sweetheart!) don't tell me you earned everything on your own when we both know mommy and daddy still take care of you and your bills. I've been working since I was 12 years old and everything I have achieved so far in my life was honest hard-work. I give my blood, sweat, and tears when it comes to my creative outlets. I also do it for no one but myself. Seeking validation on a social media platform is NOT work, I REPEAT, NOT WORK! And stop complaining about your engagement rate not being high enough when you're not willing to put in the time and effort of displaying high-quality content, remaining consistent while maintaining some sort of discipline in this cut-throat, competitive industry. Sure an iPhone shot suffices from time to time, but if you're really trying to grow and aspire to be more than just basic #sorrynotsorry then I strongly suggest thinking outside the box, but especially reconsidering your strategy when it comes to quality over quantity. People will get sick and tired of just seeing you and your 'outfits'. Give me something MORE, dammit! Mic drop, I'm out.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Earn Your Stripes

November 9, 2016

WEARING: ZAFUL STRIPED TRENCH | AMERICAN APPAREL DRESS | 
RALPH LAUREN RIDING BOOTS | ZAFUL TRIANGLE CLUTCH

“But this was a White-lash against a changing country.”

— Van Jones

Last night I went to bed around 4am. I couldn't sleep. The election was far too important to miss, let alone far too nail-biting to take your eyes of the television set. Every vote set its fate for the future of our country. Amongst friends and colleagues, I'm usually uncomfortable talking politics. It's not because I don't care or am afraid to speak my mind – it's because I care too much for the people I know to lose them over such a topic.

Being half-Korean and half-Polish, female, and from a multi-cultural background, I know how hard I've worked to get to where I am today. But after last night's historic presidential election, I feel squashed. I feel heartbroken. I feel my country is not listening and therefore, not learning from their past mistakes. I worry for my future and our peoples' future. I thought the past eight year's progress were built on hard work and trust. But this was a White-lash against a changing country. It is a complete step backwards to where we were heading to.

This election proves this country is not ready for a woman to be a president and sadly also demonstrates how much this country still hates women and minorities along with its lack of culture. To be raised in a state that's suddenly turned red is disheartening and shocking. I am disgusted in what I've been seeing over social media since we found out Trump will be our next president. And today I cried over Clinton's emotional concession speech, a painful moment in American history.

What is happening in our society where we think it is perfect okay and suitable to elect a candidate who's never had any political experience, let alone the knowledge or temperament to handle real-life situations as the President of the United States? And that with the right loopholes and strategic pulls, anyone can become the leader of the free world? I've never felt so shaky about the stability of our country and also the world. How can we go from the arc in losing and move forward? We have to accept what is and at least try to give Mr. Trump a chance to do good. Maybe he won't do everything he says he will because when it comes to politics, there's so much fluff and bullshit along the ride, you never know what's true and what's false.

But I still hope, like many of you, that we will prevail and strive forward to make this country still the greatest country there is. Be kind to one another. Not just in the next few days but always. Never forget that your adversity and uphill battles will never go unacknowledged and that there's still a glimmering light shining at the end of that tunnel. Soldier on and continue to earn your stripes. I love you, all. Take care. Until next time. ❤️❤️❤️

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Zaful Striped Lapel Collar Long Sleeve Coat

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Breakfast at Tiffany's

July 11, 2016

WEARING: ANN TAYLOR LOFT BLACK DRESS | BANDOLINO KITTEN HEELS

Happy Monday! I'm excited to share with you my most recent favorite online store. thredUP is the best new resource for like-new women's clothing. It's a massive consignment shop that is thoughtfully curated and very easy to navigate. What I love about thredUp is that they're all about affordability, convenience, and conscious consumerism. Before going any further, I'm sure some of you ladies think secondhand clothing is not for you, but before you run out and spend a ridiculous amount of money on a brand you adore, why not, at least, give thredUP a try? It's so simple to find what you want without going on a treasure hunt. It's way easier than digging through racks at a resale shop or bargain chain. All you have to do is just search for your brand and toggle by size and color. But, WAIT! There's more...

When it comes to my personal style, I'm not for one specific trend or look. It can be low-end or high-end, or both, I like to mix and match according to my taste and what works for my body type. So I wanted to show you that style doesn't reflect cost. How you carry yourself is the reflection of your own style. Make it work for you! I picked out this gorgeous Ann Taylor LOFT dress with a pair of Bandolino kitten heels, specifically for an Audrey Hepburn inspired-look. To me, she was the epitome of style & grace, so I wanted to do a play-up on her and of course, the famous outfit from the movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's. I really wanted to demonstrate that you can wear secondhand pieces and still look like a movie star! Actual retail price of this look? UNDER $40! I saved 75%, (over $115) on these two items, but I feel like a million bucks in 'em!

What you can also do to snazz up a look is to accessorize it with a nice bag or a couple pieces of jewelry. In this case, I wore a pair of my mother's vintage earrings and an elegant clutch purse from Forever 21. You see?! I bet you didn't think that's where that bag was from when you first took a look at it. Point proven again.

So what am I going to be doing with the money I saved? It's going into a secret project I can't disclose at the moment, but it'll be both for work and personal-related reasons. Can't wait to share with you! Until then... Need a closet sprucer-upper? Or perhaps you're starting to get ready for back-to-school or are you just dying to get the latest trends for Fall fashion? Use WOW40 at checkout for 40% off your ENTIRE order! Their delivery is on point too.

Lastly, do you have clothes you don’t wear anymore? Simply order a thredUP Clean Out Bag, fill it with the items you no longer want (consult on their website to see what they do and do not take, and what the payout is), and place it in front of your front door for pick-up. It literally could not be easier to get rid of the things you no longer want in a responsible way. Talk about being ecologically sound! :)

Photos by: Gilles Decamps \\ Styling + Editing by: Suzanne Spiegoski