Transitioning into Spring

WEARING: MAKE ME CHIC FLORAL MAXI DRESS | ALEXIA ADMOR TUXEDO SPLIT SLEEVE DRESS |
 THACKER NYC BOYFRIEND SHIRT NINE WEST HENRA PUMPS | ZAFUL TASSEL EARRINGS | 
VENDULA LONDON BOOKS SHAPED BAG | ASOS WHITE FISHNET SOCKS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY MAKE ME CHIC, ALEXIA ADMOR & NINE WEST. 

If you know my style you know how much I'm into the layering game. It's a form of art that may look effortlessly chic to do, but alas, it's not as easy as it seems. And so in today's post, with the dreary thundersnow (yes it was literally snowing and thundering simultaneously this morning in New York) and my longing for the upcoming season, I'm sharing a fairly simple but elegant look that is definitely spring-wear, but can be simply transitioned and mixed in with fall/winter pieces too! This look has a touch of librarian morphed with simple romanticism in a modern-day vintage-y feel. Continue reading to learn more about where these pieces are from and also how I came to style this outfit. 

The Alexia & Admor navy blue double-breasted tuxedo split sleeve dress is quite versatile. You can wear it alone as a dress all buttoned up which I chose not to do in this look, which I styled it as a blazer/jacket. I think the split sleeves gives the piece an edgy modern quality to it and the rich blue colors is super trending right now. So much so I think it's a great transitional piece to mix in with spring clothes. For example, like this floral maxi dress. 

The Make Me Chic rose-print maxi dress is short sleeved, but given the stubborn weather, I opted for a little more layering with my favorite white boyfriend shirt from Thacker NYC. I wear it often, both in layered looks or just bumming around the house. It's that comfy and chic looking at the same time! The floral dress has great movement and the material is fair. It can be styled in other ways such as with a leather jacket, a thin duster/trench, and even with jeans. The Vendula London Books-Shaped bag is unfortunately sold out, but please check out their site for other amazing vintage-style bags! 

I tucked my hair and pulled it back into a low updo so the earrings would have a bigger focus on my face, framing it more. These Zaful tassel earrings have been a part of my accessories since this summer and I still wear them all the time. The black Nine West Henra pumps are great for any look either dressing up or dressing down, it can polish up any outfit. And yet, they're comfortable to walk around in. (Dies a little inside with so much joy.) What do you guys think of the paired ASOS white fishnet socks? I even tried them with a pair of Puma and jeans this past weekend and I think they definitely put a twist on the traditional black fishnet, for sure. 

LOVE & XX'S, 

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An Alexander in London

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK BLUE BOMBER JACKET |  ODETTE &ODILE TWIGGY WHITE 
SUN SHADES | FOREVER 21 HOT PINK RIBBED SWEATER-KNIT CROP TOP |
EGO SKYE KITTEN HEEL SOCK BOOT | GENUINE PEOPLE BELL BOTTOM CROP JEANS | GUCCI BELT | 
MEDUSA MINI BLUE CLUTCH/CROSSBODY

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THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY SAKU NEW YORK. 

When it comes to working with photographers, I'm quite selective. There's really only been one person aside from myself that photographs street style for me, and that is my husband, but when I had to travel to London and he had to stay behind, I needed to find someone reliable and with quality (which my standards can be very high... eek!) but when a new friend of mine from this year recommended someone she had worked with, I took a look at her Instagram and was immediately open to her style and vibe. But like any first encounters, they can be a bit awkward, even nerve-wracking to some, but Elena and I had commonalities such as a passion for photography, both Eastern European, and same headstrong go-getting kind of attitude. We broke the ice quickly. 

But when the time came to shoot, her camera suddenly was not turning on. At first, we (I know a thing or two about cameras) both thought it was just the battery/sensor that had a small dust or something on it and we tried to clean it. Nothing. We took out the memory card and restarted the camera again, and tried many other crazy things one photographer will try to get the camera to work (this is definitely part of the problem in the digital world, yeah?) again, but to our dismay, nothing was happening. We finally ended up at a camera repair shop about a five-minute walk in central London.

 When we arrived, Elena saw a man with a Canon body similar to hers, and immediately wanted to test his battery on her body. He was happy to do so, but it still didn't solve the problem. Her camera was still not turning on. A technician in the shop finally assesses her body and battery and can confirm that there is something wrong with the body. She was disappointed as everything was fine that morning (as I know me, myself, a photographer will check to make sure everything is working before even leaving the house!) and on top of working with me, she had 3 more clients that day. She tapped away into her phone before the man with the Canon, named Alexander, popped in once more.

Overhearing she had to work for fashion week that day, Alexander, 'Alex', straight up offers his camera to her, with no expectations. At first, Elena refuses, even at some point offering money herself to borrow his camera. He says no and then asks for one thing in return. If she ever needed an assistant and just had the time to give him a few tips, and he was not a professional photographer, that would be the next best thing. I honestly have to say that meeting Alex and his friend Amelia the way that I did was something you don't have happen to you every day. What are the odds we'd all be in the same camera repair store in the heart of London on some random weekday in the middle of the afternoon and for this to occur? It's as if as just when I start to think that the world is just crazy and that's that, an angel descends down to earth and I mean... wow. I am still so touched by one person's kindness. All thanks to an Alexander in London, my first shoot was a success! 

Photos by: Elena Gola

LOVE & XX'S,

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Refreshing 'Me' Moment with Michelob ULTRA

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What's better than after a few weeks of nonstop work, traveling included, with socializing -overload to coming home to the familiarity? New York may be chaotically insane to some, and you're right... it is, but it's where I lay my head and do find calm in the also nonstop business of the city. The sights and sounds always feel as is, just as the friends I have come to have in over a decade. But I love escaping to my rooftop for a moment of 'silence', alone, with the city. The buzz is electric and makes me dream; makes me feel alive. Feel at home. 

As much as I enjoy spending time with friends and loved ones, and even meeting new people, I do and need my 'alone' time. With Michelob ULTRA you don’t have to make sacrifices, with only 95 calories and 2.6 carbs. No, I did not drink a six pack alone! But after a long day running around the city catching up on work, meetings and more, can you blame me for taking a breather straight to the rooftop? It's still not spring season in New York City but the weather has been a teaser lately! So it's a mix in between - keeping the beer cool and refreshing. :)

After time to myself which is usually consisted of sifting through books and taking photos, I usually have people over or MaQ hangout, so you can rest assure that beer is shared. (Not with the pup!) To all my busy bees - if you're looking for new ways to shake up your end-of-the-day routine, Michelob ULTRA is throwing the 95K Sweepstakes where they're giving away 95,000 fitness experiences. Check out the details and enter here.

LOVE & XX'S,

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Please Add Me to Your Linkedin Network

WEARING: THACKER NYC BOYFRIEND BLAZER | CINON GRAPHIC TEE | H&M TURTLENECK |
BDG JEANS | EGO METALLIC BOOTS | CLOSET ACCESS MINI ARIA SADDLE BAG | GUCCI BELT | 
ACCRUE BONNIE SUNGLASSES

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY CINON, THACKER NYC & ACCRUE.

NYFW officially kicks off on Thursday, but it really started for me yesterday as I went to presentations and some events already! It's going to be a crazy week, and even crazier month as I will be heading to London for LFW straight after NYFW! Gahh! I'm super excited, but I know there's a lot of work to do. I'm extremely humbled to be traveling for work. And even after only 4 seasons in the fashion week-game, I'm starting to explore more of the European industry! Perhaps, Milan and/or Paris will be in the near future? Well, instead of hoping and wishing for your dreams to come true, go out and GET IT! Something that's crucial in the fashion world. So in today's post, I'm sharing my tips on how to make it and also survive fashion week. It's short and sweet and non-lecture-y so keep on reading to hear my experiences and stories of the past couple of years on top of my suggestions. :)

RULE #1

Anyone that has played it safe their entire life and followed the rules accordingly won't get too far to exceeding something absolutely amazing. And even though I was brought up well and know the difference between right and wrong, I am definitely the kind of woman to break a few rules. Okay... maybe more than a few. It's not for any vindictive or manipulative scheme - but I am willing to go the extra mile and reach out when maybe others say you shouldn't. Guys, just do you. Not to say you can crash any party or show because that's not how it exactly works but don't be afraid to take risks and challenge yourself. Each season I strive for better in terms of my building networks, photography/editing skills, and more. It's all work and no (okay, maybe a little...) play for me.

RULE #2

Be nice! Leave your personal sh*t behind once you leave that front door in the morning. The scene around NYFW can be intense and downright overwhelming if don't really know what to expect. But like anything else, if you bring forth a positive attitude and the wonderful act of kindness, I guarantee you that will go a long way. And YES, don't forget to say thank you, please, etc; because people will remember you for it. I always try to make an effort to thank each agency and/or designer that invites me to their shows for example and send my photos/video of my coverage along with the thank you note. It's just an added touch to detail that people appreciate (I know I do!) and being good to others means others being good to you. Don't be entitled, rude and/or obnoxious. Which brings me to rule #3 

RULE #3

My biggest pet peeve during fashion week: blocking everyone's view with their arm literally stretched out to the middle of the runway attempting to get the 'shot'. HEY. We're all here for the same reason, d$c*head! Try to refrain yourself from ruining the show for everyone else. We all can get along and keep our knees and elbows in place, yes guys, NO MANSPREADING either! Ha ha ha! What's your biggest pet peeve during this chaotic hectic week? Or for fashion month in general?

Okay, last little tidbits before I run off to meetings: If you are not feeling well (as in you're physically sick) or may feel like you're burning out - it's a long week for us. We don't just attend shows. There are meetings with agencies, showrooms, designers and then some, on top of photo shoots, events, and yes, editing content, answering emails/phone calls, and more. If you need to skip a day to get some rest and catch up on work, then do it. But only if you really can afford to. It's different for everyone. But... just pace yourself, try to enjoy rather than only take photos, and yeah, have some fun! 

Finally, this look is definitely fun and not at all serious but still boss. I discovered this graphic t-shirt brand based out in Paris called Cinon where they make amazing and comical limited edition t-shirts, like this one that says, "Please add me to your Linkedin" which pretty much sums up this week's MO. Ha ha ha! Is it just me, or isn't Heather Locklear one of the hottest women to ever exist? I mean that face! I layered it up with a winter camel turtleneck and a tobacco boyfriend blazer. Shop the details below. Hope to see old & new friends this coming week. Wishing you all a wonderful time during New York Fashion Week! Catch up with you guys soon. 

LOVE & XX'S, 

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Trend Alert: Iridescent Oil Slick Handbags

WEARING: ROMWE PURPLE DROP SHOULDER TEXTURED SWEATER | 
HUGO BOSS EASY IRON LIGHT PINK COTTON DRESS SHIRT | ROMWE DOUBLE BREASTED 
LONGLINE COAT | LEVI'S JEANS | THACKER NYC SAGE TOTE | FOREVER 21 BURGUNDY FAUX 
LEATHER ANKLE BOOTS | ODETTE + ODILE GIGI BLACK BLUE SUNGLASSES | 
MELROSO WIRE CHOKER WITH DANGLING OPAL 

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ROMWE, THACKER NYC & MELROSO. 

Happy Monday, guys! How was everyone's weekend? I spent the past couple of days preparing for the next couple of weeks. It's going to be a busy rest of the month when it comes to working. I will not only be attending NYFW this season but also LFW! All my London babes, get at me with your recommendations/suggestions on where to eat, drink, etc.! I'll be in town for a few days so if you'll also be around I'd love to meet up! I'm not going to deny that I'm super-duper excited, but also a little nervous. It's just jitters, I just can't wait to experience it all and just travel more! On another high note, I was also featured on Nine West's Instagram page yesterday with their Yemetra pumps! I don't know if you remember me explaining to you guys about how much I've always wanted to work with them, and I just can't believe it literally happened! I'm just so thrilled, stay tuned for later this week as I'll be attending their 40th Year Anniversary Party during fashion week! Now onto today's post: I'm discussing the latest trend that will be all over the place this spring season; iridescent oil-slick ANYTHING, but more so especially in this look, a tote bag! Continue reading to see how I styled it with other trending colors while keeping it casual.

Named for the LA blogger, style guru Anne Sage, the Sage tote is super chic and versatile to take on the goes-everywhere-with-everything tote. Roomy enough to fit your favorite flats (a girl needs shoe options!) as well as your daily haul, current reads, and a laptop. (Perfect for travel.) A large exterior slip pocket and interior slip and zip pockets keep your sunnies, keys, and phone within easy reach when you're on the go. Wear this brilliant beauty on the shoulder or crossbody by the adjustable leather strap, or simply carry in-hand with their signature ring handles or on its own folded like an extra large pouch/clutch. Made out of Italian leather, it's perfect for the secret type A who likes to keep it casual. 

I styled the tote with similar colors from the iridescent oil slick. This purple drop shoulder textured sweater is super cozy and is a great trending color for spring. Trust me, when I tell you this, guys – lavender and other similar shades in this family will be popping up everything this season. I guess you can say I like to get a head start on things... lol. Keeping the look cool and casual, I wore my favorite Levi's (yes, I wear these jeans almost every other day, that's how much I love the comfort of them!) with a simple but chic double-breasted longline navy blue coat. The actual coat is sold out! But I linked a bunch of similar ones at different prices for you guys to shop here!

To keep the purple and blue scheme, I wore the Gigi Black Blue shades from Odette + Odile and my favorite burgundy boots from Forever 21. Lastly, is this gorgeous choker from Melroso.com 18 karat gold vermeil with an opal prong set charm, I've always found good luck in opal when wearing them so this year and from now on, I think it's time I start wearing a whole lot more! There's a really cute opal ring too here that would go perfect with the choker, but this piece was so incredible on its own, I just wanted to show it by itself. I love how elegant this choker would look with any outfit! What kind of gemstones do you like? I'm also into Aquamine and sapphire, but opal has always been my favorite. Don't forget to drop your comments below and shop directly any of the pieces there too! Have a great week. Be back on Wednesday with a really cool look collaborating with a Parisian brand! Here's a hint: Melrose Place :)

LOVE & XX'S, 

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