To All the Ladies with Style and Grace

WEARING: CADIEUX SS 17 JACKET | UNIQLO HEAT TECH TURTLENECK |
SHOE DAZZLE FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS | ANGELINA SHOETIQUE OTK BOOTS | 
BOOHOO MOCK CROC CLUTCH BAG | SHOPTIQUES ROSE EARRINGS

---

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY CADIEUX.

Happy International Women's Day! I could say the usual, such as how all women are beautiful, special and worthy of everything, etc.; but I'm not the usual kind. *WARNING* This post is not anger filled but brutally honest. Don't like what you read or see? Get outta my way. BYE.

There's a ferocious new trend-demic where women, but more so cliché-like cliques, that are parading around their 'love & support' for ALL women. Now, don't get me wrong. There are a ton of bad-ass ladies that are really about community and the idea of everyone getting their fair share of the pie with unity and togetherness, but then there are always the typical two-faced bitches (particularly in the blogger world) that are not only complete hypocrites, but also liars and manipulators and have no other motive than to cause drama because of their unhappiness and insecurities. Maybe they're not as terrible as it sounds because hey, I get it. We're all human. I'm flawed and complicated, and not in a light-hearted funny kind of way. But I'm in no way intentionally mean-spirited. 

My closest girlfriends, which have been in my life for decades, can be counted on one hand. Why? LOYALTY. TIL THE END DAWG. We have been through so much shit in life I don't even know where to begin. I'm not talking about childish high-school breakups or fights with the folks, I'm talking about life & death situations. Loss, heartache, violence – our trials & tribulations were sometimes extreme and I really wouldn't have made it out alive if it weren't for my babes. And we didn't become friends because of race, social class, and other ridiculously atrocious reasons why some girls 'clique-ify' their way through life. It's the same type of girl who can't STAND being alone and always has to have a guy around. Seriously?

I don't need a pile of so-called friends to waste time shooting the shit with over coffee anymore. It's so mundane and it makes me nauseous just thinking about it. On the same note, it is crucial to network and to connect in New York City and also the world. It's not just about how hard you work to get towards that 'pie' but rather, who you know and what you can do for each other. Now is having coffee with any kind of friend, close/non-close a crime? Of course the fuck not. Yes, I continue to make new friends and they're all truly AMAZING but again life is so short and there will be very few people in the world that will deeply matter to you. And you to them. I'm not here today to engage in any kind of battle but I see what I see and I have the right to express what I want to freely. Dammit, I hate being a writer sometimes...

It's unnerving to continuously meet other bloggers who are not in this game for the right reasons. Sure, everyone has the right to go after whatever they want. I remember having a conversation with a 'part-time' blogger, and even though she wasn't doing it full-time, she thought anyone can become a blogger. That's like saying anyone can become a writer, a photographer and so on and so forth. BULLSHIT. It takes so much hard work, PASSION, dedication and discipline. It is by far the most challenging work I've ever had and I wouldn' have it any other way. And yes we 'all have to start somewhere'. You pay your dues, you learn & grow (I PRAY), and you work hard and be kind to people. BUUUUUUUTTTTT, that doesn't give anyone the right to make you feel uncomfortable about yourself. PERIOD. The second anyone, not just a woman, wants to treat you this way: DISENGAGE. Don't even give them the reaction that they're just dying to wait on. Pathetic. Let them get even more pissed because of your lack of care or effort on the situation.

To all my bad bitches, I LOVE YOU. I cherish our friendships and you all mean to me more than you'll ever know. Thank you for continuously inspiring me, supporting me, laughing with me and enjoying the good times with before they all fade away. To my loving followers, I may not have time to reply back to every single comment on social media every day, but I SEE you and I can never thank you enough for your encouragement and love to continue what I'm doing. Today is for you, ladies. Keep it real. Always. NOW, to all y'all weak-ass wannabes, I don't have the time playing checkers when I'm mastering my strategies at chess. Boom. Signing off. One Love.

LOVE & XX'S, 

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

NYFW Outfits

DAY 1

WEARING: ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | 
ZAFUL LACE PANEL CUT OUT KNITTING DRESS | AE DISTRESSED DENIM | 
DRESS LILY FRUIT SHAPED ZIP AROUND CROSSBODY BAG | 
STEVE MADDEN BLACK ANKLE BOOTS

Photo: Andrew Morales for WWD Street Style NYFW AW17 Roundup // SHOP THE LOOK HERE

DAY 2

WEARING: ZAFUL WOOL BLEND MASCULINE ARMY GREEN COAT | 
GENUINE PEOPLE HIGH SLIT WOOL SHIRT SWEATER | BDG JEANS
VVA CARLINA YELLOW LEATHER HANDBAG | MORROCAN STATMENT BELT | 
STEVE MADDEN BLACK ANKLE BOOTS

SHOP THE LOOK

DAY 3

WEARING: DRESS LILY LEATHER BIKER JACKET | FOREVER 21 FUZZY SWEATER | 
JOES FADED BLACK RIPPED SKINNY JEANS | MAUMERO HANNAH ANKLE BOOTS

SHOP THE LOOK

DAY 4

WEARING: ZAFUL STRIPED TRENCH | MEDUSA PARIS BUCKET BAG |
WOMEN'S WOOL-LINED LAMBSKIN GLOVES W FOX FUR TRIM | STEVE MADDEN BLACK ANKLE BOOTS

SHOP THE LOOK

DAY 5

WEARING: CHICO'S DENIM TRENCH | H&M WIDE LEG PANTS W/ SUSPENDERS | 
CLOSET ACCESS MINI ARIA SADDLE BAG | MAUMERO HANNAH ANKLE BOOTS

SHOP THE LOOK

DAY 6

WEARING: VIP ME RED COAT | SPARK PRETTY RED VELVET SLIP DRESS | 
LEVI'S MEN'S DENIM SHIRT | CLOSET ACCESS MINI ARIA SADDLE BAG |
EGO OFFICIAL VELVET BOOTS

SHOP THE LOOK

DAY 7

WEARING: H&M METALLIC BOMBER | FRENCH CONNECTION 3D FLORAL LACE PENCIL SKIRT | 
HALOGEN V NECK NAVY BLUE SWEATER | MEDUSA SOFI CROSSBODY BAG | 
EGO OFFICIAL VELVET BOOTS | VINTAGE BLUE NECKLACE 

Photo: Gilles Decamps for ShopStyle // SHOP THE LOOK HERE 

Hey, everyone! In today's post, I'm featuring all my looks from NYFW! A total of 7 different outfits, you can shop similar pieces from each day by following the links through text and/or image. This season I went with a lot of different accessories from bags to shoes, to trendsetting wear, but I think the biggest challenge during fashion week in February is the art of layering. You don't want to be too cold outside yet you also don't want to be sweating your mind off inside either! And yes, there's the task of limited space where you sit, watch and work, so bringing too much of a bulky coat can definitely get in the way. Lastly, Mother Nature did not want to cooperate with us fashionistas, lol. Yes, it may not have been super cold, but the snow, rain, wind, and then some definitely presented a few setbacks when it came to making outfit decisions, ideal transportation settings, and more. What's your favorite outfit out of the bunch? Stay tuned for one last post covering NYFW, this one will be on events and all the amazing people I met last week! :) 

LOVE & XX'S,

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

NYFW AW17 – THE REST OF THE SHOWS

DAN LIU

I was surprised by the absence of florals and prints, unlike last season's show. Talented designer Dan Liu kept with warmer colors, including makeup and hair, while still maintaining a light, whimsical-like fairytale amongst his collection. I appreciate the focus on winter wear. My favorite? The half up half down look with soft ringlet curls to fit the theme. And also Mr. Liu's singing abilities. Yes, he performed live singing a beautiful melody! 

HAKAN AKKAYA

I have to say, this was was my utmost pleasant surprise of the week! Going in I wasn't at all familiar with Turkish designer, Hakan Akkaya, but be sure about this – you'll be seeing a lot more of him in the future! His entire collection was all about freedom and the art of sporty couture. He played only in black and white with tons of strappy belts, ruffles, and patent leather. I loved how several designers this season, including Akkaya, embodied their feelings on the current times. The political landscape is a vast one so it is completely refreshing to see that come through in the light of fashion. It isn't only about clothes, and this collection proved just that. (Even though I want EVERYTHING from this collection, regardless if it's for men or women!) 

LEANNE MARSHALL

What can I say about this amazing designer? Project Runway winner from Season 5, Leanne Marshall never disappoints with her ethereal collections. Effortless flow with a touch of contemporary this season, I loved the cream lace tops and skirts that mixed in beautifully with monochromatic, old world glam gowns. And I couldn't take my eyes off the earrings (Hello tassels) and the pop of red from the lips of the models! Lastly, silk has made numerous appearances in several collections. Major trend alert. Just breathtaking. Always such a gorgeous show.

ANNIESA HASIBUAN

An Indonesian-inspired D'Jakarta collection, models wore hijabs for each look, clearly demonstrating uniqueness and the freedom in expressing other forms of style & beauty. Each detail is rich in culture. I especially loved the glittering silvers and sparkling golds, the fierce, energetic music and knockout pieces such a ball gown composed of rose gold tulle made in the shape of roses paired with bronze and black, and the closing piece, an all black gown and cape stitched with Hasibuan’s signature “A” in gold. The perfect collection for any Super Woman! The show was completely filled with passion and empowerment. 

VIVIENNE TAM

Bright and eclectic, Tam's collection was inspired by the electrifying energy of Hong Kong nightlife, with bursts of neon fuschias, greens, purples and midnight blues inspired from omnipresent neon signs and grids that light the skyscrapers. Iconic signage, traffic lights, and contrasting dark tunnels are translated into neon prints, alluding to modern city life. I adored the evening bags that doubled as travel kits (how cute is the airplane one?!) Such an amazing collection for the cultural explorer! I may need a piece (or two) for my upcoming travels... ;)

MIMI PROBER

First time seeing Mimi Prober and 'Hallelujah'! The models walked down the runway as the familiar tune played in the background. What was interesting was the play on lights. Each step further led to the room becoming brighter and brighter. And with a limited play on color, only using off-white, black, grays and beige, this collection was all about sustainable luxury and growing maturity. I loved the stress on lace and crochet, but more so, the small touch of details, such as the last look with emerald and gold embellishments. Absolutely spectacular! And don't even get me started on the coats! 

THE NOLCHA SHOWS

The Nolcha Shows at New York Fashion Week just wrapped the Fall/Winter 2017 season at Artbeam Studios, featuring 9 runway shows.  The platform for indie brands remains the go-to downtown destination for discovering fresh designs during fashion week. I attended the “Ones To Watch” show which kicked off spotlighting emerging brands including: Mariana Valentina (Arabian Architecture-inspired statement dresses), Son Collection (Vietnamese womenswear), Just In Case (men’s and women’s streetwear from Taiwan), Chèlbè (made especially for tall women 5ft11+), and Stevenson University (a collective of students debuting their take on the little black dress).  

LOVE & XX'S,

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Valentine's Day Rebel

WEARING: DRESS LILY EMBROIDERED SHEER BODYSUIT | J BRAND BLACK SKINNY JEANS | ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | CLOSET ACCESS MINI ARIA SADDLE BAG | UO MARIBEL WESTERN BELT | MAUMERO HANNAH ANKLE BOOTS  

---

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY MAUMERO NEW YORK SHOES, DRESS LILY & CLOSET ACCESS.

I may not be the biggest fan of Valentine's Day. There are many reasons; one – my mother's birthday is the day before and I always feel a tad guilty celebrating love with her not around (for those who don't know, both of my parents are unfortunately deceased) and two, I've always found it to be such a bologna-Hallmark holiday. It's overrated and you shouldn't need a day to show someone you love them. What will I be doing this year? Strutting around with my girlfriends and hopping from one fashion show to the next. Let's not forget the events and after parties... it's going to be a killer week here in New York! Let's link up while you're in town for NYFW!

Also, what's a girl to wear rebelling against Cupid's favorite day of the year? How about saucy mixed with a laid-back rocker chic vibe? Not going to lie... my nips froze to all hell while shooting this in 32-degree weather (Fahrenheit y'all) but with my trusty and most worn Assembly New York coat, it actually wasn't that bad. (I may or may not have done a bunch of jumping jacks in hopes of staying warm ha ha!) Even though I got cold fast I love how the embroidered bodysuit has a built-in choker. Don't you think it polishes the look all together? To keep it semi-casual, I styled this look with my favorite J Brand skinny black jeans and Urban Outfitters's Maribel Western belt. I know a lot of you girls have a similar one in black but a pop of brown, especially if your brown hair is on the lighter side, can complement well with each other.

And lastly, let's not forget about the details! Firstly, my fringe bangs are in need of a trim (yay hair cut & color on Tuesday) so I did a half-up-half-down top knot/messy bun hairstyle to be able to pull the bangs back. And with a darker lip, I could totally get away with being Eric Northman's girl, no? ;) The maroon mini saddle bag from Closet Access is not only chic but definitely affordable. Aren't the stitching and sides of the purse so well-designed?! I've really been into the color maroon. Normally I'd say it's a fall color, but I feel like darker colors are transitioning from the winter into the spring period this year. Like these gorgeous suede and leather bound laced-up ankle boots from Maumero Shoes in New York. Sometimes, depending on the light, the boots will appear more blue-grey than gray. I love its versatility as you can pair these with leather leggings or a dress, from day to night I know I'll be wearing these 3" boots often. ❤︎

LOVE & XX'S, 

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS

Neutrals with Black Satin, Velvet and Blues

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? 

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

OTHER SIMILAR POSTS