Refreshing 'Me' Moment with Michelob ULTRA

February 24, 2018

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,

SHOP THE PRODUCT

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Please Add Me to Your Linkedin Network

February 7, 2018

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

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,

SHOP THE LOOK

BDG Twig Crop High-Rise Skinny Jean - Light Blue Slash,LIGHT BLUE,28

EGO Shoes Larna Pointed Toe Ankle Boot In Metallic Rose Gold Faux Leather

Closet Access Medium Hudson Bag - Burgundy

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Trend Alert: Iridescent Oil Slick Handbags

February 5, 2018

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

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 :)

ROMWE Purple Drop Shoulder Textured Sweater

Thacker New York - Sage Tote Iridescent Oilslick

LOVE & XX'S,

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Color Block Me in Ivory, Please!

February 2, 2018

WEARING: SAKU New York HIGH NECK WOVEN IVORY DRESS | 
SAKU New York COLOR BLOCK LONG WOOL IVORY COAT | ODETTE &ODILE TWIGGY WHITE 
SUN SHADES | NINE WEST YEMETRA POINTY TOE PUMPS | DRESS LILY CROSSBODY BAG

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SAKU New York, ODETTE & ODILE & SALON ICON NYC.

Happy Friday! Today's post is the last feature with SAKU New York. If you haven't been on MaQ + Suz in a minute, check back on two other coats I've styled from the same designer. The first one was a long brown wool vest and the second was a green wool coat. I'm very happy to share the third look which is a color block ivory coat! And I think it's my favorite out of the three, but it's hard to choose as all coats are top-quality and excellent tailoring. But today's outfit is probably my fav because it is a little "extra". I'm also featuring an ivory dress by SAKU New York too, which is super sexy and comfy to wear. Continue reading to see how I put this look together and how you can style a color block look in ivory too!

SAKU New York - High Neck Woven Dress Ivory

SAKU New York Color Block Long Wool Ivory Coat

I've never been too big on wearing white during the winter. It comes from my figure skating days as we never wore white because of how washed out we'd look performing on the ice. White on white doesn't work in this case. And, also in Korean culture, when someone dies you wear white to their funeral instead of black. It's to celebrate a person's life rather than mourn for one. But this year is all about change, taking risks and doing things I otherwise don't normally do, or would never do! So I threw everything out the window and started wearing a lot more white during the winter. In this case, I paired a color block ivory coat with an ivory dress. Even white heels and white shades. I love the brown and blue in the coat as it really helps balance with all the ivory. The details on this wool coat are spectacular. And the dress is snug, but it really hugs in all the right places and I feel super sensual wearing it. I love the high neck to keep warm and also the hem of the dress.

Can we talk about how chic these white sunnies are?! Definitely, glams up the look, don't you think? They're from an online accessories boutique based out of NYC, catering to multifaceted women. Providing chic and affordable handbags, sunglasses, and jewelry, you can see more at www.odette-odile.com/ I even have a cute clutch/crossbody Banksy bag, you can check it out in this post here. But ladies, if you're looking for new super-chic, affordable accessories, Odette & Odile is an e-boutique you'll be sure you'll want to check out!

Remember these white heels? From this black and white monochrome look, I'm bringing these beauties back again to show that they can be worn in many styles. From casual to more dressy, I truly love these Nine West pumps! They have a very modern shape and the chunky heels make it comfortable to wear. I think it helps polish up this look, with the browns from the coat and heel to the whites of the coat, dress, and heels, I definitely felt a bit, "Hollywood" in this ensemble.

Finally, to complete the look, I have this light blue crossbody bag from Dress Lily. Not all my bags are high-end, but this Chloé-inspired bag is not only affordable but super cute and I don't have to constantly worry about spilling something on it as I am so accident prone. Ha ha ha! And the peach nude-colored nail polish is from my January Beauty Favorites blog post! It's my all-time favorite shade, I think I will be wearing this much more often. Lastly, my hairstyle from this look is all thanks to Salon Icon NYC. They've been around for ten years and I experienced their salon for the first time this past week and WOW! Super-professional and friendly, my blowout was done by Marina (ask for her!) using products by Moroccan Oil, Oribe, & Kerastase.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

SAKU New York High Neck Woven Ivory Dress

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January Beauty Favorites

January 31, 2018

11 January Must-Have Beauty Favorites

1. Kat Burki Vitamin C Nourishing Cleansing Balm, $60

2. Kat Burki PH & Enzyme Essence, $100

3. Kat Burki Form Control Marine Collagen Gel, $150

4. Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Moisturizer, $99

5. Urban Decay Cosmetics Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette, $25

6. Dome Beauty Eye Brush Set, $65

7. Pixi by Petra MatteLast Liquid Lip in 'Really Rose', $14

8. KORRES Greek Yoghurt Under Eye Priming Moisturiser, $36

9. Madam Glam New York Gelementary in 'Teacher's Pet', $12

10. Herbal Dynamics Beauty Rose Water Calming Face Toner, $20

11. Neon & Co. Body Oil, $32

Phew! To be quite honest, I've been so busy I didn't think this beauty post would go up today but I burned the midnight oil because I was too excited to share my January beauty favorites with you guys! There's a ton of skincare going on here today because let's 'face' it (ha ha ha sometimes I think I'm 'p'unny) the harsh winter months wreak havoc on to our skin. I've got all sorts of goodies to keep your skin hydrated and glowing, on top of a really cool eyeshadow palette that's a bit of a Troublemaker, an amazing new nail polish where I also found my perfect nude shade color, and a body oil that's the best I've ever had. Continue reading to learn more about these amazing beauty products! Happy (Almost) February! ----> [Insert: One crazy, hectic month for moi.]

1. KAT BURKI VITAMIN C NOURISHING CLEANSING BALM

Repairs, renews and illuminates skin using a reparative combination of 15% STAY C (Vitamin C), Camu Camu berry, Gotu Kola and seven reparative Cold Processed Oils: Coconut, Sunflower, Jojoba, Rose Hip Seed, Olive, Avocado and Cranberry Seed. Helps repair the signs of aging, increases skin plumpness, prevents dryness, brightens skin, retains moisture, cleanses skin and removes stubborn makeup/mascara. Some of you may have seen a mini-episode of me using this cleansing balm on Insta-Stories and it took makeup off when I thought I had a thoroughly clean face! This is after washing with a different cleanser. I'm thinking of sharing it on my Highlights on Instagram. What do you guys think? Yay or nay?

2. KAT BURKI PH & ENZYME ESSENCE

Rarely addressed, our skin is best (and looks best) when its ph (potential hydrogen) level is mid-level to acidic – alkaline ratio, 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline). The skin’s barrier (acid mantle) is responsible for keeping lipids and moisture locked in as well as protecting against pollutants, toxins, and bacteria. Optimizing the skin’s ph level is an important step towards overall skin health and protection from environmental damage and the aging process.
Kat Burki created a unique complex of ph balancing ingredients. Fruit enzymes help to resurface the acid mantle. Once a strong barrier function is achieved, secondary conditions, such as hyperpigmentation and weakened elasticity can be addressed. Healthy acid mantle maintains moisture and keeps skin soft and smooth. Antioxidant dense turmeric strengthens while vitamin C from orange hydrosols, pumpkin seed oil, and papaya support collagen to maintain skin structure and firmness. I use it as a toner after cleansing my face am & pm. I'm not a huge fan of the smell, but after having used it consistently, you get accustomed to it after a while. I find it to be one of the best balancers when it came to skin tone, overall hydration, and bounce. I wish they made one in travel-size!

3. KAT BURKI FORM CONTROL™ MARINE COLLAGEN GEL

Clinically proven to transform your skin, this marine collagen gel increases skin’s firmness and elasticity. Pure algae Keratin provides essential nutrients while Botanical Hyaluronic Acid fused with Silk Amino Acid Proteins visibly fills in fine lines and wrinkles and increases hydration. 14 known Collagen Boosters not only encourage skin to uptake the Marine Collagen for filling and plumping, but are also proven generators to increase skin’s own collagen production. Further boosted by KB5™ Complex and Reishi Mushroom, Plant Stem Cells provide anti-inflammatory benefits. This gel does wonders and even though is a bit pricey, is worth every penny. My skin hasn't looked this good in I don't even know how long! :)

4. LANCÔME RENERGIE LIFE MULTI-ACTION ULTRA FIRMING & DARK SPOT CORRECTING MOISTURIZER SPF 30

Meet your new moisturizer that breaks all of the rules: Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra. Powered by linseed extract, this moisturizer works to lift, firm, improve wrinkles, and visibly reduce dark spots. (Hi, sun damage & acne scars.) The quick-absorbing texture is oil-free and will not clog pores. SPF 30 provides additional protection against future environmental skin damage. The texture blends seamlessly into skin, leaving behind no white residue regardless of skin tone, revealing radiant, comfortable, hydrated skin all day long with or without makeup. The fragrance is lovely as well.

5. URBAN DECAY COSMETICS TROUBLEMAKER EYESHADOW PALETTE

Urban Decay is always stirring up trouble, and Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette is no exception. Inside, you'll find 10 sultry shades perfect for scandalous nights. Whether you want to go bronzy, jewel-toned or smoky, it's all here. The perfect finishing touch? A travel-size Troublemaker Mascara, plus some scandalous thoughts, courtesy of designer (and fellow troublemaker) Jac Vanek.

Small enough to take anywhere, Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette was made for sin. These shades are perfect for when you're up to no good - from a warm red matte to a metallic smoky gray with a shifty red-brown undertone. This palette even includes one split-pan shadow, Clash, that has a shimmery white on one half and UD's legendary blackest black matte (Blackout) on the other. Every shade has a velvety texture, rich color, serious staying power, and blendability.

6. DOME BEAUTY EYE BRUSH SET

It all started with a brush. Without the right brush, application will falter and frustrate. Designed to respond to varying contours of the face, Dome Beauty brushes provide the control you need for a fluid, flawless application. The Eye Brush Set includes: Eye Blender, Eye Shadow and Eye Liner brushes and is protected by their exclusive BEAUTY BRUSH ARMOR. (Genius for anyone who has a pet with haiiiiiirrrrrrr as this cover isn't called an armor for anything.)

7. PIXI BY PETRA MATTELAST LIQUID LIPSTICK IN 'REALLY ROSE'

Extreme longwear, highly pigmented yet comfortable, this rosehip oil infused liquid lipstick quickly sets to a matte veil. In a few strokes your lips are enveloped in full on color that will last all day!PREP - Gently exfoliate lips with a lip scrub to smooth and condition.APPLY - Outline lips with the point of the applicator. Apply a thin layer to clean bare lips, allowing color to set. There's five really beautiful shades of pink that I received from Pixi Beauty, but my favorite lip color and I think the one that suits me best out of them all is the 'Really Rose' shade. But I really, really, love these lipsticks. A LOT.

8. KORRES GREEK YOGHURT UNDER EYE PRIMING MOISTURISER

This advanced nourishing eye cream is formulated with yogurt, a centuries-old Greek skin soothing solution, and myrtle and rhodiola rosea extracts to reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, and puffiness. The cooling treatment perfectly primes the delicate eye area for flawless concealer application and is ideal for sensitive eyes prone to allergies. The ceramic cooling tip gently massages eyes with each application, giving eyes a refreshed and rested look.

Madam Glam New York Gelementary Nail Polish

9. MADAM GLAM NAIL POLISH GELEMENTARY in 'TEACHER'S PET'

This gel-like nail polish has the right amount of elegance and it is the perfect shade to lighten up your vibrant personality! Madam Glam has an assortment of colors ranging from bright to more subtle, such as nude shades. I always have a hard time finding the right shade with my skin tone but 'Teacher's Pet' is the perfect peach nude! I tried it once and have been using it since I have been getting a ton of compliments on the shade. I love that it lasts longer than normal nail polish and you don't need the typical LED/UV light to dry gel nails. I literally do two coats for full opacity and a top coat and I'm good for about ten days.

10. HERBAL DYNAMICS BEAUTY ROSE WATER CALMING FACE TONER

Soothe and calm skin with rose, green tea, chamomile, and witch hazel. Aloe and hyaluronic acid deliver instant hydration for a fresh, youthful appearance. Rose oil helps improve the effectiveness of beauty and skincare treatments by increasing permeability, making this toner perfect for use prior to serums and moisturizers in your routine. The smell is intoxicating and I love how relaxing the spray feels to my face, especially on drier winter days.

11. NEON & CO. BODY OIL

Oil is the answer. A vegan-friendly, super rich, hydrating, and illuminating body oil. The kind you’ll want to bathe in - but who has time for that. Super absorbing, rub it all over. That means everywhere. It should only ever irritate you when it runs out. Let the gentle ingredients like Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil work their magic on your skin. All I have to say about this body oil is that it's my all-time favorite. That is all. :)