Crazy Indigo Courageousness

WEARING: CHICO'S PETITE DENIM TRENCH COAT | 
ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | EGO SKYE KITTEN HEEL SOCK BOOT
 IN NAVY BLUE | ALLES FRINGE BUCKET BAG | ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL DATE VINTAGE WATCH |
 14TH & UNION MULTIPLE HOOP EARRINGS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY EGO SHOES.

“You know, sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage. Just literally 20 seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come out of it.”

— Benjamin Mee

I wrote this in a caption on Instagram about a week ago. And I wanted to talk more about the significance of stepping out of your comfort zone and yes, sometimes doing things that might seem crazy at the time, but somehow always manage to bring something great out of it in return. Recently, I was having a conversation about this with a close girlfriend and how this applies to everything in life. From relationships to work, when was the last time you did something that was considered 'safe' and was rewarded for it? You know what I'm talking about. That job that pays the bills and gives you security but you hate it... that relationship you're in that sort of makes you happy but not entirely... because there's still something missing... or that trip you took and planned a thorough itinerary (don't get me wrong, it's good to make plans regarding any kind of travel) instead of letting go and getting lost, discovering hidden gems along the way. I find that especially when it comes to visiting a new place, to just let it flow... the unexpected always brings great adventures (and stories) out of it. 

Now to the bit more complicated: Relationships. Ugh. As I mentioned during the conversation with my friend, "How many love stories have you heard of that was logical and easy?" Because to me, the greatest love stories aren't happily-ever-after fairytales. They are NOT those couples that gush and proclaim, "We never fight" or "We met and that was it." A deep love is extremely rich in an assortment of complications and takes a shit ton of work. Think about it. What's braver, fighting for what you want regardless of how 'sticky' the situation may be or just letting it pass, just like a wind, without a care in the world? Because whether it's a friend, lover or something more, these kinds of loves don't come around very often. It's not as if you can just hop on the next train or another great love, so to speak. To be willingly committed to someone or something takes true strength and courage. You can't cop out because it's too hard or you're too chicken shit.

Now... have I ever run from something truly great? Oh, you betcha. Why? The one and only single reason: FEAR. Running away doesn't solve your problems, in fact, I sometimes think they'll become greater if you don't face them. And it doesn't matter what it is, but I think it's so important to stand up for what you believe in and to never avoid/digress in that feeling. I never once had the emotion of fear bring me anything except pain and regret. Even if you think you can't, trust me... you can! For me, it's always been mind over matter and you can set out whatever your heart desires. But you have to be the one to take the first step. Remember, if you want BIG rewards, you better be willing to take even BIGGER risks. 

What are your thoughts on today's post? Is it better to take chances, carry a big set of balls and crazily just going for it in life or to be reasonable, taking precautions and/or only dipping your feet in the water (instead of jumping in, full throttle)? I want to know what you think! Leave your comments below. I've been getting a ton of responses to these navy blue sock booties by Ego Shoes. You can shop them HERE or down below in the "SHOP THE LOOK" section. If you haven't heard about the UK shoe brand, you best get to their site NOW! www. ego.co.uk Have a fantastic weekend, everyone! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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12 Memories, 12 Years in New York City

WEARING: FOREVER 21 MOHAIR SWEATER  |
ASSEMBLY NEW YORK STANDARD BLACK BELT COAT | ODETTE & ODILE BANKSY BLACK | 
LEVI'S WINTER WOOL BERET | LEVI'S 711 ALTERED SKINNY JEANS | 
ZEALMER STATEMENT HUMAN FACE SHAPED EARRINGS | ANGELINA SHOETIQUE OTK BOOTS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ODETTE & ODILE.

Happy Friday, guys! I'm working from home and am sick as a dog. Completely congested, puffy-eyed, stomach ache and all, I still managed to crank out a post dedicating the past 12 years of living in New York City! (Cuz I'm a true f*Ck&ng New Yorker!) It's still hard to believe, but I wouldn't have made it this far without hard work, kindness and then some. I did a bigger post on my ten year anniversary (here and here) showcasing lessons learned from being here along with what kind of adventures I did to celebrate such an occasion. However, because of a bomb cyclone, freezing temps and not being in top physical shape, the idea of venturing outside to do anything is not exactly appealing right now. We did go shoot this out in the snow yesterday after the storm calmed down, and yes I froze my patooty off from it. But being from the Midwest and with the power of makeup, it wasn't so bad freezing while sick to enjoy the winter wonderland. So today's celebration is 12 memories I wanted to share since being in New York 12 years ago today.

1. My first night living in New York, I went out with one of my roommates and her friends. We went everywhere from McSorley's to Le Souk to Brass Monkey and eventually ending the night in Koreatown with the last ones standing, chowing down on some late night Korean grub. I remember even having Tteokguk (떡국) or sliced rice cake soup which is a traditional Korean dish that is eaten during the celebration of the Korean New Year. Even in my drunken haze, I wished for good luck from the rice cakes. 

2. Why did I come to New York? To join the NYPD. I'm serious. But after having my heart broken back home, and now with the opportunity to start fresh and heal from the breakup in a completely new and exciting town, I was still very much a believer in love. And I did secretly hope to fall in love before I even came here. And you know what? About a year after being here, it happened. How did I know? After our first kiss. (which was on a cobblestone road in the wee hours of the night), and when he put me in a cab to go home, this sudden rush came over me. And you know how you hear people say it's nothing like they've ever felt before? That's the feeling I had.

3. During my days as a figure skating coach, I worked for a non-profit organization that provided skating lessons to inner-city girls that would most likely never be exposed to a sport like this. And there was one particular student who was troubled and came from a tough background. I also photographed for the Org and one day while shooting she came up to me and started asking questions about my camera. When I finally asked her interest in photography, she told me she'd probably never get far doing anything with it. I told her that was complete bullshit and that you can do anything if you put your mind to it. Sure enough, she is older now and in college, but making moves and is a working photographer. We even bumped into each other in the middle of the street a few years ago where I commended her for her work and growth. It always brings such a smile to my face and I hope I had some sort of influx to her life. 

4. One of the greatest secrets in New York is a place called Fire Island. It's about 2 hours away from the city and thanks to a dear friend for introducing it to me, it holds a special place in my heart. It's one of those places where you feel you're thousands of miles away from home but you're a hop, skip and a cab back into the city. Many memories of Rocket Fuel's, lobster dinners, badminton and long perfect days on the beach. It's been a few years since I've been back and I sure do miss it!

5. If you know me, you'll know my deep passionate obsession with opera. I've been heavily involved since I was a teenager and anytime I visit the Met here in New York is such a treat. But the most memorable moment was when my husband proposed to me after an evening of Tosca and just as I was about to tell him I was profusely starving after taking countless photos of me at the parterre (plus we hadn't had dinner yet and it was a late show) he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Definitely one of those nights for the books. 

6. On a particularly early morning, I got off at Grand Central and started to head to work before I was stopped by a production company telling me I couldn't go anywhere as they were in the middle of shooting a scene for a movie. When they told me it'd be about twenty minutes before I could pass, I decided to book it in hopes that no one would notice tiny ole' me. As I started to look back thinking I was in the clear I smacked directly into a rather tall gentleman, who turned out to be Will Smith, who was shooting I am Legend at the time. He was very kind and no damage done because I managed to make it to work on time that day! One of the coolest celebrities I've ever crossed paths with. 

7. In 2012, I lost my dad to a massive heart attack. I was crushed. About six months after, my husband and I decided on adopting a dog together but every shelter we went to didn't have any puppies. And as a first-time dog owner, I really thought it was best to raise the pup from the beginning. After countless disappointing visits, my husband decided to take us out on a day trip to a German Shepherd breeder "just to look" at puppies, given that this has always been my favorite breed. My father and I have always had a connection to these type of dogs. And this is where we met MaQ and brought him home with us on the very same day! It's probably my favorite memory in the past ten years. I literally cried tears of joy on the way home, it was the happiest moment ever.

8. Through Air BnB, I found an amazing cottage upstate in the Catskills where in between moving apartments in the city, we sought refuge up there, where there was a ravine adjacent to the house that would lead you to a sinking swimming hole. The water was so clear (and freaking cold) but our visit was well spent. I think my favorite memory from being up there was our last night when the power went out from a storm, and my husband and I sat out on the porch with candles and just talked all night, taking photographs and playing with the pup. It was perfect and so simple. 

9. It took up to five years to have my debut novel traditionally published, but after a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, I will always cherish that moment of holding the first copy of the paperback in my hands. I spent four years writing it (with three jobs, a social life and then some) and another year getting countless rejections before anything happened. So it just goes to show that if you really want something bad enough, you better be willing to work your ass off for it and you better be PATIENT.

10. After about a ten-year career in figure skating (20+ if you count in the training), I gave it all up to start a new career in digital media and entered the Wild Wild West world of blogging. I remember that fleeting moment when I made that decision and thought, "Oh my gosh, was this stupid? Did I just make a huge mistake doing this?" Sure, it was really tough to walk away from skating - it was something I truly loved, but staying comfortable wasn't my idea of learning and in return, growing into becoming a stronger and better person. So the memory of jumping off that cliff so to speak will never fade. Sure, at first I was scared but any act of courage will bring out something good. I promise. It wasn't that long ago when I started out and thought, "I'll never work with a brand like so and so", or, "an opportunity like that will never happen to me" and here I am now working with global brands and am being presented insane opportunities I never even dreamed of!

11. During my second season at NYFW, I got photographed by street photographers over a vibrant green apple bag. It was such a frenzy that I literally lost my goody bag from one of the shows in midst of the commotion! But in return, I was featured in WWD and Getty Images. I remember a sweet colleague who sent me a DM on Instagram saying she saw me in the street style section in WWD and I was over the moon! Any fashion/style blogger knows the high of not only getting photographed but featured in an editorial magazine of that caliber.

12. Last but not least, probably one of the best highlights of my career from the past year was doing my first commercial with L'Oreal and La Roche Posay! This memory taught me so much, as it was a day to be engaging, supportive, patient, and most importantly, fun! As nervous as I was, even at times thinking, "I'm not so sure if I can do this", I did it and actually really enjoyed myself! It also taught me to always challenge myself because the best thing you can still do for yourself is to surprise yourself. 

We are capable of so much more than we think we are capable of doing and I can promise you from all the memories that have been made from the past 12 years, both good and bad, from living in New York, is this: Keep going and keep pushing. Never let someone or something try to define you. You are you and that is your power. Now go and do you! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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New Year Vibe

WEARING: NEW VIBE JERSEY DRESS | VENDULA LONDON ROUND FILM BOX CROSSBODY BAG | EGO METALLIC BOOTS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY NEW VIBE & VENDULA LONDON.

Happy Monday, everyone! Are you ready for the Holidays yet? I can't believe Christmas is in a week! This year has completely flown by... I'm still not done with my holiday shopping yet! But I must confess, I've always been a last minute shopper. I'm also not the biggest fan of this season for a number of reasons, so in today's post, I'm sharing a holiday look that's not your usual glittery gold, silver, red or green colors, but a color more outside the box: Navy Blue! I've been completely obsessed with this color all year, and I just can't get enough of it! I even have some gorgeous navy blue satin sock boots coming in and I'm so geeked up on styling them. Last week's fashion post featured sustainable wear by NEW ViBE, you can check that outfit here, where there are hints of reds to inspire you for a more 'passionate' look for the holidays. The jersey dress in today's post is also made by the same brand. Come take a look at how I styled this dress for a more holiday-inspired look!

You can wear the navy blue jersey dress in a number of ways just like the dress with the red lace, I think it would look adorable with some sparkly tights, should you want to layer it up a little more for those colder temps. Since we chose to shoot indoors, I opted out with the pantyhose and went bare :) I brought in accents of gold from the Gucci belt, rose gold metallic boots, and hoop earrings. The final touch is this amazing yet unusual bag from Vendula London. They make some really unique bag, like this round film box crossbody bag with gold chain. The love the subtle added detail of the negative strip on the strap as well. Very cute and super chic. Go check out more of their bags here!

I'd definitely say this look is not suitable for a black-tie event, but you could definitely wing this for many different kinds of holiday parties, from a friends' get-together to an office party, it's a really great dress to wear for these occasions as well as after. I'd totally layer this with a good pair of jeans and boots with a touch of street style flair with a Vetements belt or a chunky statement earring, well into the winter months. To see more by NEW ViBE, be sure to follow them on Instagram to get on the waitlist for their newest collection. Have a wonderful week! I'll be back soon. xoxo

LOVE & XX'S,

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Blue Winter Bunny

WEARING: WHO WHAT WEAR™ COLLECTION FAUX FUR TRIM PARKA |
 GENUINE PEOPLE SWEATER DRESS | SHOE DAZZLE FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS |
FOREVER 21 SOCK BOOTS | MEDUSA MINI BLUE CLUTCH/CROSSBODY | 
STELLA MCCARTNEY OVERSIZED AVIATOR GLASSES | CASE APP ITALIAN MARBLE IPHONE CASE   

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY WHO WHAT WEAR™ COLLECTION, MEDUSA BAGS, & CASE APP.

I spent last Friday evening with Who What Wear™ at the amazing office/event space, Neuehouse, here in New York, where a conversation with panelists Danielle Yacobovsky, Co-Founder of BaubleBar, Wendy Nguyen from Wendy's Lookbook, and Marianna Hewitt from Life with Me, was the highlight of the night. I really valued the panel's insights on the new up and coming changes within the digital content world and mingling with other bloggers afterward over bites & drinks with quite an enjoyable gifting suite from the Who What Wear™ Collection! Spotted at first sight was this amazing lightweight faux fur trim parka jacket. Come take a look at how I styled this jacket for a chic look that can still be pulled off on these wintry days with the proper amount of layering. 

Unquestionably the most luxe parka of the season, the Fur-Trim Parka - Who What Wear™™ has lavishly soft, fun pop of light blue color faux fur trim around the hood; the silky-soft heavy satin gets extra presence from a drawstring waist and boldly bright hardware. Flap pockets complete the traditional parka look; you’ll love it as a chunky contrast over slim-cut outfits, like this one in today's post with faux leather leggings, a wool sweater dress and white button down shirt. And it's only $70 at Target! You can shop it here and at the end of this post.

I accessorized with a pair of black sock ankle boots and brought a pop of color with this blue clutch/crossbody bag. My oversized aviator glasses are from Stella McCartney and my Italian marble phone case is from Case App. They have several designs to choose from for your phone or laptop. What's even cooler is you can customize your own design if you want to. It makes for a great stocking stuffer! Use my 20% discount code, 'SUZANNEE20' to get a marble-like one like mine and/or personalize one too!

What do you guys think of this layered outfit? I didn't think I'd be warm enough outdoors due to the lining of the parka, but with the wool, it was a real saver! Even something like thermal wear would also come in handy with this lightweight jacket. And how great is the color of the faux fur trim? Link to shop this jacket can be found here and also in the 'Shop the Look' section down below. Lastly, don't forget to drop a comment before you go! Have a great Monday. :)

LOVE & XX'S, 

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Contemporary Power Suit

WEARING: LIANA CAMBA POWER SUIT | ZAFUL ARMY GREEN WOOL BLEND 
MASCULINE COAT | GUNAS NEW YORK RIDLEY PE BAG | KOIO CAPRI BIANCO SNEAKERS | 
HICKIES LACING SYSTEM | DANIEL WELLINGTON GOLD MESH WATCH | MAD-STYLE NAYA EARRINGS 

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LIANA CAMBA, KOIO & HICKIES.

Remember this past weekend's feature with Athens designer, Liana Camba? I styled one of her jackets (check it out here) and in today's post, I'm sharing a different kind of take on one of this season's biggest trends: The power suit. In a time of political unrest, designers are having no trouble expressing their support for female power through design. And what's better than feeling feminine, fun and confident as a woman? And this suit is very unique. In this look, I'll also be sharing a few more interesting brands/designers that need to be recognized. If you're anything like a sneaker fanatic or handbag freak like myself, trust me and definitely check out Monday's post! To start, let's get more into detail about this power suit. 

This neutral-colored structured power suit by Liana Camba immediately caught my eye with its intricate details and fit. I was also struck by its resort-like luxurious quality that can be worn in many different ways and isn't the typical power suit. The white hook buttons and pleated back of the jacket would look great with a pair of jeans or a sleek black pencil skirt. The hem of the pants is just amazing! And even though it is quite feminine and elegant, I wanted to keep with a more tomboyish look and wore it with my new white sneakers from Koio. 

Original low-top sneakers in exquisite Vitello leather and camoscio suede it has an incredibly smooth feel and is very durable. I love the minimal style along with the comfort of these new shoes. And check out a new lacing system by Hickies: After a lifetime of traditional shoelaces that untie, wear out and never fit quite right, Hickies decided to redesign how to lace-up. Easy to install and totally customizable, HICKIES® are a one-and-done lacing system — just snap them into your shoes when you get them and you’ll be ready to slip-on with a perfect fit every time. With their signature adaptive technology and modular design, these laces were made for walking, and running, and jumping, and pedaling, and...you get the picture. And the ones I received were in sponsorship with Swarovski, which give the overall look an extra touch of glam. 

America's first 100% vegan handbag brand since 2009, GUNAS New York was created by designer and animal lover, Sugandh G. Agrawal, GUNAS's heart and soul screams to be the voice of animals. With an award-winning design and business background, Sugandh quit her 7-year corporate career as an Industrial designer at KitchenAid to start her own brand of cruelty-free fashion in New York. Her mission is strong and clear. "Animals are NOT meant to be a part of fashion. We can look and feel good without harming other living beings. We need to connect our selves with what goes on behind the scenes and question our actions and their impacts." What initially began as an all MADE IN NYC label, has now gone global to source and manufacture bags and shoes using artisan and small-scale ethical manufacturers from countries such as India, South Korea, Mexico, Brazil and Hong Kong. With styles ranging from totes, satchels, cross-body bags, wallets and backpacks GUNAS has a bag to suit your every mood and lifestyle need.

To help balance out the blue and neutral colors, I kept warm in an army green masculine coat by Zaful. I've had this coat for over a year but it continues to be one of my fall/winter staple coats. I also styled with accents of gold in the accessories such as my Daniel Wellington watch (Use my code, 'SUZANNESPIEGOSKI' to receive 15% off your purchase.) and Mad-Style earrings. What do you guys think of this look? Stay tuned for more content coming this month. New drink recipes, styled looks and my November beauty favorites! Don't forget to leave your comments down below and to follow me on Instagram! Happy Monday, everyone. 

LOVE & XX'S, 

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