An Alexander in London

February 27, 2018

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

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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NYFW AW 18 Outfits

February 26, 2018

DAY 1

WEARING: MKT STUDIO RED LEATHER JACKET | VIP SHOP PLAID WIDE LEG PANTS | CHLOE BAG
H&M TURTLENECK | GUCCI BELT | ACCRUE KANDINSKY SUNGLASSES | FOREVER 21 BURGUNDY BOOTS

SHOP THE LOOK

DAY 2

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK BURGUNDY FOX FUR COAT | CHLOE BAG | LEVI'S JEANS | 
FOREVER 21 BURGUNDY BOOTS | ACCRUE BONNIE SUNGLASSES

SHOP THE LOOK

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DAY 3

WEARING: NA-KD FASHION LEATHER JACKET | SAKU NEW YORK LACE TRIMMED SLEEVE KNIT TOP | 
SAKU NEW YORK WIDE LEG PANTS | CHLOE BAG

SHOP THE LOOK

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DAY 4

ROSEGAL DOUBLE BREASTED PLAID TRENCH COAT | THACKER NYC BOYFRIEND SHIRT | 
VAGABOND HONEY JAKARTA DENIM PANTS | STELLA MCCARTNEY OVERSIZED GLASSES | 
BRAHMIN MELBOURNE CROSSBODY | KOIO CAPRI BIANCO SNEAKERS

SHOP THE LOOK

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DAY 5

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK COLOR BLOCK LONG WOOL IVORY COAT | WHO WHAT WEAR™ SWEATER | 
GENUINE PEOPLE BELL BOTTOM CROP JEANS | EGO METALLIC BOOTS | 
MAD-STYLE PEARL MULTI RING CHOKER | ACCRUE BONNIE SUNGLASSES | 
DRESS LILY FRESH BLUE CROSSBODY BAG

SHOP THE LOOK

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DAY 6

WEARING: MKT STUDIO JUMPSUIT | ZAFUL STRIPED JACKET | ASSEMBLY NEW YORK BLACK COAT | 
ALLES BAGS FRINGE BUCKET | EGO BOOTS | DIOR GLASSES | FOREVER 21 BELT

SHOP THE LOOK

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LOVE & XX'S,

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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,

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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.