How to Layer a Romper Differently

August 11, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL GINGHAM ROMPER | VAGABOND HONEY JAKARTA DENIM PANTS | 
ZAFUL RED TASSEL EARRINGS | ALLES FRINGE BUCKET BAG | FOREVER 21 SOCK ANKLE BOOTS

HAIR CUT + COLOR: TAYLOR & DAVID ADAMS FROM FOURTEEN JAY & AVEDA.

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL.

Happy Friday! It's been a long and crazy week and I've been working on overdrive... sleeping at the bare minimum but it's all good. I'm always aiming for more and continue to keep trying, which can never be a bad thing, so hopefully sooner rather than later I'll have some news to share with you that I've been dying to show you guys! The waiting game is the hardest part and I don't really want to say that much (because I always jinx it when I do) so just keep those fingers (and perhaps, toes) crossed for me! Today's post is on the easily wearable summer rompers, but because I'm a gal who likes to make the most out of her wardrobe, I wanted to style and layer a romper differently but one that is transitional for the fall season as well! Want to see how you can wear a good pair of boyfriend jeans with a romper? I know it may sound a bit strange at first, but come take a look! It's a bit of a mix with Western style and rocker chic, fun trends I enjoy playing around with.

I've styled this romper this past spring (you can check out the post here), but all on its own. This time I wanted to wear it differently, and though initially, I wanted to go with a long, black maxi skirt, the romper looked a bit too 'poofy' under the skirt. I then tried it with a pair of oversized boyfriend jeans from Vagabond Honey and even though it took me a minute to adjust to what felt like wearing a diaper (LMAO), I got used to it especially after seeing how cute the pairing looked! The added detail that I'm obsessed with? I love how the romper adds a 'patched' layer to the top cut out of the jeans. You can never have enough gingham print, am I right? ;)

Not only is the romper from Zaful, so are these gorgeous deep red tassel earrings! I love how they give any outfit an extra bold statement and because the color palette is quite minimal in this look, I knew these earrings would bring the perfect pop of color. And I love the jeweled detail within the earrings too, that gives it a little more sophistication to them. The sock ankle boots are from Forever 21 - I'm completely smitten with these shoes! They're super well-fitted and that clear chunky low heel makes running around town in them fun and comfy! Lastly, the fringe bucket bag is from Alles Bags. Have a great weekend, everyone!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Zaful Rhinestone Tassel Water Drop Earrings

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Pup-Peroni with MaQ-eroni

August 9, 2017

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of The J.M. Smucker
Company. The opinions and text are all mine.

With my crazy hectic schedule as a full-time writer, photographer, and blogger/digital content creator, I don't get that much time with my German Shepherd dog, McQueen, or also known as MaQ to most of you, as much as I'd like to. So I definitely make room for some heavy duty quality time with my fur baby every chance I can get. It's not only for his well being but for mine as well. We are each other's best friend and if I could take him everywhere with me, I would in a heartbeat. Which is why when I was recently asked by Pup-Peroni to share some of MaQ's most recent favorite treats we, of course, wanted to share with you a couple of his choices! Here's a small clue to what he always goes for... and they are made with real meaty goodness!

When MaQ sees these Pup-Peroni Original Beef Flavor Dog Treats, he immediately starts to drool and gives you the 'I want it NOW' eyes. He'll do anything for these treats, one of his favorite go-to maneuvers is the paw shake or high-five, which is always rewarded with a treat or affection. We do everything together and I love being able to count on a brand that provides real meat like beef, steak, bacon, etc. as the #1 ingredient in their treats. Even made with real Angus steak, (MaQ also is in love with the Prime Rib flavor as well) I am reassured that I'm giving something authentic and tasty to my beloved pooch. With less time to worry about what I'm giving my dog, I can spend the time I have with him playing and enjoying our time together, showing other people his tricks and 'tricks of the trade.'

One of his favorite games he's loved playing since he was a puppy is what we like to call the "Idenitification" game. MaQ has an assortment of plush toys, ranging from a dragon, fox, pig, monkey, practically a whole farm, that he absolutely adores, so much in fact, that he doesn't rip them up to shreds like other dogs sometimes do. We'll put all the toys in the toy bin and then ask MaQ to individually bring us a certain one, one by one until he is mentally exhausted. He can bring nearly twenty toys in one sitting! I'm not kidding! I'm even thinking about doing a live video on Instagram or Facebook one of these days, what do you guys think of that idea? We, of course, reward him each time for his efforts with his favorite mouth-watering beef treats.

MaQ aims to please and is one playful pup while doing so! Some other activities we love doing together are taking long walks throughout the city, rollerblading and playing catch with one of his favorite balls. He also loves going to the store with me, even hearing the word gets him super excited! But no matter where we go, I always keep a few Pup-Peroni treats within reach. When people ask how MaQ is so well-behaved, it's not just his demeanor, it's the hundreds of treats given through training and positive reinforcement. When you can make training fun and full of engagement, it can do wonders for you and your pup. And with the best meaty treats, your dog will do anything for one! You can find Pup-Peroni Original Beef Flavor Dog Treats (38 oz.) at your local Walmart in the pet aisle. Woof, YEAH!!!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE PRODUCT

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July Beauty Favorites

August 7, 2017

BEAUTY FAVORITES: OLE HENRIKSEN SHEER TRANSFORMATION® MOISTURIZER | 
ORIGINS GINZING SCRUB CLEANSER | MUSTAEV MOOD THERAPY MASK - JOY | 
AVEDA BE CURLY™ CURL ENHANCER | STUDIO MAKEUP ON THE GO EYESHADOW PALETTE | 
MUSTAEV MAXI VOLUME MASCARA | DIOR ADDICT ULTRA GLOSS 'EVERDIOR' | 
MILK MAKEUP BLUR STICK

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY OLE HENRIKSEN & AVEDA BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Happy Monday! Today's post is on my favorite beauty essentials I've discovered and have been using during the month of July. Some are old time favorites, but a lot of the beauty products I'll be sharing with you today you may have heard about before, but it's my first time trying and reviewing them. And because it's such a gloomy day out here in NYC, I had to bring in some colorful beauty essentials to brighten up this Monday! Let's get down to it...

1. OLE HENRIKSEN SHEER TRANFORMATION™ PERFECTING MOISTURIZER

The Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation® Perfecting Moisturizer is an oil-free moisturizer, rich in antioxidants, to weightlessly hydrate, even tone, and smooth skin texture for a healthy-looking complexion.Transform the way you think about your moisturizer. Sheer Transformation Perfecting Moisturizer delivers weightless hydration and luminous perfection. With its whipped, silky texture, this best-selling oil-free moisturizer imparts essential moisture to the skin, even as it delivers radiance and improves the appearance of dark spots and discoloration. It is formulated with multi-fruit acids, plus licorice and pea extracts to help gently refine uneven skin tone and texture. This silky, multitasking moisturizer is also the perfect prep step for makeup because it smooths and brightens for flawless foundation application.

2. ORIGINS GINZING REFRESHING SCRUB CLEANSER

The Origins Ginzing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser is a 2 in 1 scrubby cleanser that is fortified with radiance-boosting Panax ginseng and caffeine. Jojoba and carnauba wax gently exfoliate to help unclog pores. Skin looks smoother, brighter. Feels perfectly refreshed and squeaky clean. Plus, Origins uplifting 100% natural essential oil blend of grapefruit, lemon and Spearmint perks you up so you're ready to face the day!

3. MUSTAEV MOOD THERAPY MASK - JOY

Tone up your sunburned skin from frequent outdoor activities! The Mustaev Mood Therapy Mask - Joy mask contains soothing extracts that even the skin tone and improve the overall clarity. Supercharged with a brightening solution to help alleviate and improve the appearance of dark spots and freckles. There are many factors that contribute to how your skin looks. Diet, hygiene and the environment are a few but did you know your emotions and mood could be the reason for a dull complexion, dehydrated skin, wrinkles, and breakouts?Anger, sadness, and stress are a few emotions we experience regularly and each of these moods adversely affect our skin. Mustaev does carry other moods for other skin needs, you guys need to check them out!

4. AVEDA BE CURLY™ CURL ENHANCER

One of my favorite hair products to use while at the beach or just keeping it super casual is the Aveda Be Curly™ Curl Enhancer. Since I have naturally wavy hair, this product intensifies curl, combats frizz and boosts shine on curly or wavy hair. Wheat protein and organic aloe infused styling creme expands when hair is wet and retracts when hair is dry to intensify your curl or wave. Aveda's own pure-fume™ aroma with certified organic lemon, bergamot, orange and other pure flower and plant essences will keep your hair smelling fresh and amazing.

5. STUDIO MAKEUP ON THE GO EYESHADOW PALETTE

The On the Go eyeshadow palette is a compilation of shades that updates the bare beauty look with a cosmopolitan attitude. With this elegant palette, you can create the prettier, urban makeup look and Go Studio from day to night. The On the Go Eyeshadow Palette includes 9 shades that will boost your confidence all year round. This "Cool Down" palette contains 9 shadows: 5 mattes, 3 satin-shimmer shades, and 1 foiled shade. All of the shades are, as the name suggests, distinctly cool-toned. There are cream shades with pink undertones, taupe with lilac undertones, and cool browns, berries, lavenders, and grays. It is beautiful to look at – very Fall/Winter appropriate.

6. MUSTAEV MAXI VOLUME MASCARA

Another favorite product by Mustaev is the Maxi Volume Mascara which provides gorgeous, voluminous, high impact lashes! The dark, rich color coats and curls the lashes while providing a long lasting wear with no smudging, running, flaking or clumping. I've been using it since this photo shoot and I just can't get enough of it!

7. DIOR ADDICT ULTRA GLOSS 'EVERDIOR'

More than just a gloss, Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss is a lip plumper and gloss all in one. Bursting with hyaluronic acid spheres, its plumping and ultra-hydrating formula gives lips a supple, plump shape bursting with freshness, and offers up to six hours of continuous, deep moisture. Ultra-glossy, lips are glossed with an incredibly thin and easy-wearing mirror-shine film. I'm obsessed with the "Everdior" coral summer color, it's been perfect for the month of July! Will definitely be wearing more of this color for the remainder of the season.

8. MILK MAKEUP BLUR STICK

Last but not least is the Milk Makeup Blur Stick. A colorless, oil- and silicone-free primer to blur the look of imperfections on all skin tones. The Blur Stick minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines on every skin tone for an invisible, smooth matte finish. Use it as a primer for a smooth finish and to lock in your makeup. This stick is free of silicone, and it will not clog pores.

Have you guys tried any of these in the past? Any favorites of your own? Don't forget to leave a comment down below. Follow me on Instagram for more daily posts. Wishing you a great week!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE PRODUCTS

Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation® Moisturizer

Origins GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

Studio Makeup On the Go Eyeshadow Palette

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Flawed but Still Worthy

August 4, 2017

WEARING: ZAFUL HIGH LOW LONGLINE STRIPED SHIRT | BDG JEANS | 
GUCCI BELT | DANIEL WELLINGTON WATCH | PUMA 'CLYDE' SNAEAKERS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ZAFUL & DANIEL WELLINGTON.

"I DON'T KNOW A PERFECT PERSON. I ONLY KNOW FLAWED PEOPLE WHO ARE STILL WORTH LOVING." - JOHN GREEN

Do you ever have moments where you focus more on your flaws rather than your strengths? Even though it may be Friday, I've got a bad case of the "bully voice" today. I've been going through a lot in the past year and have had a tendency to focus on my faults, because to me, if you can recognize them, the likelier the chance you'll have of being a better person. To begin with I'm very hard on myself and put extra pressure to always strive for better, to learn more; do more. When it comes to my work, I always am thinking it can be improved in some way, shape or form. Because I'm difficult on myself, I can be hard to those I care for as well. But it's only because I see the worth in them and I too want what's best for them, regardless the circumstance.

I'm not afraid of conflict (Hello, Aries) and even though I will tell you exactly how it is (which can be a bit bumpy for those who are non-confrontational) - it's only because I want the most out of whatever it may be for the both of us. Whether it's coming to an understanding or correcting a mistake, I don't have trouble calling out on someone when necessary. And though it's a strength, it can sometimes bite me in the ass. Especially with emotions involved. I can be sensitive and when hurt I tend to let my feelings get the best of me. Instead of keeping cool all the time, I do too make mistakes and flare up like a bad case of rosacea. I'm only human after all.

I didn't even want to post content today, to be honest with you guys. It's one of those days where I feel like I just don't have it in me, but I continue to persevere: I don't give up easily and I certainly won't have anyone get the best of me. Because I'm stronger than that. I'm a fighter. And you are too. Remember, the next time you feel unworthy, stop and think of all the wonderful qualities you carry, not the negative ones. Think of your friends and family who love and care for you and think the world of you, because you're important. And if anyone wants to make you feel less than what you're worth, drop them to the curb immediately. No matter how much you may feel for them. This in itself is not worth your time. Time to say goodbye. But always keep your glass half-full.

Special shout out to Zaful for the amazing high low longline striped shirt and to Daniel Wellington for the new sleek summer watch, in white! How fresh is this piece?! Use my code, 'SUZANNESPIEGOSKI' to receive 15% off your purchase at Daniel Wellington. And can we talk about this location from this shoot? I was in lighting Heaven. Nothing makes me happier than shooting in natural light. What's your favorite form of light to shoot in? What are your thoughts from this post? Don't forget to drop a comment and if you dig this outfit, feel free to shop directly down below! Wishing you all a fantastic weekend filled with Love + Light. Always. xx.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Never Too Late to Apologize

August 2, 2017

WEARING: MAD-STYLE LAYERABLE JERSEY TANK SHIRT | HUSH PUPPIES MARIA TOTE |
MAD-STYLE OCTAGON WATCH | MAD-STYLE NAIL BRACELET | HUSH PUPPIES MAZIN CAYTO BOOTIE | 
80S PURPLE FALA ROUND FRAMED SUNGLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY MAD-STYLE.

It's never too late to apologize. And it's never too late to forgive. Trust me, I wouldn't have survived through half the things I've been through without forgiveness, and yes, owning up to when I've done wrong. But sometimes saying sorry can be quite difficult for people, myself included... especially if it's something I really effed up on. Though I am a firm believer in growing a pair and when it comes down to it, being really brave. Just do it, because if it's someone you care about, you got to be willing to be the one to jump first. And put yourself in the other person's shoes: Would you want it to be this way with you? I know it's easier said than done but if whatever the issue is is still on your mind, I think you got to look into it. In today's post, I'm talking about the do's and don'ts when it comes to apologizing.

Don't apologize for someone else's feelings! There's nothing that irks me more when I hear, "I'm sorry you're mad; I'm sorry you feel this way; etc;) This is not a form of an apology and is just condescending. What could be a better approach? Apologizing for your own actions and attitude. For example, "I'm sorry I was rude," is an apology that takes ownership. Be specific about what you did wrong. Saying, "I'm sorry for whatever made you upset," just isn't going to cut it. Even if you do make your claim, don't slide in an excuse with it.

"I'm sorry I was rude but I was irritated," means you're not really sorry. You feel justified for the way you acted and you expect to be excused from your behavior! One way to remember this is that when you say, "I'm sorry, but..." you're really just a sorry butt. That's like meeting halfway except it's only a quarter ways, maybe even less. That doesn't make any sense, right?! And this isn't going to have anyone want to forgive you. However, asking for forgiveness when you apologize is a humble request that can rebuild a relationship. But don't expect someone to forgive you right away, depending on the situation, it can take time. Just be grateful when you do receive it, I always am! Lastly, don't expect a reciprocal apology either. You have to own your part of it and move on. If you do get through the brutal, "I'm sorry, will you forgive me?" it's best to make the next step and ask if there's anything one can do to make it right/better, etc;.

What do you guys think is the best ways when it comes to apologizing to someone? And how important do you think it is when it comes to the effects of that relationship, regardless of what kind? Before I check out for the day, I want to give a shout out to Mad-Style for the gorgeous cream-colored jersey dress, nail bracelet, and octagon watch! If you are adoring the Mad-Style pieces as much as I am, use my promo code, 'maqandsuz' to get 20% OFF your purchase from Mad-Style! They also carry a variety of accessories such as jewelry, clothes and even dog apparel! You can also shop this look down below. Don't forget to leave a comment on your thoughts from this post! Follow me on Instagram too! :)