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! :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Casual LBD with a Side of Watermelon and Violet

July 7, 2017

WEARING: MAD-STYLE LAYERABLE JERSEY TANK SHIRT | 
MAD-STYLE WATERMELON CROSSBODY BAG | 
MAD-STYLE 7 TASSEL DRAPING NECKLACE | MAD-STYLE IGGY SUNGLASSES | 
MAD-STYLE NAYA EARRINGS | UO BLACK PATTI LOW HEEL MULE

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY MAD-STYLE.

Happy Friday! It has felt good being back at it when it comes to working, but raise your hands if you're loving this short work week though. Keeping it super casual before my next weekend getaway, I wanted to share my favorite kind of summer dress to wear: long, black and comfy. I have an assortment of these types of dresses: from maxi's to mid's, they also range from spaghetti-strapped to off the shoulder. But my new recent favorite black dress is a clothing brand I've been collaborating with from this past year called, Mad-Style. And guess what? Even the jewelry, both the earrings and necklace, the round sunglasses and crossbody bag are from there too! What I love about this brand is not just the quality of their products but also the affordability. I like to be able to mix all sorts of different pieces together, no matter their label, big or small.

The layerable jersey tank shirt is my go-to kind of summer dress. I'm able to move around in it while I run around the city but it's also fine for middle-of-the-day meetings or end of the day events/cocktails/dinner. You could layer it up with a cute cardi or duster jacket on those cooler nights, or accentuate your waist with a statement belt or layer it with a blouse, even with ruffled and/or bell sleeves, it'd work very nicely when transitioning between the seasons and the weather is temperamental. Let's move on to the accessories... :)

The watermelon crossbody bag is also from Mad-Style. I've also shown this bag from a previous post with an off the shoulder striped beach maxi dress and sneakers, but in this outfit, even though I wanted to keep it pretty chill, I wanted to contrast colors with the black all the while maintaining subtle femininity in the style. So to go with the bag, I wore a cute yet dainty pink tassel necklace with gold hoop earrings with a tiny dangle. I love when jewelry keeps a piece minimal and soft, like in this case with the hard black.

And how cool are these round sunglasses also from Mad-Style? I'm obsessed with the side of the frames, and how that extra black chunk really shapes the glasses together overall. Plus, the gold trim makes me feel like a total badass when wearing them, so one can't complain. Other little details worth mentioning when it came to styling this piece together, the Essie 'Sunday Funday' coral pink nails and my new favorite liquid matte lipstick, 'L.U.V' by Urban Decay / Kat von D. How gorgeous and different than the usual color when it comes to lips? I love the violet tone and the little pop it gives along with the pinks and reds. 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! Wishing you all a great weekend, excited for the upcoming week... it's going to be a productive, fun one! Stay tuned...

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

MAD-STYLE LAYERING JERSEY TANK SHIRT BLACK

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White Summer Shorts Suit

June 10, 2017

WEARING: DEZZAL WORK BLAZER AND MINI SHORTS | NA-KD FASHION DEEP V SINGLET | 
VAGABOND OXFORD SHOES | MAD-STYLE ROCK N ROLL CROSSBODY BAG | MAD-STYLE CALLY EARRINGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY DEZZAL & MAD-STYLE.

CHIC FOR MOST OFFICES AND EVERYWHERE ELSE.

Shorts suits' ultimate-feminine take on menswear is one Spring/Summer trend I can jump onboard for. I love mixing soft and hard pieces together, and because I'm also not necessarily either in particular, it's a great way to showcase my style while also having fun doing it. (and perhaps simultaneously taking care of business.) And this kind of trendy suit is more than 'suitable' in warmer temperatures, especially for busy working gals who don't have time to change in between work and evening functions. I adore a day-to-night look because a simple but stylish outfit can be carried throughout the entire day, so long as you carry yourself well too. And what suit doesn't give a woman an added boost of confidence? Let me show you how to style a shorts suit just in time for summer!

Sometimes when petite or shorter girls wear something like a shorts suit, they need additional help in elongating their legs. If you're a little bit disproportionate in terms of measurements, wear a heel of some kind. To give even more length, a strappy sandal would definitely fit the bill. But if you want to go for a more traditional look, I'd go for some oxfords like I styled here. I love the nude/faded-blush tone in these Vagaband oxfords because it helps focus on the main attraction, which is the shorts suit. To balance the color out with the shoes, I chose a lighter pink colored rock -n- roll bag and a carnation pink silk camisole top.

The beautifully cut singlet top is from NA-KD Fashion, featuring thin straps in a racerback design and is light as a feather. I've never been a huge fan of pink, but other shades such as dusty pinks, and other blush tones have been making me grow more fond of the feminine color. Perhaps it never really was a girly color, but more of an empowering one. Now that I think about it since when has pink ever really been a soft or weak color? I must admit when I do wear pink, which is still quite a rarity, I do feel more feminine, but in the best way possible. Use my code Suzanne 20 for 20% off at NA-KD Fashion!

To go with the guitar-strapped rock -n- roll bag, I wore these cute Cally earrings, both by Mad-Style. These stunning earrings are on trend and create an eclectic mix of modern and rustic style. They have some really great accessories at very affordable prices. Check them out at Mad-Style.com, and use my code, 'maqandsuz' to get 20% OFF your purchase. The gorgeous metallic tones of the earrings mix well with natural stone accents, like this white shorts suit from Dezzal.

There are a few reasons why I love this particular shorts suit. One it's fresh and crisp white color is so clean for summer. Two, it's materials, such as the texturized fabric for both the blazer and shorts is pretty fantastic, and three, the pearl details on the pockets of each piece is almost too good, am I right? Just the right amount of chicness, playfulness, and charm in the perfect summer outfit; both for business and for pleasure :) What's your guys' take on the shorts suit trend? I'd love to hear from ya! Don't forget to comment down below and leave some love... have a wonderful rest of your weekend, everyone!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Dezzal White Work Blazer and Mini Shorts

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Sweet Williams on Memorial Day

May 29, 2017

WEARING: & OTHER STORIES DENIM JACKET | TOBI LOVE GAME WHITE SHIFT DRESS | 
MAD-STYLE TALL METALLIC GEO TOTE BAG | PUMA VIKKY GREY PLATFORM SNEAKER 
MAD-STYLE TRANSLUCENT CATEYES SUNGLASSES | CLAIRE'S SATIN BOW CHOKER | 
VIP ME DENIM & CHAIN FRINGE CHOKER NECKLACE

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY TOBI.

SWEET WILLIAMS FLOWERS ARE AT THE CENTER OF MANY ROMANTIC LEGENDS.

One such legend is steeped in the poetry of the English writer John Gay, who wrote, “Sweet William’s Farewell to Black-ey’d Susan: A Ballad.” In this piece of poetry, both the sweet William and the black-eyed Susan were depicted as real people – Sweet William as a sailor and the black-eyed Susan as his beloved, who must part from him. The story tells of the two meeting, then having to separate again – sweet William assuring his love and fidelity all the while. Sweet Williams flowers are one of the few blossoms that have symbols that most people associate with masculinity – their predominant symbol being that of gallantry. However, they also represent finesse and perfection and are frequently presented to the recipient as a way to tell him or her that the giver feels they are either quite smooth or simply as good as it gets. They also express the sentiment, “grant me a single smile,” and are sometimes given as gifts solely to make the recipient’s day. Sweet Williams flowers (yes, the flowers from this shoot are in fact, Sweet Williams!) have always reminded me of my grandparents. And the way they came together is not only over-the-top romantic, but fitting on a day like today... Memorial Day.

For those who do not know, I am half-Polish... given my dominant Eastern European last name (father's side). I feel like I need to inject this in now before I get going, you'll understand in a bit. My grandparents met like any typical teenagers do – amongst mutual friends. You see, my grandmother was dating a good friend of my grandfather's, but this quickly changed after they met. But wait, it doesn't end there. Before they could even begin courting each other, my grandfather was deployed to Paris during WWII. He served in the US Army Air Forces as a corporal lieutenant. Back then there was no texting, Facetime or social media. Even a long-distance phone call was pretty scarce. So, to remain in touch with my grandmother, my grandfather wrote her hand-written letters almost every day. Their correspondence to one another is what made them fall madly in love with each other.

At some point, the distance between them became too great. My grandmother could hardly stand it any longer and made her way to Paris to be with him. When they came back to the states not too long after that, they married. They had five children and were together for nearly 45 years. Sure they fought just like any couple, but they sure were crazy about each other. I feel like you don't hear that many legendary love stories anymore. Actually, the whole idea of dating in this day and age is rather frightening to me. While at an event this past week I struck a conversation with a woman who just moved to New York City a few months ago, and after a heart-wrenching breakup with her ex, she opted for Tinder, one of those dating apps, even though now there's so many of them for many different types of relationships, to sexual encounters, FWB, and yes, even 'real' relationships. And though Tinder is known for casual hookups, she ended up being in a relationship with the guy and is quite happy, it seems.

Is it like that for everyone? Definitely not. I was watching a documentary series late one night due to insomnia (over-working, stress & anxiety will do that to you) about the digital world and relationships. 1 out of 4 people who are in dating apps have trouble finding meaningful relationships due to 'too many options' out there. You have more and more women (and men) who are not willing to settle down and getting married. Younger women are more driven and independent than they've ever been. You have men who are literally sleeping with anything that has a pulse because they were the geek back in high school and now that they're all grown up with a successful job, it's payback time. For example, on the documentary series, there's a Las Vegas event planner who's basically in his forties and organizes pool parties for a living. He is single and thoroughly enjoys it being this way.

Was he the geek back in high school? No, but he was the 'nice guy', you know, the guy who wasn't necessarily a stud, but was nice enough to be your friend? Yeah, that guy. And then he went on to appear on a big reality show. After that, the nice guy was history. Women started throwing themselves at him all because he had been on TV (that and being mildly attractive probably didn't hurt) and a dickhead bachelor was born. But what makes this guy not the nice guy anymore is the way he treats the women he 'dates'. He will take a girl out a couple of times, sleep with her and then disappear. It is one thing to set clear intentions/boundaries, but what he did was misleading. He'd get them to believe they were something more than just a few dates, by taking the time to say and do all the right things men are supposed to do while courting a woman. And once he had them hooked, with a potential feeling of a 'maybe', he'd ghost them.

He even went as far as pretending like he didn't know a girl he was sleeping with for a few months. When she had tried to make contact with him after he ghosted her (meaning never responds to any messages) he replied with a, "who is this?" Luckily, the girl laid it on to him thick and told him how cowardly and hurtful his actions have been, going even as far as refusing to leave him alone until she met him face to face (this I would not make the time for), to express herself... and rightfully so! I find that the more options that are being provided within the digital world have caused people to act more selfishly than ever before. And romance? Forget about it, I feel like most of it is all for show. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of wonderful, good, decent men (yes, I've met some of them!) but in the new times we live in, and with endless choices when it comes to sex and relationships, I'm definitely missing the simplicity of authentic love amongst one another. Can't we write more hand-written notes anymore? If you're not feeling someone, can't you just be honest with them and give them that respect, especially when you know they'd do that for you? Since when did hurting others become a trend?

Now if you're not looking for anything serious and just want to have fun, that's completely okay. Just don't take advantage of people, being a jerk is never cool. How can someone like that guy look at himself in the mirror every morning? Thankfully after that girl confronted him, it made him think and change his ways. (Hopefully, because whatever is said on camera isn't necessarily done off-camera) With intention, this post will potentially give those some hope, that the real thing still does exists because I do continue to see it every day among others and through myself. And knowing you have a conscious – that you could never stoop to that kind of slimy low-level like that Vegas guy says something about you already, that you're better than that and because of it, you will go on to find better too. Never stop believing in love, my friends. Happy Memorial Day. xo.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Mad-Style Translucent Cateyes Sunglasses

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The Cutest Off the Shoulder Beach Maxi Dress

May 19, 2017

WEARING: VIP ME BLUE STRIPE OFF THE SHOULDER BEACH MAXI DRESS |
MAD STYLE WATERMELON CROSSBODY BAG | KLASSE14 VOLARE SKY MIDNIGHT WATCH | 
ADIDAS STAN SMITH LEATHER SNEAKERS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY VIP ME, MAD STYLE & KLASSE14.

Happy Friday, folks! With scorching temps the past few days here in New York City, I had to bust out one of the many summer dresses for the season! Let's get right down to it, how adorable is this blue, stripe, off the shoulder beach maxi dress from Vip Me I'm all about the buttons down the center, as this dress can easily be styled into a shirt dress. The tie-around waist hugs perfectly around my hips and really gives a wonderful shape. And what girl isn't into off-the-shoulder-anything, these days?! It's the perfect way to show just a little skin without being too revealing, which in some cases, less is more!

I styled the dress with a seasonal summer watermelon handbag from Mad-Style. It can be carried with or without a gold chain. This bag is the cutest for the hot days ahead of us! They come in different colors too if you're more of a lemon/orange type of gal. ;) 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!

Other accessories in this look are the simple but classic Stan Smith's by Adidas. When it's too hot out here in New York, I'm not one to wear sandals. I find it super gross to walk around in them in the city as it's so dirty, plus my figure skating feet are not exactly my strength. I call them 'lizard' feet because they're effed up like ballerina's feet... with bunions, too many veins, scars, and then some... it's not my most attractive feature lol.

This gorgeous Volare sky midnight watch is from Klasse14. I love the unique color and indentation of the face. You can also use another one of my promo code, 'suzannespiegoski' to get 12% OFF your purchase from Klasse14!

Lastly, I have to give a shoutout to ARROJO, a wonderful NYC hair salon I had the pleasure of experiencing most recently. I literally had no time to even get a blowout due to double-booking events and running around like a maniac, but they were so accommodating and sweet! My hair stylist, Christina, gave me the perfect summer hair with loose, sexy hair and put the finishing touches on with a holding spray (by ARROJO) with accents of tangerine & jasmine, which is my newest hair product obsession! Thanks again, guys, for the wonderful time downtown, I'll be sure to come back again soon! They also have multiple locations should you not be a downtown gal... :) Have a lovely weekend, everyone!