Wintry Midnight Blue Holiday Dress

November 30, 2018

Happy first holiday weekend! How is it already December?! Does anyone else feel like this year has just completely flown on by? I don’t know about you, but time sure has been going by fast! While we’re getting into the swing of the festive season, such as gift shopping, wrapping, cooking and then some, there’s also tons of holiday events and parties to attend to this month. But what to wear? One of my go-to fabrics for the colder seasons is velvet - and what’s more chic than a velvet dress?! Continue to see more photos, along with where you can get this gorgeous midnight blue dress!

Serve up a little va-va-voom with this ultra feminine and fanciful velvet frock. A deep blue hue makes for the perfect background to an asymmetrical hemline and playful ruffles. Bell sleeves help to cap off an incredibly sophisticated ensemble. The buttoned cuffs and self-tied sash on the waist are my favorite details amongst the color of this gorgeous velvet dress! And can you believe it is only $80?! I paired the dress with darker accessories, and kept with a black range of fabrics such as suede and lycra.

The black suede heart-studded drawstring bag is from SepCoeur, a really amazing Parisian handbag brand. I can’t find the link for the exact bag in this look’s post, but I’ve link very similar ones throughout so be sure to check them out! Different price points as well. I also did the same thing for the black sock boots in the post, as I also cannot find them online anymore! Do you guys like it better when I link a bunch of different options for certain items or do you like it when I leave only the direct link? Would love to hear your feedback on this!

Lastly, let’s talk about these insanely beautiful earrings by Le-J Jewelry. These assymetric star drop earrings are modern, feminine and playful, and are the perfect evening earrings. And for this time of the year, they are just perfect for nearly any holiday occasion. What do you think of this holiday look? Stay tuned for my next blog post, coming soon, my monthly roundup of beauty favorites for the month of November will be live in the next few days along with more looks and oh are they going to be FUN! Catch y’all back here in a sec! ;)

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

How to Style a Pink Coat Sporty Chic

November 26, 2018

We’re back to another work week! I a lot of the times love starting the week dressed up in a pantsuit/powersuit to get things going, along with feeling pretty damn confident in them, but sometimes, especially with all the dreary, rainy weather we’ve been having here in New York, you just gotta brighten up your days with some color! I’m not one to ever normally wear pink, but stepping out of my comfort zone is better than always playing safe, both in life and in fashion! Continue reading to check out the sporty chic look, one where my hubby/photographer couldn’t stop affectionately referring me as, ‘Pinkie’, as well as direct shopping links.

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Even though there’s a bit of feminine references within this outfit, (i.e; the pink makeup, flower earrings, etc;) I still wanted to keep it sporty chic. But before we get into how I styled it this way, I want to share a little bit about the makeup first. The latest lipstick that I can’t get enough of is the PillowPout Creamy Plumping Lip Powder from Buxom. It’s a unique, instantly-plumping lip powder that delivers a blotted, semi-matte finish for an all-day, comfortable wear. Thanks to its innovative wet powder technology and mess-free sponge applicator, this weightless, pout-plumping pigment glides seamlessly across lips to deliver rich color that never feels dry or tight. The smudge-proof formula provides a soft and sexy stained effect that stays put for up to eight hours-no matter what you get up to during the day or night. Available in ten vivid shades designed to build to your perfect coverage, ranging from subtle nudes to bold berries. I’m wearing ‘Soft Whisper’ and it’s the perfect pinkie nude for a medium/olive skin tone. The Urban Decay Naked Cherry Palette I’ve shared in the past before (HERE and HERE) and I just can’t say enough amazing things about this eyeshadow palette. It’s berry berri-fic, and also has some fantastic browns and peachy/pinks - all super duper amazing to play around with.

The earrings are from a sweet shop call SMTH (Small Things) where these flower droplet earrings come in a variety of colors. I’m wearing the lavender/pink set and think they look so cute with this outfit. I kept the remaining accessories fun yet sporty, with metallic pink sneakers and a holographic crossbody bag. To add an extra pop, I wore a pair of pink cateye sunglasses which are such a statement. These light yet sparkly playful pieces work well with the biggest contrast of this look: the ombre purple denim jeans.

A purple-tinted wash gives staple stretch skinnies a fresh, unexpected twist. I’m completely obsessed with my new pair of jeans by STS Blue. I definitely think the key to not going overboard on the pink and looking like a fluffy marshmallow, was a strong contrast. Purple does look awfully good with pinks, and the unique ombre situation blends well with the holographic bag and metallic sneakers. But most of all, I’m crazy for this light pink faux fur pink coat! You can layer it up and do a lot of different looks with this statement piece, but I chose to keep it more casual than dressy because that’s how I do me most of the time! Wishing you a great week, friends!

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

The Remaining Days of Fall

November 24, 2018

Hi, everyone! Hope you guys had a great Thanksgiving filled with good company, good food and all around good vibes! I always keep it low key with my fellas as my husband and I don’t really have big families, we enjoy the time spent together and with a few of our closest friends. I really savor the times spent with the pup, being that I’m busy 24/7, it’s so nice to cut myself off from the online world and just be in the moment with the two most important people in my life. Now that we’re gearing into the holiday season, the leaves are falling and the winter chill is taking its course. So I wanted to get in a few more photos of the beautiful foliage along with playing in the leaves with MaQ - he literally goes nuts for them! Continue reading to see more of the photos, where to shop the look, and why my dog is the cutest German shepherd in the world! ;)

FIRST: Can we talk about how warm and snuggly this teddy coat is?! AND it’s only $40! It’s such a bargain because with the right layering, you can wear this all winter long! Seriously, I paired this with a denim jacket and scarf in 30 °F and was so cozy outside! And anything neutral during the colder months is a good thing - makes it for easier styling among many of the fall/winter colors. Plus I think anything in the neutral palette looks good on so many skin tones and hair colors! Plus the two front pockets and folded over collar are also some of my favorite features in a rocking overcoat!

Now you know me, to go with a cute coat, I love to amp it up in the accessories department with a good statement bag and watch! This chic crossbody bag crafted in Italian Embossed Croc and Pebble Grain leather can also be worn as a shoulder bag and you can double the strap for a shorter length. Front open flap has a polished gold lock closure that’s super luxe and polishes it up to be a fabulous day or evening bag with the classical sophistication. Which way did you like the way I styled this bag the most?

This rectangular two-hand dial paneled in lustrous mother of pearl and semiprecious stone is the focus of this elegantly striking watch. Hand-assembled with Swiss and imported materials right in Detroit, Michigan, the refined style is anchored by genuine alligator leather for a luxe finish. Given that I was raised in Detroit, I’ve already grown to be quite sentimentally fond of the watch. They have other styles as well, with this particular design, but they also carry other well-sized luxury watches. Check them out at www.gomelskywatches.com

These sneakers are from Kenneth Cole and honestly are the most comfortable pair of kicks I’ve owned in a few years. They’re the perfect stylish sneaker for all-day wear and even cozy enough for travel. I always wear them on flights. They’re on sale at Macy’s for less than $60 and are totally worth the price for their quality. I love them so much I’ve already gone through two pairs! I guess I’m the kind of gal that when she stumbles upon something she loves, she’ll stock up on it! Haha.

LOVE & XX’S

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Gift Guide

November 21, 2018

‘Tis the Season! It’s Black Friday time! I did five roundups of gift ideas for your viewing (and shopping) pleasure. :) The first 2 are for the hardcore beauty lovers, one is the best sets of both makeup and skincare from a variety of Black Friday specials ranging from Ulta to Sephora and others. The second is for small gift-giving ideas, ranging at prices points from $20 to no more than $75. The other three gift guides are fashion, home, and pet-related, where I picked up items not only I’d grab for myself, but would love to give to someone else even more. Several items, mostly from the beauty boards are of limited edition (holiday collection/item) so don’t miss your chance to score big, as there’s so many deals to be had with these items I’ve listed! Lots of sales I’ve listed are from Nordstrom, Shopbop, Bed Bath & Beyond, and others along with Sephora & Ulta and even Amazon. If you’re interested in one of the products mentioned in my gift guides, hover over the number with the mouse to click-through. Happy shopping and happy loads and loads of turkey and love.

BEST HOLIDAY GIFT SETS 2018 MAKEUP & SKINCARE

1. Marc Jacobs Beauty Waterproof Eyeliner & Volumizing Mascara - Fall Runway Edition, $49

2. IT Brushes Your Glam Must-Haves 5 Pc Brush Set + Exclusive Clutch, $125/30% off at Ulta

3. NYX Professional Makeup Sugar Trip 24 Days Of Beauty Advent Calendar, $30

4. Lancôme Definicils Mascara Collection Holiday Set, $35

5. Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Gift Set, $76

6. Mario Badescu Spritz. Mist. Glow. Set, $12

7. Sephora Favorites Lashstash, $48

8. OUAI Swing Both OUAIs Kit, $48

9. Urban Decay Naked Cherry Vault, $100

10. LANEIGE Sleep & Glow Set, $39/$52 value

11. Ole Henriksen Glow Brightly™ - Radiance-Boosting Super Set, $49

12. First Aid Beauty Skin Summit, $48/$112 value

BEAUTY HOLIDAY GIFTS UNDER $75

1. Diptyque Black Friday Candle Limited Edition, $75

2. Lime Crime Diamond Dew Liquid Eyeshadow, $20

3. Philosophy Fresh Cream Warm Cashmere Eau de Toilette Mini, $18

4. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Pink Grapefruit, $18/$42 value

5. boscia Luminizing Black Charcoal Mask, $20

6. Bobbi Brown Snow Glow Mini Highlighting Powder, $25

7. Jin Soon Encore Collection, $42

8. Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray Mini Ornament, $15

9. Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder - Limited Edition, $60

10. NARS Heartbreaker Blush Palette, $42

11. Stila One Step Correct, $23

HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR THE HOME

1. Crosley Radio Cruiser Deluxe Turntable, $70

2. Nordstrom at Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw, $40

3. CALPAK Ambeur 20-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On, $135

4. Mikasa® Swirl 16-Piece Dinnerware Set in Blue, $80/$150

5. Nordstrom 5-Piece Stainless Steel Bar Tool Set, $69

6. KitchenAid® Artisan® 5 qt. Stand Mixer, $280/$380

FASHION BLACK FRIDAY GIFT IDEAS

Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse Chuck Taylor® Hidden Heart High Top Sneaker, $135

2. AKIRA Teddy Hug Midi Jacket, $40

3. Topshop Sela Crossbody Bag, $48

4. DL1961 Farrow Jeans, $199

5. Gucci Double-G Buckle Calfskin Belt, $350

6. kate spade one in a million initial pendant necklace, $35

7. Shopbop Escapade Sunglasses, $59

AMAZON BLACK FRIDAY DOG GIFT GUIDE

Lanyar Dog Reindeer Holiday Pet Clothes Sweater for Dogs Puppy Kitten Cats, Classic Red, $15

2. Christmas Dog Bone Ornament - Set of Three, $8

3. Petist Professional Pet Nail Grinder, Electric Pet Nail Trimmer, Clippers, File with 3 Different Gen, $26

4. West Elm Found My Animal Adjustable Dog Leash, $54

5. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Plush Squeaking Toys Dogs, $16

6. Chuckit! Dog Ball Launcher, $9.45

7. Christmas Dog - German Shepherd Naughty List Shirt, $20

LOVE & XX’S,

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Thanksgiving Outfit: How to Boldly Mix Animal Print Together

November 19, 2018

THIS IS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THACKER NYC AND PUBLIC DESIRE BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

It’s a great start to a new week! That’s because it’s a short one, brought to you by the good ole’ bird, the celebrated turkey we (well most of us) have grown to love, Thanksgiving is literally a few days away. Many have stocked their fridges this weekend for the big American holiday, while many have not, and I bet many have no idea what they’re going to be wearing for the occasion - especially if it’s somewhere you have to be and not in your jammies! But many know I’m not one to play dress up often, I’d rather be more casual where I can shamelessly unbutton the top button of my jeans after gluttonously stuffing myself with turkey, stuffing, and more stuffing. That doesn’t mean your fall accessories have to be boring though. So continue reading to see more of a Thanksgiving outfit that’s casual chic, but bold in all the right places.

Two trends I’ve been loving this fall: snake print (the famous OG leopard print) and bold, rich colors. So who’s to say you can’t blend all three together harmoniously? The key is to have the other pieces be on the more simple side, like a long sleeved white tee and black denim jacket with a pair of jeans. And I love the weather this time of year because you can still layer since it’s not too cold out yet. And what’s better than a strong red longline coat around the holiday season? It goes with everything! I’ve had this beauty for a minute and I cannot get enough of it. My favorite way to wear the coat is with jeans but a dress, pantsuit/jumpsuit, skirt, basically everything would pair nicely with this statement coat.

But now onto prints. The question of blending or clashing ensues: Can you wear both leopard and snake print at the same time? IMO, YES! But subtly. Don’t go overboard. For example, a two-piece leopard print set with a huge snake print bag would probably be borderline, ‘excessive’ lol. In this case, I paired a really groovy pair of snake print ankle cutout boots with a mini leopard shearling bag. The rest I left alone with simple straight hair, an orange/neutral nail polish color, and even a pretty natural everyday makeup. Because who cares what you look like when you’re about to happily stuff your face with some of your favorite food in the entire world? Haha!

What are your plans for Thanksgiving this year? My husband and I don’t have very big families and like it when it’s just the two (three of course with MaQ) of us, especially since we don’t get that much quality time as of late due to our crazy busy schedules. I will definitely be planning on getting my cooking groove on - should I maybe do a dessert of some kind and share it with you guys? I’ve made apple pie (link here) and was thinking of doing a fruitier one this time. Thoughts? Maybe a clafoutis? Stay tuned, I think you’ll be seeing my PIC, and us in aprons LOL!

And stay tuned this week for a ton of beauty content as I’ll be doing both a Black Friday roundup of sales I think you’ll love along with my monthly roundup of favorites that I’ve been currently using, both of which I’m excited to share with you guys! Wishing you a great short week and an even joyous holiday weekend (for those that are celebrating).