The Addams Family - Halloween Style

October 11, 2018

WEARING: BLACK LACE DRESS | BLACK FAUX FUR CHAIN SHOULDER BAG | HIGH HEELED SANDALS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY PRETTYLITTLETHING & BOBBI BROWN COSMETICS.

You guys!! I was too excited to wait and share our Halloween costumes this year! In the past, we have been the ‘James Bond’ family, ‘The X-Files’ family, and now, ‘The Addams Family’. I went as Morticia, my husband is Gomez, and our German shepherd dog, MaQ, is Cousin It, along with The Thing! Look closely you’ll spot him in the photos! Special thanks to Bobbi Brown’s, Analise Traficante for the perfect modern Morticia Addams makeup (how amazing is she?!) Continue reading where to get this Halloween look, it’s all from one brand along with where to find my girl, Analise!

First of all, how freaking cool is my husband? When I gave him the idea initially, I’d thought he’d cringe at the idea. His natural hair is salt & pepper (my silver fox as I call him) and he’s not one to ever do anything crazy with his hair, but he was all for it! He literally went out and helped out, even finding washing hair dye to get his Gomez look. I helped with the eye makeup which is simple black eyeliner and for the brows and mustache we used black mascara. As for MaQ, we got an extra long blonde wig and a boiler hat for Cousin It, along with a pair of black sunglasses.

My Morticia Addams Halloween look is all by PrettyLittleThing! I love this brand, so I was very excited to partner with them to create our annual look! The black lace dress is modern, perfect for this temperamental weather we’ve been having, but you can layer it with a black turtleneck and tights to wear out and about in colder weather. The heels are also from PLT along with the black faux fur bag. Those three items falls in about $150, but I consider it an investment because I will definitely be wearing all three pieces differently many times over. So in a way, multi-use lolol. Follow links here or at the end of this post.

Makeup was completely done by my girl, Analise. We met during NYFW where we just collaborated on a fall look solely using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and I loved her so much I asked her to do my Halloween look as I knew it would be a bit of a challenge to get the look being that I don’t have the eyes like Morticia, but was really confident in her ability and voila! She killed it! And I love how modern it is as well as the attire. A very modern day Morticia, if you will. Want to get a makeup style/look done by Analise? Head over to the Bloomingdale’s in SoHo where she’ll be able to achieve whatever your heart desires! Follow her on Instagram for more of her everyday life here.

What do you guys think of this Halloween Addams Family look? Yes, I got my dog to hold still in a long ass wig, hat, sunglasses and all! Ha ha, how you may ask is from years of training and spending a lot of time with him. You can follow him on Instagram for more of him - he’s very photogenic which most of you know by now… ;) Until next time! xo

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

LFW SS19 Outfits

October 10, 2018

I know I’m way overdue but I know how much you guys dig these posts which is why better late than never! So here it is, my recap of all outfits worn at London Fashion Week. It’s only 4/5 days which is why there are fewer outfits than from NYFW. During my time in London, I played (regarding my attire) a lot with color and print as well as fun non-serious accessories. So here we go with my last round of fashion month content!

WEARING: BEATRICE B ITALIA PINK COAT | ZARA DRESS | FOLEY & CORINNA BAG | OYSTER MULES | PURPLE SUNNIES

WEARING: LIE SANG BONG TRENCH | JOE’S JEANS | MARC FISHER BOOTS | POTROL FAUX LEATHER NEON YELLOW HOLSTER PURSE | B.Z.R. GREEN SUNNIES

WEARING: MKT STUDIO CHECKERED BLAZER | LEVI’S BERET | 80S PURPLE SUNNIES | BRAHMIN BAG | MILLY PANTS

WEARING: BEATRICE B VELVET CARDIGAN | BEATRICE B PURPLE TOP | BRAHMIN BAG | EGO SNEAKERS | ODETTE & ODILE SUNNIES

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK JACKET | NICOPANDA TEE | GUCCI BELT | ROMWE SUNNIES

LOVE & XX’S,

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

5 Tips to Nail Your Next Meeting

October 9, 2018

WEARING: CHICWISH TWEED COAT | GUESS SWEATER | JOES JEANS | PRETTY LITTLE THING SLINGBACKS | ODETTE & ODILE MARBLE POUCH

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY CHICWISH & PLT.

I've been to hundreds of meetings. Some you nail right out of the park and then there are others that don't go as well. First impressions do count-down to the very last detail and after a lot of trial and error, I wanted to share my tips on how to nail your next big meeting! Whether it's your first time meeting with a client you've been dreaming of working together or a quick pow-wow meeting with those you already work with, these essentials will not only make your life easier but the lives of others around you as well. So without further ado, let's get started with my two cents' worth of my top 5 main suggestions for landing your next gig/client.

1. BE ON TIME

Nothing irks me more than those who are regularly late. Biggest pet peeve. Sure, in a city like New York and with all the congested traffic, running 5-10 minutes late is a norm but anything longer than that is just rude and unaccountable. It tells two tale-telling signs (to me): One, you don't take the meeting very seriously if you show up that late and two, it also shows me that you are not reliable (or even worse, irresponsible). So the next best thing for everyone? Just show up a few minutes earlier. If you have to set your alarm fifteen minutes earlier than usual, do it because it'll also save you the hassle of rushing as well, where that's when everyone makes the most mistakes.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH

I can't tell you how many times I went into a meeting and the person did not do their homework, let alone, know anything about me and/or what I could bring to the table. Eeeek! Don't be that person. If it's more than one person meeting with you, you better research everyone in the room. We're not talking a background check, but yes, know their position and abilities before talking smack about what you can do for them. Demonstrate your preparation by asking questions about the person(s) and not so much about yourself - don't worry they will be asking about you too but don't forget the give and take rule. Listen first, speak later.

3. BE UPFRONT

Now, this doesn't mean opening up your "Dear, Diary" and spilling the 411 on your entire life story, let alone anything super personal. What I mean is don't be afraid to answer with conviction about your skills and knowledge. It doesn't have to be a novella of an answer, but one with a couple short sentences wrapping up your talents with a nice 'bow' if you will. It also doesn't look like you're trying too hard, because who wants to listen to your lists of accomplishments (that you probably memorized off your resume) Keep it short and sweet but with purpose.

4. BE PRESENTABLE

Both physically and mentally. Being present is key along with a first good impression by the way you dress and yes present yourself. Polish those shoes, wear that tie/dress that hugs your hips and makes you feel extra confident but remaining true to you. Obviously, don't show up looking like you're ready to perform in a risque cabaret, but dress the part. The second part is all mental. This has to do with body language, leaving your phone in your bag, to even that initial handshake. They all count. Being present in the moment during a meeting goes a long way, and shows that you're invested and committed to that meeting, and in turn, the job at hand.

5. FOLLOW UP SOONER RATHER THAN LATER

Once you've worked your angles and made your impression to the client, the next best thing is to touch-base rather quickly. Now you don't want to look overly desperate so waiting a day or two is fine, but in this day and age where we are constantly on the go, meeting with other potential clients, and then some, it's easy to forget people and things once too much time has passed. So be diligent and follow through with an email or phone call, thanking them for their time with some sort of continuing conversation regarding your meeting.

Have any questions regarding this post? Well... then GO FOR IT! Drop me a line in the comments section down below or send me an email! We love engaging with our readers and are always down to continue the conversation. Last piece of advice? If you want something badly enough, first and foremost, you have to go for it. Be audacious. Others will know through your actions and words if you really are dedicated in achieving something, whatever it may be. Until next time...

LOVE & XX’S,

SHOP THE LOOK

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

LFW SS19 RECAP

October 7, 2018

My London Fashion Week SS19 recap is finally here! Sorry for the delay this season guys! On top of massive deadlines, and trying to play catch up, it has become apparent that being a one-woman show (aside from my amazing husband and photographer who I’m always so thankful for), it may be time to perhaps hire an intern/pt asst. If you know of someone who is between the ages of 21-25 and is just starting to get into the blogging scene, please connect them with me! Or if you think you may be a person as such, preferably in NYC, hardworking and professional (meaning you are not entitled, has half a brain and can maybe juggle a few tasks at once), feel free to reach out! With that note, let’s take a look at my second season (and second visit to London) of LFW, where I’m keeping the format same as my New York Fashion Week diary, where I choose 6 favorites from each collection I’ve viewed along with a recap/review. Let’s carry on then!

GAYEON LEE

Gayeon Lee kicked off London Fashion Week SS19 with a collection that explores the relationship between fashion and art; referencing the figurative works of Egon Schiele, Lee used colors and patterns inspired by the intensity of painter's figurative works. Its distinct look to a unique use of texture, color, graphic shapes, and intriguing deconstruction are thoughtful detailing features throughout in pleats, drapes, and gathers. Presented by a mixture of professional ballet dancers and models in movement; stripes, spots, and a natural color palette offset a contemporary interpretation of 50’s feminine silhouettes in structured volumes and gamine looks. Texture and movements on point, another favorite out of the six chosen were definitely the bags.

NICOPANDA

Nicopanda’s SS19 collection was all about the 90’s underground dance culture. A mixture of sequins, neons and animal prints, with fun accessories like light-up devil horns, electric blue cowboy hats and metallic tinsel for hair to complete the looks. I also appreciated the club-ready streetwear collection of slinky dresses, sporty co-ords and chunky sneakers. And with the finishing touch, Nicopanda revealed a series of t-shirts designed by NYC based artist, activist and Nicopanda crew member, Hilton Dresden, as part of a partnership with Merch by Amazon that was immediately ready to purchase post-show.

XU ZHI

Incorporating elements from poet Emily Dickson, such as themes of nature, dominance and religion, Xu based the collection on different aspects of her character and work. Fringe dresses, shredded satin, loose fits and tassel suits, Xu Zhi stirred an awakening of the era of luxury and femininity of the 1920s. However with an adaption of khaki, bomber jackets and co-ords, the SS19 collection instills a contemporary and progressive fashion label. Favorite: White tassel suit. Other favorable mentions: The space's stained glasses and gothic architecture. Simply gorgeous. Special thanks to Rowben Lantion for the insatiable photos. x

MARTA JUKUBOWSKI

First time seeing Marta Jukubowski and was definitely not disappointed. Being partly Polish, I was proud to see the Polish-born London designer's work. She likes to reminisce in the past in the present, and in the SS19 theme, it was a time travel of sorts. Memories from the past, of moments associated with them, even though it's a glimpse into her younger days, the collection alone can relate to any woman, old and young. Signature evening dresses, pencil skirts and tailored jackets all updated with wrap fastenings and rewashed with fresh colorways of mint, teal and a soft mauve. Juxtaposed with snippets of her time in Ibiza, the Spanish party island, which presented itself through subtle use of fluorescent piping and lace details alongside jarring hues of lime green and bright pink. And BIG hats. BIG. Favorite: Python pants all the way (aside from the extra af resort accessories... LOVE/miłość

JOHNSTON’S OF ELGIN

Johnston’s of Elgin are renowned for their signature chic and elegant designs coupled with fine cuts and detailed tailoring. Think cashmere and tartan print - but how to incorporate into summerwear? Set at the Palm Court, Waldorf Hilton Hotel, the brand used lightweight materials and knit modernisms to create outfits for all year round. 15 womenswear and five menswear collections were showcased and for high summer, the brand used lightweight cashmere and mesh materials with bright canary yellows, rich purples and creamy ecru made to have the designs pop and blend luxuriously. One such outfit of a tartan top tucked into a pair of cerise long shorts was a definite favorite. The SS19 collection is casual, sporty and effortlessly summery – even with a tinge of Ancient Greek royalty in some of the goddess-like summer dresses.

FYODOR GOLAN

The runway was designed to emulate coral covered driftwood; it was constructed of flowers and real abandoned fishing nets. Fyodor Golan's collection itself was inspired by the sea; surfing influences can be seen in sporty tailoring and materials, while shells and real pearls are utilized details throughout the collection. Various shades of navy, cyan and turquoise, produced in washed denim, raw silks and recycled cottons were definitely prominent in the ocean-themed show. According to the show notes, color combinations and collaged pieces were inspired by American painter, Jamie Adams, whilst images of pastel discarded waste were inspired by sculptures by Thirza Schaap. Favorites: The issue that has been somewhat neglected this season; the environment.

ADA ZANDITON

For SS19 Ada introduces the color of pink, as inspired by a recent scientific discovery that found pink is the oldest color. She plays with rose hues to illustrate a galactic theme within her collection which features tulle ballerina skirts paired with lilac iridescent harnesses with ring detailing. 3D floral embellishments made through hand-cut manipulation accentuate feminine silhouettes, creating unusual shapes. Contrasting themes of fetishism were explored through the harnessed bullet bras detailed with pink rhinestones. Ada Zanditon blends avant-garde pieces with more of a luxe feel to appeal to her ever-growing fearless clients, such as Ariana Grande and Mariah Carey. Her bold designs and unique techniques display her concepts surrounding the relationship between the body and the garment itself.

CASSEY GAN

Cassey Gan's signature block prints and primary tones standout each season and yet continues to keep each collection fresh and innovative. SS19 is all about midi lengths and asymmetric and layered hemlines. Traditional menswear checks and stripes are paired with Cassey’s iconic geometric patterns in enhanced earthy tones with predominant shades of turquoise, blue, black, white and red. Each look entails a concoction of print combinations and layers, making every ensemble quite appealing. Attention to each positioned layer and complimentary tones and shades makes the collection. The printed tunics are paired with metallic and glittery trimmings and bell-sleeved shirts are accessorized with tailored bibs. Pleats are scattered across the looks and can be glimpsed outlining varying hems. Favorites: dress in top right, bags and statement earrings.

MINKI

Inspired by Lorenzo Vitturi’s ‘Money Must Be Made,’ designer Minki Cheng’s latest collection imagined the artist’s journey through the Balogun Market on Lagos Island. The set design was compacted with all manner of objects from furniture to textiles piled high in perilous towers on the catwalk. Minki’s aesthetic is ever optimistic and fun, constantly playing with color, print, and texture; his signature clash of bright yellows, pinks, blues, and reds contrasted in this collection with muted navy and khaki in abstract prints on fresh and playful silhouettes. Favorites: Bottom middle (most beautiful blue I've seen in a while), the accessories such as head ties and jelly sandals that brought a childlike innocence to the mix.

F.H. CHRISTENSEN

Farzaneh H. Christensen combines elegance with professionalism while creating exotic, timeless designs varying from luxurious evening gowns to trend forward cocktail dresses. All materials are sourced in European countries varying from France to Italy and include the finest silk and handmade beadings in order to achieve the final intricate creations. The materials used are sourced throughout Europe. From Italy and France the brand has the finest silks including satin duchesse and silk velvet which are all ethical and sustainable. Farzaneh’s mission is to make everyone feel and look their best possible, glamorous self. She offers a ‘Bespoke Service’. Attention to the individual ensures that every customer feels elegant, confident and special. Her ‘Bespoke Couture Services’ enables the client to be fully involved as she creates a unique, personalized ‘work of art’ designed specifically for the individual. Clearly demonstrated in the SS19 collection. Favorite: Lime me that Green dress, BABY!

STEVENtai

It’s all about trying to embrace change and diversity within the fashion industry in Steventai's SS19 collection. Inspired by Sofia Coppola’s film The Virgin Suicides, the pieces were feminine and bold - the kind of clothes made for unique and strong women. But what was entirely refreshing about this collection, in particular, are the models and the entire project behind it. A model who has alopecia, another with a birthmark on her face, burn survivors - a moving way to show different types of beauty. An intimate, and yet softly glamorous 1970’s nostalgic mood. Favorite: Lilac pantsuit with the flared bottoms. So cool.

PAUL COSTELLOE

Paul Costelloe's signature elegance was apparent in his SS19 particularly in voluminous layered mini dresses and dramatic evening gowns. But the unexpected twist was the welcomed sense of 80s nostalgia. Boy, I guess it was the time to party because the models oozed a carefree sexiness reminiscent of those days (Or sho I've been told...) The highlight was a sports luxe theme throughout colorful bodysuits with longline tailored jackets. Styled with quiffed hair, ankle boots and fishnet socks (both in white) produced a beautifully unpredicted ensemble.

TATA NAKA

A collection with a wearable daytime elegance, Tata Naka's whimsical illustrations and prints were scattered across feminine pleats and tailoring. The motifs and iconography nodded to the designers Tamara and Natasha Surgulaze's Greek and Roman influences. Other classical elements included the statue-like placement of the models on marble columns, toga-esque silhouettes and woven sandals. Fun fact: Ambassadors of the brand include Cameron Diaz, Mina Suvari and Sarah Jessica Parker, the Tata-Naka collection even regularly starred in the legendary series Sex in the City & was worn by Carrie Bradshaw on the cover of the official book. Favorites: anything animal print.

EDELINE LEE

One of my favorite presentations from LFW, Edeline Lee's immersive one investigated the feminine state through design and performance with a contemporary dance spectacular juxtaposing the “woman’s vulnerable, internal persona versus her worldly, exterior facade". he dance performance showcased Lee’s SS19 collection in various scenes from classic fashion moments such as catwalk show, red carpet arrival and afterparty, as well as dream sequences featuring choreography playing homage to the work of Pina Bausch and Traja Harrell, all to a soundtrack featuring female voices only, alongside minimal white props and retro light effects. It also championed a more body-positive approach to dressing as the models and dancers in the show came in various shapes and sizes and perfectly showcased how flattering Lee’s designs are.The collection itself, expands on Lee’s experimentation with ruching and ruffles, while maintaining the designer’s tailored, womanly shapes, and saw the label’s signature Flou Bubble Jacquard fabric showcased in scarlet, ivory and bottle green, alongside a crinkle georgette in brown and ivory, and a graphic, hand-painted zigzag print. Highlights included the spaghetti-strap dresses and long-sleeve A-line dresses, as well as the feminine skirts and separates that were accented with hand-covered, multicolored dome buttons and buckles.

pushBUTTON

The 80s are evident for SS19 and Korean cult-brand pushBUTTON is no exception. Korean designer and former K-pop star, Seung-Gun Park of pushBUTTON began to feel immediate pressure and in light of his show notes, described being in a trapped square box with no room for anything. And that's how the 'square shoulder' came to be, becoming the main silhouette of his collection along with giving an updated version of the power shoulder detail. Impeccable needlework and precise fabric selection, along with a variety of tabs and hooks to completely change up the silhouette just with closing and opening, and separable jackets, shirts, and pants can completely create new asymmetrical silhouettes by being separated or combined together. The masterful handling of various fabrics from wool, cotton, jersey, chiffon to denim proves how nimble and agile this label can be. Favorites: Deconstructed pants and the minty fresh maxi dress ensemble.

Want to see more from any of these SS19 collection from LFW? Continue onto my Instagram page where under my highlights you will find each finale walk in my LFW sections. What was your favorite out of the ones I attended this season? If you had to pick one outfit of your choice, what would it be? Stay tuned for my London Fashion Week street style content, coming up next!

LOVE & XX’S,

FOLLOW MAQ + SUZ

Unwinding in between Meetings with Pyramid Solitaire

October 5, 2018

This post is sponsored by MobilityWare but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

I'm always checking in on my emails in between meetings but can never always answer back immediately. What I do like to do after checking in, however, is playing Pyramid Solitaire on my iPad. One of my favorite activities to help me relax along with killing some time includes this game, precisely for its fast turnaround of each round. It is also the perfect mobile game to exercise your brain and keeping you focused. So in today's post, I'll be sharing how to play on the game as well why I love to play this particular game while on the go, or rather, in some cases, while waiting in between meetings.

Pyramid Solitaire is the fastest growing title in MobilityWare’s suite of classic card games. I really enjoy that each game takes just 1-2 minutes, making Pyramid Solitaire the perfect game to play on-the-go and in-between various tasks. Not only is the game app free, but the game itself is also quick and easy, and a lot of fun! Players must clear the pyramid by matching pairs of cards that equal 13. The quicker you finish the round, the more points you'll acquire. Simple enough, straight to the point and a great way to focus on something if you do a lot of waiting around.

Whether it's waiting at the doctor's office, or a work meeting, or even commuting around the city by bus or train, Pyramid Solitaire is the perfect game for those that are always on-the-go and in between all sorts of activities/meetings/appointments. A free online solitaire card game where the player tries to match pairs of cards with a rank that totals 13. So why not download the game today on the App Store or get it on Google Play. Play the game and decide what you really like about it!