What, like its hard?

I never thought in a million years I would wear a Barbie/Elle Woods pink suit, but I gotta say thank goodness for evolving. I would have missed out on this fabulous piece. Suits are most definitely my favorite for work, they are easy to put together, look professional, and are mostly very flattering. I purchased this suit from Target, -their new line, A New Day. I cannot rave about Target lines enough, they are affordable and best of all the quality is so amazing for the price point!

This linen blend is perfect for the hot weather that is already here in North Carolina. I love that I can make this look causal if I wear the pants with a white or black tee and maybe some comfy sneakers. I can also wear the blazer over a black camisole and pair it with dark denim and heels – so versatile! Definitely see my self living in this for the next couple of months!

Pants (they are a relaxed fit so size down – I did small!)

Blazer

I wore a bodysuit under my blazer, which I purchased from h&m years ago. Bag is ElizebethandJames, heels are Valentino.

How would you wear this suit?

and of course have to mention my amazing photographer/friend! Who truly makes photoshoots so much fun. PorshiaHernandezPhotography

May 14, 2018 0

mad for plaid.

Plaid is everywhere. On the streets of Milan, Paris, New York – and even my office. I am absolutely thrilled about plaid making a comeback to fashion. Forget just a plaid jacket, from matching sets – in true Cher Horowitz fashion- to even plaid shoes. I am here for it. I am a sucker for mod styled fashion. If I could live in any era it would most definitely be the 60’s, I have Mad Men to thank for that.

My plaid suit from Target’s new line “A New Day” (my new OBSESSION by the way) is so comfy and it seriously takes out all the stress in the morning when I know I have a long day of work ahead of me, full of meetings, being out and about in the community, and have dinner plans later. It is extremely versatile, it takes me through the day.

So I bought my suit back in the Summer, early Fall – and ya girl has dropped some pounds – time to get it tailored! I didn’t even realize till I had my photo shoot – so much stress from work and life in general – but a good reminder you never get rid of such a classic piece! You must tailor it to you, every step of the way.

I let the suit do the talking, so I keep it simple with an off-white shirt and simple black sling-backs. The focus should always be YOU. Remember clothes don’t wear you, you wear the clothes – Ruby always taught me that as a kid and it is a very important fashion rule I do not forget. Clothes should compliment you and your structure, your personality, and you should always feel comfortable and confident in the clothes. If you don’t then the clothes ultimately wear you.

Can’t wait to add more plaid pieces to my wardrobe! How do you guys wear plaid?

April 17, 2018 0

Spring Vibes

Spring is short lived here in the South, but lately we can’t seem to get rid of these frigid temps. I can’t complain too much, it is April and I was in New Jersey this past weekend and it started to SNOW! I’ll take 50’s any day. I enjoy a little chill in the air any ways, summers here get extremely hot, its nice to enjoy the in between sometimes.

Insert lightweight coats. I love a nice jacket/coat. I think it can really make an outfit come together. I own so many different variations of a trench coat – you can always depend on something extremely classic. Since the weather is very bipolar it also makes it easy to transition into the afternoon when the weather tends to get much warmer. Layering – to a certain extent can really help you look as if you put time and thought in your outfit.

And lets talk about transition. I live in my work clothes 8-7 typically, but to make it look less work attire-ish, I switch it up by changing my shoes and removing the coat for a more casual look. If I wear heels to work then I prefer a much more causal look when I just want to chill with my friends and put on flats. If I am more laid back at work and already wearing flats then I like to switch into heels and add some really nice earrings for dinner. You never want to waste a good outfit, even if it is just work clothes.

the more causal look, ditch the heels and pair it with loafers or slides.

Outfit linked below – let me know if these tips helped you for ideas on work threads and being able to transition your outfit from day to night!

Thanks to my girl, Porshia Hernandez for the amazing shots! You guys need her photography in your life, definitely check out her page!

April 5, 2018 0

Elegant and Fashion

I can’t stress how much fun it is to shop in Pakistan. The rich colors, the different trends, the amazing fabrics. For me, I don’t even think 6mo. would suffice for ALL the things I’d want to buy, or better yet create. It’s no surprise, I’m extremely picky. I carefully chose what fabric I want my outfit to be, the style, the color, the entire look. It’s a process and to be really honest, shopping in Pakistan can be overwhelming. My favorite fabric store Moon Banarsi – I literally was dying in there, the same gorgeous fabric in numerous colors, I mean how is a girl to chose?! It’s tough. Also, in Pakistan the fabrics are mostly available by the current season they’re in. For instance, February begins the madness we know as Lawn (a very soft thin cotton) season. So while I was there in March, lawn was in full swing. I could easily find lawn or super fancy, but not so much in the middle.

I’m really grateful for how accessible it is to order from different online boutiques and designers directly now. Growing up, only time I got new clothes was when my mom went to Pakistan. Nowadays, you can order custom made outfits and get them delivered right to our door step. It is such a convenience. ElegantandFashion is JUST that. You’re able to buy ready-made outfits, or even custom design your order!

This outfit they sent me is such a pretty net material, with a silk lining and flared bottoms that are so complimentary and on trend. I love the pearl detailing, so I focused on those pretty beads and added pearl earrings, that I purchased from Pakistan, to enhance the entire look.

Check our their instagram and mention my name for a discount! Hope this look gives you guys some inspiration for wedding season and Eid parties coming up 🙂

June 18, 2017 0

Elegant Jewelry

I recently just got back from Pakistan, and trust me when I say I shopped my little heart out. Even though time was against me I managed to find things I love and adore. Not gonna lie, jewelry was really hard to find. I mean yes, it was everywhere but with so many new styles it was hard to find jewelry I really wanted, like traditional, old school jewelry. I came back a little defeated in that department, but I also came back to a package from ElegantandJewelry. And I am SO thankful! The jewelry design is right up my alley, crafted so beautifully, simple, yet elegant, with a touch of old school that I love. They carry various styles, which is really convenient. If you know me, I love ANYTHING ferozi [turquoise] especially in the summertime! I love with these particular earrings I can make them pop with a simple outfit or make a lawn outfit fancier. And with Eid coming up and wedding season around the corner you can’t go wrong! Check out their Instagram page, and mention my name for a discount! You guys seriously won’t be disappointed and I can’t wait to show you more goodies from them 🙂

June 3, 2017 0

Happy Shopping

Some of my favorite stores are having the most amazing deals, since I shop ALL the time, I’m gonna sit this one out. I didn’t step into ONE store this past weekend. I don’t really do crowds, and when you’ve worked retail pretty much your whole life, you tend to avoid it. #avidonlineshopper right here! But for all those wanting to know some good deals; here you go.

MKZubes is doing 30% off with Free Shipping! You do NOT want to miss out on this. Use Code: MADNE$$

Asos is one of my favorites, they already provide free shipping! Use code: Thankful30

Modcloth also a huge favorite, providing free shipping and 30% off everything! With code: CYBER16

Ulta is offering some really cool deals and free shipping.

and because electronics are life, here’s a link to all the things I want, but again, self control! Best Buy

Most deals/sales all end tonight. Happy Shopping!

November 28, 2016 0

The Younique way

I haven’t done a beauty post in quite awhile; I get many questions about my skin care, makeup and even about my hair. If there were something specific you guys would love to see, let me know! I kept thinking about what I wanted to share with you guys, so why not some products I’ve recently tested and have loved!

I was extremely fortunate to try some amazing Younique products. My best friend, Ashley, is a Younique presenter! She is SO passionate about their products. Quite frankly, when you see people endorsing products they are selling, you naturally think its a gimmick. I know Ashley on a personal level, so I know she would never sell anything she doesn’t believe in- which is why I wholeheartedly believe in Younique, perhaps if it wasn’t for her, I, too would think was just a marketing scheme. Her Facebook page Lash with Ash, does wonders! She posts videos on how to wear makeup daily, to even fun more daring makeup ideas, and a bunch of helpful tricks and tips! It’s honestly great to see your best friend get so creative and develop in her make-up skills, its every girls dream!

When I asked Ashley about the mascara, she was SO sweet to send me some products she knew I’d love. She knows my love for mascara and matte lipsticks runs deep, so she sent me two lip stains and the famous 3D fiber mascara. She also knew, that more than makeup, I am crazy about skin care. She also sent me the uplift eye serum.

Everyone has seen the crazy results with the 3D Fiber mascara. It is phenomenal. I have so many people always ask me if my lashes are real- indeed real! This mascara does wonders. It is a process to apply and you kind of have to master it and figure out what works for you, but once you do, you’re good to go! If you are in the market for some crazy length – this mascara is definitely for you! I’ll insert a close up- so you guys can see results of the mascara.

The uplift eye serum has to be hands down my favorite product! I have really dry under eyes, I think with age (ha, yes almost in my 30’s – I said almost) and with all the concealer I cake on, my under eye area gets extremely dry, and this has been the first product that has diminished that completely. Even in these cold temps, I never feel my under eye crease anymore or feel rough from the dryness, which has been a miracle! It really tightens and moisturizes the entire eye area. It also aims to diminish any eye wrinkles. This will be a regular part of my skin care regime. I am absolutely obsessed! If you do not try anything else with Younique, you NEED to try this!

Onto to the lip stains. I haven’t tried many but these lip stains are LIFE! The colors are so nice and natural looking and I love the finish. It is so different from a matte lipstick, it truly enhances your own lip color, a much more comfortable wear, and of course they last for hours! They go on liquid and dry to nice semi matte finish. The best way to apply is let the first coat dry, and add another coat. I love how it never gets on your teeth too! The two colors I have are Sleek- which is a darker brown/plum color I opted for winter (all that Kylie rage) and Shy is this gorgeous red/pinkish tone that gives this just bitten look- which I absolutely adore.

Sleek is to the left, and Shy is the one on the right.

If you want any Younique products, follow my friend Ashely’s page on Facebook- or just message me and I can direct you to her! 🙂 And for any further information, visit her website: Younique By Ashley

February 25, 2016 0

the art of layering.

If anyone has mastered the art of layering, its usually all the models with their street style. With their causal tees, a button-up (or a flannel tied to their waist), another layer, a really cool moto jacket, and that blanket scarf that pretty much devours them. The art of layering is all about the pieces you layer with.

firstly: pick a color palette and stick with it. It’s essential that the pieces match in some way.

second: it is important to pick thin layers to layer with. If you chose a bulky item, that is how one can look bigger than they really are. Pick ONE bulky layer, and that should be the layer that can be easily taken on and off – usually the coat.

third: layering with accessories is the best. it adds to your look without feeling or looking heavy. a winter hat, jewelry, or knee high socks under your boots that peek through, and of course the blanket scarf. I love how it can turn an outfit to chic in a matter of seconds. All of these items help with layering without the bulky feel, if you’re not into the multiple clothes thing.

I don’t know why, but I always wear a cami (especially during winter time) it keeps me warm and adds an easy layer. For my shirt, I chose my thinner denim shirt, a cardigan and threw on my pleather to complete this look. Of course sunny North Carolina forced me to take my scarf off, but thats okay because I am sure the temps will get frigid in no time and I can wear all my lovely scarfs.

Happy Layering!

November 8, 2015 2

goodbye summer, hello fall.

To dress for the summer season is extremely difficult, for me anyways. I find that it is just too sticky in the south, so being cute is out of the question. Your makeup doesn’t last – no matter how many amazing setting powders or sprays you own, your hair (or MY hair in this case) never wants to stay put and WILL forever just want to curl and get frizzy. Welcome to Carolina heat. The weather is still rather warm, but we are finally gearing up for Fall with the chilly breeze in the mornings and cool nights- my absolute favorite!

But the way I stayed cool (pun intended) this summer was living in easy breezy dresses or jumpsuits. It made life SO easy and the thing about jumpsuits- they transition right into fall- all you have to do is add a cardigan for a causal look or a blazer for a more sophisticated one.

jumpsuit: Tilly’s | cardigan: h&m | shoes: Buckle

September 20, 2015 0

the dress of the season.

When my mother purchased this fabric, I honestly didn’t even care for it. She came home and said I bought this to take to Pakistan for an outfit. I didn’t pay it much mind, I figured my other sisters could have it. When she was actually leaving for Pakistan, we all handed her our lists: of things I wanted, how I wanted them – and I’m extremely particular, so I know she wasn’t happy with my list haha. I usually print her pictures so she has a better understanding of how I prefer my clothes to be. She packed this fabric and asked how I wanted it, and I told her to just make it into a dress. I figured if we kept it simple, she couldn’t really mess up. In this case, I am SO happy she disregarded what I wanted and did her own thing. My cousins wife helped her make this dress come alive. After constant texts through what’s app, regardless of time differences, I am glad they asked me for approval for everything. Forever thankful, that they understand my picky ways.

The dress was made in Lahore, by my cousins personal tailor. My mother and her went and got the neckline made and added pearls to the hemline and armholes. I absolutely love the way this dress came out, I get so many inquires about it! Ruby out did herself.