NY Style Map: I'm In A New York State of Mind

It gets me excited to post and share my NYC adventures with you because it gives me a chance to relive wonderful memories and an amazing NYFW trip. You can always find me in a 'New York State of Mind,' because quite frankly, it's in my blood. If you guys remember, this trip marked my first 'momcation' since the birth of Rocco- away from both kids for the first time. I'll admit, the night before my flight, I had the worst anticipatory anxiety -as expected. The morning of, I cried through getting dressed, brushing my teeth, kissing the kids a gazillion time, and feeling miserable for leaving them. Once I got into my Uber, I cried some more. I'm sure my driver had a few 'wtf' moments as he heard me whimpering into my cellphone with I can only imagine was a very unattractive 'ugly cry' face at five in the morning. 

But once we landed, and I breathed that probably toxic, but invigorating city air, I came alive. I was back in my happy place and as Coco reminded me, "Enjoy your time alone. Enjoy the city, enjoy work, go hang out with our friends, and forget having to feed anyone in the middle of the night." Well put, husband. And that's exactly what I did. Jumping right into work, felt unbelievably good. It constantly reignites a passion of what I love to do. It's a big part of who I am that I constantly have to nurture. It makes me a better woman, a better wife, and a better mom when I take care of myself and those other parts that make me who I am. From red carpets to New York Fashion Week, I got to cover a little bit of everything. Interviewing Tina Fey and hitting the backstage dressing area with designer, Nicole Miller, I got a taste of red carpet celebrity from every angle. 

The best part was having zero agenda. I made no plans ahead of time to see anyone or hang out with anyone. I was going on this trip without any commitments. Everything was done on the fly. And I loved it! I had too much wine with my best friends, ate so much I couldn't move, and walked through every neighborhood I love until I couldn't feel my feet anymore. I tried restaurants I've had on my list forever, watched TV shows I hadn't seen in weeks, and even checked out the new Whitney Museum in the Meatpacking District. Oh, and sleep. I almost forgot what a full eight hours felt like. I had so much time to myself, I was almost overwhelmed with the possibilities of what to do! It was five glorious days of hanging out with myself. I like to think I was in good company =).

I had some time to kill in between shoots so I met up with my Miami-NY transplant shutterbug, Carmen Rodriguez (www.carmenishere.tumblr.com), to snap some some city looks for the blog. We found ourselves in the West Village, without any shortage of vibrant backdrops or interesting cityscapes. I love a good neighborhood shoot- pre-war buildings, conversational stoops, and busy street corners are so quintessential New York. And winter. Freezing winters are very NY as well, but I welcome the change of temperature. Thanks to my mom's vintage furs (as seen here), I rarely complain about the weather anymore. 

I am loving the bright and bold print on this Topshop Shirt Dress. Can you spot the kitties scattered on my frock?! Combined with the eye-popping white florals and the shades of blue, green and black, its a definitely a more fun and upbeat alternative. The youthful colors and playful print instantly caught my eye at the store. It's one of the things I love about shopping at Topshop- though trendy, their pieces offer classic and modern European undertones and cater to different styles. 

The only thing left to do- accessorize! 

I found this great tan colored belt in my friend, Bonita's, closet. It's such a simple and easy way to add some character to a look. I wanted to wear a more athleisure shoe with the dress- add some sporty elements into the mix, and I love these from Steve Madden. The only downside- after ten hours of wearing these slip-ons, I had two massive blisters by the end of the night. The things we do to look good! 

And like I mentioned earlier, my winter wardrobe isn't complete with one of my stylish momma's furs! I always have a fashionable piece of her with me and it just makes me adoringly happy! 

New York- you will always be home and I'm thankful for the opportunity to get away and recharge not only my career batteries, but also my momma batteries! I was ready to come back to Miami and hug my husband and kiddos after five days away. Though the trip was a much needed disconnect, in only served to help in making me bigger and better in every area of my life and New York always seems to be the perfect prescription.

 See you on the next one.

On Me: 

Dress- Topshop 

Shoes- Steve Madden 

Sunnies- Forever 21

Fur- Vintage 

Belt- (borrowed)

In Style, 

Kat

Freshly Squeezed's 2015 Holiday Gift Guide!

It's that time of year again! 

The holidays are upon us, which mean we're working on those naughty and nice lists (hopefully leaning more on the nice side)! Nothing beats shopping for those you love- but it's also important to treat yourself to something extra special. For this year's list, I've rounded up my 10 favorite things I'm hoping Santa can fit in his sack. 

Clos du Bois Fete In A Box- Who doesn't love a little wine and games during the holidays? This 'party in a box' gift set from Clos du Bois designed by wine ambassador and event planner, Jung Lee. Gift box includes everything from cocktail napkins to thank you cards! Order online $89 

Jo Malone London Cologne Gift Set- Jo Malone knows the way to a girl's heart! They've rounded up their five most popular scents in this one-of-a-kind holiday gift set. Mix and match the scents or wear them individually. But you'll be guaranteed to be smelling good through the holidays! Available at Bloomingdales. $115

Swarovski Callie Bag Charm- Purse charms are all the rage this season and Swarovski's got you covered with these stylish critter key chains! Made of leather and accessorized with Swarovski crystals, they take cute to another level! $89

  

Unicorn Book Ends- Here's an easy way to make reading even more magical! Guaranteed to make a great gift for any bookworm, these bookworms make a great addition to any home. Who doesn't love a mystical unicorn, anyways? Available at CB2. $24.95

Vince Camuto 'Aleni' Clutch- The mirror has many faces with this killer 3D geometric mirrored clutch from Vince Camuto. It's a showstopper and the only party favor you'll need for your next holiday shindig! $178

Fedora- Hat's Off to this season of giving! And at the top of my list is a new hat, like the Lady Roulette from Goorin Bros. This wide brim fedora is perfect with either a ladylike look (think blouses, bows, and full skirts) or a neo-nostalgic #OOTD (floral maxi dresses and rock n' roll tees). The cream-colored hue makes it a hat for all seasons. $160

MAC Cosmetics Holiday Collection- MAC's Holiday Gift sets are a fail-proof gift for all the makeup junkies in your life. From lip glosses to pigments, there's something for everyone. Their sleek packaging and versatile colors are a win-win in the stocking stuffer department. The Irresistibly Charming Lip Gloss Mini Kit in Nude is my ultimate obsession. $35

Pajama Onesies- It's time to cozy up by the tree, or under the covers, and take all those Instagram-worthy pajama pictures with cute coffee mugs, wearing a new set of yummy pajamas. And the best part? They're onesies! Hello, adult baby. Marshalls is your go-to store to keep you cool(and kid-like)  this winter. $24.99 

Woven bracelets from Albadora Jewelry- There's always room for one more bracelet on my arm candy! I am currently loving these dusty blue woven and jeweled ones from Albacore jewelry. You can easily take them from day to night with your outfit of choice! Sack them up or wear them as stand alone pieces. Email albadorajewelry@gmail.com for pricing. 

Adele's 25- Because everyone needs this album in their life. Period. $11.99

In Style, 

Kat 

New York Style Map: Hunkering Down on the East Side

I have to reign in my emotions for this post because if left to my own devices, this will surely become a love letter to New York as opposed to a style post. Nonetheless, this particular photo session hits home. Literally. 

I like to boast that this was a no frills shoot. No makeup. No fuss. No preparation. The only thing I told Lindsay, my photographer, was, "I want to go back home. I want to be on the Upper East Side." And what you'll see here, is a small ode of love to the city that forever has my heart. 

Teaming up with Lindsay Madden, of Lindsay Madden Photography (http://www.lindsaymaddenphotography.com/), was also an extra perk. Lindsay has captured some of the sweetest moments of our little family. Along the way she became a friend. Her style is ethereal and whimsical, which is so up my alley. She's easy going and methodical(but not limited), which makes it such a pleasure to shoot with her, when we're not lost in conversation! So when I went back home a few weeks ago, we were both equally excited to work together on this fashion shoot for my blog. 

This is what spring looks like in New York. After a relentless polar vortex, mother nature got the memo. The flowers are starting to poke, the down coats have been stuffed away (but not too stuffed considering it is April in New York), and New Yorkers have an extra spring in their step. The weather was glorious while we were there, a warm welcome to the say the least. 

I was channeling the 90's grunge gods with my look du jour. Remember when it was cool to layer your baby doll dresses with a tee ala Cher from Clueless? I was always a fan of that look and still sport it for the nostalgic declaration. 

Though I landed in the city wearing a leather jacket, I quickly packed that away. I love this black and pink sprinkled floral baby doll from Forever 21 and love how it looks layered with a grey crop top. It's youthful and feminine- a perfect look for a spring day. 

These Cole Haan woven loafers were the only shoes I packed for the weekend. Besides being butter on my feet, they're all purpose and go seemingly with anything. Hello tights! I've missed you. Tights in Miami are mythical so the smallest things like my black tights from last season, bring me the greatest of pleasures- holes and all! 

This olive green felt hat also from Forever 21 was a weekend staple. I love how it combines so well with the florals as does the pop of the kelly green cross body. If there were such thing a state purse of New York, this would be it. 

These two quintessential street shots are my Beatles moment. Or, my "many a drunk nights" happy hop. That's probably more like it. But in all realness, this is me in my natural habitat. Blocks away from our apartment, walking home from a shoot, or grabbing a drink with a friend, or checking out an exhibit at the MET. This is me, lost in thought, thinking about where my next New York adventure will take me or really, how I forgot to put money on my metrocard. 

Either way, I heart NY. 

On Me:

Floral baby doll dress- Forever 21
Grey crop top- Forever 21
Loafers- Cole Haan 
Hat- Forever 21 
Purse- Marc by Marc Jacobs 

In Style, 

Kat 

Style Spotlight: Global Hairstylist With a Midas Touch Says Hello to Miami

A good hairstylist is hard to find- a great one, is a rarity and a prized feat. Six years ago, when I walked into the Warren Tricomi Salon at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, my search for 'the most amazing stylist in the world' successfully came to an end. Meet Emiliano De Pasqual. An Italian renaissance man by way of New York who has now brought his talent and good looks to our Magic City and her sexy clientele. If you've never had a life-changing haircut, then you haven't had the pleasure of working with Emiliano. His technique is transforming and he knows precisely how to give you that perfect cut to compliment your face, your style, and most importantly, your attitude. Your hair speaks volumes as to who you are and who you want to be in the universe, and Emiliano has the ability to let your hair speak for itself- no words necessary. 

When he is not working at the Warren Tricomi at the W Hotel in South Beach, you can find him at the salon's New York location  (where it is almost impossible to snatch an appointment with the mane man) one week out of the month. But no need to fret, fashionistas. Emiliano calls Miami home. In our sunny city of endless opportunities, he has big ventures waiting in the wings. 

Over a delicious meal of grilled fish (yes, he cooks too!) with yours truly, Emiliano dished on all things hair, style, and cheap extensions!

FSF:  When you first told me the news that you were moving to Miami I was heartbroken. Do you know how hard it is to find a good stylist? But then I moved down a year later and I had you back! You divide your time between New York and Miami but tell me why Miami is a perfect fit for your creative vision? 

EDP: My dream was always to live by the beach. I think Miami is the perfect fit for my creative vision because I see a vibrant city filled with energy and a lot of international appeal. It's a hot spot for modern art and design. It's a place with and extraordinary quality of life where my wife, Ana and I are raising our 10-month-old son, Dante.  

FSF: When did you first realize that your talent was worth sharing with the world?

EDP: Since I was a teenager I knew I had something special.

Emiliano works to bring alive the designer's vision at New York Fashion Week. 

FSF: How do the hair trends differ from city to city?        Describe the style and trends in let's say, Miami, New York and LA? 

EDP: Miami is all about sexy. The girls here love long and seductive hair. New York gives birth to trends every day and influences mainstream trends. It's the fashion capital of the USA and it has a special energy that breeds just about anything. LA is more bohemian with beautiful blonde girls who have messy chignons and braids. I feel privileged to be able to work in two of the most inspiring cities in the world.

FSF: You've described your passion for styling as an art. What's the difference between a cut as an art form compared to a regular cut? 

EDP: The essence of the art form is in listening to your client's needs, understanding their hair texture, knowing their features, the mood they are in, and then being able to create something unique that personalizes and highlights their look right on the spot. I think it is important to study the history of hair, fashion, movies, music, and architecture in order to be prepared.

Emiliano and supermodel, Miranda Kerr, get into the selfie groove after a shoot. 

 FSF: You have styled some high profile celebrities. Who has been your favorite to work with? 

EDP: I am grateful for having had the opportunity to style many celebrities and models but I can't choose a favorite because they were all fabulous. You can see pictures on my Facebook page.

FSF: You've worked on so many big events from New York Fashion Week to Art Basel. How do you prepare for these events and do the events/productions determine the look you're going for? 

EDP: I always have magazines, books with images, clippings, art references so that I'm ready for whatever comes my way. All year round, I prepare myself by going to art openings, museums, watching documentaries, and attending music events. That's how I love to fuel my many passions. I create individual style for my clients versus working the runway because that's more about pleasing the designer and complementing the collection because the clothing is the highlight. When I style clients for weddings or events it's much more fun to make them be whoever they want to be for a day.

FSF: Summer is nearly upon us and one of the biggest factors working against hair in Miami is the brutal humidity. What are some tips to keep frizz under control in this weather? 

EDP: The main rule is don't fight the texture of your hair. But don't confuse hair that needs nutrition, conditioning, and regular trims, with "my hair is frizzy," damaged hair doubles as frizzy. All of my clients have first and foremost, healthy hair. For curly hair my favorite is the leave in conditioner, Warren Tricomi Curl Definer, along with the use of keratin once a year for the extremely curly hair. For fine hair, use Kerastase and I suggest using volumizing spray right before pumping it with a medium round brush. Another great product is Bumble and Bumble surf spray for a natural beach look.

FSF: What trends will we be seeing this summer that every woman should try out?

EDP: I think women should not follow trends. I help my clients find the look that is most natural while bringing out their unique features and maximizing their hair texture. A haircut that elevates your confidence and makes you feel great is a trend every woman should follow.

FSF: Is there a hair trend you wish would just go away? 

EDP: Cheap extensions. They not only create terrible damage but we all see that they are fake. Invest in your hair, it's a major part of your life.

FSF: Not only are you a master with a pair of scissors, you also have a very unique sense of style. Who or what influences your personal look when you get dressed to head out the door? 

EDP: I like black. I like minimalism. I like Keith Rechards. I like Lenny Kravitz. My style is inspired by all these things. I appreciate craftsmanship, well-made clothes and accessories are the essence of a gentleman. My favorite designers at the moment are Hedi Slimane, Martin Margiela and Ricardo Tisci.

*** To Make an appointment with Emiliano in Miami or New York, call the locations below ***

Warren Tricomi- W Hotel Miami Beach 

2201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 673-9190 Warren Tricomi - The Plaza Hotel The Plaza Retail Collection, 2nd fl., 1 W 58th St, New York, NY 10019 (212) 262-8899

Social Media links: 

Twitter https://twitter.com/edp5/

Fan Page https://www.facebook.com/EmilianoDePasqualFanPage

email emilianodepasqual@gmail.com

tel 347 661 1915

 http://emilianodepasqualhair.carbonmade.com/about

In Style,

Kat

Welcome to Miami.

Paying homage to my hometown with this woven bracelet I found at Genius Jones in Wynwood. 

We're taking it slow, Miami and I, since my heart belongs to NYC. But we're reconnecting like old friends and I kind of like it. Just don't try to make it out with me. That'll be weird. 

In Style, 

Kat 

White Girls CAN Jump.

Here's a double dose of big hair and jumpsuits. 

I love the way this aztec print jumpsuit fits on my frame. I like the ruffled strapless cut that shows off my collarbone. And I like how the legs on the suit go from the right amount of looseness to tailored at the ankles. This cut works really well with cute sandals, like these gold gladiator ones I picked out. If the legs were wider, I would have opted for a wedge or even a platform heel. 

I belted it right at the waist to break up the pattern as to not cause dizziness. 

On Me:

Jumpsuit- Forever 21
Bib necklace- Forever 21
Gold sandals- Enzo Angiolini 
Braided belt- Forever 21

Hair by: Emiliano (Warren Tricomi Salon at the W Hotel)

In Style, 

Kat

One Person's Trash is Another Fashionista's Gain.

I've never met a closet I couldn't conquer. Call me neurotic or obsessive compulsive, but helping friends clean out, organize, and coordinate their disheveled frocks into something that makes sense is my guilty pleasure. The only payment I require besides orderly bliss, is a bottle of wine and my pick of any discarded garb from the 'No' pile. 

Such was the case with this secret garden inspired linen blazer.  I walked away with this floral find after cleaning one of my dearest friends' closet (she was one of the most rewarding closets I ever had the pleasure of bringing back to life, which translates to four garbage bags of donations).  It is such a fun piece that can go high or low. I love the way it flows with this lace skirt, a black and white graphic tee and my moto boots. I mean, these boots should might as well be sewn to my feet, Peter Pan style. I added this fierce heavy gold necklace and my quilted Chanel handbag as my bad ass accessories. 

Some other outfit ideas with this blazer off the top of my head: 
- paired with leather leggings and a solid colored muscle tee.
- over a lace ivory short, midi, or maxi dress
- jean short with black opaque tights, a white tank, and a leopard scarf

On Me:

Floral linen blazer- Urban Outfitters
Graphic tee- Forever 21
Lace skirt- Ann Taylor
Boots- Steve Madden
Gold necklace- Zara
Handbag- Chanel

In Style,

Kat

A Starry Affair!

Well, va va voom, Mrs. Buccio! I could not WAIT to wear this Kate Young for Target one shoulder gown. The ruffled bow on the shoulder is all sorts of amazing and just screams, "POW! In your face!" The black and white star print gives the gown a classic finish. 

Let's talk hair because a dress like this needs an equally stellar updo and who better than Emiliano at Warren Tricomi at the W South Beach to create this hair-raising bouffant. It was the epitome of glam. I kept the makeup simple with a red lip and minimal eyeliner. 

The snakeskin handbag is from a Vintage store in New Orleans. The art deco chandelier earrings are from J.Crew and a gift from Coco. The five inch heels are Guess. And thankfully, I still have all my toes (I think). 

On Me:

Dress- Kate Young for TARGET
heels- Guess
bag- vintage
earrings- J.Crew 

In Style, 

Kat

So Clutch.

Can I get a what what! for my totally fabulous clutch/crossbody purse I snatched up at H&M?! The goldware is insane. 

'X' marks the spot. 

Spotted: The view from the top. These polka dot leggings kept me nice and warm in the NYC cold. And these Aldo booties are butter on my feet. 

On Me:

'X' sweater- Forever 21

polka dot leggings- Forever 21

Clutch- H&M

Booties- Aldo shoes 

In Style, 

Kat 

Welcome to the Jungle.

I'm feeling feisty in my latest obsession and frugalista find! I heard these leopard harem pants calling my name and for $12.99 at TJ Maxx, I came a runnin'! How could you not?! I love how they look with my Michael Jackson tank I found at the Fairfax Flea Market in Los Angeles. I topped it off with a studded jean vest, black leather sandals, and my Marc Jacobs crossbody, which is a weekend staple for me.  

Leopard pants, believe it or not, are a wardrobe staple. Treat it like a neutral. It goes well with anything and it makes a statement. Think of them as you would a pair of jeans and your options are limitless. 

On Me:

leopard harem pants- TJ Maxx
MJ tank- Fairfax flea market
Jean Vest- Forever 21
Studded sandals- Steve Madden
Crossbody- Marc Jacobs 
Bib Necklace- Forever 21 

In Style, 

Kat 

Flower Bomb in Wynwood featuring Maya Buccio.

These little boots were made for struttin'! Say hello again to my mini fashionista, Maya B. She'll be the guest of honor on today's blog post! We recently did a photo shoot in front of one of our favorite murals in Wynwood. Coincidentally, the wall is right around a kid's gym. The colors on the mural pop, pop, pop! And so do our outfits! 

Let's start with this fabulous Harajuku Mini floral tutu from Target. My mother in law bought this for Maya before she was even born. This kid was rocking stylish duds before she even made her debut. The pink cowboy boots are so girly and sweet! 

I'm currently obsessed with mixing leopard and florals. For this look, I paired my leopard Christian Louboutin peep toes with my H&M floral leggings. Want to see how we paired the rest of the outfit? Just scroll down! 

 I paid homage to my city with this 'New York City' tank top and an off white blazer. 

Maya is wearing a denim button down from H&M.

My best accessory isn't sold in stores.

I've been dying to try the floral headband trend I've been seeing in magazines and window displays for some time now and I finally bit the bullet. I spent a mere $6 on this Forever 21 headband and in return, I felt ethereal. This was a fun trend to pull off! Don't blink, or you won't catch a glimpse of my owl ring! 

On Me:

Off white blazer- Urban outfitters
NYC tank- Forever 21
floral leggings- H&M
leopard heels - Christian Louboutin 
Statement necklace- Ann Taylor 
Flower headband- Forever 21

On Maya:

Denim shirt- H&M
Tutu Skirt- Harajuku Mini for Target
Cowboy boots- Target

In Style,

Kat