Miami Style Map: Singing the Blues in Surfside

My friends say I need a little push to walk on the 'wild side' from time to time. And this is most likely true. I can be a real square on occasion. Living on the 'wild side' doesn't really appetize me. I like to follow rules, not break them. And if I do, there's got to be some good logic behind it. I was that girl who never went to the principal's office, always followed directions, and brought home kick ass report cards. And damn proud of it. 

So imagine my trepidation when Lizzie, my photographer from www.ra-haus.com, suggested we lay claim on this retro bungalow in Surfside. Our shooting location, she tells me. "But Liz, SOMEONE lives here. It's trespassing." And out comes that good girl I was telling you all about and here's how it went inside my head for twenty seconds, "we can't shoot here, it's not our house! do you know the people that live here? can we get arrested? what if they shoot us? what if the neighbors say something?" Neurotisicm at it's finest. 

Finally after several nudges, pushes, and a even a "get over it," she started clicking away. And sometimes, that little push is all you need in order to get some magical results like these! 

There is so much character to be found in one single shoot, starting with the standout aqua color of this sweet adobe! It's sensational- there's no better way to describe it. Two things came to mind when I first saw this house- 1) how much it reminded me of that infamous W Mag spread with Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie during the 'breakup heard round the world." And 2) If Norman Rockwell decided to use Miami Beach in his 1950's All-American family portraits, this would probably be the kind of house he would feature. 

With that being said, it's no surprise that this Miami-modern casita was the other leading lady during our session, and we definitely took advantage of the all that it's exterior had to offer. 

I love the contrast of the dressed up look against the distressed and aged appearance of the home. I also love this full print black and white skirt not only because it has a slight touch of 1950's modernism, but because it has POCKETS! I'm pocket-crazy! 

The versatility and print of the skirt makes it a classic staple that can be worn many different ways. I paired mine with a cut off jeweled crop top in another classic color- grey. This look leans toward the modern, and yet it still works with my everyday style. 

I accessorized this look with these beautiful earrings courtesy of Rocksbox, my Rebecca Minkoff red cross body, and my electric blue Louboutins for some pop of color, and my vintage Pixie Market frames. Also, can you spot my 'Tale of Two cities' bracelet? I'm obsessed. 

And there you have it, folks! This is what happens when you step out of your comfort zone a tad- a unique photo session that will definitely have the squeezers talking! And special thanks to Lizzie for giving me that extra push I needed! 

On Me: 

Top: Bloomingdales
Skirt: Bloomingdales
Bag: Rebecca Minkoff
Heels: Louboutins 
Sunnies: Pixie Market 


In Style, 

Kat 

The Writings on the Wall

 

One thing I'm really good at is disconnecting. My husband says it takes seconds for me to get into 'vacation mode' while it takes him a few days. He's rather envious, actually.  I know that comes off as a bit stand-offish, so let me explain. I've had practice in self-nurturing from a young age, and know really well when it's time to disconnect, to cut myself off from the world in order to put my needs and well-being first. It's important for me to shut down the engines so I can reconnect with myself, with my family, and with my sanity. And I make no apologies for it.  It's what keeps me healthy, happy, and sane.

This photo shoot marked one of those 'that's it for me' times. My photographer, Raquel and I, met at one of my favorite Wynwood walls after a whirlwind few weeks of Art Basel and deadlines. I was mentally exhausted. The thought of piling assignments and looming deadlines would give me mild anxiety. I was looking forward to some time off with my little girl and frankly, some time to myself idling with mindless trivia like bad TV and fashion magazines. And that's exactly what I did. 

Once I turned in my last assignment, I let out a big, obnoxious sigh (and maybe did a little dance too), and closed down shop. I disconnected. I put myself on vacation. It was 'me' time. No work. No deadlines. 

And then I did this photo shoot.

I call this urban modern.  It's a more streamlined look, a little different than what I usually gravitate to and I'm really digging it- starting with the booties. I love these Steve Madden booties. I love the almond-toe cut, which can easily be worn with a skinny jean, a dress, or in this case, my waffle-print ivory skirt.

 

The piece de resistance of this outfit is the Style Mafia Jacket. It's channeling old school letterman/bomber only way more fierce. Yes, that's part in thanks to the tigers because tigers just make everything magical, but I also love the cut and the fit. I styled it over a black long sleeved crop top, but you can throw this over any tee or tank, even a turtleneck (I did) for an effortless, retro look.

This photo shoot was the perfect way to disconnect and have a little fun! So now I turn the tables on you- how do you disconnect? 

 

On Me: 

Jacket- Style Mafia 

Skirt- H&M 

Handbag- H&M

Crop top- Forever 21 

Boots- Steve Madden 

In Style, 

Kat 

Welcome to the Dollhouse

 Some time in 2014, at the suggestion of my BFF and occasional inside voice, I steered clear of floral prints because according to him, I was single-handedly keeping the trend alive based on the ridiculous amounts of floral pieces I owned. I tried to deny it, "me?! obsessed with florals? You got the wrong girl." But after a routine closet cleaning with said best friend, I came face to face with my floral demons and moved on to the acceptance phase. 

Hi my is Kathy, and I'm a recovering floral-holic. Yes, my closet was in full bloom and I needed a cleanse. I purged my wardrobe of floral pieces that basically looked exactly the same in print and color. Now I have a healthy dose of florals and all in different palettes. 

Recovery is slow. I still walk into a store and I automatically gravitate towards anything that has flowers splashed on it; therefore, I have to make a conscious effort to stop and listen to that inside voice that tells me, "Step away from the florals." Truth be told, sometimes I can't stand that inside voice. That's not to say I won't be wearing florals again. Au contraire. It just means I'll be more selective and may need a BFF approval whenever I'm obsessing over a floral piece- like this floral number from Romwe! 

My photographer and friend extraordinaire, Liz from Ra-haus Fotografie (www.ra-haus.com) and I took to the streets of Lincoln Road to capture the floral magic of this dress because it organically blends with the lush surroundings. The green is the one color that stands out most about this number and when photographed against the tropical vegetation and grey colored stone sidewalks, it pops even more. 

The dress's details like the peter pan collar, the slightly flared skirt, and the dress's black floral print background, gives this look a darkly feminine twist- an almost doll-like vibe. 

I played up the mood a little more with the dark lip (MAC Cyber- my current obsession) and my two-toned Sam Edelman loafers (a menswear touch) via Zappos.com (www.zappos.com). 

It's amazing how much character a pair of sunnies can add to a look! These Pixie Market ones, with its tinted brownish lenses, go perfectly with the dress's color scheme. 

So what did we learn today, squeezers? It's okay to love a trend just as long as there is variety to that trend. Try to purchase/invest in pieces that are far from similar. The floral selections are seasonally endless so no need for five red floral tops or three floral pink dresses. Don't let yourself drown in a sea of bland continuity.

 Branch out! 

On Me:

Dress- Romwe

Loafers- Sam Edelman from Zappos.com

Glasses- Pixie Market 

In Style, 

Kat 

I'm Bigger, Better, and Stronger Because of 2014, and Ready to Shine in the New Year Sans Resolutions!

Happy New Year's Eve, Squeezers! While I'm not 100% back up and running just yet, I couldn't end 2014 without a blogpost and a THANK YOU, to all of you, for following me, for supporting me, and for joining me on my blogging adventures. In the words of the great Sally Field, "You like me! You really like me!" 

2014 was the year of strength, sacrifice, growth, and perseverance. It was a year of challenges, of emotional battles, of success, of trust, but most importantly, a true testament to commitment, faith, and happiness. It began with an unwanted move back to Miami- a move which in the last year, has taught me what it truly means to sacrifice (or as I say, temporarily put on hold) your own agenda for that of someone else's. Since my mom's passing at the age of 16, I've done a pretty good job of taking care of myself and putting myself first in all things life- starting with my well-being, school, and career. Having a partner and being a mother has taught me the real definition of selflessness. This was a learning lesson for me, and a somewhat uncomfortable one,  but a gratifying step towards continuous growth. I saw my marriage go through growing pains that thankfully evolved into an even healthier and loving partnership. We redefined teamwork and I couldn't be more proud of my husband for his passionate ambition, his undying support and encouragement, and fierce loyalty to his family. I am blessed beyond words to have him in our lives. 

It was the year of flying blind; of having unquestionable faith and strength of what the future held and relinquishing control to the unknown. This has been scary, and continues to be; but, it is this 'unknown' that sometimes bring the most unexpected joy and opportunities. Sometimes in life, the only answer is to throw your arms wide open and accept the challenge, whatever it may hold.  My go-getter attitude never wavered and I vowed that I would make our stay in the Magic City one filled with happy memories for myself and for Maya. And while I miss our everyday adventures of city living (because that chapter hasn't closed just yet), there's been something really special about rediscovering Miami as a first time mom, getting to share with Maya in many of the day to day things my own mother shared with me as I was growing up. And those are the kind of memories that can't be duplicated. They're pure magic. 

Personally, I have been fortunate to explore new and exciting ventures that I would have otherwise, never have bothered to experience if I was in New York- starting with the ability to do more writing, whether through the blog or other publications. My NYC life kept me preoccupied with other things. Everyday I learn something new about myself, cliche as it sounds. But that's what hurdles and bumps are meant to do- they're meant to teach us and to challenge us and they encourage us to pick the road less traveled so that the reward is that much more satisfying at the end. Because there's nothing more fulfilling than proving to yourself, "hey, I did it- we did it," and smiling up at the sky. 

Therefore, despite the roller coaster of change, charged emotions, and 'what ifs,' 2014 was one big, fat, blessing for Coco, Maya, and I because we got through it together and came out of it bigger, better, and stronger and with a whole new outlook towards life. We're happy, we're healthy, and ready for world domination in 2015. 

And with that, we welcome you, 2015! With health, happiness, and faith at the forefront, I look forward to another year of making memories, of laughter, and of growth. I'm not one for making resolutions. I don't believe in setting ourselves up for such expectations at the start of a new year (don't believe me, just look at all those canceled gym memberships). Everyday should be an opportunity to be better, to wake up and make your dreams into reality, to take risks, and to keep climbing until you reach the top. There's a whole lotta of world and a whole lotta you waiting to do some great big things! 

So let's raise our glasses in triumph and cheer, "2015, welcome! We Salute you." 

Thank you to Ricky from Simply Captivating for capturing these ethereal photos on our recent shoot in the Design District. I love the airiness of this Free People skirt because it plays well with any type of mood, texture, style personality, and climate. The muted grey and cream palette with a slab of the rich, purple lip tone (courtesy of MAC's Cyber), feels almost dreamy and ultra-feminine. And I mean, can you ever go wrong with a tongue-and-cheek Kate Moss sweatshirt?! 

How spectacular are these Sam Edelman heels from TJ Maxx?! Love the gold detailing on the platform and the patent black straps. The Art Deco inspired style is 'oh so Miami.' 

 Here's an homage to the 90's with my velvet choker. I just can't seem to help adding some grittier elements to this girlish look. Headpieces still aren't ready to say goodbye, and as someone who grew up wearing them religiously, I'm happy to see them stay. I love this leaf-like stunner from Avon.  The metallic clutch is also an Avon special! 

That's a wrap for 2014! Immense gratitude and love for the wild ride! Here's to a happy and safe 2015 for all my Squeezers! 

On Me: 

Sweatshirt- Bloomingdales

Skirt: Free People 

Shoes: Sam Edelman/TJ Maxx

Headpiece- Avon

Clutch- Avon 

In Style, 

Kat 

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas at The Falls Miami!

A couple of weeks ago, amidst the Art Basel madness, I took a little break, or as I like to call it, a 'Mommy's Time Out,' to indulge in some holiday shopping at The Falls in Miami. The kind folks at the outdoor shopping mecca, invited me along with a guest, to enjoy a beautiful afternoon at their mall. 

It's been years since I had been to The Falls and I had forgotten just how nice it was! The last time I was there, I was 17 and had gone for a movie and dinner with friends so this was a nice refresher visit to get reacquainted with all the great stores and restaurants the mall has to offer! 

Our first stop on our holiday shopping adventure was to HSI Professional, which had just opened that day. We were officially the salon's first customer! I brought along one of my dear friends, Sole, as my shopping date, who like me, really savors those mommy time outs. Plus, we always have a good time when we get together! 

The salon is small, but has so much girlish character, with pops of color -pink, gold, and white- and imported Italian furniture adorning the space. The stylists are eager to make your visit memorable and are very knowledgeable on the products and happy to show you how they work. What makes this blow dry bar extra special comes down to two things: First, they have a self-serve styling session! So after a long day of shopping if you wanted to get your hair touched up before dinner or a movie, you can pop in to the salon and help yourself to their styling tools ( curling wand, flat iron, blow dryer). There's even someone on hand to help you out! Secondly, if you purchase  one of their products, the money you spend turns into points/credits, and they are applied towards any styling service on your next visit. So let's say you bought the curling wand for $70, you would have 70 points on your account and if you came in a few weeks later and wanted to get a $40 blowout, 40 of those 70 points would be used and you don't have to pay an extra dime! 

Getting your hair blown out and styled is one of those simple pleasures in life! I like to treat myself often to them because they're an insta-feel good pick me up. Sole and I had such a great experience at HSI getting hair pampered, that we plan on coming back! 

Just look at the final results! 

After getting primped, it was time to refuel! We were treated to an incredibly tasty lunch at P.F Chang's at the mall. I haven't been to a P.F Chang's since I was a teenager so this was almost like coming for the first time and it exceeded my expectations! Our server was on-point and made excellent recommendations for our meal. We feasted on everything from tuna tartare, to crispy lettuce wraps and Mongolian beef. And no dish went to waste! We got some of it to-go! 

And these well-deserving mommas enjoyed a delicious glass of pinot noir with the meal! By the end of our lunch, we were pleasantly full. A pit stop at P.F Chang's is a must on your next shopping expedition at The Falls Miami. 

We popped into a few stores after lunch and picked up some gifts for the kiddos and husbands but I was most excited to score some goodies at the Gap, like these comfy turtlenecks that were on sale for $15! Yes, I know what you're thinking, 'turtlenecks in Miami?' Those are almost an urban myth. But these Gap special are soft, stretchy, and thin. They're perfect for a 60 something degree day. I went with grey since it's a classic neutral. 

Turtlenecks are easy when it comes to layering (think blazers and flannels) and extremely versatile when it comes to traveling for cold-weather holiday destinations. And because Gap was having a 'buy one, get 50% off' sale going on, I bought Maya the cutest outfit for our upcoming trip back home to New York! 

But no visit to The Falls during the holidays is complete without a visit to the big man on campus himself, Santa Claus! I actually came back for a second shopping day at the Falls just so that I could bring my baby girl to meet the man in the suit! She's at that age where she's beginning to understand what Christmas is, why we give presents on the 25th (Happy Birthday, Jesus), and who that jolly old man with the snowy beard represents! And I knew it would be something special and probably the first time she would really enjoy getting some one on one time with Santa! 

And I was right! She ran up to him with open arms and snuggled up to him. Santa was very engaging and even though she really didn't have anything on her Christmas wish list to give to Santa, she was just thrilled to play peek-a-boo and give high fives. Two days later, and she's still talking about her visit with the big man and showing everyone the picture. 

Santa mission accomplished! 

A BIG Thank you to The Falls (www.facebook.com/shopthefalls) for a wonderful afternoon and a special thanks to P.F Changs (www.facebook.com/pfchangs), HSI Professional, and Gap (www.facebook.com/gapatthefalls) for the extra personalized service! I look forward to coming back in the New Year! 

In Style, 

Kat 

It's a Gap Holiday in Drop Waist and Florals!

It's a holly jolly Christmas and I'm feeling happy, festive, and bright! It may sound cliche, but the holiday season is one that makes me feel all warm, cozy, and childlike- from getting Christmas cards in the mail from friends all over, to Michael Buble's Christmas album that sits on repeat in our apartment. Those are just two of the many wonderful things that make the holiday season so special! Being reunited with family, holiday movies with my little one (A Mickey Christmas, anyone?), gift exchanges, and Christmas shopping top my list of treats that put a smile on my face. 

And dressing up for the holidays is always a festive perk!  I love what Gap has been doing since Danish designer, Rebekka Bay, took the helm as creative director. There's a funky design infusion in its current collections (but still keeping to its classic reputation) that outshines the traditional Gap uniform we've been used to seeing and I've fallen in love with Gap all over again because of it. So when the opportunity came to team up with Gap at Lincoln Road for a holiday feature on how I wear my Gap, I literally (see above) did a little jig! 

This season was all about celebrating holiday looks with Gap's new Shine Collection. From 'Fair Isle' pieces to party dresses, there's something for everyone's fashion palette. 

I'm not one to shy away from florals and this drop waist black and blue floral number had my name written all over it! http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=15207&vid=1&pid=140155002) It was the perfect dress to personalize for the holidays and beyond. The blue is so striking when paired with black and I love the fit of the dress on my body, especially the poofy skirt! It's my three favorite 'F's'- fun, flirty, and feminine. 

There are so many ways to wear this dress but I opted to give it an edgier spin since it fits my boho glam personality and that's the vibe I was feeling. I took my new Steve Madden Fickkle boots for a test drive with the dress and I am obsessed with the style of the booty (http://www.stevemadden.com/product/FICKKLE/179609.uts). I should also mention that Steve Madden has never let me down when it comes to their booty selection. These almond-toe shape pair are not only comfortable, they're pleasing, complementary, and sleek, so they easily sharpen up any outfit. And you get a little extra bounce in your step (and look) with its right-sized heel. 

I'm not one to venture into the silver department when it comes to jewelry, but it was love at first sight when I saw this Aldo statement necklace in Liz's drawer! And that's Liz, as in friend/photographer extraordinaire of Ra-Haus www.ra-haus.com)! Not only does she kill it behind the lens, she has a pretty sick personal style as well. I switched out my accessories once I had my heart set on the silver piece and I am so glad I went with it, because there's something about silver combined with blue and black that's just magical. The juxtaposition of the heavy, tribal elements of the necklace work well with the insta-pop of the florals. 

By the way, can you spy my customized beaded bracelet by Jade's Jems? (www.jadesjems.com) It's my nonchalant nod to the cities I call home (NYC, I'll see you real soon!). It's a daily reminder of where my heart belongs. 

And did you notice anything different about my look? If you guessed bangs, you guessed right! I brought my bangs out to play with this Gap dress. It just called for it and so did the hat! It ties the look together in a perfect package! Now, this look wouldn't be freshly squeezed without a bit of print mixing and I did that subtlety with the help of this leopard crossbody from Cole Haan. I mean, this dress is just a fashionista's paradise for accessorizing! 

I want to put you up to the challenge! How do YOU wear your Gap? Maybe it's something that's already in your closet or maybe this dress is calling your name. Whatever it is, don't be afraid to express yourself and SHINE this holiday season with a one of a kind piece. 

Happy Holidays, squeezers!

On Me: 

Dress- Gap

Necklace- Aldo Necklace

Booties- Steve Madden

Hat- Nasty Gal

Bag- Cole Haan 

In Style, 

Kat