The Long Vest

Outfit Details: LF Soho Long Vest (similar here, here and here), Target Jeans, LuLu*s Snakeskin Heels (similar), Zara Handbag (similar and also love this one), Jcrew Blouse, Aaraa Accessories Statement Necklace & Rings, Prada Sunglasses

It's a dress! It's a sleeveless coat! It's a smock! It's a...long vest. I bought this vest last spring with one of my boho gal-pals, Jax, and every single time I wear it I get several comments about the uniqueness of it. Of course, I get the occasional eyebrow raise as well. Someone at work mentioned it resembles a smock, and that's ok. I can accept the fact that this style is not for everyone. To me, a long vest acts as another form of layering. It's practical, yet daring. Two words I love when it comes to style.

To get you acquainted with my new favorite staple piece, I've put together a Mavatar collection with some of the chicest long vests currently on the market. Trust me, you'll want to take a peek. Click below!

xx,

Something Red

Outfit Details: Zara Flared Dress, JCrew Factory Bow Tights (my ultimate favorite!), LuLu*s Snakeskin Heels (also similar here), LuLu*s Studded Black Purse, H&M necklace (similar), Kate Spade Bow Ring and Bracelet, JCrew Chain Link Bracelet

Earlier this week I shared my Valentine's Day Outfit Guide with you, and today I'm giving you a peek at one of my favorite festive combos for this romantic holiday. It might just be the outfit I wear out next Saturday ;). Last week we had a major blizzard here in NYC...correction, the media told us we were going to have a blizzard. The reality of it? We got maybeeee 5 inches. BUT I can't complain. Since the path trains were down and the office was closed I was able to sit home and watch movies all day with my fiance. This is a rare sighting in our apartment because we are never home. While catching up on all my favorite shows, I browsed the web to find the perfect pairing for these JCrew Bow Tights. When I stumbled on this red flared dress from Zara I knew it would be a great fit. Not to mention it's adorable and cheap! Where else can you find a dress for $25 these days? I snatched it up with Valentine's Day in mind.

Most people complain about Valentine's Day, but I happen to enjoy it. There's always someone to celebrate with and who doesn't love an excuse to drink champagne and eat chocolate?

To browse more of my #VDay picks click on the below Mavatar button. ALL proceeds from this cart will go to the American Heart Association in honor of American Heart Month.

What will you be wearing next weekend for VDay?

XX,

The Poncho Sweater

Outfit Details: Pink Slate Boutique Poncho Sweater, Express Skinny Jeans, BaubleBar Ear Crawlers, Mint Market Ring, Aldo Accessories Clutch (similar), Victoria's Secret Cuff Bracelet, Lucky Laced Up Wedges (similar here and here)

What's more cozy and chic than an oversized cashmere sweater? The poncho, of course! During the winter months, it gets tough to create a unique outfit that feels warm and fun. There's only so many days in a week that you can get away with the traditional sweater + statement accessory combo (I am super guilty of this). For a trendier alternative, why not try wearing a sweater poncho? I love the simple design and modern details on this Black Poncho from Pink Slate Boutique. It comes in two colors- black and grey. I adore the fringey and ruffle detailing throughout. It keeps the outfit exceptionally interesting! 

If you're thinking of adding this sassy look to your wardrobe this winter, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Size matters. Oversized ponchos are everything this winter, but make sure it's not too big. You don't want to look like you're draped in a carpet :).
• Balance. To keep your outfit looking slim, be sure to pair with skinny jeans or leggings. If you're brave enough and the temps allow, try wearing with thigh-high boots for an ultra sleek look.
• Belt it. If you are looking to create more dimensional outfit pair with a printed or texturized belt.
• Versatility. Search for a poncho with a round or relaxed neckline, like the one pictured above. This will allow you to create multiple looks with one garment. You can wear it slightly off the shoulder, diagonal across the body, or as a traditional poncho (seen above).

So what do you think? Will you fall in love with the poncho trend this season? How would you wear it?

XX,

PLAID + LACE

Outfit Details: Pink Slate Boutique Plaid Top & Earrings (c/o), Francesca's Necklace, Sole Society Wine Colored Booties, Kate Spade Watch, Painted Threads Black Lace Skirt (similar)

It's the first full week of the New Year and I feel completely relaxed and refreshed after taking a mini vacation from work and well, life. Sometimes it's good to take a step back from all the social media and enjoy time with family and friends. Since it is "resolution season" I decided I would share a few of my goals with you. My resolutions are quite simple. I want to focus more this year on becoming organized, reading more books, and loving others. The first two goals are straight forward. Too often I get caught up in the NYC hustle and bustle and barely take time to make myself complete meals or put my laundry away. To avoid the feeling of drowning in weekly chores, I made a vow to myself to complete one chore each day. This may sound absolutely ridiculous, but it can be so easy to fall into a routine of work, events, sleep, repeat. I made a list for myself which details all of the small tasks I need to complete each week. It feels so good to cross an item off. You'd be surprised at how hard it is for me to even make a dentist appointment. I constantly feel as if I never have time, but this year I'm going to stay organized and make time for not only myself, but my friends and family.

One of the most important resolutions to me this year is to focus my energy on the good and showing others the act of kindness. I want to take time out of my hectic life to pay it forward. Whether it's writing a little note to my friends, sending flowers to a person in need, buying a cup of coffee for a complete stranger, or taking the time to sit down and truly listen to someone in need of a friend. Listening is key. It's important to allow others to feel good about themselves. Try to remove yourself from the situation and open your heart and ears to every person you meet. They will appreciate it.

Well, now that I've shared some of my resolutions with you I would love to hear yours! I wanted this post to be a fun one, something that reflects my personality and style. I'm a huge fan of burgundy and lace this winter, so this outfit was just screaming to be worn for the first post of 2015. I've been wearing this plaid top from Pink Slate Boutique on repeat since I got it. The colors are so flattering for winter, or in another words- against my extremely pale skin. I'm in need of some sunlight people!! Bronzer and sunless tanner will have to do for now ;). Hope you all have a great week.

XX,

                                              Photography by Art Petrosemolo

                                              Location: Molly Pitcher Inn

Petite Faux Fur Coats

 Outfit Details: Miss Selfridge Petite Coat c/o (similar here, here, and here), Kate Spade Handbag, Michael Kors Booties (similar), Aqua Bottoms, Sunglass Warehouse Round Retro Style Sunglasses

Winter coats can be so terribly heavy and boxy. If you happen to be petite and/or short then you understand the struggle of trying to find a coat that your body does not physically get lost in. I've been in search for a feminine pea coat for work this season, but I had trouble finding a style that fit my upper body. Either the arms were too long, or the frame was too loose. I want to feel like a lady, not a girl. I was starting to feel slightly defeated until I was introduced to the brand Miss Selfridge by an industry friend- hi Kellie ;)! Miss Selfridge is a UK based retailer that is available online in the US. They have so many adorable dresses, skirts, tops, accessories, and outerwear. I was so delighted to find that they cater to women of all sizes.

 The coat I am wearing above is from their petite collection and it fits me like a glove. No tailoring needed. The best part? Their price points are totally reasonable. Every time I wear this coat I receive so many compliments. It really is such a chic little button-down. I love how the fur collar is accented with a bold rhinestone button at the neck.

Keeping warm without the bulk: Puffy coats are the most practical and useful winter coats. They keep you extremely warm and you can literally go jump in a pile of snow and still not feel the cold. To avoid the thickness try finding a jacket that features a belt. This will help to narrow your frame and create a sleek silhouette.

Just remember a winter coat is an investment piece. Try to steer away from the trends and opt for a classic cut. It will last you decades!

XX,

Photography by Art Petrosemolo Location: Molly Pitcher Inn