nicolette mason

{EVENT} Shop with me at Bloomingdales!

2013-05-22T09:00:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to announce that I'll be hosting an event at Bloomingdale's in White Plains, New York (for those of you in the city, it's a really short ride on the Metro North away). I'd love to meet you and shop their plus collection, eat some sweets & treats, and chat about summer fashion. Bloomingdale's carries one of the best contemporary selections of plus-size apparel - and from top designers, at that! They're one of the only places, online and in-store, that I can find some of my favorite brands, like Rachel Pally, T-Bags Los Angeles, Vince Camuto, Anna Scholz, and much, much, more.

Can you believe June is just around the corner? I can't. At all. 2013 has been incredibly kind to me, and this will be the perfect way to celebrate the halfway mark!

Location: Bloomingdale's
Third Floor, Shop for Women

175 Bloomingdale Road

White Plains, NY 10605
914-684-6300
Date: Saturday June 8th, 1-4 PM

As a preview, I've put together some of my favorite current styles from Bloomingdale's below...!

{AT BLOOMINGDALE'S}

{GIVEAWAY} GabiFresh for S4A Swag Bag

2013-05-17T08:24:00.001-04:00

Even though I live in New York City and seldom get out to our beaches (I'll miss Fort Tilden, this summer - still being repaired post-Sandy) I look forward to the days where I get to slip into my favorite swimsuit and dive head first into a pool or tiptoe into the ocean. I'm heading to the South of France, this summer, and it'll be the perfect chance to catch up on my Vitamin D and work on getting (just a little bit) of a tan.

It's been an exciting week for plus-size fashion, with the Clements Ribeiro Swan collection launching as well as the GabiFresh for S4A collection, with an already sold out and highly coveted galaxy print bikini.

My favorite from the collection?? The amazing neon pink high waist bikini.

And now YOU CAN WIN a piece of Gabi's collection, too - along with the coolest Marni tote, one of my favorite Murakami Books , and a Deborah Lippmann polish to get your mani/pedi in check.

RULES:

1. Comment on this post with your favorite piece from the collection, and when you plan to wear it this summer. Don't forget to include your email address!

2. Follow Swimsuits4All on Facebook.

3. Share for an extra entry! Head to Twitter or Instagram and post "I entered to win a @gabifresh @swimsuits4all gift set from @nicolettemason! http://www.nicolettemason.com"

4. Winner will be selected at random and contacted directly on 5/24.

Happy swimming!!

PS, don't forget the galaxy two-piece is already sold out!!

{STYLE} Stepford Wife

2013-05-15T09:42:00.000-04:00

{OUTFIT}
Chambray Top by ASOS Curve. Floral Skirt courtesy of ModCloth. Bug Belt by ASOS Curve. Glitter Heels by Miu Miu. Navy Satchel by Miu Miu. Assorted jewelry by BaubleBar, David Yurman, Miu Miu, CatBird, Chanel.

Remember how I'm always saying that I've never had that white picket fence housewife fantasy? Okay, don't kill me, but I think that's changing. Of course, white picket fence is closer to "Brooklyn townhouse" and "housewife" is more like "best selling author with a penchant for cooking," but something about being totally in love and building this ideal of my future with the person I want to spend the rest of my life with is completely augmenting my sense of my own reality. Work breaks, for me, used to be an opportunity to catch up on Modern Family episodes on Hulu, but now they include walking Françoise and making ramps pesto and every-day-of-the-week home cooked dinners for my beau and I to share, (and at the dining table, no less! Not at the couch, not perched over the kitchen island.... It's so very... Grown up.) And maybe, (maybe), I've spent a lot of time looking at and thinking about engagement rings, but that's another story...

{SHOP THE LOOK}

{WANDERLUST} Visiting New Orleans

2013-05-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

New Orleans is one of those cities that everyone who's visited has an incredible story about; about the streets bursting with music and vibrance and about the people you meet in bars or on corners or in parks; about the hellos from strangers and the beads hanging from trees, about the heat and the humidity and the culture shock and immense disparity between wealth and poverty.

Despite a sordid history and very real and unpleasant images of natural disasters and devastation, New Orleans is an easy place to romanticize. It is, at its heart, a beautiful place filled with true characters; there's a reason it is the backdrop for that one Tennessee Williams play, and so many jazz songs that have shaped our musical history. I could probably write an entire book (or at least an essay) with the image of an elderly man sitting in front of a typewriter, on his balcony, covered in ivy and flora, with a cat tiptoeing between his feet; I think I want to be that man someday. Continue...

{PLACES TO SHOP} Fifi Mahony's

I originally sought out Fifi Mahony's based on recommendations from friends and the internet, but even if I hadn't, it would have been difficult to ignore their enticing, colorful, and magnetic storefront on Royal Street while walking through the French Quarter. At its core, Fifi Mahony's is a wig shop. They specialize in custom wigs, but also have a salon in the back of the shop filled with ready-to-wear (and mostly synthetic, but beautiful) wigs). But, beyond the sky-high, colorful bouffants, there's a boutique filled with cult cosmetics brands and accessories, as well as a salon tucked away in the back with a lavender-haired maven at work.
Fifi Mahony's | French Quarter.934 Royal Street. 504.525.4343.

The Shops at 2011

Magazine Street is a long and generous street when it comes to shopping destinations. There are many must stop shops (just try not to go on, like, Easter Sunday), but when I hadn't heard of and was happy to discover was The Shops at 2011 - a collective of independent boutiques, vendors, and antique consigners sharing an enormous space. There was everything from new, luxury furniture to antique typewriters to an adorable vintage straw hat I ended up purchasing for $22 (the perfect spring hat, if I do say so myself).

The Shops at 2011 | Uptown. 2011 Magazine Street. 504.525.2240.

UAL

My friend and power publicist Lauren Laguarde insisted that I make time to go to UAL, and even shared a story about a friend who recently visited NOLA and shopped at UAL for all three-days of her long weekend stay. I went home with a pair of Charlotte Olympia heels (pictured above) marked down to about 80% off of retail, making me a very, very happy girl.
UAL | French Quarter. 518 Chartres Street. 504.301.4437.

Trashy Diva

In the French Quarter, there are three Trashy Diva shops- each dedicated to Clothing, Shoes, and Lingerie, (there's also a location Uptown). Even if you're not a rockabilly or retro girl at heart (Dita Von Teese obsession aside, I've come to terms with the fact that I'm not), it's a fun series of shops to visit and help explore your alter-ego. My love even surprised me with a ring and Besame Lipstick while we visited the shoe store, and at the clothing store, I fell in love with (and ultimately purchased) a glass and opal necklace made of antique, reset stones. Ali also got me an awesome lip ring and one of Besame's signature red lipsticks. She knows me (and spoils me) so well!!

Trashy Diva | French Quarter. 829 Chartres Street. 504.581.4555.

{THINGS TO EAT}

Beignets at Cafe du Monde

Let's get this out of the way: yes,Cafe du Monde is absolutely a tourist destination. Of the nine cafe locations throughout New Orleans, the location at the French Market is probably the most popular.

Cafe Du Monde | French Quarter. 800 Decatur Street. 504.525.4544.

Grilled Oysters at Acme

Once the temperatures start rising, I'm somewhat of a fiend for oysters and other delicious raw seafood. Fortunately, in New Orleans, they're not just an al fresco dining favorite, but a year round favorite, and grilled, garlicky, buttery oysters were a new and exciting experience for me. Though you can find varieties of seafood (fresh, raw, or grilled) throughout the city, Acme was repeatedly recommended to us, so it was ultimately where we parked our butts and quelled our appetites. We sat at the bar and enjoyed conversations with the kitchen staff, working behind the bar and shucking oysters, throughout our meal.

Gelato at Sucre

Everyone (ie, the internet) will tell you to go to Sucre on Magazine Street for the macarons, but trust me that, while the macarons are good, the gelato is where it's at.
Sucre | Uptown/Garden District. 3025 Magazine Street. 504.520.8311.

Tivoli & Lee

At the base of The Hotel Modern is an incredible restaurant that reminded me so much of some of my favorites in Brooklyn. With rich ricotta gnocchi and perfectly tender brussels sprouts salads, as well as southern favorites like a reinvented Hush Puppy, Tivoli & Lee is a gem in the Warehouse District. The presentation is beautiful, the setting modern, and the carousel imagery on the walls throughout the space chara

Tivoli & Lee | Warehouse District. 936 St. Charles Avenue. 504.962.0900.

Lunch at August

John Besh is kind of a hometown hero, with a bevvy of restaurants to his credit - and eight out of nine are located in the heart of New Orleans. Of them all, August had a menu that appealed to me most - with a light touch of Cajun flair guiding a menu of international haute cuisine. Though a dinner at August could easily empty your wallet, the four-course lunch prix-fixe at under $30 per person is a relative steal, and the experience was on par with top restaurants like Del Posto and Jean Georges in New York. It was worth every penny from first bite of the savory amusé bouche to the sweet, rich dessert.
August | Commercial Business District. 301 Tchoupitoulas Street. 504.299.9777.

{THINGS TO DO}

Visit the Botanical Gardens

True to my Taurus nature, I love being surrounded by flora - especially in controlled settings like a beautifully curated and manicured park in the middle of a metropolis. The warm, humid climate in Louisiana means the Botanical Garden is, I imagine, always lush -- and it certainly was on our early spring visit. There's a Japanese Garden,

Tarot Reading: Despite having much of a theological framework in my life, I do tend to border on superstitious- and look to Susan Miller (astrologyZone4lyfe) for answers more often than I can admit to without sounding crazy. Psychics and Tarot readers, however, need to be certified in order to practice their craft in New Orleans, so it seemed like the place to sit down for my first reading. I sat with a woman wearing a long velvet dress adjacent to Jackson Square. She looked weathered, but wise (though certainly younger than her appearance suggested). She surprised me with her vocabulary and insight, and down right shocked me with how accurate her reading was with my life. Ali visited another psychic at a voodoo house and had a similarly haunting experience. Good news for us, independently of each other, both psychics had very good things to say about our relationship.

Play Dress Up

After my visit to Fifi Mahony's and more vintage stores than I care to admit, and after even just a few hours of soaking into the festive spirit of New Orleans, I couldn't help but slide a wig over my tresses, a full face of makeup, and have myself a little photoshoot with Ali. I transformed myself into something out of a Lichtenstein work, and I couldn't have done it without some major drag inspiration in the French Quarter.

Drink a Cobbler at Bellocq (at The Hotel Modern)

A cobbler is one of the signature cocktails at Bellocq, served in an icy cold Derby cup and filled past the brim with crushed ice and a mix of fruit and liquor and deliciousness. Sip slowly because its easy to forget you're actually consuming alcohol; the presentation (and atmosphere) are perhaps more delicious than the cocktails!

Share Stories with Strangers: I think this is a trademark of the south, but New Orleans (much like Savannah) is different than my hometowns of New York and Los Angeles because, if for no other reason (though there are many), people just come up to you and say hello. "Hello" turns into "how are you" and is reciprocated and before you know it you're talking to a brother and sister, in their 40s, originally from Ohio, who transplanted to New Orleans on a whim several years prior. People have more in common than they do in difference, no matter where they're from or how old they are or how different they look from you, and you'll learn it as soon as you're open to starting with "hello."

Enjoy Live Jazz on a Sidewalk: You couldn't avoid this if you tried. Really, you couldn't. The streets practically vibrate with the sounds of a bass and a snare drum and the high pitch of a trumpet. People sing with such soul and heart that you wonder how they've gotten through life without being handed a record deal. More than once I'm pretty sure I cried, just listening to strangers singing and playing their music. I think the world would be a better place if we all had as much passion towards anything as New Orleans' musicians do towards music.

{WHERE TO STAY}

The Hotel Modern

At the recommendation of my friends Kim and Keiko, I decided to check out The Hotel Modern located in NoLA's Central Business District -- a neighborhood that reminded me a lot of Downtown LA and was filled with equal parts high rises and art galleries. The rooms are spacious, and true to the name, modern - and the bathrooms are stocked with Toiletries from C.O. Bigelow. In contrast to our last trip to Savannah where we stayed at a B&B, it was a treat to stay in a hotel with a massive (and insanely comfortable) bed with 24-hour service. The hotel houses it's own restaurant, Tivoli & Lee, as well as cocktail lounge, Bellocq (an absolute must-do)!

And that's a wrap with New Orleans... Though, cat's out of the bag: I'll be there much, much, much more come August. Details TBA.

{STYLE} Like a Sweet Treat

2013-05-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

I've always held onto the sentiment that fashion should be, first and foremost, about having fun. Sure, there are events and occasions that call for a modicum of seriousness, but it's certainly not the guiding principle by which I dress myself. Most days start with a clothing item begging to be worn (a striped midi skirt, a pair of leopard flats, or, in case of today, a lilac satchel). Once I've become fixated on that lilac satchel, my mind turns into something like that amazing software Cher Horowitz had in 1995 (and yet there's STILL not an app for that?!) and not long after I end up looking sort of like a cupcake (equally saccharine, and just as twee). Continues...

{OUTFIT}

Chiffon Rhinestone Dress via ASOS Curve (old). Swarovski Embellished Pumps by Moschino Cheap & Chic via Net-a-Porter. 11" Lilac Satchel c/o The Cambridge Satchel Company. Patent Lilac Skinny Belt via ASOS Curve. Necklace via J.Crew (old). Astrological Cuff by Julie Nolan via Catbird.

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

There are few times of the year where it feels completely appropriate to dress like a liberally frosted baked good (this is one incredibly verbose way of saying "cupcake"), but the spring time is certainly one of those times, even if the warmth continues to elude us here in the Northeast. Other times include bake sales, halloween, baby showers, and Wednesdays. If I can't eat pastries all the time (only because of my gluten sensitivity, guys, really), I sure as hell am going to do my best to look like one, at least on this Wednesday. Cause, you know, on Wednesdays We Wear Pink.

{SHOP THE LOOK}

{LISTEN} Spring Playlist

2013-04-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

As I pack my bags to head down to Philly for the weekend, I've pressed play on one of the most important parts of my carry-on: a good, solid playlist. I love spring time. I'm a spring baby - I love the extra hours of daylight and the extra pep in (literally) everyone's step and the flower stalls bursting from wall-to-wall with color. It's not hard for me to have a smile on my face while walking around outside. That said, sliding on my headphones (like the frends ones, above) and listening to some sunny tunes to match my sunny demeanor certainly do not hurt. Continue to stream the playlist...

{SHOPPABLES}

Clockwise, from top left: Miu Miu Satchel (sold out, link to similar). Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer. Benefit Watts Up. Clinique Chubby Stick. Claritin (hey, I have killer allergies, okay?). Karen Walker Sunglasses. Charlotte Olympia Heels (sold out, link to similar). Frends "Taylor" Headphones. Kate Spade "Pop" iPhone 5 Case.

{STYLE} Unleashing My Inner Sporty Spice

2013-04-16T10:48:00.001-04:00

As a contributing editor at Marie Claire, one of my favorite parts of the job is culling the entire market to determine what the trends will be for each season. There are fashion shows and presentations and market appointments and yummy luncheons with high powered publicists and the fact that its all part of my job is honestly some kind of dream. So, for the May issue (out now), I decided to focus on Sportif- inspired by the SS13 runways of Richard Chai and Ashish. Continue...

{OUTFIT}

Varsity Jacket via ebay. Leather mini skirt c/o ASOS Curve. White Satchel from Loeffler Randall. Striped Heels from Zara. Oversized watch c/o GUESS. Jewelry via Catbird, David Yurman, BaubleBar.

Most of my life I identified as some kind of athlete. Throughout high school I was a varsity swimmer and played on the water polo team, (tres California, tres tres lesbian - in spite of only, maybe, two other teammates coming out since). There were stints in volleyball (as a freshman, I had a crush on a senior who was on the team), and soccer (my dad and grandfather played professionally, so it was only fair I continued the family tradition... until I was 12). I was kick boxing for a minute and shooting hoops for at least a few years and spent most of my life active in a full court press.

When I moved to New York and my life shifted more towards the runway than the track, my exercise routine shifted too - power walks and bike rides to commute and focused sessions with a trainer at the gym. I sometimes miss team sports - the camaraderie and competitiveness; the closest I get to a team sport these days are joining in the hustle and marathon that is fashion week, or more directly, getting on the elliptical machine next to my girlfriend, at RetroFitness.

Still, the sportif trend struck a cord, and it has somehow become my personal uniform as of late. Go, team!

{SHOP THE LOOK}

{WANDERLUST} Leaving on a Jet Plane

2013-04-12T09:45:00.000-04:00

I'm pretty sure I was born with the travel bug. Neither of my parents are from America, let alone my hometown of Los Angeles, so I truly feel as though the urge to pack my bags and explore beyond the freeways and concrete I grew up in was engrained in me from before I can even remember. Continue...

{OUTFIT}

Suitcase by Lulu Guinness. Sweatshirt c/o Simply Be. Coated Denim c/o NYDJ. Scarf by Diane von Furstenburg via TheOutnet. Purse by Chanel. Rainbow Keyboard Tote by Jeremy Scott for Longchamp. Ankle Boots by Evans. Sunglasses by House of Harlow.

I've been incredibly lucky and privileged to fill up a couple of passports with stamps from across the globe; Mexico to Spain, Australia to the UK, Brazil to Turkey, Japan to Russia. It seems like while on one vacation, I'm already planning and thinking about the next, (as soon as I was in Savannah, tickets were already booked for subsequent trips to Los Angeles and New Orleans).

The most important of travel essentials.... 1.) Your travel documents, (duh). 2.) Giant sunglasses to conceal your jetlagged eyes, (remembre there's usually a 2-piece limit on carry on bags... badum bum, dad joke). 3.) Massive, cozy scarf to interrupt unpredictable weather patterns and cabin air control.

In true Nicolette form, I'm anticipating my next trip, and already making a running list of what to pack.
What's next on your travel list?

{STYLE} Walking the Dog

2013-04-04T08:36:00.001-04:00

The weekend of Thanksgiving, this adorable creature came into my life. She was barely bigger than my palm and wobbled when she walked, but she had the most precious face and was practically begging for someone to love her. Continue...

{OUTFIT}

Jersey and Leather Dress from ASOS. Opening Ceremony OC LA Bag from Moda Operandi. Antipodium Cork Heels from ASOS. Opening Ceremony Gingham Glasses (sold out; similar here) from Moda Operandi. Name Necklace c/o BaubleBar. Yes/No Love Necklace and The Bird Necklace from Marc Jacobs. Mixed Metal and Grosgrain Necklace (old) from 3.1 Phillip Lim. Bangles c/o Alex + Ani. "Myth" Lipstick c/o M.A.C. Cosmetics.

When I met Francoise (who I tend to call Frankie) the day after Thanksgiving, she was sick and tiny and ridiculously full of love. I have always loved pugs, and always wanted a dog in my life, but didn't necessarily think I'd bring one home that needed 24/7 attention in the beginning. Fortunately, with the help of friends and a few of Brooklyn's finest vets, Frankie was quickly rehabilitated and cured of all her ailments. I didn't grow up with pets.
My parents both have severe animal hair and dander allergies, so it was never something we could really negotiate or compromise on. We occasionally had birds (love birds, a Senegal parrot), and at one point a sizable aquarium, but never anything I could selfishly hold and cuddle and play with when Barbies failed to capture my attention. I relied on trips to the mall so I could fawn over the pet store pups (long before I learned of the cruelty of pet shops), and play dates with friends who had houses full of golden retrievers and Labradors. In fact, it's possible that all of my childhood friends had dogs at home; I wonder if that was part of their initial appeal?

When I moved to NYC and into an apartment my love grew stronger. I'd plead with my roommate, Jordan, to let me get a puppy - and we'd both become insanely excited until we realized our prolific academic and social lives would probably prevent either one of us from being attentive dog-parents.

Then, when I moved into my tiny 1-bedroom in the West Village, my puppy proclivity was again moved to the back burner. Surprisingly, never a cat person (this will shock anyone that knows me now), I ended up adopting a kitten from my two friends who were fostering a litter. She was black and white and her ASPCA papers said her name was Licorice (but I didn't know that until a while after she moved in), and nearly 7 years later, she still lives with me (and has evolved into a "Lily.)
Life with a puppy has felt even more complete. Yes, it is a lot of work. Everyone tells you having a dog is a lot of work - but it is a. lot. of. work! Training and feeding schedules and play time and constant walks have all become a normal part of my life, though, and each morning feels better with a big smooch on the face from my still-tiny Francoise.

As for the outfit, certainly not a typical dog walking outfit, but you'd be shocked how comfortable those Antipodium heels are!!!

{SHOP THE LOOK}

{STYLE} The Little White Dress

2013-03-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

I've written at length about my struggle to wear not black and falling deeper and deeper in love with the world of color that is at my finger tips (and, admittedly, now hanging in my closet - packed from wall-to-wall with hues that would easily inspire a toddler, or at least an excitable raver). But - there is one tone that continues to elude me: white. So pure, so simple, so... vulnerable to clumsiness and stains. Continue...

{OUTFIT}

Little White Dress: Courtesy of London Times. Jacket: Diane von Furstenberg via YOOX.com. Belt: ASOS Curve. Necklace: J. Crew, (old). Bracelets: BaubleBar, Miu Miu, Alex + Ani (C/O). Rings: David Yurman, CatBird. Sunglasses: Prada. Neon Satchel: Courtesy of Brahmin. Booties: Evans Collection.

{MAKEUP}

Lip: OCC Makeup Lip Tar in "Nylon." Eyeliner: Stila All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner. Lashes: Clinique High Impact + Bottom Lash Mascara.

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

There's something about wearing white that is so utterly terrifying to me. The most obvious thing, of course, is the backwards conditioning that white makes you look bigger - which, honestly, I'm not sure I've ever seen evidence of, and even if it did, so what? But, the real thing that makes me so completely terrified of white is my propensity to be just a little bit messy at times. Barely a day goes by where I haven't leaned into something (once, on my way to an interview, I leaned into a freshly painted column on a subway platform), or sprinkled a bit of blush onto my clothes while reapplying my makeup, or spilled my coffee onto myself.... And, so, maybe we're uncovering the real reason I veer towards a darker palette. ALAS.

I love the idea of white, but to actually put it into practice? That is a whole other world, to me! The good people at London Times challenged me to put my style to the test, and I think I made a simple white shift dress work for me - both for the temperamental ~~chilly~~ freezing weather now, and for the warm weather to follow in the coming months. Monochrome and black and white is always a good look, but throwing in the bright neons really turned up the volume for me. What do you think? Is it a look that I should keep in rotation? (Please, please say yes...)

{SHOP THE LOOK}

This post was sponsored by London Times.

{Wanderlust} Seeking Southern Hospitality in Savannah

2013-03-14T10:20:00.000-04:00

I have always had a deep, romantic intrigue with parts of the south. I've spent the vast majority of my time in the United States shuffling between New York and California, without ever really exploring much outside those two states. There was something about the coasts and mountains of North Carolina, the historic and sprawling mansions throughout Charleston, the gothic architecture and electric jazz of New Orleans, and the sweet southern charm of Savannah that have always piqued my curiosity, but seldom has my intrigue been whet, (in spite of a short trip to NOLA and requisite visit to Café du Monde over a decade ago). Continue...
Not long after we started dating, my significant other and I started toying around with the idea of taking a weekend trip together. We both love traveling, and I had a gut feeling about the new love interest in my life, such that there was a part of me that wanted to make sure we could travel well together much sooner than later. I've traveled with partners in the past, but there's a lot to be said about having a level of comfort with someone that surpasses your usual, familiar surroundings - and I don't know that any previous trip has gone off without a single hitch. Besides, sharing close quarters with a person for several days on end can often inspire two people who love each other in their normal environment to more or less want to toss the other out the window, (spoiler alert: we managed to avoid such a tragic ending to our trip; extra spoiler alert: it was easily the best trip I've ever taken with a S.O. - praise goddess).
We tossed around ideas; perhaps we would go to Toronto or Niagara or Washington D.C. But it was cold. It's now March and there's still snow on the ground, so the idea of going to another city for more of the same weather was utterly unappealing. Savannah was a clear destination in my mind. I proposed, we did a quick google search together, and before I knew it, Ali had found an unbelievable flight to liberate us from the miserable cold to a tiny town filled with historic charm and pastel townhouses and succulent fried green tomatoes. We soaked up as much information and word-of-mouth recommendations as we could before heading south, and prepared ourselves for a weekend full of exploration.

The Park Avenue Manor
107 W Park Ave Savannah, GA 31401 | www.parkavenuemanor.com

Though I neglected to take pictures of our charming Bed & Breakfast, it was one of the most pleasant experiences I've had while traveling. The Park Avenue Manor is a colorful home furnished inside and out with traditional Southern flair, and sits directly on Savannah's famous Forsyth Park. Most of Savannah's historic landmarks are within a mile of the Park Avenue Manor, and our hosts, Glenn and Maurice, were extremely helpful, kind, and fluent in all things Savannah. If you're looking for the "inn" experience and want to avoid a corporate chain of hotels while visiting, I highly recommend this one!

Things to Do, See, Buy

First and foremost, my (our?) favorite thing to do in Savannah was to just wander, wander, wander, and wander. The city itself is shockingly small, especially if you stick to the historic district, and we ended up exploring every street and alley and nook that we could find. Even with a torrential downpour dominating most of our Saturday, we still made a point to jump into puddles and run from one awning to the next, (with the help of a $12 umbrella purchased at CVS that broke less than a dozen hours later... eh, a dollar an hour. I've made worse financial decisions in my life).

Savannah College of Art & Design, SCAD Museum, and ShopSCAD
Considering that I went to Parsons, I've long been familiar with SCAD and the amazing work that has come out of the school. Fortunately for non-students like me, the museum is open to the public ($10 for adults, $5 if you're a student with an ID), as is shopSCAD, which is filled with wares created by students, alumni, and local artisans.

Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil
I hadn't read the book or seen the movie prior to visiting Savannah, but we did make a point to visit the Bonaventure Cemetery on our last day before heading out to the airport. The grounds are absolutely beautiful, with moss covered trees and weeping willows, and a sculpture garden throughout.

Broughton Street
Broughton Street is Savannah's main commercial, shopping street - with everything from a Marc by Marc Jacobs to dozens of independent interior design shops (thanks, SCAD-alums), to The Gap, to a handful of Goodwill outlets. My shopping ranged from a $4 raincoat to a floral umbrella from Marc Jacobs to a vintage, crystal necklace and vintage mink stole from an antique shop. My favorite, drool-worthy finds on Broughton, though, were two home-shops, Paris Market, (a store that defines flea-market-chic and is exactly what Anthropologie's housewares WISH they were), and 24E, (a well curated mix of new and old that is effortlessly styled). On the clothing front, I fell in love with a boutique called ARC, that could easily fit in any retail space in Williamsburg or Nolita.
The Paris Market | 36 West Broughton Street.

24E | 24 East Broughton Street

ARC | 320 West Broughton Street

The Olde Pink House
Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31401. When I sought recommendations from friends and the twittersphere, The Olde Pink House was repeatedly mentioned as a "must eat" destination. Though both mine and Ali's diets are (mostly) gluten free, we knew we'd be making a lot of concessions while visiting one of the rich-food capitals of the world. That said, our meal at The Olde Pink House was as decadent and enjoyable as the gorgeous atmosphere -- and was more than appropriate for our first meal in Georgia, (I refuse to count the pit-stop we made at Sonic for an oversized beverage or two). We shared the Deconstructed BLT "salad," and fried green tomatoes, and then went on to our respective entrees (shrimp and grits for me, gumbo for her), while I sipped on a sweet and effervescent bevvy called The Hummingbird. We left stuffed, but elated - it was a crash course into southern hospitality and smiles and food that was deliciously and patently not-good-for-us.

More Dining in Savannah:

700 Drayton Restaurant | We ate here for brunch on Sunday morning, and though it is attached to Savannah's famous Mansion on Forsyth Park, it was relatively empty while we dined there. We shared a yummy salad while enjoying the ultra modern dining room with large windows that let the sun pour into the room. If the weather had been just slightly warmer, we would have opted to sit outside and people watch, as 700 Drayton sits directly on Forsyth Park. I definitely recommend walking through the Mansion on Forsyth Park, as well, or if you're looking for a more posh hotel experience, I'd absolutely recommend staying there. One of my favorite features of the hotel was the amazing museum display of Sunday Hats on the ground floor!

The Lady & Sons | While I'm not necessarily a fan of the Paula Deen Ethos of Culinary Arts, we were told over and over that we could not head back to NYC without stopping at Deen's first restaurant. I'm glad we went, just to be able to say that we went, but the experience left much to be desired. You enter and exit through a Deen-decked-out gift shop, and though I contemplated buying some hot sauce, there was something a bit sad and desperate about being forced to pass in and out of the gift shop at all. Then, upon entering the dining room, there was a large buffet counter, something that again detracted from the experience. Though the all-inclusive-buffet may be a selling point for many diners, it was really unappealing to the both of us... And then the dining room was filled with what must have been the saddest population in all of Savannah. That said, what we ordered A La Carte from the menu was delicious, (especially the absolutely-not-gluten-free and so-severely-straying-from-my-normal-diet fried chicken).

We also had dinners at Elizabeth on 37th and Local 11 Ten, both of which were incredible culinary experiences but offered totally different atmospheres and personalities. Elizabeth on 37th is housed in a traditional southern Mansion, and has period-appropriate decor and interiors, and Local 11 Ten is an ultra modern space with haute cuisine and a trendy crowd to match. I highly recommend both! If you're not allergic to them (I am, severely), you should also apparently try a praline. Let me know how it is, will you?

Post-Script on the Relationship Front: Not only did we survive trip #1 to Savannah, but we just returned from trip #2 to Los Angeles (yes, a meeting of the parents occurred, and yes, it went very well), and in a few weeks, we'll be going back to The South together for another ride on this merry-go-round. I have a good feeling about things, and that is my understatement of the year.

Celebrate You!... The Follow Up

2013-02-28T12:40:00.000-05:00

What I learned from the Simply Be Celebrate You! contest was so much more than I had anticipated. I knew people would be drawn to a trip to New York City and some new digs, but what actually grew from it was dozens and dozens of people who just wanted to practice this exercise in self love. Continue....
You can check out the "Celebrate You" looks (and shop them!) at SimplyBe.com

The day I met the contest winners was an early start. I woke up as the sun rose, and threw on my favorite Simply Be leather-look skirt and my trusty Varsity jacket (a great eBay find), and headed east to the Running Rebel studio in Bushwick, Brooklyn. Inside, I met my three amazing, beautiful, vivacious contest winners: Erin (from Ohio), Kristen (from Arizona), and Shamoneke (from New Jersey). Erin and I bonded over a mutual love of Joy Division and Morrissey and exuberant prints. Kristen and I gushed over bright neons and feminism in fashion. Shamoneke moved me to tears with her radical approach to self love and empowerment and journey to becoming a more confident woman, (in fact, I can say, she moved everyone in the room to tears). We spent the whole day playing dress up in fashion from Simply Be (bold geometric prints and galaxy dresses and military jackets and kittens, oh my!), having our hair and makeup done, and talking about the evolution of the plus size community and what we can do to empower not just the women who look like us, but all women. It was a really beautiful thing. If I could even help one person fall in love with themselves, I feel like I've done my job on this world.

Julia, our brilliant photographer for the day.

Erin, blogger at ZeroStyle and Celebrate You contest winner

Shamoneke, contest winner

Kristen, contest winner, with make-up artist Remy

This post was sponsored by Simply Be. Simply Be provided all travel and accommodations for each of the winners, and compensated me for my participation.

{FASHION} The Woman That I Want to Be

2013-02-22T10:45:00.000-05:00

Admittedly, I spend a lot of time thinking about the future: my goals, my aspirations, where I'll be in my career and in my personal relationships and how my friendships will evolve and grow as we all move in our respective fields and from one city to the next. I don't get so caught up in it that I can't live in the present, but it is fun (and often self-motivating) to think about where I'll be in one, five, ten years. For a long time, I couldn't picture myself ever getting married (I think, subconsciously, it's because even as a child, I knew that I wouldn't have a traditional family), and I certainly couldn't imagine myself in the white-picket-fence-suburban paradigm that so many of us are raised to idealize. I could picture myself as a career woman, a person who was independent and strong willed and had great hair and a home that looked like something out of a budget-version of Architectural Digest. Continue...

A big part of the image I'd created was my wardrobe, feminine and playful and with a sense of humor, punctuated with classic statements and anchored by strong tailoring and structure. Perhaps my Miu Miu predilections would mature into a more acute taste for Prada, and my love for glitter into an appreciation for fine beading and couture detailing.

I had a fairly visceral response while watching the Honor show. It was on Valentine's Day, and the collection was appropriately peppered with hearts and pink and all the saccharine visual elements that make me flutter with glee. I love Valentine's Day, not just because I'm an unabashed romantic, but because of the aesthetics of the holiday - so of course the collection spoke to me not unlike a box of custom made Sweethearts might, with phrases like, "Femme 4 Lyfe" and "Nice Lipstick." Combine that with my feelings of absolute elation in my personal life and... well, swoon.

Designer Giovanna Randall has a feminine whimsy that reminds me of what once was Luella Bartley's collections, (a label I still mourn over). Poppy pink and soft lilac and almost-white mint green - and for fall, no less - find a maturity in the crisp cuts of the collection. The leaf print, just slightly formed into the hearts that reappear throughout, literally made me sigh out loud. I'd wear that to brunch. Or to high tea at the Beverly Hills Hotel, (they'd find sanctuary in the face of the landmark's wallpaper). Or to literally any function, ever, because it's just so perfect. It's Jackie Onassis Twee, Ladies-Who-Lunch-Minus-Several-Decades, and quite possibly made for a Lula Magazine editorial featuring the sisters Fanning. The clothes are undeniably gorgeous: they are, truly, everything I often wish I could wear, but I started to question why that was the case, other than pure aesthetics.

With some distance from the collection, from Valentine's Day, and from the photos I had taken myself, I came to look again with a fresh view at the collection. Was it knowing that the couture-price points of the Honor collection would likely prohibit me from ever actual participating with the clothes on the level of consumption? Was it the idealized success that goes along with the lifestyle that affords a person to have such wonderful pieces in their wardrobe? Was it the waifish, pale frames of the models? It's hard not to internalize that, indeed, perhaps if I looked a bit more like the girls on the catwalk, I'd be a step closer to obtaining the lifestyle that goes along with the wardrobe. It's hard to confront, and even admit, what may be lurking in our subconscious - but there's something about fashion week (the excitement, the adrenaline rush of cabbing it from Lincoln Center to an obscure studio in Chelsea, the exhaustion), that always brings me to this point.

London Calling

2013-02-06T12:28:00.000-05:00

First of all, I know I've been a "bad blogger." When the first thing you wake up to in the morning is a text from your mother saying, "you haven't updated your blog in two weeks," then you know it's time to buckle down at your laptop and hammer away. I have good excuses, though. Okay, they're not excuses, it's just that sometimes life happens in this completely chaotic, unexpected way. Like you find yourself on a whirlwind transatlantic trip. Like you are shooting muliple times a week with people in the fashion industry you've only ever dreamed of working with. Like you have a five-month-old-puppy. Like you make a mandate to be single and then find yourself falling for someone. (Cat, bag). And all of a sudden, it's fashion week. Continue...

Photos from Evans Shape Studio event, with cameo appearances by Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista, Callie Thorpe of From the Corners of the Curve, and Tom Doran - the original party boy.

Just a few weeks ago, I was given the whirlwind opportunity to fly out to London for a few days to collaborate with Evans and Clements Ribeiro on some of their exciting, up-and-coming collections. The day that I was to make a decision (there was a lot to figure out - logistics, timing, balancing my already chaotic work schedule) I was on a first date, and my coffee-companion helped me realize the holy-crap-once-in-a-lifetime opportunity nature of the proposal. It all felt surreal. There were only a few key details in my hands, and a lot of unknowns, but I knew this: that I'd be whisked away to London (my second, or at least third, home, by all accounts), that I'd be seeing my friends at Arcadia Group (the teams that run marketing and PR for Evans, Dorothy Perkins, Topshop, and more), and I'd be in the company of some of my favorite blogging babes from around the globe.

I arrived in London late at night on a Wednesday. It was freezing, the Marks & Spencer's Simply Food at Heathrow was minutes from closing (so I rushed to pick up a few snacks, knowing that would be "dinner"), and I headed straight to my hotel. Someone at Evans loves me very much because they booked me at a hotel directly across from Miu Miu in Knightsbridge, and a minutes walk away from Harrod's and their sprawling Laduree tea room (though I never made it there)!

The following morning, I woke up bright and early and headed to Arcadia HQ, in Soho. The lobby was bustling with London darlings, all effortlessly chic and flawlessly put together. It was like a street style blog had come to life - but not the kind that is desperate or tries too hard. Everyone just looked good.

As soon as I got up to the press area, I was dropped into hair and makeup, to prep for a shoot with the Sunday Times (this should come out on the 16th or so, and hopefully I'll be able to share it then)! We also got to shoot at the Evans Shape Studio while playing dress up in Evans Collection, Scarlett and Jo, and Live Unlimted - all available in the coming weeks.

By far the most amazing parts of my stay in London were to follow the next day, however, and for those -- I'll have to wait until a later date to share all the details (and photos)! But, trust that it was a life changing experience. Truly.

This post was sponsored by Evans. Evans also provided my transportation and accommodation throughout the trip.

{GIVEAWAY} Celebrating You

2013-01-14T17:15:00.000-05:00

Though we are two weeks into the new year, resolutions are still heavily on my mind. I do my best to improve myself in all aspects of my life on a daily basis (I mean, really, why procrastinate until tomorrow or the new year?), but there's something about the symbolism of a "new year" that makes it easier to plan, schedule, and fulfill personal goals. Despite that, the culture of "resolutions" can seem taxing and even oppressive at times, and there's so much language about how you need to improve (your mind, your body, your entire existence), that it can be a challenge to remember the things that we do love about ourselves.

After all, it is much easier to scrutinize than celebrate the many beautiful and exciting things about who we are. Your waistline isn't tiny enough. Your salary isn't big enough. Most of us (and I'm not exception) could probably come up with a laundry list about things we would change about our character and physicality and professional development. And why is it that it's so much easier to dwell on the negative (or even go searching for it, and creating "negatives" out of things that aren't even all that bad) in the first place?

And what about the myriad of wonderful things about ourselves?

I love my positive outlook on life.

I love that I can find humor in nearly all situations.

I love my ability to connect with people of all types of backgrounds.

I love how open I am to new individuals and situations and places.

I love my legs. No "but," I just love my legs.

I love that I am sensitive to others and perceptive of how they are feeling.

I love my multicultural background and how it has given me a unique perspective on people and places and the world.

I love how honest and genuine I am. I used to think I was "honest to a fault," but I'm starting to believe it's only a good thing.

I love my eyes, big and open and one of the only visible markings of my ethnic heritage.

I love my family - both chosen and of origin. I love how they've made me into the woman I am, and I love what I can give back to them.

I love that I can allow myself to feel vulnerable at times, and let me feelings move from mind to pen to paper.

I love that I can put a great outfit together and walk out my door feeling amazing about myself.

This is all a very long way of saying that I hope you, too, are able to use this time of renewal and reflection to not just scrutinize and critique, but also take stock and inventory of all your amazing qualities, too. Maybe it's your lips or the way you make your favorite family recipe. Maybe it's your math skills or the way you walk in heels. Whatever it is, I hope you are taking full note and reminding yourself that it's there. And best of all, Simply Be also hopes you're celebrating YOU. PS: If you're not familiar, Simply Be is an e-commerce supersite that specializes in fashion in sizes 10+, (but there is truly something for everyone).

In partnership with Simply Be, we're offering what is absolutely the best giveaway I've done, to date. Three winners, from across the US (48-contiguous states only), will be flown out to NYC for a weekend of fun. All you have to do to enter is create a Board on Pinterest celebrating YOU, and comment below with a link to the pin board! That is it! (Hint: You can also hashtag your pins with #celebrateyou #nicolettemason or #simplybe so we can track your pins as they're published!)

What's up for grabs?

A weekend trip to NYC (all expenses paid!)

Styling session with moi, courtesy of Simply Be!

New clothes!

Wardrobe planning and strategizing!

A professional photo shoot!

Party with some of your favorite blogging darlings!

AND SO MUCH MORE! I promise!

The winners will be announced on (or around!) January 22, 2013. Winners all must be available the weekend of February 2nd. We will curate our top 10 Pinterest boards and then use a random number generator to select three winners from the top 10.

This contest is sponsored by SimplyBe.com, and I am also being compensated for my participation. Contest winners will be announced on or around January 22, 2013. For detailed rules & regulations, please see the fine print below!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THE CONTEST (“CONTEST”) Entry into this Contest constitutes your acceptance of these rules.

CONTEST ENTRY DATES: Monday, January 14, 2013 through Monday, January 21, 2013, 11:59 p.m. EST.

Contest is only open to U.S. legal residents living in the continental U.S. with a valid email address. Winners must be 18 years or older. Contestants must be available on February 2, 2013 to be in New York City.

All Entries will be judged based on judges’ discretion. Winners will be determined after the contest’s end date and will be notified by email. At the discretion of Simply Be USA or Nicolette Mason, the winners may be disqualified if they are not eligible based on the requirements set forth above. In the event it is determined that a winner has not complied with these rules, has failed to execute and return any required documents within the specified time period, has made false statements, or a prize notification is returned as undeliverable, then the winner will be disqualified and at the sole discretion of Simply Be USA or Nicolette Mason, and an alternate winner may be chosen.

Winning constitutes permission (except where prohibited by law) to use Winner’s name, images, hometown, likeness, prize won, and photograph (all at Simply Be USA’s discretion) for future advertising, publicity in any and all media now or hereafter devised throughout the world in perpetuity, without additional compensation, notification or permission.

UPDATE: The winners have been contacted directly, and I cannot wait to meet them (and introduce you to them, too), this weekend!

{Wanderlust} Going Sleeveless & Tropical!

2012-12-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

My second destination in Thailand on my winter holiday was Phuket -- a city I've only ever dreamed about or caught glimpses of in Leonardo DiCaprio movies. Coming to a tropical climate was the perfect escape from New York's brutal winter, and I can't think of a better place to shed my warm, wooly layers and soak in some much needed Vitamin D. I feel so lucky to have had this escape; I was leaving behind a lot of turmoil and chaos in New York... Something I've debated writing about here. It's hard to know where the line should be kept between personal and public with a platform like this, but suffice to say: love is hard. The change of scenery has done me really, really well...!

{OUTFIT} Top: Dorothy Perkins (old), Skirt: SimplyBe (old), Belt: ASOS Curve, Purse: See by Chloe, Shoes: Kimchi Blue, Necklaces: Emeralds from Thailand, Gold & Pearls borrowed from my mom. Bracelets: Julie Nolan Astrological Cuff via CatBird, Miu Miu. Rings: Asha by ADM Zodiac Ring (gift), David Yurman, Tiffany & Co.

And, it seems that my underarm prep (with help from Dove
gosleeveless Soothing Chamomile Deodorant), has really paid off - especially in this warmer climate where sleeves and layers are practically verboten! According to the good people at Dove,
78% of women maintain or increase their underarm care habits in the fall and winter -- something I know to be true of myself, since the cold, dry weather in the Northeast parches my skin everywhere on my body, without discrimination. Honestly, before starting this project with Dove, I hadn't even given much thought to the care that goes into my underarms because it has become so compulsory and second nature -- and I've been a fan of their products for their
Dove 1/4 moisturizers for years. The new gosleeveless product just takes it a step further. It keeps my sweat away while still moisturizing, and leaves an invisible finish -- all things that are pretty essential whether I'm sleeveless by necessity here in Thailand or getting rid of a few layers at my New Years Eve festivities when I'm back in NYC!

This post is part two of two of a series sponsored by Dove.

{Wanderlust} Bangkok Flower Market

2012-12-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things in the world is fresh flowers. It's one of those utterly simple treats that is cheerful, colorful, and makes any space just a bit more homey and personal - even something as temporary and transient as a hotel room. I have the pleasure of being in Thailand for the second time in my life, this time visiting Bangkok again and Phuket for the first time. It's incredible how much the city of Bangkok has transformed in the ten years since I last visited! There's a sky train, a bevvy of new night markets and weekend markets, and a global sensibility that I don't remember feeling the last time I was here. Truthfully, Instagram's popular page may be the reason (I kid, I kid - but seriously, I'm pretty sure the entirety of the Instagram popular page consists of One Direction photos and Thai people).

One of my favorite destinations on this trip was the flower market in Bangkok.... The photos are pretty self explanatory, and stunning - at least in my humble opinion.

It's a Jewel Thing

2012-12-17T10:40:00.000-05:00

{OUTFIT}Jacket: Topshop (old!), Top: Topshop (super old!), Shorts: ASOS Curve, Purse: Miu Miu, Necklace: Adia Kibur for Bauble Bar, Bracelets: Miu Miu, Earrings: Stella & Dot (gift)

In blogger terms, these photos are old. I took them early this summer when I was out with Lydia Hudgens. My hair doesn't look the same (it's longer, and more of a "natural ginger" hue, these days), and it certainly isn't warm enough to be wearing shorts and a light leather jacket! But, the sentiment still stands: sometimes the outfit is all about the jewels. With an all-black canvas, I love to go crazy with accessories, and the blingier, chunkier, and more statement-punching, the better.

This necklace, to this day, is still one of my favorites. I'm sure that I've posted it before, but it's just one of the most fun pieces I've ever brought into my accessory arsenal. It's futuristic and geometric but also feminine with a requisite dose of sparkle -- all things I try to incorporate into my style as often as possible, (though the sparkle shouldn't surprise you!) I purchased it from Bauble Bar, who have asked me to host today's buried bauble - an awesome program where they do a bit of a scavenger hunt to offer a deep, deep discount on one of their incredible pieces of jewelry.

So, without further ado... your buried bauble clue!
Happy hunting, indeed!

Going Sleeveless

2012-12-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

When Dove approached me to promote the idea of "going sleeveless" this holiday season, I jumped at the opportunity, because I knew it would give me the chance to further explore one of my favorite topics: how and why we're conditioned to cover and disguise certain parts of our bodies. I'm a huge advocate for body diversity and self-love and empowerment, and have certainly struggled with my own insecurities with my body over time. I've gotten to a point where I feel like I've overcome my own internal battles and that I've reached a point where I am truly confident with myself. I wear sleeveless all the time! Or so, I thought. I started going through photos of myself, recent, old, from this past summer, from last summer -- and yes, I do wear sleeveless clothes -- but my upper arms rarely see the light of day. And honestly, I had no idea. At times I've felt so much pride for getting over the relentless self-critique and shame I used to engage in over having my arms on display, and yet, in every photo where I am, indeed, wearing a piece of sleeveless clothing, I've strategically layered my clothes -- even in the dead of summer -- to hide my arms.

I suppose I really do consider the act of going sleeveless to be a form of self-empowerment, one that even I, with all my self-awareness and active questioning of social codes engrained into fashion, have failed to achieve. It should not be considered an act of bravery to go outside baring ones upper arms, and yet - it is, especially if, like me, you've been told over, and over, and over, that your body is outside the ideal. We're all self-conscious about something, I suppose. I just didn't realize that, for me, my arms were part of it. If it's true that 83% of women believe the clothes they wear makes a statement about themselves -- then what message am I conveying when I refuse to go sleeveless? Do I appear self-conscious? Puritanical? I've been missing out an opportunity to communicate even more messages of power and confidence, and if you ask me - that's a shame.

With Dove in hand, I’m challenging myself to go sleeveless this season, when truthfully – I thought I’d be challenging my readers. I made the switch over to Dove go sleeveless Soothing Chamomile Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant (this is what I’m using) a few weeks ago when I noticed that my previous deodorant (I won't name names!) was seriously drying me out – like grey, dull underarms drying-me-out. Fortunately, Dove go sleeveless Soothing Chamomile Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant hydrates my skin with Dove 1/4 moisturizers plus Vitamins E and F to give me softer, smoother underarms - within a promised 5 days. On top of the great moisturizing qualities, it’s also giving me 48 hours of protection against sweat and stink -- and as someone who used to use clinical anti-perspirants, that's majorly promising.

Now that my underarms have had a bit of a makeover: holiday party? I'm taking you on, and I'll even leave my outerwear with coat check, this time. Business meetings? Let's do it. Yes, winter may not seem like the most ideal time to bare arms, but once I'm inside, and shed my outer layers, anything goes - so why not? In fact, while diving into this topic, I learned that more than half of women intend to go sleeveless during the holidays -- will you? Visit Facebook.com/Dove to learn more about new Dove go sleeveless Soothing Chamomile Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant.

This post is part one of two of a series sponsored by Dove.

{Gift Guide} Getting Glitzy.

2012-12-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

1. GLOSSYBOX SUBSCRIPTION, $21

Beauty box subscriptions are probably not a new thing to you, but among all the ones I've tried, I do think Glossybox is the best. Each month, you can rely on a carefully curated set of 5 or more products to make their way into your mailbox -- all deluxe samples, and usually luxury brands. This month, I received a cream blush and Illamsqua liner in my box that, alone, would make up for the monthly price tag. Whether you're a one-time-buyer or end up subscribing, Glossybox is a great self-treat and an even better gift for a friend, mother, mentor, sister. Anyone in your life that deserves a little bit of pampering! Note: Order by 12/9 to get your Glossybox before Christmas!

2. KATE SPADE NY MOONLIT SOIREE, $298

It should go without saying that the holidays are one of my favorite times of the year -- if for no other reason, because I can revel in my unabashed love for glittering accessories. As far as I'm concerned, sparkle has a place 365-days-a-year, but there's something even more inviting about hints of shimmer during winter festivities. Behold, Kate Spade's holiday collection -- filled with enough pink, glitter, and wit to satiate my glitter girl sensibilities. My favorite detail of the moonlit soiree bag? The tuck-away-able cross body chain, allowing easy (and stylish) transitions from day to night -- from the office party to the boom boom room.

3. SCHUTZ "SAUL" in GALACTICA

I received these as a gift myself, and I'll be honest: I was instantly smitten. Not only are these shoes beautifully made, they are comfortable. Yes, friends: comfortable. Any pointy toed heel that manages to not pinch my toes is an instant win! Schutz is a Brazilian brand, and trust me when I say that Brazilians know their leather. They're a splurge when it comes to gifting, but one that I know will not go unappreciated!

4. TOCCA EAU de PARFUM MINI SET, $45

I'm a sucker for gorgeous packaging, and frankly, who isn't? This set of three of Tocca's best selling signature perfumes is perfect for anyone who believes a great fragrance is an integral accessory -- and even better yet, one who is a little bit fickle! A perfume to fit each mood; that's something I truly believe in.

5. DEBORAH LIPPMANN NAIL POLISH, $18

I am truly a nail polish fiend, to the point that this past month I exclaimed (over twitter, naturally,) that I would never purchase nail polish again! I'm not sure how long that will last, but I will say that my experience in the field has lead to solid proof that when it comes to glitter polishes, no one does it like Lippmann. I love the festive ruby tone of this shade!

6. MINI GEM FLOWER DROP EARRINGS, $13

I started going crazy for big, jeweled, statement earrings last year, when I finally dove into the adventurous world of top-knots. Earlobes; what are they for, anyways, if not to adorn with giant baubles? These earrings are perfect for stocking-stuffing or for yourself, and at a price that will be tough to beat.

7. CATBIRD STACKING RINGS, $56+

CatBird is one of my absolute favorite neighborhood gems; their sparkly, gem filled windows sing a siren song to me -- luring me in every single time. I can barely walk by without staring longingly into the shop. I really wish this wasn't true. Really. Their stacking rings are a perfect example of the aesthetic they've created: simple, feminine, beautiful.

8. OCC MAKEUP "METALLURGY" LIP TAR, $16

I've long waxed poetic about the miracle product that is Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics' "Lip Tar" -- but leave it to the good people at OCC to one-up themselves. I'm a big fan of Lip Tar's signature matte finish, but their newest release, Metallurgy, packs a glittery, chrome finish that resembles the high shine of a classic sports car. It's a very, very sexy bit of vroom-vroom. Anything OCC is the perfect gift for the friend in your life that fearlessly grabs hold of color.

9. MIU MIU NOIR GOLD GLITTER SUNGLASSES, $390

These came into the world as a runway hit and stole the hearts of many before becoming an instant classic -- and I'm not just saying that because I own a couple of pairs. Over a year later, they're still one of the pieces in my wardrobe that sparks the most conversation, and somehow, they manage to go with everything. A total splurge, but just think about the cost per wear! (Hmm, can you hear me justifying my own purchases, here?)

10. eBAY x FALLON, $58+

As part of their ongoing initiative to engage the fashion design community, ebay enlisted some of the CFDA's top design darlings to create a holiday collection. Among names like Chris Benz, Steven Allen, and Jonathan Adler is one of my favorite jewelry designers -- Fallon. The best part? Every piece in the ebay collective is under $100.

Seeing Green

2012-11-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

I decided not-too-long ago that I just couldn't take seeing another black coat in my wardrobe. Yes, black is the classic, go-with-everything color, and a coat is often a major investment (certainly my biggest wardrobe investment), but as a sufferer of major seasonal affective disorder, I need a dose of color -- no matter how impractical it may seem. Continue...

{OUTFIT}

Coat: DVF Laurel Boucle Coat. Dress: eloquii "Flirty Sheath Dress" (currently on sale!). Belt: ASOS Curve. Bag: Furla Candy Bag, (gift). Tights: Spanx, (gift). Booties: Evans. Bracelets: Kenneth Jay Lane via QVC, Julie Nolan via CatBird NYC.

{MAKEUP}

Nails: "Sweet Dreams" by Deborah Lippmann. Cheeks: "Coygirl" by MAC. Eyes: Stila All Day Liquid Liner. Brows: Stila All Day Brow Color. Skin: OCC Skin Conceal, Dr. Jart V7 Beauty Balm. Lips: "Girl About Town" by MAC.

It's no surprise, or secret, that I wear a lot of black, as-is. I've been hearing all about the "flattering" and "slimming" effects of an all-black-silhouette since before I even knew what it meant to flatter my figure, or why such a thing was considered necessary or desirable. It's one of those social codes that is ingrained into women; avoid bright colors, never wear stripes, black is slimming. It doesn't matter if you wear a size 2 or a 12 or a 20 -- we all hear the same subtle "suggestions" on how to look "better." It's hard not to hear my mother's (loving, but often critical) voice in my head every time I dare to step outside in an attention grabbing color or a sleeveless dress or a voluminous skirt. It's taken a lot of undoing and analyzing and processing to get to a point where I gravitate more towards color and print rather than my sartorial safe space. I get a lot of credit for my confidence or constant will to break the rules, but I'd be lying if I said it was never a struggle. Sometimes it feels easier to take the conservative route and avoid backhanded compliments, rather than wearing what honestly brings me joy.

Well, I've decided to brave the winter with a coat of extra bright armor - because there's something about chartreuse that just make me smile. We hear a lot about a "pop" of color -- but why not make color the main event? DVF has served me well in the outerwear department, so I knew this coat would make its way into my wardrobe when I spied it in their Soho boutique. Yes, even in it's bright, impractical color.

No, chartreuse is not the new black, but it sure does make me smile.

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

{SHOP THE LOOK}

{Beauty Buys} Working Overtime!

2012-11-19T12:30:00.000-05:00

It's true: my schedule is such that after heading out the door of my apartment, I only have time for a quick lipstick touch-up (at most!), often in the back of a cab between meetings. It's taken a lot of smudged eyeliner and feathered lipstick to finally sift through mediocrity and find my tried-and-true must haves. Continue...

Around the age of 12 or 13, I became rather obsessive about makeup. As a tween experiencing the beginnings of the break-out phase, I bought myself a pan of foundation from CoverGirl and ended up having a painful, embarrassing allergic reaction all over my face, (and quickly discovered that I was allergic to a lot of the ingredients in drugstore makeup). I learned my lesson and started saving up for the fancier stuff, taking my (modest) allowance for the week to the mall and buying myself a pot of eyeshadow at M.A.C., (I vividly remember my first M.A.C. purchase; it was a soft, metallic rose gold shadow called Jest.) In the decade+ since, I've taken my hand at more beauty products than I'd honestly like to admit, but I've certainly developed a familiarity with what works and what works overtime. My daily routine typically happens only once - with little opportunity for reapplication or touch-ups, so I when I head out the door, I need to be sure my face makeup is there to stay!

I tend to spend only 5-10 minutes doing my makeup on a typical day, unless I have a shoot or am going to be on video -- then I spend a little more time. So, I know it can be done in a time crunch, to boot!

Clockwise, from top: Dr. Jart Water Fuse BB Cream, Dr. Jart Premium BB Cream, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics OCC Tint, Benefit High Beam, Make Up For Ever HD Primer, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics OCC Skin Primer, Shiseido Future Solutions LX Eye Cream, Urban Decay Primer Potion, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Conceal, M.A.C. Cosmetics Sculpting Cream (times two!)
{FACE}

Eliminating (or at the very least, reducing) the appearance of dark circles is the biggest priority when it comes to my beauty routine, so getting a good foundation going and evening out my skin tone are the first steps in getting my face on! Shiseido's eye cream is without a doubt the best I have used, and just a dab under my eyes each morning and night instantly brightens my face. I then alternate between the rest of the products, but concealer is usually the next step. I've waxed poetic about OCC's Conceal before, but trust me - it's the best! Conceal comes in 12-different shades (6 red-based, 6 yellow-based), and can easily be blended to create a custom match. Next, I either opt for a primer (Make Up For Ever on days where I am on video, and OCC Skin Primer for photoshoot days) and follow up with foundation. On those more intense makeup days, MAC Sculpting Creams are essential for a bit of light contouring. BB Cream is another recent addition to my life, and my go-to on quick makeup days; they do the job of toning, moisturizing, priming, and giving a dewy finish all in one step. After using the entirety of a Dr. Jart V7 BB, I've swapped over Dr. Jart Water Fuse -- and it is perfect for adding a bit more moisture to my routine for the cold months ahead.

Clockwise, from top: Too Faced Lash Injection, Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Eyeliner, Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Brow Tint, O bsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Loose Color Concentrates and Obsessive Com pulsive Cosmetics Cream Color Concentrates, M.A.C. Haute & Naughty Lash, M.A.C. Eyelash Curler, M .A.C. Kohl Eyeliner Pencil, M.A.C. Angled Brush (from "Perfectly Plush" brush set), M.A.C. Fluidline Blacktrack
{EYES}

Even more so than my dependency on lipstick, I feel naked without a stroke of mascara or a bit of eyeliner brightening up (and waking up) my eyes. Without a doubt, Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner is my number one product in this set -- the rest is pretty interchanbeable. It is, hands down, the best liquid liner (with an easy-to-use felt tip!) I have ever, ever used - and if Stila ever decides to discontinue it, I'll probably cry a million tears. I'm not very loyal when it comes to mascara, though right now I'm partial to Too Faced Lash Injection, which I bought from Sephora in a "perfect cat eye" set (hated the liner it came with), and MAC Haute & Naughty. The former gives a long, natural look -- and the latter a thick, sulty look. A curler does wonders, too! While my daily makeup routine consists of only mascara, eyeliner, and a brow touch up (if I'm feeling fancy), I do occasionally go for a full eyeshadow look. I practically used to hoard eyeshadows, but these days I only bother with OCC's pigments and loose colors. Used with a bit of Urban Decay Primer Potion underneath, they stay put all day -- even their loose glitters don't budge. When was the last time you used a glittery shadow that didn't make your cheeks (and every other part of your face) also sparkly all day? Yikes. OCC is a win for me!

Clockwise, from top: Illamsqua Cream Blusher, theBalm Stainiac, Obsessive Compu lsive Cosmetics Loose Color Concentrate, M .A.C. Blush Br ush (from "Perfectly Plush" brush set), NARS Orgasm, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar, M.A.C. Blush in Coygirl
{CHEEKS}

Ah, another essential. Olive toned as I may be, I am pale -- and I always feel a little self conscious that I look like a zombie without a bit of rouge. I used to be terrified of cream blushes and stains (I hated Benetint, no matter how many praises I read of it), but I've finally learned how to use them properly -- and they're the perfect base for my 14+ hour days. I bought the Illamsqua mystery set from Sephora, and the Cream Blusher came with it -- in a shockingly bright red that I would probably never pick up. I dabbed 3 small dots of the color on each cheek and blended away and was impressed not only with the color, but how natural it looked. That or theBalm's Stainiac have become my daily base -- adding a swipe of powder (lately, MAC Coygirl) on top for extra oomph. You might be wondering why OCC Lip Tar is also in this group -- but simply, it's also an amazing blush. I apply it similarly to Illamsqua -- a couple of TINY dots - and blend, blend, blend.

Clockwise, from top: M.A.C. Girl About Town, M.A.C. Red, NARS Belle du Jour, Stila Long Wear Lip Color in Caprice, Too Faced Lip Insurance Primer, Fresh Sugar Lip Balm, Obsessive Com pulsive Cosmeti cs Lip Tar in NSFW and Psycho, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Brush
{LIPS}

This should be pretty self explanatory. I'm rarely without a bold lip, and there's a world of color out there. But, if I haven't done it enough, let me sing the OCC Lip Tar gospel: this product is a total game changer. They're stocked in Sephora now, so if you have a chance to try it out, I highly recommend it. Here's the trick with lip tar: make sure your lips are totally bare. If you've put a balm on, wipe it off. Trust me. Then, squeeze a really really really itty bitty drop onto a lip brush. A little goes a long way when it comes to lip tar, and often, less is more. The color is totally opaque, so there's no reason to go heavy and layer it onto your lips a million times. It's unnecessary. Fill your lips in with the brush, et voila! You should have an opaque color that will stay put for a good 6-8 hours. If I'm going with a different brand for my lips, I always apply with Too Faced Lip Insurance underneath; it does what Urban Decay's Primer Potion does but for your lipstick. Even creamy lipsticks like MAC Girl About Town (one of my favorite pinks), goes strong for hours and hours with a swipe of lip insurance underneath. A touch of balm throughout the day keeps my lips soft and refreshes color.

Clockwise, from top: Anna Sui Hair Brush, Moroccan Oil Finish Strong Hair spray, Diptyque Volutes E au de Parfum, Arrojo ReFinish Dry Shampoo, C audeli é Beauty Elixir, Dove Nourishing Oil Care, Make Up For Ever HD Kabuki Brush
{FINAL TOUCHES}

Finally, finishing touches! A longwear perfume is a pretty important element for me, and this winter, I'm all about Diptyque's Volutes. It's a rich, sultry fragrance that is the perfect complement (and alternative) to my usually floral scents. Regardless of what scent you choose, a parfum will have much longer wear than an eau de toilette; yes, they're more expensive, but for a reason! For my hair, I use Dove Hair Therapy which I apply to my damp hair before blow drying. Once it's all dry, I use Moroccan Oil Luminous Hair Spray and brush it through my 'do. Arrojo ReFinish Shampoo does the trick of adding extra volume (yes, to clean hair!). The goal for my hair is to have no frizz, no flyaways, and for my (heavily processed) locks to look shiny and healthy around the clock -- these are definitely the things that do it for me, more than any shampoo or conditioner combo could. A final blend with the kabuki brush, a spritz of beauty elixir, and I'm out the door!

TL;DR Version of the Below: ...But I'm a Feminist!
Of course, my relationship with makeup always feels a bit complicated. Since my early days of becoming a slave to undereye concealer and blackest-black mascara, I've developed a feminist awareness and forced myself to analyze what it means to apply makeup. I try to be conscious of what the beauty industry tells us, and remind myself that I don't actually need any of the products in my arsenal. (Really. I don't need you, lipstick! Didn't I prove that in my last post?) Still, the ritual of applying makeup and transforming myself into a character (or putting on my drag and unveiling a femme embodiment) have become as second nature as brushing my teeth or combing my hair. Getting here, though, has taken a bit of back-and-forth struggle and self analysis. I went through a phase where I used makeup to intentionally make myself less normatively attractive; I applied blue eyeshadow up to my brow bone (something that was fun and subversive for me then, but looking back, makes me cringe), and a thick coat of Margot-Tenenbaum-esque charcoal all the way around my eyes. I observed the way people in my family and community used makeup, too, and from my point of view it was often used to appear whiter or more westernized; being middle eastern, this was an image I couldn't get out of my head -- and I constantly questioned whether my own use of makeup was imitating the same. Suffice to say, makeup, and "beauty," is a complicated world -- but I don't think the serious social implications embedded in beauty culture should strip the fun out of makeup, either! At the end of the day, it is something to play with - and the empowering and transformative nature of makeup, making ourselves into who we want to be, can be a feminist act.

Disclaimer: Some of the products featured in this post were provided for consideration. I promise that this has had zero impact on what brands I have endorsed; they're all products I truly believe in.

Weather (In)appropriate... Oops.

2012-11-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Not to beat a dead horse or anything, but I'm still a bit challenged when it comes to weather appropriate dressing. I try. Really. Maybe it's my stubborn, Taurus nature, but... I just don't like being told what to do by mother nature. You know what I'm saying?! Continue...
There's a lot I want to write, right now, but I'm going to be completely honest with you, I'm really, really tired. Just exhausted. So, I'm still going to write it, but I'm going to be a little lazy with my writing and opt for bullet points, for now. Please, don't judge me! You know I love a long form blog post that no one actually reads more than the next gal!

• On beating dead horses: So, this is generally the time of year where a pair of opaque black tights is part of my daily uniform. From now until about mid-to-late March, they're practically tattooed onto my body. Both a lapse in judgment and generally stubborn nature lead me to forgo my usual leg coverings and go bare. Momentary acts of defiance aside, I learned my lesson. It's cold. Wise up, and dress appropriately, damnit.
• I finally jumped on the Lana del Rey H&M angora sweater bandwagon when I glanced at the price tag and realized it was under $20. Talk about a bargain buy! It's soft and cozy and leaves little pink fuzzies everywhere; this would probably be a con for most, but little pink anything makes me happy. Surprise. I purchased this while Miss B was in town, (naturally, she picked up the same), prior to the start of #NoShopNovember, (more on this soon).
• Speaking of Lana del Rey, her new EP "Paradise" dropped yesterday and I'm pretty into it. If you have Spotify, you can stream all eight tracks right here. I really don't care how much collagen is allegedly in her lips; I enjoy her music.
• I forgot to wear lipstick. Lipstick has become such a part of my gender expression that it's pretty second nature, but I suppose we all forget part of our routine once in a while. In lieu of real lipstick, my keyring (also Lulu Guinness, and a gift from Miss B) worked as a momentary substitute.The purse (which is everything, by the way,) also helped compensate for the lack of a proper lip.
• PS, don't be surprised if you see virtually this exact outfit precisely 3 months from today. They might already be playing Christmas music everywhere, but before you know it, Valentine's Day sweethearts will be shoved down your throat.

{OUTFIT}
Coat: SimplyBe (also in this post). Sweater: H&M. Skirt: ASOS Curve. Purse: Lulu Guinness (gift). Brooch: Chanel. Belt: ASOS Curve. Sunnies: House of Harlow. Shoes: Miu Miu (similar here). Necklaces: J. Crew, BaubleBar (gift). Bracelets: Kenneth Jay Lane (gift), CatBird. Rings: David Yurman, Besty, Tiffany.

{MAKEUP}
Nails: "Sweet Dreams" by Deborah Lippmann. Cheeks: "Coygirl" by MAC. Eyes: Stila All Day Liquid Liner. Brows: Stila All Day Brow Color. Skin: OCC Skin Conceal, Dr. Jart V7 Beauty Balm. Lips: I FORGOT LIPSTICK. HOW DID THIS EVEN HAPPEN?

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

{SHOP THE LOOK}

Gold and Stripes and Everything Nice

2012-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

I was so excited to have the opportunity to interview Kenneth Cole last week at his Spring 2013 presentation, far before I had any inkling of what the presentation would be like, though I've recently had a few up-close-and-personal interactions with the brand. While Kenneth Cole might not have been on my radar much prior to their major social media faux pas, the last few years have seen a major turn around from the brand - with tons of truly innovative online strategizing (including lots of organic relationships with bloggers) and really exciting design, (I mean, this gold skirt? Can I, please?) Continue...

Before the presentation started, I walked through to the backstage area (where I did the above interview), and enjoyed watching all the models get gussied up, commiserating about the impending storm with friends from DBA, and running into Joe Zee from Elle Magazine (who just so happened to be matching Anthony from Closet Freaks - see photo for proof). While Kenneth Cole and I were doing our interview, he told me about the inspirations behind the collection - middle eastern and north African cultures, increasing global community and the transition from highly seasonal fashion to an almost seasonless world.
As each look was completed head-to-toe on the models, they were shot for the Spring Look Book. It was like a really fashionable speed relay. (Did I mention Joe Zee did the styling?! I think it shows.)

The accessories and various textures throughout the collection were my favorite parts of the collection. Sturdy box bags with gleaming gold finishes, chainmail and satin and lamé, metallics effortlessly paired with neutrals, feather-light sheers with bold stripes...
The above was one of my absolute favorite looks! I think it completely appeals to my Lydia Deetz/Wednesday Addams/modern aesthete sensibilities. Plus, the idea of pairing matching horizontal and vertical stripes is so simple but so utterly ingenious to me. Like, why haven't I thought of this before?! I guess that's the thing with good style, though, right? It shouldn't look like it took any effort. It just happens. Like that. So, what do you think of the collection? Are you as impressed (and surprised) by it as I am? It's so... cool. At least, I think so.

Fall Conquests... Sleepy Hollow, Central Park, and Cat Sweaters

2012-10-29T02:34:00.000-04:00

While I'm hunkered down now and in full "Hurricane Sandy" mode (with an unlimited supply of quinoa, sparkling water, and popcorn to boot), this weekend was everything I had hoped for when I first started penning my wishlist of things-to-do this season. With my significant other and Miss B in tow, I headed out to Sleepy Hollow, and reveled in all the cheesy, cliche, novelty fun of Halloween in a haunted town. Continue...

Outfit: Outfit: Jacket: ASOS Curve, Sweater: Opening Ceremony, Skirt: ASOS Curve, Jewelry: J. Crew & Chanel, Sunglasses: House of Harlow, Booties: Evans,
Beauty:Lipstick: MAC Ruby Woo It's kind of been a dream of mine, for as long as I've been in New York, to visit Sleepy Hollow - the home of the Legend of the Headless Horseman and of Washington Irving, and, some say - the birthplace of American Literature, (of this, I am skeptical - but I'm open to being convinced). In a lot of ways, current day Sleepy Hollow is what I grew up picturing American towns to be like; filled with tree-lined streets, a constant foliage coverage (regardless of the time of the year), and Hocus Pocus like scenery. The massive, collegiate looking High Schools only bolster the idealized image I had in my mind as a child -- especially since it was such a far cry from my own reality growing up in Los Angeles. With Miss B in town, I knew she would similarly revel in the completely romanticized vision in my mind, so we set up with my S.O. for a day in Sleepy Hollow. The drive was quick (a fast hour or so from Brooklyn), and before we knew it we were in some kind of magical American town reserved for Disney movies, (however stereotypically suburban it may have been, on closer inspection).

We visited the house that Washington Irving lived and worked in, and walked through the town to its cemetery, and ate Bratwurst and drank cider at a Halloween block party. It was very twilight zone and it truly felt like I rewound to Hocus Pocus/Sabrina the Teenage Witch (mid-1990s to boot), all while wearing my cat sweater that not-so-subtly played on the Salem/Winifred/superstitious cat theme, (as if I'm not, in fact, an unabashed cat lady).

Photos of me by Miss B, All others by me.

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