Army Green and Blush Pink

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In my W by Worth top, Zara long vest, H&M skinnies, Valentino rock stud flats, and Rebecca Minkoff purse while strolling Park Ave.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

Lately I have been really loving the color combination of army green paired with a soft blush pink or baby pink.  As you can see by my outfit above, I paired my W by Worth new spring 2016 top (the one I purchased after my recently blogged-about visit to the showroom) with my cream and blush pink cheetah print H&M skinny jeans.  

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The details of the same outfit up close and personal

I then accessorized the top and pants with an army green long vest I bought recently from Zara, and my favorite Valentino cream and pink rock stud flats.  My bag is an oldie but goodie I scored a couple years ago at a Rebecca Minkoff sample sale.  I love the cream and black color combination on it with the big bow on the front and metal chain link hardware on the strap: another great example of girly meets rock and roll.

This time of year the flowers everywhere in New York are stunning, and my Upper East Side neighborhood is no exception with the blooming trees and tulips on the ground.  A perfect colorful setting to shoot this look.

Xo,

Carolina

Off the Shoulder Trending for Spring

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Strolling the High Line in the Meat Packing district in my Zara off the shoulder blue top and pink moto jacket, Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply ripped boyfriend jeans, Valentino rock stud flats, and Balenciaga Mini City bag. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

One of my favorite trends this Spring is the off the shoulder trend. It looks effortless, bohemian, and sexy without trying too hard.  Exposing the shoulder is a subtle and elegant way of showing a little skin and feeling feminine in your clothes.

In the outfit pictured above I paired a baby blue off the shoulder top I recently bought at Zara with my older Zara pink moto jacket, Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply ripped boyfriend jeans, Valentino rock stud baby pink flats, and my new Balenciaga Mini City purse.  The long necklace is also an older piece from Free People that I just love.  

Once again I decided to play with feminine touches mixed with a little edginess in the studs on the shoes and on my bag, the motorcycle jacket, and a ripped baggy boyfriend jean to offset the girly pastel colors and flowy off the shoulder top.

Francisco and I went to dinner at Sugar Factory in the Meat Packing district after our High Line stroll, and it was delicious.  I have a sweet tooth and that restaurant has the best drinks and dessert options.  We opted for the peanut butter and chocolate fondue! Later in the weekend I ventured to dinner and drinks with friends at Cata in the Lower East Side for my birthday as well as dinner at Spice Market on a separate night with my girlfriends I've known since I was in middle school who came into the city to visit.  Last weekend was the perfect birthday weekend and I really couldn't have asked for more!

Xo,

Carolina

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In my Zara top enjoying my watermelon martini garnished with a watermelon sugar gummie.  I was literally a kid in a candy shop at Sugar Factory!

Rooftop-ready Boho Chic

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Wearing my Hoss dress from Madrid and new Arezzo shoes from Brazil.  Necklace is Kendra Scott, earrings from a small boutique in Brazil.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

The weather is starting to warm up a bit in New York again (though I still suggest layering as certain days are still cold), and I was recently able to attend my boyfriend's closing night party for Paul Taylor Dance Company's Lincoln Center season at the David Koch theater, which was held at the Gansevoort Hotel rooftop in the Meat Packing District. To this occasion I wanted to look Boho chic, so I chose to wear my favorite Hoss Intropia dress.  

Hoss Intropia is a beautiful design house from Spain which I discovered via my aunt when visiting family in Madrid a few summers ago.  They are like a high end Anthropologie, and their elegant classic silhouettes with a hint of bohemian style really caught my eye.  This dress is even more special to me because I went shopping with my step Grandmother Isabel (a Spaniard) on that day when she surprised me by gifting it to me, and it was the last time we had a date together just the two of us before her passing of cancer within a year of that visit.  The fashion scene in Madrid is electric as Spaniards always dress tastefully accentuating their femininity in a really elegant way.  Nobody goes grocery shopping in Madrid without being in a put together outfit.  I carried a lot of Madrid with me moving to CT as an 8 year-old, and continued to build my style on my upbringing with I later moved to New York City twelve years ago.

I paired the dress with  my new Arezzo brown wedges from Brazil which I bought last fall when shopping with my cousin Camila the bride-to-be just before her wedding.  I was supposed to be helping her out (bridesmaid duties called) to buy honeymoon clothes, which we did successfully, but I couldn't help getting myself a pair of shoes...and maybe some sunglasses.  Brazilian shoes are always made so beautifully.  Most of the shoes I buy in the States end up being a pair that was "made in Brazil." The platforms are brown with beige rope detail woven as the straps on the foot and ankle. I topped off the outfit with a pair of gold circular earrings from a small boutique in Brazil (a gift from my cousin Camila in Sao Paulo), and my Kendra Scott long necklace with gold detail and one blue stone for a pop of color.

Of course long soft curls in your hair always compliment a boho look, but messy hair or a beach wave is perfect also!

Xo,

Carolina

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Two Pieces & Balenciaga

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Here I am in my new Balenciaga Mini City bag, Valentino rock stud heels, Reformation two piece, and Bebe leather biker jacket. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

Spring has sprung in New York City and at the moment I'm loving my Reformation two piece crop top and skirt. I love how Eco friendly they are as a company and their clothes are always effortlessly chic and fun to wear. I styled my two piece with my Valentino red and nude rock stud heels, Bebe black leather biker jacket and new Balenciaga pink Mini City bag. 

I played with edginess and flirty girly fashion on this look, which is something I always like to try. However I've also styled this look with platform lace up ankle booties and a choker for a more 90s look. 

My new Mini City bag is the perfect size for being on the go and the color matches a lot of my spring looks.

Happy Spring! The weather makes me want to eat outside and get macaroons at La Duree on Madison ave in my Upper East Side neighborhood like I was doing in this photo:)

xo,

Carolina

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Tasch Fashion Show and lookbook Shoot

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Here I am in one of Tasch NYC's Fall 2016 dresses at the lookbook shoot. Lookbook photography by Sarah Lenoir. Nude Louboutins are my own.

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Tasch NYC fashion show in some of the looks of her brand new collection. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

I recently had the opportunity to model for Tasch NYC's Fall 2016 look book shoot and fashion show just following fall fashion week this Spring and it was so much fun! The two looks you see above are part of the newest line, of which we are getting a sneak peek since it is brand new clothing soon to be available for ordering. 

I really loved the sequin detail on the dress as well as the see through mesh front and back design making the dress appear to be strapless. The outdoor sunset in Central Park made for a beautiful setting to shoot the purple with gold sparkle accents as well, as you can see below with the sun setting on the water.  This plum hue is so perfect for spring or fall!

Tasch NYC is a New York based contemporary luxury womenswear brand made for women by women in New York with love.  Tasch herself beyond being very talented is also petite, so her clothes are made with petite figures in mind too, something I find to be lacking in luxury contemporary womenswear. Clothes are made to order right here in NYC.  I love buying local!

Xo,

Carolina

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Altar Ego Apparel & promo Code

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Wearing my new Altar Ego Apparel Hamsa legging in yoga class. Photographed by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

I recently became a partnered brand ambassador with Altar Ego Apparel. They are a new fitness line (established in 2014) based just north of Boston that makes all of their leggings right in our local area. The first collection featured all French Impressionist art prints painted in Paris in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They just launched a new collection focusing on henna art, modern ink tattoos and ancient body painting. They believe like art, women are more than what you see at first glance. Besides loving that everything is made in Boston, I love that they are an all feminine-run company!

I just got these beautiful Hamsa leggings with the hand of Fatima design on them. They matched my Under Armour top and Lululemon yoga mat so nicely! In them I was inspired in yoga class. I practice yoga regularly and just love having something fun to wear for class! They are really great quality stretchy and smooth which I love in yoga pants.

If you buy any Altar Ego Apparel clothing be sure to use my discount code "Carolina15" for 15% off of your purchase!

Xo,

Carolina 

Rock & Roll Night Out

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In my Marc by Marc Jacobs slingback booties, H&M ripped skinny jeans and faux fur jacket, Topshop top, and Chanel bag.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

I have recently been watching the new show "Vinyl" on HBO and am completely obsessed with 70s rock and roll fashion.  I've always been influenced by boho and 70s rock and roll (with a feminine edge) but lately it's been on fleek (did I use that saying correctly?)!!

In my look above I styled my rock and roll night out-fit from the ground up starting with my Marc by Marc Jacobs oldie but goodie slingback peeptoe dark blue satin booties (see close-up of the shoes below for the bow and rhinestone detail and the geometrical heel that really makes the shoe) with my black ripped H&M skinny jeans, and a black recent Topshop top purchase.  This top has a cool peeptoe front with the criss cross neckline I love to accentuate the collarbone and shoulders.  The seams of the top have geometrical shapes too which picks up the detail in the shoe.  I then threw my plush faux fur green and black H&M jacket (a recent bargain item on sale) for a real 70s vibe, styled my hair naturally curly and let it get messy and did a mean cat eye.  Last but not least I added my favorite Chanel ice cube bag that I bring out on special occasions.  Please see the close up below for more bag details.

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I love how Francisco captured these Marc by Marc Jacobs sing back peeptoe ankle booties.  The satin is really pronounced, and the black mirror-like finish with the geometrical heel.  The boots are my style: a little edge with a girly touch: a feminine bow with rhinestone detail.

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Here is my Chanel ice cube bag I bought in Europe years ago and I just treasure.  It's ice cube detail with metallic trim make the bag match really well with almost anything, and it's such a statement unique piece.  It was the perfect finish for a funky rock and roll look.

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In the look taking a tour of NY Vintage archives wearing a Dior piece.

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Another shot from my tour of NY Vintage lusting over these Vivienne Westwood beauties. What an incredible place!

I wore the look out to visit my friend Megan at New York Vintage Incorporated in Chelsea where I was able to browse the archives and try on some pieces like this exquisite Dior feather shawl seen above in the first photo, and the incredible Vivienne Westwood heels in the second photo.  I was so incredibly inspired by this place and I can't wait to go back and rent out some pieces for a shoot! Thank you Megan and NY Vintage, I will be back! 

Peace and love,

xo

Carolina

Winter Whites

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At "On Your Feet" Broadway wearing my Celine Nano Crossbody bag in nude, Aldo suede booties, Brandy Melville grey long skirt, Free People "Prima Ballerina" white top and earrings from Brazil. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

I recently had a date night to go out and see "On Your Feet" on Broadway (go see it if you're a Gloria Estefan or any kind of latin music fan, it's wonderful) with Francisco, and we took the opportunity to shoot in the well lit escalator area.

In the dead of winter I love to wear winter whites, since they feel cozy and snow bunny-esque.  This recently purchased top from Free People is one of my favorite winter white tops because it is warm with its long sleeves while still sexy since it's tight and has the shoulder cutouts.  I paired the "prima ballerina" top with my Brandy Melville long grey skirt and nude ankle booties from Aldo and matching nude Celine Nano cross body luggage tote bag. It made for a casual yet dressy and cozy date night outfit to go see a Broadway show and have dinner.  My earrings are from a small accessory store in Brazil.

To complete the outfit I wore my fluffy white Free People "Koda Brushed" scarf and long coat you might remember from a past post, and I also love to wear this scarf as a shawl to wrap up in when I'm feeling chilly indoors.  It's the softest scarf I've ever worn!

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Stay warm out there!

Xo,

Carolina

Cozy Winter Neutrals

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In my Vince Camuto Moto boots (now on sale!) JCrew matchstick dark denim skinnies, and Free People "We The Free Sheila Hacci" knit top.  Shot in Philadelphia by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

On a recent trip to Philadelphia, PA Francisco and I decided to shoot my new Free People "We The Free Sheila Hacci" top which I styled with my JCrew dark wash denim matchstick skinny jeans, white lace tank, Vince Camuto biker boots and black beanie for an effortless comfortable and slightly edgy yet cool look. 

What I love about the color and draping on this grey knit is how easy to wear it is while overall maintaining an effortless chic. We all need that wardrobe piece that is cozy and you feel good in but don't want to forego style. Here is that perfect piece!

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Outfit details

Here you can see a great close-up shot of the top. I even matched my nail polish (a sparkly grey from Urban Outfitters) to the top! Check out the photo below for my sunglasses and nail polish. 

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Here I am cheesing with my new Urban Outfitters sparkly grey nail polish and Zara red sunnies I bought last fall while shopping in São Paulo" with my cousin.  I love the fun pop of color they add to an outfit, and we couldn't resist another shot in the beautiful historic city of Philadelphia!

Xo,

Carolina 

A New Twist on a Classic (Denim Shirt)

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Free People "Because You Are Mine" embroidered shirt, JCrew dark wash matchstick jeans, and Vince Camuto Moto boots. Photographed in Philadelphia by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

I was recently at a Free People store and picked up this beautiful denim button-down shirt with white flowered embroidery that I fell in love with. I love that it's a twist on the old classic denim shirt, and it's perfect for spring. Additionally, it's currently on sale so what's not to love about that? 

I was in Philadelphia for work recently and Francisco and I found some great spots to shoot! In the photos above I styled the top with dark blue JCrew matchstick skinny jeans since I love to mix two color denims together (for an updated Canadian tuxedo), but I more traditionally matched a black belt to my Vince Camuto motorcycle boots which are also on sale right now! 

This is a look which could easily be styled with a bolo tie and cowboy boots for a more obvious country western vibe, but I chose to make it edgy while still feminine with my Moto boots. Going into Spring I've certainly been feeling like mixing girly accents with rock and roll which overall I would say I'd my favorite style aesthetic. 

Happy sale shopping! There are some great sales at the moment.

Xo,

Carolina

New Workout Clothes = Workout Fun

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In my Athleta hoodie and Albion fit floral workout leggings and Nikes at the gym. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

Have you ever had the feeling of being so excited to work out because you just bought new workout wear? I unashamedly feel that way, and my recent purchase was no exception.  Besides my normal obsession with Lululemon, Athleta, Free People movement, and other workout brands, I recently came across Albion Fit.  These floral workout pants called the "Antigua Extend Leggings" are boho chic and springy but you can wear them at any season, and they are the right material to sweat in.  

In this look I paired them with my Athleta black hoodie and a floral seafoam workout bralette I got as a gift.  My new Nikes (a recent outlet purchase!) have grey and seafoam-colored trim as well as shoelaces, so they picked up the greenish blue hue in the flowers and my bra.  This look is great for jumping on the eliptical to warm up my workout, and I can take off the hoodie once I've started to sweat a little.

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The look was also perfect for yoga which I did as a cool-down to my workout on this occasion. I love taking yoga for flexibility, relaxation, and to restore my mind and body in between workouts or after workouts.  As you may recall from my past fitness-themed blog entry with my new Athleta and Free People movement gear and my introduction to Class Pass, I love to try out new studios and forms of exercise to keep my workouts fun and stay motivated.

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Finally, I had to stop at the water station for some lemon-infused water to re-hydrate, restore, and the lemon is great for your digestion system! Fitness is a lifestyle, and it feels so good so why not look good doing it too, right?

Xo,

Carolina

What to Wear on Valentine's Day?

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Seen here in my Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply black sheer blouse, vintage red leather mini skirt, black tights, Aldo faux short hair cheetah print booties, and Kate Spade purse with chandelier earrings from Brazil.

The Hi there!

With Valentine's Day quickly approaching I always want to look sexy (in an elegant and fashion forward way without having to try too hard) and maybe wear a little red. In the look I'm featuring on the blog this week I styled a Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply sheer black polka dot blouse featuring romantic billowy sleeves with a vintage red leather mini skirt, black tights, and cheetah-print ankle booties. I also went with swept back hair and long earrings to pull focus to my neck (because you know, subtle skin-showing tricks, amiright ladies?)

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Here are the outfit details including the accessories I chose. I normally would have gone with a more traditional black pump or my red Valentino rock stud heels, but the cheetah print in my Kate Spade purse I wanted to wear looked really cute with the matching ankle boots and introduced a nice faux short hair texture with the sheer and leather on the blouse and skirt.

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In this image Francisco and I wanted to focus on the detail in the sleeves and cuff around the wrist. Because the shirt is sheer I wore a body hugging black tank, but you could go more daring and wear only your bra;) 

I hope everyone has a lovely Valentine's Day!

Xo,

Carolina

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In my Valentine's look: Milly skirt, Zara top, Ted Baker Clutch, and Aldo heels. Necklace by Topshop.

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Ted Baker clutch and bow bracelet, Marc by Marc Jacobs link bracelet.

ps Here was my Valentine's Day look! Milly skirt, Zara top, Ted Baker clutch, and Aldo heels. Photography by my Valentine: Francisco.

W by Worth Showroom Shopping

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In my new Vince Camuto Moto boots, Zara top and Simply Vera by Vera Wang faux fur vest, ready to shop! All photos by Francisco Graciano. 

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Hi there!

I was recently invited by Claire at the W by Worth Showroom on 5th avenue and 57th Street (Worth New York's ready to wear brand) to come in for a fitting. Francisco and I went to my appointment and he photographed me candidly looking through and trying on some gorgeous pieces, and I fell in love with the W by Worth line as well as the experience of shopping at the showroom and here's why you will too.

Shopping at the showroom allows for a more personal experience much like meeting with a personal stylist or shopper while having the store to yourself. Claire understood my style aesthetic from my blog and Instagram as well as what I told her I liked, and we both pulled pieces for me to try on. What she pulled for me that I didn't initially gravitate towards on the rack I immediately understood why she had me try on when I did.

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Olive isn't a color I wear a ton of and these pieces above were my favorite in terms of their effortlessness, chic, and the color working with my skin tone and hair color. I normally gravitate towards color and pattern, black, or jewel tones as you can see from the pieces I pulled to try on. I walked away with the gorgeous olive sweater tunic and might need to get this olive leather mod dress; it would look so fabulous with a turtleneck and tights underneath!

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I can't wait to continue to shop this way, it was such a fun shopping appointment with zero stress, lines to wait in to checkout, or clothes to send back if they didn't fit. Claire gets me, go see her at the showroom! Worth headquarters are located in the Garment District if Worth New York is more up your alley.

Xo,

Carolina 

Burberry & a Military Trench

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Walking Central Park in my Burberry rain boots and matching scarf, Celine Nano Crossbody bag, Zara military pea coat, Urban Outfitters beanie and Ray Ban sunglasses.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

Did you survive Storm Jonas? I always love walking in New York's Central Park after a snowstorm through the fluffy snow and seeing the glistening trees on a sunny day with blue skies.  Today was that kind of day, a beautiful aftermath of the storm.  Of course this couldn't be done without the right outerwear, and if you're anything like me you want to be properly outfitted without sacrificing style.

I paired my traditional plaid print Burberry rain boots (lined with Hunter fleece boot socks) and matching Burberry scarf with my army green Zara military long pea coat in a trench coat style.  I love the way the army green pairs with the beige tone of the scarf and boots to add to the military color palette.  Also the look and feel of a traditional Burberry plaid is very iconically British as is a military style coat: a likely pair.  I styled it further with my Urban Outfitters black beanie, Ray Ban sunglasses, and beige Celine Nano crossbody bag.  Burberry plaid is a very obvious print so keeping the rest of the outfit neutral and solid colors is key with a more traditional look (especially when I want the print to pop).

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I love the details of this coat including the buttons on the back and sleeves as well.  Here you can see my Hunter fleece rain boot liners in red to match my Burberry rain boots. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

I really love the details on the back of this coat!  The buttons on the back of the waist sash as well as the four buttons on each coat sleeve really make this coat unique and traditional in an old military trench coat look.  It's warm and so much fun to wear, and dresses up any outfit.  

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Bag details: the Celine Nano crossbody bag in beige.  Photo by Francisco Graciano.

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One more outfit details shot.  Photo by Francisco Graciano.

In the two above photos I wanted to showcase the Celine Nano crossbody bag's details.  I just love the architecture of this bag.  Modern, sophisticated, versatile, yet unique which is why I suppose it's become such an iconic bag.  The large Celine Nano luggage tote is beautiful too, but I like the side strap versatility of the smaller crossbody version. 

Today's blue skies made me want to look up and appreciate this cold yet beautiful winter day!

Xo,

Carolina

Puffy Coat or Faux Fur?

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Topshop faux fur turquoise coat, Aldo booties, and JCrew vegan leather skinnies styled with a vintage hat and Celine Nano Crossbody bag. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

 Hi there!

So in my last post I noted my belief that being warm doesn't have to be boring. This is why I want to lay out a few coat options for warm fun coats for this winter season that I'm having so much fun with in my closet right now! 

In my look above you can see my Topshop turquoise blue faux fur coat. I feel like a rockstar in this coat when going out, and it's warm and fuzzy too. I paired it here with my JCrew vegan leather skinnies, favorite Aldo studded ankle booties, a vintage hat and scarf, and my Celine nano Crossbody bag in a burgundy red. Francisco and I took to the streets of Gowanus, Brooklyn to shoot against some graffiti that we thought spelled out what I felt like doing in this outfit quite literally! 

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On the LES of Manhattan in my Guess puffy coat, Free People scarf and Celine Nano Crossbody. Photography by Francisco Graciano.

In the photos above I'm wearing my new Guess puffy coat with faux fur trim on the hood. I styled it with my Celine Nano Crossbody bag, Free People new fluffy white scarf, my favorite booties, and my H&M boyfriend dress pants, as well as a red lip. I love the belt feature on this coat to cinch the waist while still providing a thick layer of warmth, and the faux fur trim makes it playful and more stylish instead of an average black standard puffy coat.

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My new H&M faux fur with Valentino rock studs and Kate Spade purse.

This is a brand new H&M faux fur jacket I found on sale. It's a black with dark green mixed in. For a night on the town I'll pair it with vegan leather skinnies, my Valentino rock stud heels and matching Kate Spade red with cheetah print purse. This is a fun while staying warm alternative! 

Xo,

Carolina 

All Of The VELVET Feels

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Velvet romper by 12thTribe and Celine Nano Crossbody Bag shot in LES by Francisco Graciano

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Velvet 12th Tribe romper and Celine Nano Crossbody bag shot in LES Manhattan by Francisco Graciano

Hi there!

Happy New Year! So it's that time of year where the holidays are over and it's cold and somewhat dreary in New York, but that doesn't mean we can't wear something fun, amiright? My latest trend obsession has been velvet. I have these great burnout velvet flare leg pants I've been wearing and I recently bought this 12thTribe long sleeved floral romper shown in the photos above. Because of the cold weather I paired it with warm tights, ankle booties, a chunky belt and my Celine Nano Crossbody bag.

Francisco and I took to the streets of Manhattan's Lower East Side to photograph the look against the Brooklyn Bridge on a cloudy day (which made the floral red and purple hues of the romper really pop).  

12th Tribe is my new online shop (since its Cali-based and I'm an East Coaster) go-to outside of Free People for boho fashion. You might remember a previous post of mine where I talked about the faux suede fringe jacket I got from them too. They have great clothes and their customer service is incredible!

xo,

Carolina 

New Years Eve: A Feminine Twist on Menswear

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Sleeveless tuxedo top by JCrew, boyfriend fit dress pants by H&M, studded boots by Aldo.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

“Is it NYE already? What will I wear?!” Don’t worry I have you covered! Every New Years Eve I typically pull out something shiny or sparkly out of my closet, and usually it's in dress form.  This year I thought I’d experiment with a feminine version of menswear.  In the photo above, shot by Francisco Graciano in the Upper East Side’s gorgeous Palace Hotel, you can see I styled my boyfriend fit dress pant from H&M with my sleeveless tuxedo blazer top from JCrew.  I love the sexiness the open shoulders and deep V add to the look, which I think is accentuated nicely with a bralette underneath.  For a little sparkle change the black bralette to a sparkly number.

I also paired the look with my favorite rock and roll studded ankle booties from Aldo.  However, for a more polished sleek look swap out booties for a stiletto (perhaps with a little sparkle) and you’re ready for a night on the town! Or a night in.  Those can be so much less stressful on New Years!

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Here are some of the outfit details, lipstick by Laura Mercier, earrings are vintage.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

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Lipstick by Laura Mercier, earrings are vintage.  Photography by Francisco Graciano. Celebrate NYE with Moet Chandon and look up to see that ball drop!

In these last two photographs you can see the outfit details with the bralette and tuxedo top as well as my makeup, jewelry and hair choices.  I opted to go with a gold earring to match the hardware in my booties, a pulled back slicked low ponytail for a Spanish dramatic edge (my upbringing in Madrid shows up a lot in my clothing choices), and a fiery red lip to add even more drama. My lipstick is by Laura Mercier and my jewelry is vintage. 

Whatever you decide to do this New Years, be safe and drink responsibly but above all have fun and ring in the New Year in style! Happy New Year 2016 everyone!

Xo,

Carolina

Suede, Fringe, and the Reformation

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Wearing the Rosetta Dress by Reformation and fringe sandals from a boutique in Madrid, Spain.  Photography in San Antonio, TX by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

I was recently in San Antonio, Texas visiting Francisco's family when we thought the backdrop of this park would be perfect to shoot my new Rosetta Dress by Reformation.  I wanted to convey the movement of this dress and showcase the color (seen here in cognac) as well as the neckline bow detail and billowy sleeves.  I love how figure-flattering this dress is, as well as transitional from warmer fall days into winter when worn with tights and boots. In New York the weather has been so unpredictable that it is helpful to have pieces such as these in your closet at the moment!

I really love Reformation because aside from their clothes being fabricated in the United States, they are a sustainable and eco-friendly company.  Their clothes are all recycled and made with fabric that doesn't harm the environment.  Also, the company takes into account the costs associated with creating fashion.  They actually track the pounds of carbon dioxide emitted and gallons of water used to make and wear their clothes, and in exchange they help plant forests to naturally capture CO2 from the air and invest in clean water solutions. They also use very minimal and always recyclable packaging when they ship. They are awesome.  Follow @reformation on Instagram to find out more.  In addition to posting their Ref Babes wearing their clothes, they provide frequent tips on how to reduce your carbon footprint which is really helpful.  You also might have seen some famous faces in their clothes.

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Still dancing in my Reformation Rosetta Dress, fringe sandals and 12th Tribe faux suede Ferris Fringe jacket.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

As you can see I was still dancing in the photo above where I styled my Reformation dress with my fringe shoes and new faux suede Ferris Fringe jacket by 12th Tribe.  I love the movement in the fringe jacket, and as a dancer I'm naturally drawn to movement.  I'm loving the suede and fringe trends for fall and winter, they have a 70s boho feel that is so much fun to wear.  I picked up this jacket in the camel color because it's a neutral tone and matches with a lot of other options, and can be dressed up with a dress or skirt, or dressed down with jeans.  I'm new to the [12th] tribe babe having actually discovered them recently on Instagram.  They have a beautiful boho vibe and funky clothes.  I'm loving their clothing! Their team is super friendly also.  I wish they would come to New York, but in the meantime I'll gladly have their clothes shipped from California.

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Wearing all Free People in a recent Free People secret stylist shoot in Manhattan's Upper East Side styled by Jessica Hill and shot by Isabella Nicole from FP UES.

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Wearing all Free People in a recent Free People secret stylist shoot in Manhattan's Upper East Side styled by Jessica Hill and shot by Isabella Nicole from FP UES.

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close-up outfit details

I was recently fortunate enough to be gifted some beautiful Free People pieces and then instructed to head to my local Upper East Side Free People store and meet my secret stylist who would style me for a Free People photo shoot.  Remember a few posts ago where I mentioned how good Free People is at inviting their FP Me stylists to events and things? This is a perfect example of their awesomeness.  Anyway, Jessica Hill my fabulous stylist and Isabella Nicole (find them under those names on FPMe, I'm Lina7 if you have the app) the talented photographer and I got ready and hit the streets of my beloved Upper East Side neighborhood to showcase the look. In this outfit I'm wearing all current Free People pieces: the Swingin' Suede dress (worn as a coat), the Midnight City Embroidered Top, the Denim Super Flare, and the Koda Brushed Scarf in off white. I loved how the outfit came together: the neutrals offset with the black jean, the soft texture of the oversized scarf next to the embroidered flowers on the billowy top.  The third photo showcases the texture and details in this outfit really well.  What you can't see in that photo is that this top also has a drawstring at the waist which allows the top to be synched and folded over to create a crop top perfect with the slightly low rise jeans I was wearing. 

This shoot was serendipitous since it gave me more outfit inspiration of ways to wear my current obsession over suede and update a 70s bohemian chic look.  Jessica and Isabella and I all agreed that the way the outfit came together incorporated my love of boho (which Free People does so well) with an updated uptown flare so fitting for the Upper East Side neighborhood the store is located in and where I'm proud to call home.  Thank you Jessica and Isabella for your eye and willingness to play with me, and of course a big thank you to Free People for always being so good to me!

Xo,

Carolina

Tartan and Holiday Nails

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Wearing the maxi tartan "Venitia Dress" by Free People, Aldo studded booties, Rebecca Minkoff fringe purse, and Urban Outfitters sweater and beanie.  Photography by Francisco Graciano.

Hi there!

When I think of the holidays what comes to mind is not only glitter, sparkle, and metallics but also tartan.  You know, that beautiful old-school English Ralph Lauren version of plaid that can be either worn edgy or preppy.  In my photo above I styled the beautiful Venitia Dress by Free People with Aldo studded black ankle booties, my Rebecca Minkoff fringe purse, and Urban Outfitters sweater and beanie for a bit of an edgier feel. I love this dress not only for its maxi length but the back and front are deep Vs, and styled with my hair up and maybe a black sequin blazer and heels makes it the perfect outfit choice for a holiday party!

Another way to do plaid I really love is in a buttoned up oxford shirt worn tucked into skinny jeans and with ankle or high boots.  Top it off with a blazer and you have a preppy put together outfit! I am also into a little bow under the buttoned up collar for a feminine touch to a masculine look. Additionally, playing with texture is always fun with plaid. Sometimes I wear my tartan oxford with a sequined mini skirt and tights, or with vegan leather pants.  

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Nail art by Absolutta Esmalteria in Socorro, SP Brazil.

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Holiday nail art option number two, also by Absolutta Esmalteria in Socorro, SP Brazil

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Red nails are always a classic for Christmas! New gold moccasin slippers by JCrew factory.

These three holiday nail options pictured above are some of my favorites lately.  In the first photo you'll see a fuchsia nail with gold glitter french manicure accents and a gold glitter statement nail, which I came up with to match my pink and gold look for my cousins' wedding in Brazil last month (see last post for outfit details). In the second photo I went with a lilac nail and cheetah-print statement nail art, and in the third photo you'll see a traditional red nail with my Starbucks and new JCrew factory gold moccasin slippers.  

All three ideas are fun for the holidays and parties, so I'd say go for your design and have fun with it to show off your personality and festive spirit! Happy Holidays everyone from my family to yours.

Xo,

Carolina

Holiday Party Dresses and Can't Leave the House Without Items!

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Party dress no 1 by Free People "Ginger Meadow Dress," vintage shoes. Photography by Francisco Graciano, shot in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

Hi there!

So it's the holiday season (wopee!!) and I'm not sure about you, but for me it's certainly the time of year I pull shiny things out of my closet. And party dresses.  All of my party dresses (appropriate for winter).  In this post I want to feature some of my favorite party dresses as well as can't-leave-the-house-without items to be party ready.  The first dress above is from Free People (my fave, in case you didn't see my Nov 12th entry).  I'm a Free People Me stylist (Lina7) and I just LOVE this brand's look, customer service, and free people me program.  

This dress is called the "Ginger Meadow Fit and Flare" dress, and I love the lace and beading on the top attached to a cushy deep red velvet skirt.  It's whimsical and vintage and has a victorian lush feel to it.  I feel like a character in Alice in Wonderland in it, thus the idea for the shoot in a magical garden I love to visit in Park Slope, Brooklyn.  Photography again by my talented man, Francisco Graciano.

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Free People "Reflected Moonlight" dress, vintage shoes, Topshop faux fur jacket, and JCrew statement necklace.  Shot on the Gowanus canal in Brooklyn by Francisco Graciano.

In this second look photographer Francisco Graciano and I took to the streets of Gowanus, Brooklyn (or more specifically the Gowanus canal) to shoot Free People's Reflected Moonlight dress in nude and gold with the setting sun and water in the background. Also in this look are my vintage shoes, Topshop turquoise statement faux fur and JCrew statement necklace. I love a little sparkle around the holidays, and what better way to do sparkle than a metallic? I love how this dress contrasts nude with gold to make gold work like a neutral and match with almost anything. It adds a little festive flair to an outfit, and has you feeling glamorous.  I love the gold and black color combination which is why I went with my black heels instead of my favorite gold glitter peeptoe Louboutin heels featured in the photo below, which are very festive! I also styled this dress with a statement faux fur from Topshop, because a fun faux fur jacket makes an outfit look more glamorous and party ready! This outfit had me feeling like a rockstar.  Also at the back of my nude tights was a black seam going down the leg which adds a feminine and sexy edge to a party dress.

Can't leave the house without items...read below

Last but not least before embarking on your party adventure I always suggest bringing along my can't-leave-the-house-without items in your party clutch.  Stylist tape (shown above my Victoria's Secret fashion tape) to hold your dress straps where they should be, accessories like my Topshop earrings, Chanel powder to take down shine when you've been dancing away, travel perfume (I love Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel), Rosebud Salve lip balm, and a fun party bag like my Coach gold python clutch. In the photo I went with gold and pink accessories for my cousins' wedding in Brazil recently, to match my gold peeptoe glitter Christian Louboutins and pink silk Nicole Miller gown.

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Here was the final look! Pictured with my cousin Fernando whom I walked down the aisle with in the wedding party for my cousin Camila's wedding last month in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Xo,

Carolina