Aquarius Rising

29 and still flawless. That's how I'm rolling today and for the next year.

Eight years ago, friends and I waited rather impatiently for midnight. On that blustery cold night we huddled around a cupcake dimly lit by a scrawny bodega candle, I made a wish and blew out my candle. We then proceeded to hit up the infamous Studio B where I could proudly display my of-age ID. It feels like yesterday but that could be because my birthday wish remains the same throughout the years: to experience unadulterated happiness and create memories with those closest to me.

This year, I'll wish for the same and keep the gang nearby as the celebrations go into the night (snow or no snow).

I'm so excited for the sweet ride life has given me and can't wait to share the journey. But before I kick off the birthday extravaganza this weekend I wanted to share two suitable dresses (both from Express) for anyone born in the month of love or looking for style ideas come Valentine's Day.

The little black Express dress never fails for a night out on the town. I love the details on this textured dress and the floral applique at the bottom of the dress so cute. (I shot these looks during office hours and this look was the department's favorite).

I paired this with my favorite suede over-the-knee boots and a fur vest.

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Another favorite for the weekend (and Valentine's Day) is this Express floral fit and flare dress. This is a bit more snug than the other dress so I recommend you size up. As for styling, I went for my favorite mustard clutch and a few statement baubles.

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Created in collaboration with Express and Shopstyle.

Photos by Briana Balducci.

Happiness is...

Things that don’t make me happy - an overflowing inbox. Apologies in advance if you’ve recently reached out to me via email but the holidays are pretty synonymous with busy, busy, and busier.

It feels like I'm constantly trying to play catch up while struggling with everything coming my way. Are you feeling overwhelmed as well? Well, let's focus on things that bring us joy.

I find that focusing on things that bring me joy definitely helps (a lot) when trying to relax. That and picking up a few skincare products here and there. Which I definitely did a little bit too much of during the last couple of months. My bank account is still crying over my Black Friday madness, but it's okay since my skin is reaping the rewards.

Those that follow me on Snapchat know (find me by searching: thestyleboro) about my Korean skincare obsession, but those that followed me during my Parisian vacation saw firsthand how big my hauls get. In my defense, I had to - some of these brands have yet to make it to the states and others don't have their full line here.

One of these brands being NUXE. They pride themselves on affordability and still being an all-natural line - which I love. The Huile Prodigieuse from NUXE is a cult favorite, smells amazing, and can be used so many different ways. When wearing OTK boots, I love using this as a moisturizer or mixing a few drops of it into my foundation when it's really dry out. If you're not too sure about the dry oil, try their Rêve de Miel lip balm (wearing it here) or their shower gel (smells amazing too!).

What have I learned after testing Nuxe out? I need a bigger suitcase for my next Parisian trip.

Another thing that brings me joy, arting and this mural filled the bill quite nicely. If you're wondering where to find it head over to the East Village and it's located inside a park - I think it's 2nd & 2nd but will head back to confirm this.

It was the perfect backdrop when talking things that make me smile.

Sunglasses: The Row  Dress: re:named (similar here)  Coat: Willow & Clay (similar here)  Boots: Sam Edelman (similar)  Necklace: Lulu Dharma  Purse: Shana Luther  Lip Balm: Nuxe  Dry Oil: Nuxe

Alright, now that I divulged in what makes me happy, it's your turn. What do you do to bring joy to an otherwise hectic day.

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

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In the Navy

After a full two (or is it three?) years in the advertising field I've been building up my workwear while sticking to my budget. Although my office is pretty lax when it comes dress code I just feel, work, and crush it better when dressed for the part. 

Fake it til you make it right?

There are so many side projects I've undertaken besides decluttering & decorating my apartment, that I really need to stick to a budget while I build out my workwear essentials. Not only that, we're smack dab in the middle of the holiday craze. Sticking to a budget is key if you want to make out of December with your savings account still intact. 

For me, personally, I try my best to get most of holiday shopping done during Cyber Week and now that I'm building out my workwear I kept my eyes peeled for any essentials on mega discount.

One of the stores I've made a pitstop on during that week was Old Navy - they've had my heart since high school thanks to affordable and colorful fleeces. So, after scooping up some sweaters for the fam, I scoped out their site for any workwear basics for myself. Everything was so well-priced that when I hit their "confirm purchase" button I didn't have a heart attack. In the end, I got a few basic turtlenecks, knit sweaters (all in neutral colors), printed trousers, and a pair of culottes.

I am ALL about the culottes after seeing them on my friend OJ and CIGS and definitely wear them more than I've posted on the blog. The pants have a voluminous shape which is all sorts of flattering on my frame. I've paired them with crop tops, fitted bodysuits, and billowy blouses when feeling adventurous. These from Old Navy are pretty thick in fabric for the price, look & feel great. Highly recommend as anyone's culottes starter as they are now listed for $13.97 but make sure to size down.

Sunglasses: Ray-ban  Turtleneck: Old Navy  Pants: Old Navy  Coat: Planet London  Boots: Zara (similar)  Necklace: Custom (make your own here)  Purse: Shana Luther  Lipstick: Cranberry Cream via Clinique

Last time I wore these culottes to the office the temperature dipped a bit so I paired it with a neutral turtleneck and glossy black boots. The total outfit is under $100 which keeps me within budget. Each piece I've scored has ended up becoming a great workwear addition and I'm confident I'll be able to wear them all in more ways than one.

Now, let's chat workwear. What do you consider a must-have?

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

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