Off Duty | Backpack Chic

Returning to work on Mondays can really put a strain on one's back and style (hello work laptop). However there is a way around it my friends.

My way around it is with this Sprayground backpack.

I've been on the hunt for the perfect backpack for a while now - nothing too bulky or pricey but with a touch of downtown appeal. This backpack has exactly what I wanted. It's been on my person Mondays through Fridays and takes gives my shoulder (rightie over here) a much needed break. 

I added this fun tassel from Shana Luther Handbags for easy access into the smaller pocket.

Another thing that has been on my person is this Out of Africa Shea Body Oil. Winters in the NE are brutally dry and to keep my skin soft and supple, especially my hands, I've been reaching for this again and again. The ingredients are 100% natural and loaded with antioxidants. If there's any scars or stretch marks you'd like to see gone, I'd recommend using this to reduce their appearance. 

If this piques your interest, keep in mind that twenty-five cents from every purchase will go towards the Benin Education Fund (#winwin). 

Jacket: Y-3 (similar style)  Shirt: J. Crew  Jeans: Levi's (similar style)  Necklace: Designz by Dez  Shoes: Shoes Like Pottery  Backpack: c/o Sprayground  Lipstick: Audrey via NARS  Body Oil: c/o Out of Africa

Overall, my off-duty Monday style consists of the classic cool pieces: boyfriend jeans, a striped top, and chic backpack. AND lots of coffee (not shown here). Make sure the pieces are well fitted and you're good to go. 

If you want a bit of pizazz, throw on a statement necklace. I reached for this piece from Designz by Dez.

Now excuse me, my coffee is calling!

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

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Downtown Brooklyn Moments

The NE is currently getting pummeled every other day aka the shoes you are about to see aren't the most appropriate. Blame it on the cabin fever!

See what I mean? Haha, in my defense we shot a few blocks away from my apartment - so not super brutal. Just me needing a moment of chic. Lately, (minus the strappy heels) I find myself reaching for easy pieces like a sweatshirt and jeans with lots of stretch. Also known as my hibernation look. To transition my hibernation look to the office sphere, this faux fur vest has been getting a lot of screen time. In my eyes it adds a bit of polish to every look.

A red lip and a fresh mani don't hurt either. Right now I'm loving this shade from Bésame Cosmetics. The luxury line is inspired by old Hollywood glamour (think Marilyn Monroe and Dolores del Rio). So far, I love the formula behind the bold and brazen red + vintage packaging. One coat is all you need for full coverage. This is just one of their 14 shades but feel free to scope out the brand and learn more on their site (besamecosmetics.com).

Vest: Zara (similar style)  Sweatshirt: c/o Mother via Piperlime  Jeans: Vigoss  Necklace: Capwell + Co  Shoes: c/o Joe's Jeans via Piperlime  Lipstick: c/o Red Hot Red via Bésame Cosmetics

Speaking of snow, another great way to avoid cabin fever and a trek outside in heels. Online shopping. Previously, I vowed to become a conscious consumer but with Piperlime shuttering their doors (sad face), now would be an amazing time to save what you can and shop their site for investment pieces. I have my eye on a few pieces including this equipment shirt. 

Photos by Victor Cerejo.

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Worry Less Live More

February tends to be one of those months were you have to hit the ground running and fast.

 Sometimes I (perhaps we all do) need a reminder to relax, breathe easy, and live in the moment. Otherwise, we're headed towards stress-city central. Kind of reminds me of the dreaded 6 train I tend to miss by a few seconds every m o r n i n g, but I always remind myself to chill - no need to stress when another one is on the way. For a few ways on how I keep the peace during mercury retrograde (only a few more days until we're in the clear!!) read on.

Some people may swear by leaving carefully placed post-its full of mantras in their homes to help combat stress. I tried it at one point but unfortunately my cat decided they were her new play things. Since then I've been looking for new ways to include these little uplifting messages around the home or on me. So far, I've created this Pinterest board, recharged with this mug, and found this awesome e-store called Le Motto.

I'm wearing the "Worry less, Live More" tee from their shop. If you have the time to check it out, please do. Their philosophy is awesome in how they wish to promote positivity. Ten percent of their profits are allocated to anti-bullying causes, so you'd be shopping for a cause (#winwin).

Not to sidetrack today's post or anything, but I have to admit that looking my best helps me feel my best and less stressed. Well, at least on days I'm having important meetings or need to show my best face so to speak. For those days I grab my best red (currently

Audrey from the Audacious Line

) and gorgeous pearl earrings because they're always appropriate (Jackie O. said it herself). These studs are from 

thePearlSource.com

 and on sale if you're feeling so embolden. If you need a nudge, remember pearls are a great investment piece that can go with nearly anything.

Moto Jacket: Topshop  Shirt: c/o Le Motto  Skirt: Tart Collections (similar style)  Earrings: c/o thePearlSource.com  Tights: Calvin Klein  Boots: Wanted  Tote: Sorial  Pouch: c/o Quilted Koala  Lipstick: Audrey by NARS

Okay, back on track. The last way I prevent losing my mind and fighting retrograde haze is by making sure all my things are compartmentalize in my totes. I'm a huge fan of the local business Quilted Koala and their Joyful and Happy collection (even the names put me at peace). Their pouches come in different sizes which comes in handy when storing things. For me, I'll use a smaller pouch for my wallet, keys, and cash. And let me tell ya, being able to pull those things out in a flash, say when your metrocard needs refilling saves so much time compared to shuffling your things inside a tote. Ugh, how I hate to shuffle and then find things in a completely different spot.

Well this is how I attempt to stay in the clear, how do you guys beat the 'grade?

P.s. Thank you all for the birthday wishes!! They really made my day :).

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

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