NYC: Weekend Plans

July 22, 2015

A few amazing things to include in your weekend plans before the summer season ends.

1. Hamilton's Soda Fountain & Luncheonette

I've heard, seen, and tasted so many great things from this historical luncheonette. The whole place is kind of like a time warp taking any that dare enter to a more simpler times. The interior is basically every fashion blogger & Instagrammers' dream - everything is so white and retro. If you somehow resist the urge to capture a snap make sure to order a fizzy drink or a milkshake. I like to drop in on less-than-stellar days and treat myself to happiness in a glass - it's cheaper than therapy ;).

51 Bank Street, Greenwich Village - get more info here.

2. Frida Kahlo Exhibit @ New York Botanical Garden

I have not yet been to this exhibit and it's driving me bonkers. However, it's on the must-do list and will definitely get accomplished before it's over. For those like-minded fans visiting or in NYC, we have until November 1st to view her reimagined garden and a dozen of her paintings. Getting to view an artist's surrounding (even if it's a replication) is one of the best ways to learn more about what goes on beyond the canvas. Also, I'm excited to learn more about my culture as half-Mexicana.

2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx - get more info here.

3. Baohaus

OK, so I totally added this eatery to my must-eats after viewing it on the Layover. I have passed by Baohaus millions upon millions of times and have never once pondered the thought of venturing inside. You guys, if I could I would go back in time and stop "past Aileen" in her tracks and demand she order the Birdhaus Bao & Taro Fries (please note the delicious things you should order) I would. Instead, I cry myself to sleep at all the missed opportunities of Birdhaus Baos. Don't let this become you! If you walk/drive/fly by Baohaus, just stop, take a break and eat there. Avoid my misery.

238 East 14th Street, Stuy Town - get more info here.

Lace x Denim

July 20, 2015

Without solid beach plans for this summer (due to adult things like loads of overtime) I might as well relish in my early morning rituals... Like getting dressed.

Last year I partnered up with Gather & Gown (see that post here) to style a bridesmaid dress during the ceremony and after (i.e. IRL events). It was pretty fun to shoot and as a thank you, Gather & Gown sent me this dress as a token of their appreciation.

To be honest, it's been sitting in my closet for months because it was never the right moment. Until I said fudge it, this summer (on a not-so humid) day I'm going to wear it to work and just blow everyone's mind.

Sunglasses: Asos (similar here) Rings: Jewels of June Jacket: Asos (similar here) Dress: c/o Gather & Gown Duffel: Shana Luther Shoes: Chinese Laundry (similar style) Lipgloss: Maybelline's Color Elixir Lip Color in Captivating Coral

The thing is, if I were to constantly wait for the right moment I would be waiting forever. Similar to fashion, we sometimes need to dive right into life and enjoy what we have instead of pondering our what-ifs.

So, for the rest of summer I'm going to experiment and wear things that make me feel good instead of waiting for the right moment (or place). I hope you do too!

Photos by Victor Cerejo.

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Fit for Summer

July 16, 2015

I decided to try something insane this summer to go along with my fitness plan: positive thinking.

Crazy, right?

Hear me out. After a good long run (and those short sweaty ones) I'm left in a better state of mind. Let's call it good juju. Until life unexpectedly butts her head into my always very busy day throwing all sorts of mishaps and shenanigans at me. And each time without fail, my day goes from great to good to bad - ruining all the previous good juju I had.

Then my ma enlightened me with her mom wisdom.

A little backstory, my ma was diagnosed with a chronic illness a few years back and ever since her diagnosis she's been taking it easy and eliminating the stress from where it starts: her thoughts. Don't worry guys, a chronic illness is not a life sentence - just need to manage your lifestyle differently. She told me maybe I need to change the way I think and stop being negative.

For example, instead of complaining about rent (at an all-time high) instead be thankful for shelter & food (NYC is currently facing its highest levels of homelessness). Embracing this positive thought eventually starts to project itself onto those around me and spreads like wild fire.

Top: Lucy Shorts: Lucy Pullover: Lucy Headphones: c/o Ankit Sports Bra: Victoria's Secret PINK Sneakers: Saucony Lipbalm: EOS Lip Balm Nail Polish: Essie in For the Twill of It

So far, it's been going great - I feel lighter in a way and worry less. It's also been one of the best supplements I've added to my fitness plan. NOW, I'm going to ask you guys to try this sweat-free supplement out for yourself for a week/month/season/year and let me know how it goes for you!

P.s. This is the same outfit (minus the jacket & sports bra) I wore during the Brooklyn Half. I can say first hand Lucy Activewear can go against the elements when testing your endurance. I even gained a PR (personal record) in this look :).

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

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