Essays with Em

I recently got back from an amazing girls trip to Italy; we landed in Naples, rented a car, and drove to Ravello! We spent one night in Ravello and left the next morning for Puglia, which turned out to be a 5 hour drive. We arrived at the Masseria Torre Maizza which was so beautiful - I couldn’t believe my eyes when we arrived; it was breathtaking! It was the perfect Italian stay for 4 nights thanks to their amazing team. I truly felt so relaxed on this trip - which was the goal of traveling to Italy - eating pasta & pizza seemed like the perfect cure for my stress! After spending an amazing 5 days in Puglia, we left for Sicily, which happened to be a 12 hour journey! Regardless of the long journey, it was so beautiful and relaxing, as we laid by the ocean the whole week. This resort was massive, but Victoria & I had the opportunity to capture gorgeous content here in Sicily. Going on this trip reminded me of why I started my blog, how much I love taking photos, and gave me that rush of excitement of styling outfits and capturing those moments. I can’t tell you how much this trip restored my creativity and how happy I am to be back in NYC prepping for Fall!

If Italy is your next vacation destination, check out a few of my thoughts & recommendations below!

Eat pasta every single day & indulge in the olive oil because it is so delicious & oh, so Italian!

Looking for a new white wine? Try a Falanghina - it’s a delicious, crisp white wine that pairs well with many dishes

Explore Puglia & the surrounding towns - we had so much fun & loved site seeing in Alberobello (looks like out of a movie scene)

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, I would recommend going to Taormina in Sicily, instead of the Amalfi coast! (Less tourists and just as beautiful!)

An Aperol spritz is always a moment for a lunch drink

Rent a car - it was very easy & a perfect way to get around
& explore with limited time

by Lauren Mihalakakos

1. Blazer

Elevate your look by pairing an easy jean with a statement blazer. Even if you don’t have one as colorful as Em’s, grab a patterned blazer or take one from your significant other’s side of the closet, giving you the perfect oversized look.

*Styling Tip: Mix & match patterns. Pair a different pattern blazer & shirt or trousers together. A good rule to follow when mixing patterns is, keep the colors similar with one pattern larger than the other. Example: a plaid blazer with a striped shirt. Trust us, you’ll be surprised at how easy this look can come together!

II. Pant Suit // Monochromatic

You probably have a suit hiding in the back of your closet. You know, the one you told yourself you’ll wear one day. Well, dust it off & wear it this week! So many of us are waiting for the perfect time to wear pieces in our wardrobe, but I’m telling you not to wait anymore, the perfect time is today!

*Styling Tip: If you don’t have a pant suit, wear the same colored top & trouser. Head-to-two black & white outfits are truly a go to because they’re effortlessly chic!

III. White Button-Up

Every working gal has a white button up in her closet. If you have the typical slim structured top, try leaving it untucked & putting a belt over your waist. If you have an oversized or atypical button-up; leave a few buttons undone & tie the ends together, or use it as a cardigan up by wearing a contrasting top underneath.

*Styling tip: Pair button-ups with different textured pieces. Try corduroy or leather for the perfect Fall outfit. Adding the white top will allow the other pieces pop.

IV. Similarly Toned Pieces

Most of us are creatures of habit & tend to gravitate towards the same colors when we shop. We find this especially true when it comes to our work wardrobes. Start using this to your advantage by pairing colors with different tints & shades for a unique and classy look.

*Style Tip: Pair same toned pieces in different textures to add some interest to your outfit. Example: a ribbed tank under a blazer or a leather pant with a sweater. And, don’t forget to accessorize! This is the perfect outfit to layer all your gold rings and necklaces on.

V. Jeans

When Causal Friday rolls around you’ll want to wear jeans you can breathe in. We’re currently loving high-waisted straight or wide leg jeans. And, let’s be real, they’re more professional than skin tight skinny jeans.

*Style tip: If your place of work is more professional in its Casual Friday style, get black mom jeans. They’ll give off a polished vibe, while still allowing you to partake in the Friday tradition. Don’t forget to pair your jeans with a heel or pointy flat to elevate your look.

Looking for some guilt-free Fall shopping?!

Yeah, us too! My team & I have each put together 10 pieces we’re currently coveting for Fall, and yes, they are all $100 or less!

I don’t know about you guys, but we’re ready for cozy sweaters, lots of layers and dare we say, Pumpkin Spiced Lattes….

Happy Fall ya’ll!

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Emily’s Picks

H&M Sweater $34.99

Lioness The Don Jacket $99

Lee Vintage High Rise $98

Lioness Palermo Jacket $88

Z Supply Cord Skirt $60

Levi's Ribcage Flare Jeans $98

Tretorn Nylite Sneakers $70

Levi's Wedgie Jean $98

Le Specs Sunnies $69

Levi's 501 Skinny Jeans $98

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Amanda’s Picks

Madewell $88

Blank Denim On Point Sweater $98

J.O.A Leopard Jacket $100

WAYF Mabel Mock Neck Top $89

Free People Plaid Skinny $98

Line & Dot Alee Sweater $90

RVCA Winter White Denim $75

Levi's Wedgie Straight Jeans $98

Free People Leopard Slip Skirt $98

BB Dakota Moto Jacket $99

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Lauren’s Pick

Banana Republic Button Down $44

Mango Bicolor Sweater $49.99

Mango Bow Dress $59.99

Mango Black Coat $47.99

Mark&Graham Tote $79.99

Mango Knit Sweater $39.99

Mango Pleated Midi $ 99.99

Anthropologie Kerchief Scarf $24

Banana Republic Jeans $68

Anthropologie Chelsea Rain Boots $60

It's no secret that I basically live in wide-leg pants, I've been a huge fan of this trend long before it even was a trend! Not only does a wide-leg trouser give an effortless tailored look, they're also super comfy and easy to style. These Uniqlo U Wide-Fit Curved pants are no exception and are really giving me life, especially during fashion week. The gently curved cut has a leg-lengthening effect and the satin cotton has just the right amount of sheen, to take me from day-to-night. I paired them with a black mock-neck tee, black belt and gold accessories to give a really minimal, yet super chic look.

Hope you like it!

xx

Em

Shop Styles:

1. Perfect for casual outfit

2. An easy wear to style

3. Casual and trendy

4. Edgy but chic

5. Cat eye perfection

Who else is constantly on the lookout for the perfect sunnies? I know I am always on the hunt because I love how quickly one little accessory can completely transform an outfit. Even when I’m wearing something simple like, jeans and a white tee shirt, sunglasses have a way of totally elevated the look. Whether I’m going for something more glam and adding an oversized mirrored lens, or feeling classic and pairing it with an aviator; sunglasses always seem to finish off any outfit. I even have an entire wall in my apartment dedicated to my glasses and the cutest lucite shelf to display them on. I really love a good sunny moment and am very rarely caught without them!

Running around New York City can definitely be exhausting, especially in the summer when the temperature is on the rise. For me, this is when I want nothing more than a comfy pair of shoes and an easy-breezy dress. Luckily, my friends over at Nike helped me check off one of my two, summer essentials. 

This summer I partnered with Nike to test out their latest fashion forward sneaker, the Air Max 270 React, and I’ve got to say this shoe is on point. A sleek design coupled with fantastic color options and a lightweight feel, I’m sold!

For any stylish girl on the go, the AM 270 React is the perfect addition to their shoe collection, and can easily be worn year round. Check out my busy day, running to Brooklyn and back, all in my white Air Max 270 React kicks. Not only do my feet feel great, but I love my elevated casual look!

The barely there strappy sandal is one of my favorite summer trends! They’re so versatile and elevate any look with just the right amount of skin. Not only can you wear them to work, but you can dress them up for a girls night out or even date-night. Of course, if you’ve been following me for a while you know I love to style one piece many ways, so rest assure I only picked shoes that could go from dresses, to cut-offs, to jeans to skirts. Happy shoesday babes!

Dolce Vita- Noles Double Strap Slides

Joie- Madi Sandals

Steven -Jersey Double Strap Slides

Steven- Jersey Double Strap Slides

Dolce Vita- Naomie Toe Ring Slides

My trip to San Miguel was nothing short of amazing and totally not what I expected. I’m so honored that Farfetch X Haney would invite me to celebrate the Fiesta de los Locos; dressed to the nines in a mix of Haney Spring 2019 & the Pre-Fall Ready-to-wear collection. The colors of the collection match the vibrate colors of the Carnavalesque parade which literally means 'festival of the crazies'. From the moment I stepped into the street, I could feel the energy of the local people and excitement of the town. 

Afterwards, we were treated to an intimate alfresco dinner in the courtyard of Haney’s sister’s home. From the ambiance, to the food, to the dazzling clothing I was fortunate enough to wear, I was absolutely blown away. We followed dinner by dancing into the night, celebrating the collaboration of Farfetch X Haney and all the talented people who made the trip possible. 

Thank you so much Farfetch X Haney for welcoming me into the San Miguel family!

Buying luxury shoes from home with

ELEVTD !

If you know me - then you’ll know I love shoes… and not just any pair of shoes, but a classy heel that can be paired with just about anything. I picked out these Jimmy Choo heels and I fell in love the moment I stepped foot in them… there’s something about a statement black heel - and these are definitely a statement piece. Did you know ELEVTD is a highly curated site - they bring exclusive merchandised sensibility of a luxury boutique to the online world. Who doesn’t like ordering shoes from their sofa while sipping on some rose? That is how one should buy luxury shoes… ;)

Click the shoe to shop:

Jimmy Choo - BING 100 PUMP

Spring Refresh with The Dreslyn

The perfect look for a spring refresh wearing a linen duster coat, sneakers and gold accessories! When it comes to getting ready for spring and figuring out what to wear it always involves something white and linen! This duster is perfect for a casual or a dressed up look, I just happen to be wearing this piece in a more casual setting. The essential spring finds can create the perfect refresh to your wardrobe. I love how easy it is to shop on The Dreslyn because they have such unique finds and designers.

You can shop this look below:

The perfect Snakeskin Collection from

Ann Taylor is here!

I find styling snakeskin or prints in general can be tricky because I often stick to wearing just neutrals and solid prints. After discovering the Ann Taylor snakeskin collection I fell in love because it is a neutral print that can be styled easily. The grey and white tones in the print are perfect to be worn with white denim and a pump or a high knee boot. The turtleneck shirt is paired with high waist white denim and a grey pump to create a casual chic look. Then I wore the dress with high knee boots to create an edgier look rather than dressed up with heels.

You can shop these pieces below!

Let’s talk about hair health…

I have always struggled with finding a shampoo that would help strengthen my hair from the bleach in my hair which has caused my hair to feel dry and dull at times, but I’m so happy with the noticeable differences in my hair since using Pantene repair shampoo.

Not only has the shampoo given my hair more life - I’ve recently started using Pantene Pro-V Intense Rescue Shots… this was a serious game changer for my hair, it deeply absorbs the blend of Pro-Vitamin B5 that strengthens the targeted damaged areas of your hair! It’s the best at home professional treatment for an easy hair mask, and it rinses out quickly so you don't have to stress about having weighed-down hair. Your will see noticeable differences in the health of your hair!

How-to-use the new Pantene Pro-V Intense Rescue Shots :

• Use weekly instead of your normal conditioner

• While in-shower, apply generously to fully saturate hair, root-to-tip

Consider where your hair sees the most damage and be sure to target that area

• The product was formulated to prevent overdosing so unlike other hair treatments, no need to hold back! It is single use!

• Leave in for 30 seconds

• Rinse for 30 seconds (don’t over-rinse!)

I’ve been using these intense rescue shots once a week to help repair any damage and my hair feels so much healthier already! Yay for healthy, happy hair!

If you have colour-treated hair and you often style your hair with heat, that can mean a loss of nutrients for your hair creating rough, dull hair - something we don’t want!

Pantene is leveraging Brazil’s secret to a great hair day and they are bringing it to the U.S. in the form of Intense Rescue Shots. It is most ideal for colour-treated and heat-styled hair but also for all hair types, this new product aims to rescue your damaged hair and ensure that you have more great hair days in between professional salon treatments. We all love to get pampered and get our hair done so let’s make sure we keep our hair looking and feeling healthy too!

Oh Portugal, you did not disappoint.

This was my first time in Lisbon, Portugal, and it was an amazing experience all around!

We checked in at the most beautiful hotel called ‘Memmo Alfama’ and we could see all of Lisbon’s most beautiful colours from the terrace lounge!

We had an ocean view from our hotel room and it was a dream waking up to that view every morning.

The hotel was very authentic and stayed true to Lisbon - while creating a great mix of feeling just at home with its modern interior.

Breakfast in bed.

I could get used to that.

I went with my friend Michelle and we toured around the city in the beautiful sun during the day and had the most amazing pasta and wine for dinner! The food was a 10/10 and I was so impressed by the hospitality at our hotel and everywhere else we went too! I feel like this trip was relaxing as well as work friendly - capturing content so effortlessly because of how beautiful the landscapes were and the sun-kissed weather.

The endless streets of authentic buildings and the colourful buildings - there was so much beautiful content to be made here!

I can’t wait to get back to Portugal when it’s warmer and get to the beaches! I have heard endless positive things about them and I can finally say that I had such an amazing experience here on - that it makes me that much more excited to come back!

I definitely recommend you to stay at this hotel ‘Memmo Alfama’

xo

Em

I love denim! These are my 5 staple pieces in my wardrobe right now that I couldn’t live without… You can pair denim with just about anything! Shop my denim below by clicking the links.

xx Emily

1. GRLFRND Karolina High-Rise Skinny Jean with Butt Slit in A Little More Love

2. Levi's® 501® High Waist Nibbled Hem Skinny Jeans (Blue Mark)

3. @L'AGENCE - High Line Jean

4. @NA-KD (US) - Mom Jeans

5. @Nordstrom - Women's Treasure & Bond Bond Loose Fit Ankle Skinny Jeans

Sometimes you just want to change it up and what more fun than switching up your set of earrings!

My favourite accessory to every outfit is the perfect pair of earrings, you’ll notice that I wear very bold - statement earrings to add some flare to any outfit!

Lately, I’ve been all about mixing and matching my earrings and making new looks… and it’s fun to see people question why I have two different earrings on but really I did it on purpose! :)

You can either purchase mix & match earrings or get creative and mix and match the earrings you already own!

Pair a chunky hoop earring with a dangly earring… easy and stylish!

If you try this look - take a pic and tag me at #lovelyluciano and I would love to see what new styles you created :D

Shop some mix & match earrings below:

You can shop the denim looks below:

1. Margaux Mid Rise Ankle Skinny

2. Levi’s Denim

3. Cropped Jean Jacket

4. White Jean Jacket - SALE

5. High - Waisted shorts

We all have that perfect pair of denim but sometimes you just don’t know how to style them… I want to share my 5 ways of styling denim and it’s super easy. You will find that you have all the staple pieces in your closet as well!

Take a look in your closet and pull out the following pieces:

1. Oversized blazer

   (Rock your fav pair of jeans with an oversized blazer, some heels or casual shoes)

2. Blouse

   (Dress up your look; light wash jeans, heels and some dangly earrings)

3. Skirt

   (Throw on your fav flowy skirt and put on your favourite jean jacket = perfect casual outfit)

4. Loose T- shirt

   (tie up your fav shirt, high - waisted jeans or a flowy skirt will be perfect casual, stylish outfit)

5. Strapless top

   (beat the heat with this cute little look, with high waisted shorts and a strapless top)

These will be 5 easy pieces that you can pair with your favourite pair of denim :) My favourite part about denim is how versatile it can be, you can wear denim on denim or dress it up or dress it down! Trust me - denim can be worn with just about anything!

Don’t fear your biggest knit sweater, they need some love too :D - and I’m going share 3 ways you can style them so you feel chic, comfortable and stylish when you leave the house!

Fall is the greatest season for this type of style because you can get all warm and cozy on the top then wear something a little lighter on the bottom!

How to style these 3 looks from head to toe:

1. Find your oversized knit and a cute mini skirt and simply tuck in the sweater just in the front of the skirt. Throw on a pair of killer heels or booties and away you go!

2. If you have some really high - waisted straight leg pants, they are are a go - to statement piece paired with a chunky knit! Add some peep toe heels and a dainty purse!

3. I’m currently loving the long flowy skirt look right now, and it’s perfectly paired with a chunky knit! Pair this look with some booties to give it a more casual street style!

You can shop the knit sweaters below:

1. Mango Chunky-knit sweater

2. Mango Chunky-knit blue sweater

3. H&M Pink Chunky-Knit

Are you looking for a new staple piece to add to your wardrobe to make an outfit a little more exciting? I have two words for you…

Statement sleeves.

In other words, puffy shoulder sleeves have made a comeback. Don’t fear the word “puff” sleeve, it really flatters your figure. They compliment any outfit and creates a lovely looking look that you can pull off.

What should you pair with this “puff” sleeve top?

• Straight leg pants

• Jeans

• Trousers

  Pencil skirt

• Skirt

• High waisted shorts

You want to accentuate your figure with the puff shirt on the top and make sure the rest of your outfit is minimal and form fitting. Let the puff do the work.

You will notice that this sleeve is very trendy this fall season. There’s no doubt that I have fallen for this look, it’s definitely one of my favourite staple pieces for whether I’m going out for dinner, shopping, or attending an event. It’s a very versatile statement piece in my wardrobe currently.

You can see how I’ve previously styled this look:

Hey loves!

I’ve been getting a lot of requests about my jackets! I love wearing longer coats for fall, as well as mixing in some shorter staples. I think they really complete a look, especially when it starts to get colder. First, I’ll start with my longer coats (around shin length) which I love to use for layering when it gets really cold out. Then go into my shorter jackets which I wear when it’s a little colder.

These are all the staple jackets I have in my closet. I keep them all to neutral colors so they match everything and you can rewear them.

Hope you love! I'‘ll go into more detail on each jacket below.

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My Fall Jackets

Long Tan Coat

$200

SHOP

I truly love this jacket. It is a staple in my wardrobe and is probably one of my most used coats. It’s the perfect shade of beige and the perfect length/size to layer underneath. This would be my #1 staple if you need a coat that you can dress up or down.

Long Brown Coat

$365

SHOP

This is a little bit of a darker and thicker version of the jacket above. I love the nice rich brown color that has a red undertone. It’s perfect for all of the fall colors in the city. I also like that it adds a little pop of color. This one is also a little more tailored, but still good for wearing sweaters underneath.

Medium Brown Coat

$220

SHOP

See a theme here? …I love my neutrals.

This jacket is thinner than both of the jackets above. It’s more of a trench coat like fabric and is better for when it’s early fall!

Teddy Coat

$125

SHOP

You’ve see me wear this in my IG stories and it’s SO cozy. I love love how cozy and soft this is. It’s truly like a teddy bear is hugging you and I love it.

This coat is perfect for layering as well when it gets a bit colder out.

Sherpa Jacket

$125

SHOP

Levi’s has some really great shorter coats that I love to layer under the longer coats above. This one is a sherpa jacket (similar to the teddy coat) and is so cute and soft. Plus it’s the perfect color!

Classic Jean Jacket

$72

SHOP

If you don’t have a jean jacket yet, you gotta get on the trend! They’re perfect for layering and a staple in my wardrobe.

Cotton Moto Jacket

$324

SHOP

I recently got this jacket from Frye and it’s more of a linen/canvas fabric which makes this jacket so unique. The details are so great and it matches really well with all of the other coats above.

I think it’s definitely a splurge, but it’s a coat that will be good for the spring as well when you are transitioning from the cold to warmer weather.

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SHOP THIS POST

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I wanted to share with you all my weekly purchases! Some of these items you will see on my Instagram feed in the coming weeks & some if just for my everyday life/home! All of the links are below :)

1. White fuzzy sweater

2. Blue mock neck sweater

3. Burgundy coat

4. Silk skirt

5. Snakeskin skirt

6. Knit joggers

7. Plaid wide leg trouser

8. Scrunchie

9. Rose gold clips

10. Retro sunglasses

11. Dining room table /bench

12. Coffee table

13. Furry automan

14. Modern buffet (for under TV)