My Style

Sugar + Stripes

I didn’t know I could become so obsessed with gummy candies again until I had my first Sugarfina Sugar Lips. Sweet, tangy and yummy…they are simply delicious. They’re basically the sour patch kids I had as a child, all grown up and in way better packaging. (Talk about Instagrammable!) I thought how fun would it be to mix up my outfit blog shoots and take this one on location.

Behold, my editorial + candy dream come to life on one Saturday in NYC…

Back to our scheduled programming — the outfit. This look is ideal for a summer weekend brunch or day party. We’ve seen a version of classic blue stripes everywhere this season. I love this simple silhouette by Zara. What makes it stand out is the amazing embroidery on the sleeves. The wrap style can be worn in a few different ways but I think it looks best worn slightly off the shoulder.

To keep the rest of this outfit simple, I wore my Kendall Jenner inspired jeans by Citizens of Humanity from Aritzia. This fit, called the Liya, has a great hight rise and just the right amount of distressing. I sized down in these for a more flattering fit.

Lastly, I added my go-to suede wrap heels by Steve Madden from ae.com and I’m ready to grab some sweets and hit the city in style.

If you haven’t tried Sugarfina, I highly suggest it. I have no shame buying some for myself and while you’re there grab a few for your girlfriends too — they make the best gifts! The store is the cutest – if you have a chance, definitely visit this location on the Upper East Side in NYC!

Photos by Christina Emilie at Sugarfina in NYC

SHOP MY LOOK:

TOP: Zara, similar here

JEANS: Aritzia

SHOES: Steve Madden

CANDY: Sugarfina

SUMMER SOLSTICE: TOP 5 DRESSES

Summer is officially here — can you believe it?! I wanted to share my top five favorite dresses to celebrate the season we’ve been waiting so long for.

It’s finally time to wear those off-the-shoulder numbers you’ve put away from last year’s wardrobe and bring them back out. This trend may seem a bit overplayed I know but I promise it is still relevant.

I’ve added a few more dress trends I’ve been loving this season and hope you find a fave amongst the list below.

Happy summer and happy shopping!

Going global. Embroidered pieces have been all the rage. Love the details of this by Zara

A maxi is always a good idea in these warmer temps. Love this AE dress.

Can’t beat a classic cold shoulder white dress. This Aerie one is perfect to take from the beach to the streets.

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A bold print is what your wardrobe needs to have some fun! Living for this Mango mini.

Can never have enough slip dresses. This silky dress from H&M looks school layered over a tee with sneakers or paired with your favorite tassel high heels for a night out on the town.

POWER SUIT

A monochromatic look is always in style. I love wearing all white — it always looks so classic and chic.

For this look I rediscovered a blazer I have from Aritzia and completely gave it an update by pairing it with a white crew neck tee and my high waisted cropped Levi’s.

This is my modern power suit.

I’ve always been a denim lover and a pair of white jeans is a wardrobe essential. The frayed hem trend isn’t going anywhere for a while and this little detail helps show off what I call a ‘wow factor’ — these heels.

I bought these shoes impulsively before a trip to Vegas with my sister and am so happy I did. The block heel is actually pretty comfortable and I love the shade of gold.

The finishing touch? My Gucci crossbody.

I have shared this item on my Instagram but haven’t blogged about it yet! After probably a year long thought process of what designer bag to splurge on (many conversations, focus groups, lengthy group texts with my sisters) I finally decided that this Gucci bag was what I wanted most. The classic camera style is perfect to fit my necessities; iPhone (Plus), mini wallet, metro card and a lip color. I am obsessed with the gold hardware and am excited to officially start my designer handbag collection….which could be dangerous.

Photos by Christina Emilie in NYC

How will you wear all white everything this summer?

SHOP MY LOOK

BLAZER: Aritzia, similar here

TEE: Aritzia

JEANS: Levi’s, similar here

SHOES: Mango

BAG: Gucci

UNEXPECTED EMBROIDERY

This spring it’s all about embroidery.

I’ve seen so many unique pieces this season with the most beautiful embellishment. Anywhere from denim, tees, jackets and accessories — this extra detail can really update your look.

This jacket by French Connection just spoke to me. Maybe it’s my Pakistani roots, but the embroidery on this jacket is so reminiscent of my heritage. I love the intricate detail and color combination. It’s such a statement piece that is made super wearable on a sporty silhouette — the classic bomber jacket.

I decided to make the jacket the star of the outfit and keep the rest of the look super simple. An easy white v-neck tee, by Don’t Ask Why, has the best slouch and oversized fit. I am always on the hunt for the perfect white tee and this one is by far one of my most loved.

If you’ve been following my blog, you know I’m a denim girl. These Vintage Hi-Rise Straight distressed jeans by American Eagle make this look easy, relaxed and casual.

One of my favorite parts of this outfit? My earrings by Baublebar. Not only are these a great accessory to add to any outfit – they’re very light weight and won’t hurt your ears by the end of the day! I’m a huge fan of statement earrings but the worst part is that most are so heavy and painful. However, these are quite comfortable and I want every color. Dangerous! It was hard for me to not buy them all…I opted for the white and pale pink for now. Highly recommend!

Completed the look with my go-to menswear loafer and I’m ready to hit up brunch with the girls or some easy shopping around the streets of SoHo.

Ready to recreate?

Photos by Kevin Tun in SoHo, New York City

SHOP MY LOOK

JACKET: Courtesy of French Connection

TEE: Don’t Ask Why

DENIM: American Eagle Outfitters

SHOES: Target

EARRINGS: Baublebar

Remix Your Rock Tees

The rock tee trend isn’t going anywhere and I can’t get enough.

Worn by top street style stars – my faves, Kendall + Gigi, this is the perfect way to add some vintage flare to any outfit.

And it’s ok if you don’t know every song to the band’s name you’re wearing…but maybe at least google them so you’re not totally stunned when someone asks you, “What’s your favorite AC/DC song?” Lol.

I was inspired by Gigi ever since I saw her wear this look; rock tee, amazing wide leg white pants and sneakers. I love the unexpected wide leg pant with this tee. Sure denim looks classic with this top but something about a wide leg pant gives it an entirely different vibe.

I found these amazing pants at H&M. I’m always a huge fan of anything high waisted and this pair had an ideal rise. I also love the oversized belt they came with!

Adding my leather jacket to this look was a no – brainer. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a solid leather jacket in your wardrobe. With the amazing styles they have now at Zara, you can get a luxe feeling jacket without an insane price tag. I love the details of this Moto one – the hardware can edge up any look.

Lastly, it’s all about a clean white sneaker. I decided to give my Stan Smiths a break and go for something different. Hello, Puma’s! So comfortable and so chic – yes, it is possible.

A pop of my red bag, by (now vintage) Kate Spade Saturday, and I’m ready to be snapped by the paparazzi in style. Just kidding, but hey, shouldn’t you always feel like a model walking down the street? The sidewalk is your runway.

Let’s recreate.

Shop the look below and be sure to follow me on Instagram, @symaspeaks, where I post even more frequently and have recently joined the Reward Style family so you can shop my looks easily and directly with LikeToKnowIt!

Photos shot by Kevin Tun in Brooklyn, NY.

SHOP MY LOOK:

JACKET: Zara

TEE: Zara, love these also by American Eagle Outfitters

PANTS: H&M, similar here

SNEAKER: Puma

5 STATEMENT EARRINGS YOU NEED NOW

I love a statement earring. There’s no reason not to try this trend when there are so many affordable options out there! It’s the perfect way to dress up a simple white t-shirt, off-the-shoulder blouse or add some excitement to your little black dress. I’ve rounded up my favorites from Baublebar, H&M and Aldo. At these prices, you can afford all of them, and more! #ballinonabudget

I love a pop of yellow for summer. Aldo,http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/en_US/accessories/women%27s/earrings/c/3111/ZIGODE/p/46855012-67#

A touch of turquoise is perfect with a simple tee. Baublebar,https://www.baublebar.com/product/28040-cresseida-drops-earrings-turquoise.html

Jewel tones. I love these for an evening out. Perfect for wedding season. Baublebar,https://www.baublebar.com/product/25834-garbo-drops.html

All marble everything. A geometric shape adds an interesting touch to any look. Love these from H&M,http://www.hm.com/us/product/49071?article=49071-A

Can’t get enough of the tassel trend. These beauties are from H&M. You’ll need them in every color.http://www.hm.com/us/product/46828?article=46828-B

The 4TH

The 4TH by symaspeaks

Can’t believe it’s almost time for the 4th! Currently procrastinating packing for my trip home and making an inspiration board instead. This year I feel like taking a break from my go-to nautical stripes and am feelin’ an all white ensemble. A simple white tank with a pair of cropped white denim is all I want to wear. A frayed hem is key to this outfit. (Feel free to get the scissors out on an old pair of jeans you own to try this trend.)

It’s all about straw accessories. Whether it’s structured bags or my favorite accessory of last summer that is still going strong — the straw boater hat — it’s a summer must-have! I’m borderline obsessed with the straw pom pom bags, it adds the perfect texture to any outfit.

Also, I am loving a slip on sandal. Not only are they extremely comfortable, but they make me feel like an Olsen twin — effortless and cool. They’re also a dream to wear to the airport and can be dressed up or down.

Add a pop of color with an orangey-coral lip. This shade looks good on just about everyone. Currently loving Mac’s “Fruit Cocktail” lipliner for this.

For a night of fireworks ahead — a denim jacket, like this oversized style from American Eagle ties my look together (literally). I love tying a denim jacket around my waist to break up the monotone look.

Hope I inspired your look for a fun weekend ahead! Happy 4th!

BLUE JEANS AND BOMBERS

Blue jeans and bombers are never a bad idea. For a cool summer night, I love a great oversized jacket with a fitted top and jeans.

I’m obsessed with this jacket designed by Amanda Litzinger of Stickybaby. She will most likely have a piece of clothing to match your #currentmood in the most stylish way.

Layered underneath is a peek of a lace-up top from American Eagle. We’ve been seeing these trend go full force thanks to Reformation. (I can’t get enough!) You definitely need one in your wardrobe this summer.

I’m a jeans kind of girl. These Denim X style also by American Eagle are as comfortable as a legging but has that great distressing and edge that only denim can give.

To dress things up, I paired this look with my favorite grey All Saints pumps. The word that comes to mind when I put these on? Slay. (All day)

This jacket is guaranteed to give you all the feels.

Photos by Jess Rao in Brooklyn, NY

SHOP MY LOOK

JACKET: STICKYBABY

TOP + JEANS: AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS

SHOES: ALL SAINTS

EYEWEAR: RAY-BAN

5 DRESSES YOU NEED RIGHT NOW

Somehow we skipped Spring and went full force into 85 degrees in NYC. What does that mean? Dress weather!

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I’m a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl most days but in the summer sometimes it’s just easier throwing on a dress in one simple step. Miraculously you look instantly put together and super feminine. I’ve rounded up my top five favorites to keep you looking stylish all season long…

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Off-The-Shoulder — Can’t stop wearing off-the-shoulder everything. This denim dream is from Zara has all the elements you want in a dress – did I mention the pockets?!

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2. LWD — The little white dress. The cutest option by American Eagle Outfitters. Obsessed with the tassel detail and embroidery.

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3. The Slip Dress — If you don’t have a slip dress already in your wardrobe – you need one. Perfect when you want to look casual chic. I love this paired with sneakers or a great pair of fringy heels for date night. I love this style by Aritzia.

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4. The Shirt Dress — Everyone needs a shirt dress. This style by Aerie is a great staple for your wardrobe. I love the linen fabric and stripe detailing. The belt is also super cute and will look amazing on multiple dresses all summer long!

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5. I love this maxi from Zara. Easy, breezy & bright! I’m loving yellow this season — it’s such a flattering color and makes a bold statement.

SPRING IN THE CITY

May has arrived and somehow in NYC it’s still super cold, gloomy and rainy. Not exactly the spring weather I’ve been dreaming of all winter long…

So the question is how do you dress for this weather when it’s gross out but want to feel springy and stylish? Layer.

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The one coat you need for the season is a soft trench coat. I like this style over a traditional structured style because it can add movement to your outfit, dress it up and feels super feminine. I bought this jacket a few years back from Aritzia. They make amazing outerwear — you can find a similar style, here.

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My go-to outfit is my grey high waisted American Eagle jeans and grey v-neck tee. I love a good monochrome outfit but I like to update it with accessories.

I can’t get enough of the bandana scarf. A simple and inexpensive accessory is the perfect way to add a little something to your look. I love this pale pink bandana with my grey and tan jacket — one of my favorite color combos. HOSTING_031316_0140

Paired with my suede taupe booties found at Forever 21 (major score) and my Instagram famous round Ray-Bans I feel ready for any type of weather NYC throws at me…in style.

Photos by George Evan in the Meatpacking District, NYC

SHOP MY LOOK:

JACKET: ARITZIA (similar here)

TEE: J.CREW (similar here)

JEANS: AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS

BOOTIES: FOREVER 21

BANDANA: PAC SUN

EYEWEAR: RAY-BAN