Next Vacation?! Mall of the World

Imagine vacationing at a mall? Well, that will be a possibility pretty soon as Dubai in planning on building the world's largest mall which will not only include shops, but an indoor theme park and a theatre district. In case you are not aware, but Dubai is already home to the WORLD'S LARGEST mall. 

Dress by Night + Top by Day

The Ultimate Hot Pot Spot in Boston: Q Restaurant

Apart from fashion, I LOVE food. Living in an extremely cold city like Boston doesn't leave much room for outdoor activities. Instead, I've found an alternative - food. There are many great restaurants in Boston that will meet your desires. In this diverse city you will find fantastic cuisines from around the world. So, if you are from another country and you're feeling a bit homesick, there will be restaurant in Boston to make you feel at home.

Last night I was in the mood for Hot Pot in Chinatown. Hot Pot consists of a metal pot in the middle of the table where you sit. Water and broth are placed into the pot, and simmers to a high temperature so that you can place your vegetables, meats or noodles into it and cook it. Once it's ready, you take it out and eat it! Easy and delicious!

MY EXPERIENCE AT Q:

First of all, Q is no ordinary Hot Pot place that I have been to. For its great Chinatown location, it is clean, spacious and VERY modern inside. The decor was hip- yet, the restaurant managed to maintain an Asian feel to the modern theme. The staff was friendly and kept my group and I informed on our wait status since you can not make a reservation. Instead, you can call the restaurant 30 minutes before your arrival and they put your name down on the list for a shorter wait.

It's a Spring Blue Affair

Spring has arrived and it's got me feeling bright and colorful! I enjoyed a lovely weekend on Newbury Street in Boston brunching and shopping with friends. I've noticed that since Spring is here in Boston, people are more cheerful and happy. Every where I go people are smiling and laughing, compared to when it's cold and no one wants to be bothered by others.

Due to this Spring of Happiness, I decided that blue is a color that makes me happy! What color makes your feel happy?

Top: H&M // Pants:BR // Heels: MK Cardigan: Vintage from Mother // Purse: Aldo Accessories  

It's Raining Men: Part 3

Today's gentleman is a very special one. His name is Nigel Bennett, but others may know him by APPEALNSTYLE522 on Instragram. (Do check him out. His feed is fab.) He's a sucker when it comes to Zara because he believes that they know his style the best. In his words, "In other words, you can say I date Zara." He is fashionable, extremely sweet, and hilarious! He was born and raised in NYC, but his nationality is very interesting and exotic to say the least. 

To find out more, keep reading :)

How would you describe your style?

To some up my style is to be present. Look around explore get local. Choose the difficult over the safe. Don't give a damn what people think, but be aware there consequences.

What inspires your style?

What inspires me about fashion is this: I always think of it as art in which indeed it is, and where I'm going with this is that , I think my body is the canvas, the clothing as the paintbrush and the patterns as the color palette. 

Have you always loved fashion?

Go back 5 years. Did you see yourself blogging?

Actually, no. I didn't.

How old are you?

I'm currently 29years old turning 30 in May.

What is your nationality?

I'm originally born here in NYC , but my nationality is Trinidadian & Venezuelan. (HOW EXOTIC!!)

Why do you think male bloggers are not quite as popular as female bloggers? 

One simple answer is that fashion caters to woman more than men. Prime example, go to clothing store like Saks Fifth, Bloomingdales, Barney's And etc. Most of the floors cater to woman while men have at least 2 lol.

(I think we should do something about that. Agree?)

What inspired you to start blogging?

People constantly telling me I should make one, and how my style inspires men and woman, so I can be a guide.

Check out more of Nigel on Instagram at: APPEALNSTYLE522

It's Raining Men: PART 2

I am so excited to continue this series on male fashion bloggers today with Alejandro Salcedo. He is a 24 year old Mexican-American fashion blogger from California, with a great, unique and clean style.

Here's what he had to say.........

How would you describe your style?

Unlike the name of my blog, "The Casual Boardwalk", my style is anything but casual. If I had to describe my style I would label it as the 60's geek kid meets the trendy beach dude from Southern California. If I see something I like, being a bright-colored blazer or a pair of interesting-looking sneakers, I will be the one who snatches them and make them work with an outfit. 

Do you have a fav. brand?

My two favorite brands of all time would have to include Topman and Modern Amusement. 

Topman is a UK based brand that designs causal + formal pieces. Through Topman you can find anything from hoodies, to dress shirts, to skinny fit dress pants. Being 5' 8" I enjoy the fact that Topman carries pieces that fit me like a glove. 

Modern Amusement is found through PacSun. Modern Amusement provides retro & beach-inspired pieces that include graphic tees, dress shirts, shorts, and pants. Being a Southern Californian I feel that MA captures the essence of who I am and what I like it when it comes to their funky prints and fitting. 

Go back 5 years. Did you see yourself blogging?

The way social media has rapidly grown, I'd have to admit I would never see myself blogging. With gateways such as Facebook, Blogger, and Instagram, I jumped into the blogging world to connect with other bloggers and fashion enthusiasts. Blogging has managed to help me discover new brands, bloggers, outlets for inspiration and dressing ideas. 

Why do you think Male Bloggers are not quite as popular as Female Bloggers?

I feel male bloggers are not as popular as female bloggers based on the importance the fashion industry gives to females versus males. Slowly, but surely guys are getting recognized for the role in fashion. Male blogger Adam Gallagher from "I Am Galla" has tremendously grown over the years based on his connection to his followers and overall willingness to provide ready-to-wear pieces for any type of guy. 

In order for male bloggers to grow, we need to see everyday guys, with everyday lifestyles showcasing their outfits. 6'2" male bloggers who wear a size 28 pair of jeans are always a good source for inspiration, but they don't appeal to your everyday, average-height males. 

What inspired you to begin blogging?

 I dress to show to the world who I am. I enjoy hearing complements from friends, family or random people when it comes to what I'm wearing or how I wear it. After landing a job at a MASSIVE-SIZED Forever 21 store in California, I began to take the time to carefully construct my outfits. Those well-thought outfits helped guys walking into Forever 21 come up with their own outfits and own ideas. After taking pictures of my wife for her blog, I began the need to create my own blog and show the world who I was. Knowing that I served as inspiration, I launched "The Casual Boardwalk" to serve as a gateway into my life.

Follow Alex on Instagram: @thecasualboardwalk

It's Raining Men This Week: Putting the Spotlight on Male Fashion Bloggers

BLOGGER- when you see or hear that word, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? Now, you have just seen and read the word BLOGGER. What image came to your mind? For me, the first image I create in my head is a cute girl with hair blowing in the wind with sunlight gleaming on her gorgeous outfit that I just have to have.

As a young woman, it really pleases me to see so many women being creative and expressing themselves through writing and fashion. Blogging is just so empowering to me. Yet, blogging is not exclusive to girls only- it's not that type of club! (haha..I think I'm funny). We are forgetting that there are so many stylish men out there who enjoy fashion just as much as us women do!

Well, this week I want to acknowledge the men who do enjoy blogging and dressing well. That's why this week it's Raining Men, on the blog! Every day I will talk about my favorite male bloggers who really know how to make a statement with their style, and why I like them so much!

Enjoy ladies and gents! 

Today's Gent is the fabulous...................

Rashid Jassim, a 17 year old Instagram Fashion Blogger. Trust me when I say this- his style is very unique and he is 100% worth a follow on Instagram! His style really speaks for him, and I feel as if I know him just by looking at his outfits. He's also an artist and amazing designer. He is not afraid of be being different and setting his own trends, and that's what I admire about him most.                    **He designed this**

What Rashid has to say- especially on his opinion of male fashion bloggers:

How would you describe your style?

I describe my style as a mixture of art, culture, vintage fashion, modern fashion, local fashion, and finally I don't need high brands to look fashionable. 

Do you have a fav. brand?

Well, I have many favorite designers but my all time favorite designer is Alexander McQueen because he always thinks in a different perspective. I love the fact how he transforms art into fashion.

What inspires your style?

My style differs every day it depends on my mood. Once its bright, once its classic, once its dark, once it's futuristic and once its a blend of them all.  

Have you always loved fashion?

My mom told me that since I was young I had a strong connection with fashion. This fashion connection is still growing till now.

Where are you from?

I'm from Dubai in the UAE.

How old are you?

I blow my candles the 7th of August. I have been on this earth for 17 years!

ZODIAC FASHION: What Your Star Says About Your Style

When it comes to astrology- you're either a believer or a skeptic. Regardless of your beliefs, learning more about your horoscopes and star signs can be somewhat entertaining. Especially when you swirl it in with fashion!

I've always been interested in reading horoscopes and learning how zodiac signs relate to love, friendships, family and other aspects of life. Up until a few days ago, I began to wonder if my zodiac sign related to how I dressed and my personal fashion sense. Sooooo .... I began to research, and here's what I found mixed in with my own personal thoughts on the signs and fashion- becauseeee if I only wrote what I learned, that would just be too boring, right?! Agreed.

THE SIGNS:

Let's start off with......

ARIES (21 March - 19 April):

Aries women are like fire-crackers! They are daring and fierce. I guess that's why they are known as the Ram. Nothing can slow them down and this really reflects their fashion sense. These vivacious women will not be likely to be seen in girl clothes with lots of pink, pastels or frills. Instead, aries women will always be ahead of the trend or will set their own trends. Their bold attitude is paired with red- lots of red like fire! At the end of the day, an aries woman is strong, bold, direct, daring, active and will always stand out in a crowd in a killer outfit!

Get your Dream Spring Wardrobe without Breaking the Bank

With all the amazing new trends this Spring, it's hard to get each fashion item you desire without breaking your bank. I know we all want to look good and get the latest trends, but it is never a good idea to go broke and only have good clothes and accessories to show for it! Buttttttttttt - what if I told you that there's a way to get your desired items?!

No, no - I am not suggesting that you buy knock-off's, but that you get a very similar style to the one that you just can't quite afford yet. Yes, I said yet, because I'm sure one day you all will be able to buy exactly what you want without hesitating! :)

Here's a list of similar bank-breaking items at bank friendly prices :)

Nasty Gal See TheLight Maxi Dress

    $88.00

High Heel Sandal With Ankle Strap

$59.90

C.L.U.E.L.E.S.S. & Chic

Sometimes winter can be a real drag, especially when it comes to fashion. My options often seem to be limited as to what I can wear. Layer, upon layer, upon layer - I mean that's too much! Now, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy winter fashion, but it's difficult to wear exactly what I want in the freezing cold weather! That's why I tried to spice up my outfit and be a little edgy for a change.

Top Wearable Looks from NYFW 2014

I wasn't lucky and did not attend NYFW, but I'll make sure that I do next time! The next best thing is to watch the runway shows online and to keep up-to-date on what others are posting online about the show. My Instagram feed was filled with pictures of models, backstage passes and shows that other fashion bloggers had captured. I was living NYFW through them, but next time I'll experience it for myself! xx

Here are a few of my fav. looks!

Freeze in Style: Winter Accessories Must-Haves

Although Spring is slowly- very slowly approaching, it is still winter. Before we can pull out our shorts and flip-flops and head to the beach we must endure a little more freezing cold winter weather! As a girl who enjoys accessorizing and looking stylish at all times, I do find it challenging during the winter season to maintain my style.

If you are like me, you are probably tired of wearing layers, upon layers, upon layers. So, what's a girl to do when her stylish outfit is being hidden by thick layers of clothing?! Easy! One word: Accessorize. Don't over do it with the accessories. Wear and carry practical accessories that are true to you and your particular style. 

Not sure where to get started or need some accessory inspiration? Don't worry. I've come up with a list of a few accessories that I personally love this winter. Hopefully this will give you all some accessory inspiration for these cold months.

Warm Scarf that is NOT black: Scarf

TOPSHOP

Trendy Leather Gloves add sophistication and chicness 

paired with a long coat:

 Bloomingdales

Spring Time Dreaming

I love the way snow falls into place on the roofs, buildings, the streets and roads. Yet, I don't love how cold it needs to get in order for snow to fall. One of the things I don't enjoy about winter. Luckily, it wasn't too cold over the weekend- so I was able to wear less layers and look more spring-ish. Now, it's back to the freezing cold and snow again! 

Opposites Attract NYC Edition: Faux Leather meets Faux Fur

Starting a blog is exciting. Not only do you get to share a part of your life with readers, but you also get to network and meet fellow bloggers from all around the world and learn about what's going on in different countries and cities.

I was fortunate to meet an amazing fashionista by the name of Zaida. What first interest me in Zaida was her unique style. It is bold, fierce and inspiring. I thought it would be fun for us to meet and do a collaboration- and that is just what we did!

We both love fashion, but have a different style that suits our personality. So, we decided to document our different looks in the middle of NYC during the snow- it was freezing! Apart from the dreadful cold weather, snow and wind, our shoot was fun and I really enjoyed getting to meet a fellow fashion blogger who shares a common passion!

I recommend that if it is possible for you- go out and meet other fashion bloggers even if it's just on Instagram. (that's how we met)! Anyways, enough talking from me. Time to look at our fun pictures!

Rockin' Black & White in NYC

As I mentioned in my previous post, I spent last weekend in the Big Apple- NYC. Not only did I have a blast shopping, sight-seeing and meeting up with a fellow blogger, but I also had a great time putting my outfits together.

I was in the mood for something casual, but cool at the same time so I figured "why not wear black and white?!" So I did, and I loved it! Hope you do as well!

Hidden Gem in the Middle of the Concrete Jungle

Most of us know New York City as the "city that never sleeps" with bright lights, busy streets, fashionistas and trendsetters left and right. Yet, this busy city has many hidden gems for those into history, art, culture, food, fashion or whatever their interest may be. However, my main interest is fashion so I always enjoy discovering "hidden gems" that not too many people may know of.

This past weekend I had an amazing trip to NYC. I had the chance to walk down my favorite streets, eat and shop around. I even found what I like to call a real treasure! While strolling around 5th Avenue I stumbled upon the Diamond District. Yes, there actually is a district dedicated to diamonds!! My trip instantly got better once I discovered the Diamond District since I absolutely LOVE diamonds- I mean who doesn't?! 

The Diamond District is located between 5th and 6th Avenue in midtown Manhattan and is the go-to spot for many people who are looking for unique pieces of fine jewelry and even custom pieces. Excited to try on some jewelry and gorgeous diamonds, I finally entered one of the stores and was amazed at how many different stations were in one location. 

A few minutes into walking through the shop, I was immediately drawn to Forever Diamonds which is located at stations 37-38. The stations are run by a loving family that is very passionate about what they do. I was helped by the entire family and was able to try on many gorgeous pieces of jewelry and DIAMONDS! (yay) 

A gentleman named Ramon who is part of the family business gave me great knowledge on diamonds and how to purchase good, quality diamonds. He even informed me that he began learning about diamonds when he was just  6 years of age and briefed me on the diamond trade! Not only was Ramon helpful, but he was also friendly and hilarious. I felt no pressure to purchase anything, but felt more relaxed as if I was jewelry shopping at home. 

I was allowed to photograph some of the pieces that I tried on so I've attached them to the post to share with you all!

If you are ever in NYC, you have to check out Ramon's station. You will really get great deals on the jewelry and receive informative information on diamonds because he truly believes that it is imperial for his customers to really know what they are buying. 

Store Information: Forever Diamonds NY

66 West 47th Street 

Booth #37 & 38

Ask for Ramon

Find the Perfect Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

Wearing lipstick is like wearing or carrying any other accessory. It can make you and your outfit standout in an amazing way. However, this is only if you wear the right lipstick. What exactly is the right lipstick you may ask? Well, the answer is that there is no particular lipstick that is right because the perfect lipstick varies depending on skin-tones and skin-shades. 

So how does one find the right lipstick that best compliments their skin? Easy! I've come up with a guide with a variety of skin-tones listing which colors are best for that shade! Now ladies, this does NOT mean that you can't branch out and try different lipstick colors. I insist, be adventurous with your lipstick, but always know which is your best color.

PALE & FAIR SKIN

Peachy-pinkish colors, nudes and mauves work well with this skin complexion. Wear red lipstick for a bold statement look. Avoid dark and really bright shades of lipsticks. Darker shades tend to contrast too much with pale skin. 

Cool Undertones & Warm Undertones: Nude and Mocha Pink colors 

BEIGE SKIN

Pinks, reds and even bright colors look lovely on beige skin. These colors contrast well against this skin tone. 

MEDIUM SKIN

Raspberry and darker toned lipsticks create a stunning glow on this skin tone. Try to avoid nude lipsticks. Nude lipsticks blend in too well with this skin tone. Although, if you want a nude type of lipstick look, try and wear almost nude pink colors. 

Cool Undertones: Pinks colors 

Warm Undertones: Brownish and Golden Colors 

OLIVE SKIN

Almost any color looks great on olive skin. Try dark reds, plums and even coral colored lipstick. No matter which color you select, the result will most likely be flattering. 

Cool & Warm Undertones: The same colors work well with these undertones. Do, however, try and avoid too bright of coral, pink and orange colors. Those colors just over-power your skin and look a bit-too-much.

DARK SKIN

REDS, REDS, AND MORE REDS! Almost all shades from light-to dark look flattering on dark skin tones. Dark pinks and plum are also pleasing to darker skin tones. 

Cool Undertones: Ruby Red and Red Wine Colors

Warm Undertones: Bronzy and Honey Colors

What are these Undertones that you keep mentioning?!

Undertones are key on your path to finding the right lipstick color for your skin tone. Look at your arm and find your veins. Stare at them, observe them and study them! Very well, now determine if they appear bluish in color. If so, then you have cool undertones. Now, if they appear more green than blue, you have warm undertones. Great! Now that you know what undertones are, go back and re-read this post and determine which color is best for you!

HAPPY LIPSTICK HUNTING xx