(a look at) My Monday Night

A lot of things have been changing lately, and I want to switch up the blog a little bit. I want to share my everyday life more, instead of just sharing photos from Pinterest and creating Polyvores of outfits that I love. You know, personalize the blog a little more? I have a great camera, so I may as well use it! Here's a look at my Monday night, and some of the organizing I'm trying to do. Remember to say cheers to changes in life, everything has its way of falling into place. Here goes nothing...

my favorite magazine of the month: harper's bazaar (left) and vogue (right). I'm too obsessed with the Vogue cover. I didn't think I was a big fan of Kate Upton until I read all about her in this issue, and she's definitely someone to look up to. You might not think so, but give her a try. She's bringing forth a beautiful, fuller body image to the fashion scene, and I love that.

Who doesn't love these golden girls of the fashion industry? Reading Grace Coddington's memoir was too much fun, she's quite the woman. She's creative director at Vogue, for those of you who don't know. She's a big name in fashion, and she's a very interesting, funny woman. Something I strive to be. And the biography about Coco Chanel was so charming, what a life she lead. The Chanel name will live on forever.

These three pieces are my staples, and I rarely take them off. I've had my Cape Cod bracelet for many years, and I still love it. It reminds me of the summer and of course, the Cape! What's not to love? I got my watch for my birthday from my boyfriend, Zach, and it's one of the best gifts I've ever gotten. It's comfortable, reliable and every time I look at the time, I think of him. Not too shabby! And my diamond ring is a little symbol of this blog and my dedication to it, it's a long story but it was gifted to me.

 Last but not least, we have my favorite issue of Vogue, a picture of Zach and me from last summer in York, Maine, one of our favorite places to go when it gets warmer. It's beautiful and so relaxing, and spending time with Zach is something I really, really value. And who's that little guy on the left? Ah yes, my baby Louis Vuitton. I love this bag with all my heart, and he's been with me since fifth grade. I've bought another since, but it'll always be my fave. I was introduced to the fashion scene pretty young. I'm very blessed to be able to say that. I'd like to think Louis is my boyfriend, too, so I put him next to the photo of Zach and me!

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And that's just a look into my Monday night + my favorite details.

I hope you enjoyed it.

xx, ZM

Yellow Heels :: A Style Revelation

Dorothy's trick was clicking her little red shoes, but how about neon yellow? It sounds like a stretch, but this color is sweeping the spring style realm faster than you can say 'neon yellow'. I swear. A small, pointy yellow heel has become a wardrobe staple for us ladies. The look is easier to match with an outfit than you think. Everywhere I go, every blog I peruse I see a different variation of the shoe. So how can you wear it? What can you wear it with? Well, that's what I'm here to tell you.

A revelation is defined as something revealed or disclosed, especially a striking disclosure, as of something not before realized. Ah yes, well yellow heels are something new to the fashion scene. With neons being so highly praised these past couple of seasons, someone took the step to saying, "Hmm, we need a moderately high, pointy neon yellow heel." They're not exclusive to high end department stores, I really have seen them everywhere. I'm looking to snag a pair myself from ALDO shoes. I've always had luck there, so why not try it out again? So back to the styling of these heels. Everyone has been doing yellow heels with other colors that have nothing to do with yellow, and I like that. Lots of navy blue, and other neons. Pictured, we have yellow heels with cropped, dark wash jeans, and I love that. I think it's the easiest way to wear them because we all have jeans we can easily crop just by rolling them up a couple of times. The way I would suggest wearing them during the summer is either with a pastel dress -- blue, pink, green, lilac, or a lighter shade of yellow. Pairing them with an outfit including high waisted shorts that are a tad on the dressy side would be a good move, too. Any way you do it, they're going to look fabulous because they stand out. That's what it's all about. Grab yourself a pair of neon yellow heels, crop your jeans, throw on your pastel dress, button up your shorts, whichever you choose, you'll look über fashion forward.

Click those yellow heels, baby.

xx, ZM

PHOTO COURTESY OF PINTEREST

:: Have a Happy Mother's Day ::

happy mother's day.

My mother is the most influential woman in my life. She taught me to be ambitious and to follow my dreams, and look where that's gotten me. I'm so proud to call her mine. Not only is she wise, but she's pretty, she's stylish and she's fun. She introduced me to the Saks beauty counter before I knew how to add and subtract, bought me Coco Mademoiselle perfume when I first reached double digits. It's no wonder I ended up fashion blogging, it's like I turned mine and my mom's shopping habits into a career. She's the best mother a girl could ask for, and she's always by my side at school events, and fashion events. I credit her unconditional love and support for my accomplishments. Thanks for everything you do, mom.

FIF loves moms.

xx, ZM

PHOTO COURTESY OF PINTEREST

Blo South End - Girls Night Out

Thursday evening, my mother and I joined many other Bostonian women at Blo Blow Dry Bar on Columbus Ave. in the South End. The event's main activities featured hair styling from Blo and polish changes by MiniLuxe. The blow dry styling concept is relatively new to the city and very new to me. I had never tried it before, but I got great results. My stylist was energetic, experienced, and engaging. She made it fun! The event was tasteful -- literally, with sweet treats and yummy drinks -- and a percentage of the ticket proceeds were donated to the One Fund to benefit the victims of the Marathon attacks. It was a fun and fashionable girls night out, definitely a night to remember.

Like I said, the whole blow dry bar concept is very new to me. I mean, of course I've blow dried my hair before, but I've never been to a salon specifically for that and not get my hair cut. It was a learning experience. My stylist passed me a "hair menu" so I could choose a style I liked. I went with an updo because my mom always tells me my hair looks best when it's up. It was a fun look and my stylist did an amazing job. I give her credit for teasing my thick hair and keeping it under control.

This was the look I went for. You like? My stylist raised the poof a little bit more for a very sophisticated look. It was out of my comfort zone, and that's what I liked about it. Oh! How could I forget, I had my eyebrows waxed, too. Probably the best eyebrow wax of my life, actually. It wasn't that hot, sticky junk that most people use. The woman who was waxing was a total sweetheart and she gave me a great shape. Overall, I had a great night and my mom did, too. Unfortunately, the Miniluze manicurist packed up early so we weren't able to get our nails painted. Oh well! I've already made up for that small flaw. Extending a big thank you to the girls at Blo, and I encourage each and every one of you to try a blowout style from Blo sometime soon. It's worth it, ladies!

You're not cheating on your hairdresser.

xx, ZM

Weekend Obsession [featuring] Vineyard Vines

I'm a prep at heart, and this dress is just screaming my name. Of course it's by Vineyard Vines, and it's called the Carolina Stripe Strapless Dress. The colors are patriotic, but subtle. I love this style dress for summer, too; strapless, but appropriate, and just above the knee. Pictured, the model paired it with flip flops, but I would definitely wear Jack Rogers or even a conservative pair of wedges with this. I'm not really a flip flops kind of girl, but suit yourself. Stripes and polka dots are both very "in" and both designs make an appearance on this dress. I like how they blend in together, as if the sequences of polka dots are supposed to look like stripes. Hmm, perhaps they are? 

I have this dress in mind for a summer party, or maybe even a school event. Since I'm graduating next month, I have countless end-of-the-year events coming up, and this dress would be perfect for something like that. It's a casual day dress, but with a strand of pearls and [like I mentioned] a pair of wedges, this would be a pretty ensemble for dinner, too. Vineyard Vines is good at that kind of versatility, that's why I love the brand. Or how about planning your Fourth of July outfit early? The patriotic accents in this is destined for the fourth. Quick change out of your bathing suit and throw this on. Paired with beach waves and a tan, this dress would look very Vineyard. Maybe that's what I'll do... 

Anyhow, I digress. This is my obsession of the week! I can picture myself in it, and I'm sure if you have an appreciation for a preppy style, you're loving it, too. Another idea: if you're going on a date or to an event with your significant other, so many VV ties match this dress and you and your gentleman will steal the show. Just a thought! I don't think my boyfriend would go for the idea, but perhaps yours will? It's worth a try. If you have other ideas for ways or place to wear this fabulous number, comment below, I'd love to read your input. I'm signing off. Hopefully by next week this will be hanging in my closet. 

Have a very preppy weekend.

xx, ZM

IMAGE COURTESY OF VINEYARD VINES

Red + Ferragamo + Flats...

My heart belongs to ballet flats. My favorites include Tory Burch or J.Crew flats, but the right kind of whimsical-yet-stylish looking ballet flat is the best kind of look if you ask me. I'm keeping this post short and simple, but as I was browsing Pinterest I couldn't help but notice all of the classic flats on my homepage. I then recognized them as Ferragamo L'Icona flats, a classic for those of you who aren't familiar. But for a flats fanatic like me, the Ferragamos are definitely landing as #1 on my wish list. Hear that, boyfriend?

Red + flats + Salvatore Ferragamo... This girl is smitten. I love the classic design of the shoes and I really think they're good for any day. Crop your jeans (not torn jeans) or colored khakis and these shoes are a go. If you love flats as much as I do, you'll be drooling over these, too. And if you aren't, shame on you. Classic is always a good look to go for, ladies.

I need retail rehab. Help.

xx, ZM

PHOTO COURTESY OF PINTEREST

Orange, It Is

I'm not just saying this because I'm going to be a Syracuse Orange in the fall, but tangerine is the color of the season. Many fashion connoisseurs have even said, "orange is the new neutral." So there's that. Yes, I'm headed to Syracuse University studying Public Relations on a Fashion Communications track, so I have a small bias toward orange. I digress. Orange looks great on everybody -- whether you're pale or tan, it'll pop out and look wonderful. It's one of those colors that you can't take your eyes off of, and that's why this spring orange has landed a spot on my list of favorites.

1. STELLA MCCARTNEY Dress 2. CC SKYE Clutch 3. J.CREW Blouse 4. DOLCE & GABBANA Swimsuit 5. MM6 Sandals 6. LEMLEM Dress 7. BLUMARINE Shorts 8. ASOS Earrings 9. MSGM Jacket 10. AISH Scarf 11. KATE SPADE SATURDAY Dress 12. ISARO Bracelets 13. RAY-BAN Sunglasses 14. KJL Earrings 

I love to wear orange year round, but it's especially bright and friendly during the warmer seasons. Dresses, light scarves and drop earrings are among my favorite pieces in the color. If you're wearing an orange dress, that's all the color you'll need. It's great for spring, it's fashion forward and it's an easy outfit. If you're wearing an outfit lacking color, throw on a pair of orange earrings, a scarf or sandals, and you're good to go. It's not too much, and it adds just enough of a pop to an outfit to make it spring appropriate. I have no choice for the next four years to wear orange each and every season, so I'm starting it off with a little ease into the color this spring. I hope you'll all join me! Gradually add color to your wardrobe, and you'll be ready for a bright orange, tangerine color before you know it.

Don't forget to smile.

xx, ZM

IMAGE FROM LUELLA JUNE

:: Off to the Races ::

It's the day of the Kentucky Derby, and this post is for my preppy ladies. This is the day when oversized hats, pastels, colorfully-printed dresses, and Jack Rogers sandals come out to play. You can go one-stop-shopping for these items so easily, and I've got the lowdown on where to go, what to buy and how to sport it. It's time to get super prepped out.

These Lilly Pulitzer Spring 2013 collection dresses are a good start. They're the epitome of a preppy, Southern charm-inspired style. Some are solid pastels, and some are a mixture of bright and pastel patterns with a lot going on. Either way, both are Derby appropriate. Like I said, Lilly is the queen of prep, so anything with a Lilly tag works out. If you're not feeling a dress, Lilly has some adorable, colored shorts and skirts to offer, too. Another brand perfect for the Kentucky Derby is Vineyard Vines. It's actually the official tie maker of the Derby, so pick up a tie or bow tie for your man, and he'll be ready to go. VV has some great printed dresses and shorts to consider, as well. As a Massachusetts girl, I love the fact that it was inspired by Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket style -- both islands are amazing places to vacation and I have great family memories of the two. VV offers the same preppy style as Lilly, but the patterns are more subtle, which some of you may prefer. Once you've got your outfit, whether it be Lilly, Vineyard Vines, or something else, it's time to move onto shoes.

Jack Rogers sandals are the only way to go. They're preppy, they're perfect for spring and summer, and JR is a 100% American brand. I have a pair with metallic silver straps and I absolutely love them. Coming from personal experience, they look great with a Lilly dress or shorts and same with anything from VV. Jack Rogers also come in wedges if you're one of those who doesn't like to wear flats. I love wedges myself, but there's a certain charm of wearing Jack Rogers sandals that I love about them. They're fun, whimsical and I they're most definitely a style staple for any woman who wants to label herself as preppy. Have I made my case? Okay so now the outfit is complete. Dress or shorts/skirt and top and shoes. Now it's time to top it off with a Kentucky Derby staple -- a hat! I won't lie I was in J.Crew the other day trying on hats as if I had a horse in the race. Southern Living Magazine says [about hats], "Whether you’re in the infield or a box in Millionaire’s Row, hats are a must at the Derby. They can be simple or grandiose, custom-made or off the rack, just make sure to have one perched atop your head." Without a hat, you'll be the equivalent to underdressed at a black tie affair. I'm sure Vineyard Vines and Lilly have hats available in stores so you can do one stop shopping. But if not, like I mentioned, J.Crew was several great options for only about $34.50, if I remember correctly. If you buy a plain hat, you can wear it all summer so that would be a good move on your part! So with all of these tips, I hope I was a help in looking for your Kentucky Derby outfit. Whether you're going to a party at your country club or a friend's house, the actual Derby or just dressing up to watch from home, I hope you look fabulous. Have a wonderfully preppy day.

Lilly, Vineyard Vines, and J.Crew... This is like my Christmas.

xx, ZM

IMAGES COURTESY OF PINTEREST

The Perfect [go-to] Spring Look

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A go-to spring outfit is on everybody's mind this spring. We're all thinking what should we wear? what shoes go well with a relaxed look? what kind of colors are good for a "lazy day"? Luckily, I've found the perfect ensemble for the days where heels and a dress aren't in your plans. First we have the simple v-neck, with the added hot pink color, it's no longer ordinary and it's much more springtime appropriate. Pair it with jeans like the J Brands shown above, and you're good to go. Simplistic skinnies are a fabulous item to own. Add a plain, creme colored handbag to your look and you're even better off. Here's my favorite part, the J.Crew collection Sperry Topsiders! I absolutely love these and I plan on buying them sometime soon! They're the perfect colors, the seersucker boat shoe is simply genius for us preppy girls, and they're perfect for both spring and summer. You need a pair! They're just great. They come in other colors, solid ones like bright pink and blue. They're all the same canvas material. Yes, I'm obsessed. And last, we have sunglasses. Have a fun pair to pop on when you're wearing lots of color to add a little fun to your look. After these several steps, you should be looking super chic in a relaxed way.

Have fun, ladies.

xx, ZM

IMAGE FROM PINK PEONIES BLOG

GapKids Collection by DVF

I'm a proud aunt of two beautiful nieces, Avah, who turns four very soon, and Alexa, who is about eight months old. To me, nothing is more fun than looking through the girls' closets and helping my sister pick out their clothes. Children's wear is precious, and dressing little girls is so much fun. The cute onesies, little girl leggings, dresses, jelly sandals - it's all adorable. Let's hope I have a daughter someday, or I'm doomed. This spring, I'm obsessing over the DVF collection for GapKids. She did one for the company last year that was filled with bold prints and kid-friendly yet DVF-inspired designs, and this year is leaning toward a common theme. Bright, fun, and perfect for stylish children. I can definitely picture the clothes on my nieces.

Do you love it? The video is so much fun to watch. The kids are happy and the exploration theme in the collection seems appropriate for curious, little kids. Not to mention GapKids is known for having great quality clothing, my mom always insists on buying GapKids for presents to children. And DVF is just fabulous. She's known for her eccentric prints and she sure has brought them to the table in this collection. It's available in stores and online starting April 25, and last time it wasn't around for too long, so I'd suggest shopping right away once it's ready to buy. Introduce spring style to the children in your life, it's never too early for it. I wish I was a child so I could rock the collection, and I'm sure I'm not the only one.

Give your little ones a head start on fashion.

xx, ZM