poncho


Here’s another find from my collaboration with Sears. El Poncho. I’m completely set to be cast in a romantic comedy starring a New York gallery curator, no? I’m just missing the black framed glasses for the illustrated version of Flick Chicks – A Guide to Women in Movies. Just need my “sassy best friend” and I’m good to go.

(poncho c/o of sears, purse/michael kors, shoes/report, pants/zara, shirt/american apparel)

it has begun




I really took to the few cool days we had here in LA. Any chance I get to go from a sweater to a blazer to a coat, is OK in my book. Throw in a hood, and I’m in heaven. Today in Sears Spotted I’m featured wearing the black-and-white tweed hooded peacoat you see above.

This new year is serving up lots of collaboration goodness. Very exciting times. I’m the new Co-Director for LATISM LA (Latinos in Social Media). My focus is in Arts and Culture, which means there will be shows, events and all that good stuff. I was also recently interviewed for NBC Latino along with Roachele Negron, have a LOOK. And, you’re going to Blissdom, right? I’m a Community Leader in the Art and Design Niche. Hope to see you there!

Thank you hubby for the pictures.

(Scarf, coat, Land’s End sweater and Knots of Love bracelet c/o of Sears, pants by Zara, blazer by The Limited, boots by Tahari)

arm art


Hello, hello. Today we started our holiday decorating but I’ll tell you all about that another time. I want to focus on what I call my arm art bracelet, which has become one of my jewelry box favorites because it pretty much goes with most of my outfits. This bracelet is just one of the many beautiful pieces created by the hands of Haitian artisans as part of the initiative Heart of Haiti. What is that, you ask? Let’s just say that Heart of Haiti has led to the employment of 450 artists in Haiti providing financial benefits for approximately 4,000 to 5,000 people in the country. Need I say more? That alone makes this the most exquisite and important bracelet I own. If you want to join me in supporting this initiative, please go to MACY’S to browse the collection and add this ‘gift that gives back’ to your shopping list.

Thank you Everywhere for the beautiful bracelet. I’m excited to hear more about your trip to Haiti with other amazing women, including mi amiga Ana F.

chicago views










So, what to do in between your son’s soccer game and soccer tournament practice? You finish up the post that’s been sitting in your drafts folder for days. While the little guy takes a nap, I’m going to catch up on this here blog. Otherwise, I’ll be blogging about Christmas in February. As I mentioned in my last post, I was in Chicago managing a beauty event for Mary Kay. What I did not mention (because I was saving it for this post) is that everyone was getting glammed up for the LATISM (Latinos in Social Media) awards dinner. There were lots of fun makeup discussions as the mimosas went around the vice presidential suite at The InterContinental. And the view of the city was spectacular, by the way. Chicago weather didn’t disappoint either. It was sunny, then it snowed, then it was sunny, then it snowed again. By the end of the evening, the nominees were dolled up and ready for the night ahead. Ana and I, well, we were left with 30 minutes to get ready. Even though she was up for two awards – LBC and SpanglishBaby - we were there to work. But in just a short half hour, she managed to pull it all off crediting her years as a producer, and went home with the award for Best Latin@ Social Network Leader. Needless to say, it was a memorable and inspirational trip indeed. I am so happy that I’m part of the LBC team. Through this journey, I’ve met some of the most amazing, talented, intelligent and ambitious women, who all share an interest and passion for using social media for social good. They’re bringing forth important topics and discussions in education, health, politics and parenting – just to name a few. It makes absolute sense that Mary Kay – a company founded on the principal that women can experience success on their own terms – be there to join in the celebration.

gilded glow





If you follow me on twitter, you probably noticed that I’ve been talking about Mary Kay more than normal. Actually, maybe even more than most people. Unless of course your name is Flor, Dani, Jai or Mercedes. They have me beat. Prior to our trip to Chicago (c/o of Mary Kay and LBC), we were all sent our choice of season trends. I picked Gilded Glow because I like anything with the names Iris, Cinnabar, Cherry Blossom and Moonstone. I don’t wear a lot of makeup but when I go heavier for night, I don’t want to feel like I have makeup on. This line feels very light and silky. And the mascara, for chicas like me with no lashes, is a miracle. There are so many amazing choices I’d love to share with you. Once I edit through 10,000 pictures, I will post!

(makeup c/o mary kay, top & skirt/ann taylor, belt/anthropologie, purse/jasleen boutique)

cashmere


The evening weather in Los Angeles has been amazingly delightful. My sweaters, blazers and scarves have finally been taken out their dark creepy spaces and are now enjoying strolls, red wine and tapas. Red Envelope sent me this beautiful cream colored scarf, which feels like a touch of heaven on my neck. I’m not surprised. In fact, they have been one of my go-to Birthday and Mother’s Day gift destinations for years. This holiday season, they have tons of beautiful items. Have a look!

(Scarf courtesy of Red Envelope. Blazer from H&M)

one night stand




I love my accessories. They can totally transform an outfit. I typically dress very comfy, casual but for an extra wow effect, I shine it up with bangles, earrings and/or necklaces. This week, I’m going to Chicago for Latism courtesy of Mary Kay (thank you!) I’ll be working with Ana to manage a super fun glam event along with fashion/beauty bloggers Dani, Mercedes, Jai and Flor de Maria. In fact, if you click on their sites, they’re hosting a Mary Kay giveaway. Check it out! During our Chicago stay, we will be getting dolled up for a gala event. And, for me, this is where House of Harlow comes in. Jewelry can get up their in cost and sometimes I just want one piece for a special occasion. Until the day Harry Winston offers me jewels to wear to go with my gifted Valentino gown, I say rent it. House of Harlow is the latest addition to this clever way of making the most of a special occasion without breaking the bank. More HERE.

artistry


If you follow me on Twitter, then you know I’m a skin care buff. It starts with healthy food, vitamins and lots of water. I don’t smoke and I always wear sunscreen. When I hit 25, I noticed a miniscule line on my forehead, which at that time looked more like the San Andreas Fault. That marked the beginning of my skin care haul life. Here’s what I’m using these days:

Amway’s Artistry ~ Time Defiance: Cleansing treatment. Polishing scrub: Love the glow. Time Defiance day-time: Can’t help aging, but I like to keep my skin looking smooth. Time Defiance night-time: I use Retin-A once a week (just told you my biggest beauty secret), but need my night creams the other 6 nights. Creme Luxury: It feels like silk. Skin refinishing lotion: Great after the polishing scrub. Check them out HERE.

(Many thanks Zócalo Group and Amway Artistry)