Vintage Skates

Zenita Hill Photography

Snow and NYC do not mix

Yes, I'm sure you all have heard about the outrageous amount of snow New York got earlier in the week. I was so upset I couldn't show you earlier because my computer problems but now I can.  Yes, eighteen inches is a lot, more than they've gotten for years, but come on. I'm from Wisconsin and Chicago so I'm use to it, good thing I was prepared; I put on my rain boots and walked the fifteen blocks to work. I couldn't believe how deserted the city was! There was so much snow and it was so bad that taxis were refusing to go down side streets. It was definitely an experience!

Meet my Roommate

Hi everyone!! I am so sorry I've been MIA lately. It's been a hectic week; first of all, my hours at Marie Claire run between 10 and 12 hours a day. I love every minute of it but it leaves me very little time to do much else. I take online classes so right after work I come home, finish homework and pass out. To top everything off, my computer crashed a few days ago. It chose the worst possible time to break down that's for sure; right in the middle of the week when papers are due and discussions are crucial. My mother and professors have been so supportive, thank god, otherwise I would have been overwhelmed beyond belief.  

Anyways, I got a new computer that won't crash. I am no longer have a Sony laptop, that's right people, I am now a Mac girl! Yay, I'm so excited and feel so fancy. Thank you mom for being there for me! I can't wait to take my Mac to Starbucks and write until my fingers fall off. I'm trying to think of a fabulous name for my new Mac; I'm up for suggestions so if you have any cute names PLEASE let me know. 

Isn't she beautiful! MacBook Pro. LOVE!!

Now..let's meet the person we've been anticipating since I moved to New York-My roommate! Yes, she's finally here and I love her to death. Her name is Brittany Chassey, she's from New Jersey and I am convinced that she is my long lost twin. We wen't grocery shopping the first night she arrived and had a scandalous time. It was so much fun! Just an FYI: New York City groceries are not cheap. Especially fruit. 

I promise I will try to keep up with posts; at least 3 times a week. Now that I'm settled into my schedule I can squeeze it in, for sure. Just know that, my internship is my main focus right now. I would encourage everyone to come to New York and get an internship like this. It's an amazing experience, you meet so many fabulous people, and you learn so much. I've been like a sponge, soaking up everything!!

Zee 4 5 Photos

A Peek Through My Lens- Zenita Hill Photography

I love how repulsive and disgusting the shower is yet I still want to keep looking.

The detailing is very intriguing.

The Perfect Weekend Outfit(s)

Mixing everyday casual wear with a touch so sporty chic is one of my favorite weekend looks and WIT-fashion editor for Red Magazine-does it perfectly! Don't ever be afraid to mix and match your casuals...have fun with it.

 

Ding, ding, ding!!! This slick, structured, red coat over a hoodie is my favorite look for making your weekend shopping trips fabulous-and those Louboutin shoes?! AH-mazing.

An all black ensemble with a pair of dark washed, destressed denim and a chic clean, white fur coat topped off with a great pair of chuck taylors. This can even be great for a casual day at work...especially at a magazine!

I think this outfit speaks for itself. A natural, soft look with fabulous red lips and a beautiful statement necklace that reminds me of a vintage chandelier. Don't you think? I love it

Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you can't look fabulous. This is the time to be creative with your wardrobe. Belt your new fabulous, warm, parka with a different belt. This vintage metallic belt adds an edgy touch to this otherwise boring parka.

LOVE

Photos taken by the one and only, my best friend and sister, Zenita Hill.

check out her fabulous new blog: A peek through my Lens

boots+studs+creativity=LOVE

I'm obsessed with ankle boots and found these sexy things at ALDO during their Holiday sale. I couldn't help myself. There was something missing, though, they were too plain! So I took studs....

...and studded the sides of them. It didn't take too long and now they are so rocker chic. Love them! It's a nice switch from all the heeled ankle boots I have. Don't be afraid to be creative with your clothes and sense of style. If you don't like something, change it...make it something unique and one of a kind.

Zenita's Photography

The Swing Massacre

Photo Credit: Zenita Hill

I am so pround of my little sister Zenita. For so long she's been wanting and promising and waiting to start a 365 blog.

Before I begin explaining what a 365 blog is-for those of you who are out of the loop-I want to let you know that Zenita is an amazing photographer. So talented and creative...she's so filled with passion you wouldn't be able to recognize her when she's behind the camera. It's as if she's a whole different human being; bending down, climbing up, laying on the ground, wedging herself into every knook and crany, capturing moments that inspire you and make you think. She has this incredible ability to make anything-a place, person, or thing-whatever it may be- and make it look abstract and beautiful and eye catching...through her photos she sheds light on things that we take for granted on a daily basis...like this picture, for instance! I would never think a swing could be so fascinating nor would I ever think to take a picture of one!

I'm telling you, it's not just because she's my sister...and best friend...she is amazing. Stay tuned to her 365 blog: Zenita Hill Photography, where she, everyday for 365 days takes a new picture and posts it. She has no theme, just whatever inspires her in any moment(s) throughout the day. Her goal is become an even stronger photographer and to see her progress as the days go by.

GOOD LUCK DARLING!

xoxo

Breathtaking View from the Top

Now you can experience the view from the Marie Claire offices. This picture doesn't do it justice, I must admit...it's a shame that my camera can only capture so much. When you look down you can see the cars and all the people, who look like tiny little ants, walking around the city. It's GORGEOUS!!

First Day at MC

It was my first day as an intern at Maria Claire Magazine so it's only natural I post my 'first day' outfit. I wanted to mix higher end and vintage peices together. I wore my abstract zebra print shirt, from Forever 21's Faith 21 collection, and this fantastic vintage, hand knit sweater I found at a vintage shop in Chicago. I belted them together to create a waist with a vintage leather Liz Claiborne belt, pulled together with black J.Crew skinny jeans a fantastic paire of genuine leather, over-the-knee boots from Steve Madden. Of course I wore my 'Krysta' necklace and Michael Kors watch and used my FEED bag for my lunch, water bottle, notebook, papers and other supplies that are needed throughout the day at Marie Claire.

My first day was ah-mazing! I met Joanna Coles-great start to my morning. Started off by sorting racks of designer clothes that had arrived from photoshoots and designer show rooms. I then had to open up and check in new arrivals from Chanel, Versace, Phillip Lim 3.1, DSquared2, Carolina Herrera, Loius Vuitton, Lanvin, Prada, Christian Dior, YSL, Michael Kors and so many more it was ridiculous...I was in heaven. My job was to take pictures of the garments and make sure everything was in tact and ready to be sent to photoshoots. Many garments arrived straight from the runways of Paris and New York and when the shoes had X's scratched on the bottom of them they were worn on the runway; they do that so the models don't slip or slide on the runway. So cool! I learned so much on my first day and it's those little facts that puts the cherry on the cake. So fun.

Troy Burch decided to stop by the offices for meetings and what not. No big deal. It was pretty cool to see her in person...she's gorgeous by the way. I was sent to Michael Kors to pick up some garments for a photoshoot in LA tomorrow. Although I didn't get to meet Michael Kors, it was fun to see the Collection showroom.

All in all, my first day was long, fast-paced and very hectic but I loved every minute of it and I can't wait to see what I get to do tomorrow. When it comes to fashion, my brain is like a sponge, I'm soaking in everything! Oh my gosh, did I mention the view Marie Claire has of the city?! It's incredible...breathtaking. I will take a picture so you can experience it. Absolutely gorgeous, especially at sunset. Bye!

xoxo

Closet Diaries +My new fab coat

So, I didn't come at all prepared for New York City weather. It's windy and cold and you need a nice longer down coat to beat it. I went to Macys, the largest store in America, on 34th and 5th Avenue. Eight floors and takes up the whole block...it's huge. Anyways, I took the escalators all the way to the 8th floor and found myself a fabulous warm coat.

I found this Fabulous Coat: RUD by RUDSAK.

RUDSAK is a popular Candian lifestyle brand-similar to Michaek Kors- featured in many fashion magazines including: Fashion , Zink, and Candian ELLE, among others. Founded by Evik Asatoorian in 1994. His concept was to create a look with a European flair and make his garments look as slick as possible. It wasn't until 1999 that Evik opened his first store; Since then he has become one of Canadians leading designers and his label has turned into an all-encompassing lifestyle store; starting with it's leather coats and jackets, then trying out leather purses and finally creating the perfect shoe to go along with it's perfect purse. It's a timeless label, I absolutely love it and am pissed that it took me so long to find it! <3

This coat is so warm and you can tell it's good quality just by looking at it. Made with down feathers and a tight woven polyester fabric which makes it wind resistant and super warm! Thank god it comes with a belt to help maintain the waist. Most down, or puffer, coats hide the figure and mask your natural figure resulting in a boxed out shape. In a city like New York you have to stay warm while still looking fabulous, so this coat is perfect for my 15 block commute to Marie Claire every morning! To top it off, this coat can be worn more than one way....

...You can wear it Peacoat/trench coat style and show off the nice lapels...it's more sexy this way! Love. It's timeless and I'm more than certain I will be wearing this coat 10 years from now. While I had it on in the store some lady came up to me and asked me where I got my coat. I pointed to the other ones and she was so excited she literally jumped over to the rack.

P.s. Still no roommate. Weird, although...I think I like it.

xoxo

Closet Diaries +Snow

Snow won't stop me...

Yesterday it snowed pretty hard in New York. It was so cold but so, so beautiful! I layered it up and made sure to wear my Michael Kors rain boots. Fabuloso. I wore my Liz Claiborne, down puffer coat- I belted with a simple black studded belt. It gave me a waist as well as it added something extra to the outfit. Love- American Apparel leggings and these chic black studded gloves that went perfectly with my studded belt, not to mention they are very warm. We went to the New York Public Library and experienced the history and the set of the first Sex and the City movie.

After the library we took a trip to the MET which I absolutely LOVED. I really enjoyed my Art History class, so to see it all in person was spectacular! I didn't take many pictures, so sorry, I felt taking pictures would take away from the experience. <3

I heart 'Hearst'

 Yesterday my friend Jenn and I thought it would be a great idea to go walking around New York. Of course I loved every minute of it even though my feet and legs were killing me at the end of the day. The Hearst Tower is only 15 blocks away from where I live, which is about a 30 minute walk. Not that bad. Isn't it beautiful though!?! LOVE.

A block away from the Hearst building is Columbus Circle followed by Central Park so we walked around some more and found a Whole Foods-and a Borders, yay!-inside Columbus Circle Mall, which is so beautiful. It's almost like a museum with all the art that is placed throughout the halls.

 I had no idea they sold Emu eggs! I wonder how they taste? Has anyone eaten one?
They're HUGE-that's what she said (shut up Zenita)- Anyways for $29.99 a peice you can make a pretty decent sized omlet, or make a breakfast for the whole family...no big deal.

 After Whole foods we walked around Columbus circle, soaked in the history and culture and made our way to Central Park. So beautiful. If you look very closely, you can see the Hearst building close to the middle of the picture. 

 We went to the Diana Ross playground which is sourrounded by Huge Rocks to climb on. If any of you are Law and Order fans, they shot an episode here. A man was sitting on the rocks watching the kids play...you'll know what episode I'm talking about if you watch it. :)

 The Harlem Meer Pond. So pretty and peacefull.

Best News of the day! I was walking through Columbus Circle when I stepped on this. It's fate, I just know it. Jake and I have a date tonight, jealous? haha

New York state of mind



This is what I woke up to this morning...NEW YORK CITY!!

The best part is: there is a Starbucks right across the street. Perfect.

In all my excitment I failed to have a nutritional breakfast (great for the mind but not for the body): Marie Claire and Mike and Ike's...my sister is going to kill me. Sorry Liz!

I'm in a bit of a rush beacuse of the fact that I couldn't bring much in my suitcases so now I have to run to Kmart (I was in shock too; Yes, Manhattan has a Kmart, how funny is that) to grab more hangers, some storage bins, a trash can, etc. But before I left I wanted to show you my new, humble-and quite small-adobe....

Don't be fooled, this bed is not comfortable. It feels like cardboard...something I have to deal with for the next 5 months.

I'm usuing my study space as storage. There is absolutley no room for shoes in the closet (you will see soon enough) so this is where I have to put most of my shoes. It's okay, luckly, I don't mind being surrounded by shoes. <3

Yep, this is my closet. When I first saw it, I thought they were kidding- it's barely enough room for my coats, and I still have more to hang up (once I get more hangers)-but they weren't, they are dead serisous. I guess I could deal with it, I would make it work, but I have to share it. I don't know how that's going to happen.

 My roommate hasn't arrived yet, so I made sure to keep some room for her. I hope she doesnt have too many clothes because I don't have a clue what we are going to do. I had to put most of my clothes in drawers, which I hate doing because it wrickles them and I don't have an iron or a steamer...oh jeez. It's times like these I wish I was a Forensics major. They would never have this problem! It will all work out I'm sure. I just think it's funny...anyone who knows me is probably laughing their ass off right now.

 More of my shoes...Oh boy. I'm in trouble when my roommate gets here. New subject please...

....My new FEED bag!!!

For those of you who remember my Eco Fashion post from April of last year. I talked about FEED bags which are in support of Unicef (United States fund).

The FEED 3 Guatemala Bag was created in support of UNICEF's nutrition programs to help children recieve the vitamin and mineral supplements they need to survive and thrive. Sales of each bag will help UNICEF supply an entire year's worth of nutritional supplemnts to three young children in Guatemala-the country with the highest percentage of chronically malnourished children in Latin America. In addition, the FEED 3 Guatemala Bag is handmade in Guatemala by Nest, a nonprofit organization that empowers female artisans around the world. 

It's a wonderful cause to help support, it makes you feel good about yourself, and there's no denying how awesome this bag is. It's a fabulous bag to lug around the city! When I know I've helped people less fortunate than myself, I get a rush of excitment. I feel good about myself and that feeling never goes away. Everytime I use this bag (which will be everyday) it will remind me of what I did and the lives I helped save. 

Okay, I have to go now. The city streets are calling my names...I can hear it through the window! Bye.

Twenty.Hour.Train.Ride.

 

I have some good news and I have some bad news.

Good news: I'm all packed for New York!

Bad News: It took a tornato and a few earthquakes to make it happen...

...whatever, I'm so happy I'm done!

Tell me please because I'm not to sure if it's a good thing or bad thing that my life (aka my closet) is packed into five suitcases. Okay, it's definitely a good thing-a very very good thing-but it's still kind of scary. I packed my Buddha piggy bank that my best friend Alexa got me as a good luck present before my interview a couple weeks ago. I love it...thanks doll!

My sister and I ran errands all morning, getting things ready for when I leave for New York for five months. I don't know what it is with the number five (five suitcases, five months)...maybe a suitcase for every month? No, hell no, I could never do that. Anyways, I'm feeling a bit of everything right now, a little bit more excitement than anything else. Nervousness; at times I feel as though I'm going to puke but it goes away within a couple seconds so it's okay. haha ohh to be me right now... 

...I'm in wonderment about this afternoon. My sister is dropping me off at Union Station in Chicago because I'm taking the Amtrak all the way to New York. Yes, I chose to ride a train instead of a plane but it was for the best. Besides the train taking about 18 hours longer than a plane ride would take, it was cheaper and it allowed me to take on more luggage for free. Taking a plane now-a-days with more than just one piece of luggage is horrible. I don't think I would have survived taking only a couple suitcases. 

Wish me luck! I have plenty of books to keep me preoccupied: This months issue of Marie Claire-of course- of Elle, and Vogue; Little Bee by Chris Cleave; The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson; ELLEments of Personal Style book (love); Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell (yes, for a second time); and Lauren Conrad's third book in her LA Candy series, Sugar and Spice. I also have a new and improved journal to document every thought that crosses my mind through this whole experience. I'm excited and pray that this ride goes quick and smoothly.                                     xoxo