I'll be your Valentino...

I'll be your Valentino... by nsaich featuring white home decor

      With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I find myself thinking of what helps me feel love. Conversations with friends and family, delicious meals, and pink sunsets would top my list. While I would adore receiving any of the luxurious items listed above (hello rockstud flats!), I know that Valentine's day is about the people and places that nourish me and not about the things that I love. 

Yours,

Nico

PS: You can stay connected with SatinAndSalt.com with Bloglovin, Google Friend Connect, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

Something...blue!

Something...blue! by nsaich featuring beaded jewelry

      I've been eagerly texting my friend Sabrina small details about her wedding day and I couldn't be more excited to celebrate one of the biggest days of her life tomorrow! I'll be voyaging to Carmel in the early morning to help Sabrina style her hair and make up (preview here) so she can feel and look like the most elegant bride! It still seems like just yesterday that we were dying each other's hair and doing make overs after school and now I feel so blessed to be able to contribute to one of the biggest days in Sabrina's life! Congrats to her and her husband-to-be Mike, I hope happiness follows you wherever you go!
      For some reason, I almost always end up wearing a blue dress to a wedding. I guess that's the good superstitious friend in me always wanting to make sure any bride includes "something blue" on her wedding day. Tomorrow will be no different and while I am wearing a second hand dress I found at Crossroads Trading Co, I wish I could be wearing the outfit featured above. I love the cerulean blue swingy fabric of the dress accented with jewelry that symbolizes infinite love, please make sure to click the link below the photo for outfit details!

Yours,
Nico

Live Fast Cause It Won't Last:

Live Fast by nsaich featuring a printed shirt

      Life just seems a bit sweeter when the month of March hits. Sunlight starts flooding my bedroom window as a welcome wake up call in the early mornings and I can't help but feel the need to seize the day! When warmer weather hits, you can typically find me using every spare moment that I can find to really enjoy even the most mundane of tasks. Gardening becomes a hobby instead of a chore and even doing the dishes seems pleasant while looking out a near by window at the lovely weather. There are so many little things in life to be enjoyed and taken advantage of, you just have to change your perspective. Side bar, I just got new prescription glasses and I am beginning to wonder if the lenses were made slightly rose tinted! Here are a few other things that make me see pink:

1: Super Nintendo- Growing up, my childhood friend Megan and I would spend any sunny day we could find out in the backyard by the pool. When it got too warm we'd head inside for an intense session of Super Nintendo. I like the idea of reviving that tradition but replace the pool with the Santa Cruz beach!

2: Floral Printed Gardening Tools- because a perky print makes potting and planting that much more fun.

3: Bright & Zesty Flats- Ideal for running around town and having adventures.  

4: Luscious Fragrances- I've been wanting to indulge my sense of smell lately with lovely scents and candles. Marc Jacobs "Daisy" seems to be the perfectly perky floral and if I could get my hands on a Diptyque green mint candle I'd be set. 

5: Insect Jewelry- I've been scoring inexpensive bug themed brooches at vintage fairs (styled with a floral dress here) and I've been wearing them with everything in my closet. Lately I'm digging those classic lady bug studs.

6: High Waisted Skirts- After wearing lots of layers all Winter, I'm looking forward to swingy printed skirts with lots of movement. 

7: Catch Phrase Sweatshirt- Lately I dig the idea of motivational catch phrases printed onto an everyday basic, like this gray sweatshirt. A constant reminder to stay on the right track.

Yours,

Nico

PS: You can always keep in contact with me on Twitter, Instagram, Polyvore, Pinterest, and Facebook! 

My Love:

My Love: by nsaich featuring tocca perfume

To My Beloved Satin&Salt Readers,      

      As Valentine's Day approaches I keep imagining the small indulgences that make all the difference in the end. I hope to pick up a tin of pistachio macaroons for myself because even though one of my love affairs is baking, I'd love to give myself the gift of no dishes to wash! I highly encourage each one of you to pick up a little something for yourself, just so that you know that you are appreciated, and loved by the one person that will always matter most in your life! If you need some ideas or inspiration for potential gifts, feel free to click the "My Love" link below the photo for my sweet selections on Polyvore!

Love, 

Nico

PS: I am now on instagram, you can follow me by clicking here. Mostly I love to post photos of shoes, baked goods, and bacon.

Impatiently:

Waiting for Spring.... by nsaich featuring a bow shirt

      I've said it once, I will likely say it 1,000+ more times but I am SO looking forward to Spring time. The frost melting away to reveal fresh floral print dresses, pastel polishes adorning my nails, and warm weather produce surfacing at the local farmer's market. Valentine's Day is also around the corner which is one of my favorite holidays! I never really need an excuse to tell others how much I adore them but Valentines Day makes my habits seem less unusual. I also believe that February 14th is one of those days toward the beginning of Spring where I get to create a ton of goodies to satisfy any sweet tooth! For example these peanut butter cups or some baked mini donuts. For now I'm waiting out Winter wrapped up in cozy blankets with a warm drink and picking out my favorite Spring style selections on Polyvore. 

     How are you hibernating these chilly days?

Yours,
Nico

PS: There are new ways to follow along with Satin&Salt! You can like me on facebook by clicking here, if you're into twitter you can follow me here, and on pinterest here! 

It's Raining...

Rainy Day by nsaich featuring alexander mcqueen

American Apparel zip up hoodie, $68 / theyskens' theory wool blazer / Theory blazer / Acne slim fit jeans / Ash sneaker / Yves Saint Laurent / Corinne McCormack / American Apparel knit beanie hat / Alexander McQueen , $270


This is what I've been loving to wear lately: 
1: American Apparel Hoodie- Perfectly cozy and warm, I'd love one in oxblood under my Christmas tree this year.
2: Knit Beanies- Another American Apparel favorite that I've been coveting.
3: Structured Blazers- I picked up a couple Theory blazer at the local consignment store, Twist. The fit truly is fantastic on these jackets!
4: Moody Lipstick- My makeup routine has been simple; tinted moisturizer, a bold eye brow, and a dark sultry lip. 
5: Luxurious Scarves- This McQueen one is a favorite of mine!
6: Prescription Glasses- Lately I've been digging my quirky glasses over the usual contact lenses.
7: Denim- Alloy is still my favorite site for purchasing extended lengths and sizes, there is something for everyone here and the low price points are incredible.
8: Sneakers- I'd love to add these shearling lined kicks to my shoe line up, style plus warmth in one!
9: YSL Muse Bag- Always on my arm, last worn in this post. 

Yours,
Nico

Sparkle & Shine:

     I took these photos a few weeks ago with my friend Igor. He asked me to wear red lips and to bring lots of dresses to the studio. I have to say, as someone who doesn't get gussied up that often that I was pretty thrilled to play dress up. 

      I also have to admit that this was the first occasion that I have had to wear this gold sequined mini dress. I purchased it right when sparkly new year's eve dresses were being deeply discounted at Macy's. Sometimes to find the better deal, you have to shop in the off season. I know I will get a lot of wear out of this glitzy number this holiday season to festive parties! 

(Dress- International Concepts)

Sparkle & Shine by nsaich featuring nylon stockings

     I especially hope to wear this dressy number to ring in the new year! On Polyvore I created a collage of what I would pair it with, sturdy boots, a masculine blazer, and red lips would be the perfect combination for me! How would you style a gilded dress?

Yours,

Nico

November Wedding:

Untitled #83 by nsaich featuring coach handbags

      Next month I am attending a Fall wedding and I couldn't be more thrilled for my two close friends Bianca and Johnathan! When I met Bianca for the first time she instantly asked me if she could show me a photograph of her wedding dress, when I asked if she was engaged she said no, but that one day she would be! Now that a few years have gone by since that initial ice breaking conversation, I have become good friends with Johnathan (Bianca's fiance') as well developing an even closer friendship with Bianca in the process. Currently we are busy creating centerpieces and displays for her special day (think deep navy, gold, and petal pink, plus a unique theme!). Their wedding also happens to fall on my birthday, which means I have two reasons to get all  dressed up that day! 
      I picked up this Kirna Zabete for Target (featured above) dress the last time I was out and about and I just know it will be perfect for a Fall wedding. I plan on wearing the dress with this coach bag that was featured in Tuesday's post. What do you guys think? I've still got plenty of time to put things together so I'd love your stylish advice! 

Yours,
Nico

Walking On Flat Ground:

Walking On Flat Ground by nsaich featuring wedge shoes

      Do you ever feel like this world is filled with a little too many twists and turns? Too many hills and mountains to climb? Me too, that's one of the reasons that I like to wear flats (the second being that I am already 6'1 and heels aren't necessary)! I also know that even if I'm wearing flats, it doesn't mean that I have to look any less fashionable. From bold prints, delicate ankle straps, or even animal motifs, flats are no longer boring or dull! Take a look at a few of my favorite selections by clicking the link below my collage! I think that you will find life's hillsides much easier to handle while standing in a pair of these shoes!

Yours,

Nico

Fall Favorites:

Fall Wardrobe 2012 by nsaich featuring leopard print handbags

      As summer comes to a close, I have begun collecting my fall wardrobe. I use the word "collect" rather than "purchase" because I have been scouring flea markets, vintage fairs, and my local Salvation Army and Good Will locations for the perfect additions to my cool weather wardrobe. Yes, I am still buying new things for Fall... but I am doing my very best to purchase carefully curated items at a very low price points second hand (I can't wait to show you some of my budget friendly fall finds tomorrow!). However, there are still some gaps in my closet and there are a few things I really need. Like water resistant boots for galavanting around a muddy campus this semester or a pair of sturdy ballet flats (my previous pair have gone past the point of needing a simple resole). And if money weren't an option at all, the above photo accurately demonstrates what would be on my most wanted list for Fall. Warm fabrics like soft cashmere and buttery leather top the list as well as versatile prints like leopard and stripes, what are some of your Fall Favorites?

Yours,

Nico

Saturday Grilling Day!

Saturday Grilling Day! by nsaich featuring colored denim shorts

      Summer feels like it's just getting started here in Santa Cruz, the weather is finally warming up and that means grilling in my book! Today I'm gonna be spending as much time as possible out doors cooking up some amazing food inspired by this post and catching up with my closest friends. While rifling thru my closet I couldn't decide what to wear today so I logged onto Polyvore to piece together my perfect Saturday Grilling Day outfit. Crisp shorts, a classy peplum top, and a panama hat to finish would be perfect for an outdoor soiree. 

      What are you up to this weekend?

Yours,

Nico

PS: Click the link below the photo for a full description of each item plus a link to the online store where you can purchase the garment or entire outfit yourself!

Summer Accessories:

Accessories by nsaich featuring indian earrings

Alexis Bittar jewelry / Kelly Wearstler cuff bangle / Tory Burch leather bangle / Michael Kors stainless steel jewelry, $310 / Cocktail ring / Dannijo collar necklace / House of Harlow 1960 antique ring, $71 / Alexis Bittar indian earrings / Kate Spade necklace / Stud earrings / Maison Martin Margiela brass jewelry, $155 / 14k jewelry / Dannijo bohemian earrings, $190


     In a hypothetical reality where I would never have to look at a price tag ever again, I think I would seriously purchase everything in the photo above. But if I had to choose just one favorite, then the Dannijo collar necklace would be coming home with me. Which piece catches your eye?


Yours,
Nico

My Summer uniform

My Summer uniform by nsaich featuring white shoes

      Ever since this post, I've been wearing variations of the same outfit. To me, blazer plus shorts plus converse always equals a win. 

Yours,

Nico

Chanel Nail Polish:

Chanel Nail Polish by nsaich featuring chanel nail polish

      Recently, while shopping for a birthday gift for a friend in the mall...I may or may not have snuck over to the Chanel makeup counter and proceeded to paint my nails with polish. In essence, procuring a free manicure using designer nail varnish. Please tell me that I am not the only person who does this?! I selected Black Satin for my nails, but you can view a full list of all of the colors you see here by clicking the link below the photo.

Yours,

Nico

Keepin' It Short!

Keepin' It Short! by nsaich featuring cotton shorts

      A few weeks ago I posted this on the subject of crazy and vibrant party pants, now I give you the spring and summer equivalent, shorts! I've already managed to find a pair of black and white shorts (in a tribal print no less!) and I cannot wait to add more options to my collection. Do you think you will be wearing crazy shorts this sunny season?

Yours,

Nico

PS: As always, you can click the blue link below the photo for full descriptions on each item featured!

Garden Party:

Garden Party: by nsaich featuring a flower print dress

      Over the last week I have been diligently weeding my back yard. My dandelion plants weeds had grown to over 13 feet tall and had taken over every square inch of space available. After I had that problem remedied I decided that the only way the place wouldn't end up in disarray again would be if I planted a garden, so I did. Admittedly, I went a bit crazy planting over a dozen different herbs, 2 types of edible flowers, as well as tomatoes (red and yellow), hot peppers, radishes, and bell peppers. I could not be more excited to cook with fresh herbs and produce this summer season! 

      I've honestly never been much for gardening up until now. My father would ask me to help him with yard work and I would tentatively assist him with digging, tilling soil and the like... trying with so much effort not to get dirt under my finger nails or get my jeans grass stained. Lately, I could care less about the grime and mud... letting myself fully appreciate how refreshing it is to spend time outside doing something productive. But after all the hard work is done for the day, I'd love to slip on this unusual zucchini printed dress by Dolce and Gabbana and attend a fabulous garden party! I'll just have to figure out how to get all the dirt out from under my nails before applying that electric shade of Nars yellow nail varnish!

Yours,

Nico

Rain Or Shine !

Rain Or Shine ! by nsaich featuring a navy umbrella

      


      Rain boots have been high on my "Nico's Most Wanted" list lately, any one of these pairs would do! And don't forget the umbrella to match.


Yours,
Nico

Top it off

Top it off by nsaich featuring a leopard print long sleeve shirt

      Recently while rifling thru my closet I realized that I own quite a few separates that don't really have any tops that go with them which is when I thought to myself... what are the essential shirts every girl should own? Every woman knows that she should own a "little black dress," but does she know what tops she simply MUST have in her closet? As a result I got brainstorming and here is what (I believe!) are the essentials:

1: White Sequin Tank- Ideal for layering under blazers for a night downtown or for wearing with colored denim during the day! I feel like dressy sequins mix perfectly with casual white for a truly versatile piece. 

2: Striped Top- Stripes are a forever print that never goes out of style and can easily be worn year round. I like three quarter sleeves because the cut works in both the Spring and Summer as well as a layering piece in the cooler months. (See how I styled stripes with florals in this post, and click here for a windy weather look)

3: Leopard Print Silk Button Up- Great day to evening top! Wear it buttoned to the top with a cami under neath and a blazer over top for the office. At night, remove the blazer and roll up your sleeves! 

4: Red (Slightly Sexy) Top-  Like walking into the room wearing a red dress, I feel like a sexy red top evokes the same effect. I like the idea of choosing a style that isn't too dressy so that it can be worn during the day as well with skirts, jeans, or slacks and a blazer. 

5: White Silk Button Up- I don't think I need to speak much on how a white button up is an excellent multitasker in your closet. However, I LOVE how overly sexy items (like my sequined gold disco shorts!) are instantly made classy by pairing them with a white button up and conservative heels. 

6: A Uniquely You Top- The example I have above might not be a universal style but it is very much me. I think its important to have a couple of pieces that don't follow trends but rather, what you would naturally gravitate toward. This is what makes personal style. 

7: Floral Print Blouse: Floral is another print that always returns each spring, find one you love and wear it for years! I prefer darker floral prints because then you can wear them in the Winter as well and still look seasonally appropriate. 

8: Polka Dot Blouse- (Yet again!) Another print that is never really out of trend. Dressed up, polka dots can give off a pin up vibe. Dressed down, polka dots seem effortless and casual. Stick with black and white color combinations, they tend to match more! (See how I styled polka dots: 1 & 2

9: Chambray Button Up- Just like your denim jeans, a chambray top will match everything. For spring, I'd love to wear one with colored denim or as a light weight jacket over sun dresses!

*Tip- Please click the link below the photo for details on each item!

Yours,

Nico

FOR A RAINY DAY:

SATIN&SALT by nsaich featuring crochet tights

      Contrary to the fact that it is officially spring, Santa Cruz has been gifting me with heavy rains. With dark clouds and fog looming I thought I would create an outfit on Polyvore inspired by the Morton Salt girl, who is always dressed appropriately (and fashionably!) despite dismal and dreary weather. I know her usual slogan is "When it rains, it pours," but knowing that I am a glass half full kind of girl I thought "When it rains... there is a rainbow afterwards." would be more fitting. 

Yours,

Nico

Converse Wheel of Color

Converse Wheel of Color by nsaich featuring converse shoes

      With the temperatures increasing so is my desire to get outside and run around. Converse sneakers are perfect with casual denim or a spring time dress. Now the only problem is deciding on a color... What's your favorite?

Yours,

Nico