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!

Living Room Essentials:

Living Room Essentials by nsaich on Polyvore

       I adore the eclectic comfy vibe this curated living room creates. If I had my way, my own living room would look strikingly similar to this image! I already possess a few of the essentials that I listed, including a  chocolate brown leather couch that is perfect for sinking into with a good book and reading with a scented candle near by. I also display my growing collection of rocks and geodes (via Gem Show) on my bookcase and coffee table for visual effect. Fresh picked florals from my garden make things feel more inviting and a deck of cards adds an element of fun! For me, the holy grail would be to own the striped rug (one day right?!). Until then, I will bask in the virtual idea of interior design bliss. What are some things that you consider living room essentials?

Yours,

Nico

Summer's Simple Beauty:

      College is coming to a close for my good friend Fallon and she has decided to create an "About Me" profile to put herself out there and show potential employers what she is all about! I felt honored when she asked me to take some photographs for her as well as do her makeup. I listened carefully to her direction and did my best to help her achieve her visual goal. We went for soft very natural looking makeup and I loved the easy application and outcome so much that I wanted to share it with you! 

      Fallon has lovely skin, so I only used a bit of pressed powder swept across her face, neck, and ears. I then applied benefit's high beam under her eyes and along her brow bone (I cannot say enough good things about this product, a favorite of mine for years!). Using Anastasia brow powder and an angled brush I filled in Fallon's eyebrows to anchor her face and used the same color for a light dusting of eye shadow. For the final touches, I applied bronzer to her cheekbones and a sheer pink gloss to Fallon's lips. You will find a photo of the products I utilized at the end of this post with a link beneath the image to more information. I only used six products to achieve this overall look and I thought that it would be a the perfect simple look to stay beautiful even during the hot Summer! 

Summer's Simple Beauty: by nsaich featuring a lip gloss

Yours,

Nico

Diptyque: Which would you select?

Diptyque: Which would you select? by nsaich on Polyvore

      After visiting the "fragrance museum" also known as the diptyque boutique in San Francisco, California I have become entranced and mesmerized by any and all of their luxurious scented candles. I took menthe verte (green mint) home with me as a lone souvenir from my last trip to the city and I really do love it's fresh and slightly spicy smell. However, deciding on just one fragrance has been an impossibility that my nose can hardly handle! So I have to ask, which would you select? I have to say that feuille de lavande (lavender) is high on my list and I may have to travel back to San Francisco one day!

Yours,

Nico

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

Sick Daze:

Sick Daze: by nsaich on Polyvore

      Nico is not in at the moment, her body has been temporarily taken over by the flu. But do not fret, measures have been taken to fight this nasty monster! An inundation of OJ, hot tea (with honey), and chicken soup should scare the beast away in no time! 

Sabrina's Sweet & Sultry Wedding Look!

      In high school you could often find me giving makeovers to all my best girlfriends. I may even have been on a few parent's hit lists after bleaching their daughter's hair! My friend Sabrina was one of my favorite people to work with, she had thick gorgeous hair and was always willing try something new and exciting with her style or beauty routine. Plus Sabrina always seemed to exude a mellow calm attitude while still being adventurous and cool. As young girls we had so much fun playing dress up and experimenting with the latest makeup trends so I'm sure you can imagine my delight when she contacted me about helping her create her look for her wedding! Weddings are such sacred and important days filled with love which is why it is so important to me that a bride look her absolute best! Sabrina sent me lots of fantastic inspiration photos to help me carry out the hair and makeup she wanted to achieve. The day of her wedding shower (and our trial run) we went with a bold red lip along with structured brows and a winged cat eye complimented by fresh flowers in her hair. I thought she looked ridiculously lovely and happy at the end of our time together and I was even more impressed with Sabrina's demeanor now than I was when we were in high school! On the precipice of marriage, just hours before she needed to be dazzling for her wedding shower, and dealing with all the stress and scrutiny that being a bride  can entail.... Sabrina still maintains that same sense of serenity and adventure that she always did. I can tell by her demeanor that Sabrina's marriage will endure anything with her strong and kind character traits. I just hope that I can create a look for her actual wedding that is as amazing and gorgeous as she is! 

Sabrina's Wedding Look by nsaich featuring mac cosmetics

Matthew Williamson hair comb accessory, $190 / Make Up For Ever / Lancôme / MAC Cosmetics / Christian Dior waterproof mascara / MAC Cosmetics , $22 / MAC Cosmetics / Diptyque / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics / Benefit nail polish, $25 / TRESemmé styling product / Pier One Peony Bouquet - Cream / Henri Bendel Round Bobby Pin Pearl Set


      I always strive to make the wedding makeup experience more enjoyable for any bride-to-be. Using my most loved, tried and true products is a must and there is no question over whether to use waterproof mascara or not! As a finishing touch, I love to bring several samples of fragrances with me for the bride to pick and choose from as well as offer her a dab of indulgent hand cream. With all the hand holding, hand shaking, and ring wearing one does on their big day... you want to make sure your paws are hydrated and elegant enough to display a sentimental ring! 
      For Sabrina's actual wedding day we plan on doing things a little differently so be sure to stay tuned! 


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!