I'm Not Bad, I'm Just Drawn That Way:

     Last week when I posted this Halloween inspired cake I also mentioned that I had the chance to dress up for an intense costume party. Well, here is my costume reveal, Jessica Rabbit from "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" I know Halloween isn't officially until tomorrow but I couldn't resist posting! I first purchased this sparkly red dress for my Freshman Winter Formal while I was in high school and not only did it fit last year for my Satan costume but it worked out perfectly for this year's costume as well. I'm not into spending loads of cash on my regalia each year so it's important for me to use what I already have. Have you figured out what your costume will be? Try getting some inspiration from your own closet first before purchasing something new that you will likely never wear again. Oh, and have a happy and safe Halloween!

     And in case you aren't familiar with Jessica Rabbit, here is a reference point:

Yours,

Nico

Men's Style Monday:

     Shahin Gutierrez is my boyfriend but he also happens to have amazing personal style (all with out any help from me!). I have never met a guy that is more adventurous and bold in their fashion choices. Will he wear purple sweaters? Sure! How about white snakeskin sunglasses? Heck yes! It's always fun to go shopping with Shahin because he will try on anything and everything! Trying on lots of options is essential to finding the right wardrobe. I think many of us avoid the fitting rooms at all costs as well as being afraid to try on new trends or styles because we think we know what looks best on us. But take a cue from Shahin, you never know what might look stellar until you try it on! Today Shahin is wearing a classic navy blue pea coat and denim khakis along with a tribal inspired plaid shirt and a pair of unusual retro sunglasses to keep the look interesting and current. 

Sunglasses- Goodwill, Coat- Target (currently in stores), Shirt- Target (currently in stores), Necklace- Self Made, Pants- Forever 21 (currently in stores), Bag- Nordstrom Rack, Shoes- Shoe Biz

     Do you avoid the fitting rooms like me or do you like to try on everything like Shahin?

Yours,
Nico

A Case Of The Stares:

     Just the other day I was unloading my box of winter clothing that has been in hibernation all Summer. Although the sunnier days are my most favorite, I was happy to find a few bits of warm weather clothing from last year that brought a smile to my face. Like this sweater dress, which was a major score at Marshall's last year but it was a bit too long for my taste. I had it hemmed and the new length makes it a garment that I will love wearing this year and hopefully (if I take good care of it) winters to come! 

Hat- Forever 21, Coat- Kenneth Cole Reaction, Sweater Dress- Calvin Klein, Watch- Michael Kors, Charm Bracelet- Juicy Couture, Bag- Vintage Coach, Shoes- Michael Michael Kors, Sunglasses- Vintage Gucci

Yours,
Nico

Winter Reading:

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card, I have read this several times thru out my life
and I love it! The world is at war with an alien race and young children are being
trained for space combat, a great read for young adults and guys. When I found out
 the movie was going to be released next year (starring Harrison Ford!) I knew I had
 to reread it again!

      My friend Ivana (over at Macaroons & Pearls) has been posting about her latest reads and I thought to myself "What a wonderful idea!" Since the rainy season is upon us, I know I will be spending less time in my garden and more time inside reading books. Although my physical body will be wrapped up in a fuzzy blanket accompanied by a hot cup of tea, my imagination (with the help of a few books!) will be off having amazing adventures and learning new knowledge. I have a very eclectic taste in books so I am sure there is a subject for everyone in my selection. Take a quick peek at what I am reading now and I will let let you guys in on my reviews in a few weeks! 

I found this in an old box and I'm excited to read local ghost stories
 by candle light in the coming days before Halloween.

I found Style by Lauren Conrad in a discount bin and decided to give Lauren
Conrad a chance. I never watched The Hills or Laguna Beach so I don't know much about her but I love her clothes in all the tabloid magazine pictures that I see in the grocery store!

Lemons and Lavender  by Billee Sharp: I admit that I have already begun reading this one. Full of interesting content on a variety of subjects like how to start your own garden, start a budget, making your own holiday gifts, and plenty of other ways to reduce your home spending, how to utilize the environment, and live better! I can't wait to pick it up again to be honest. 

Gemstones of the World by Walter Schumann: I have been constantly reading this book for several weeks now and will continue to do so for a long time. Full of information about minerals and precious stones including great color photos. Really fantastic guide if you are interested in what makes up our earth!

     I hope you guys could find a good book to cozy up with! Here's a recipe that might help keep you warm as the days cool down:

Magic Ingredients:
-2 cups hot earl grey tea
-1 orange
-honey (to taste)
(serves 2)

Directions:
1: Cut two slices of orange to garnish each cup of citrus tea, juice the remainder of the orange.
2: Pour the hot tea into two cups, split the juice of the orange between the servings, and add honey to taste (I prefer lavender), garnish with orange slices.
3: Sip and enjoy with a good book! (PS, you could add a shot of whiskey if you're into that too!)

Yours,
Nico

A Haute Halloween:

(Dia De Los Muertos)

(Dia De Los Muertos)

(Dia De Los Muertos)

      With Halloween fast approaching, I couldn't help but post a couple of my favorite costumes. There's just something mysterious and daring about masquerading for the night as something scary. However this year I opted for a disguise that's a bit more comical and fun! Stay tuned for a peek at my costume for this upcoming Hallow's Eve!

Yours,
Nico