Holiday Gift Guide

Hola Hola!

Only three days to Christmas! Have you gotten all your shopping done? If no, have no fear! QQ is here with a great line-up of fantastic gifts for everyone. Enter the QQ Holiday Gift Guide!!

For Mom: Beautiful jewelry by Rachael Ryen Jewelry.  All pieces are made by hand and incorporate semi-precious stones. I'm partial to the citrine, and amethyst! Must Have!

Dad: Dad doesn't need another sweater or tie. Give him comfort and style with chic loafers. I live this pair from Bloomingdale's.

Brother: I love the idea of giving something that will stay with you forever, like a class -- A DJ Class! Scratch DJ Academy has just opened its doors in Chicago. Now your family parties will be THAT much better! 

Sister: You always want your insta-bestie to look her best! The Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer – is a  miracle product! It is color-correcting, wrinkle-reducing, and dark-spot-defying! 

What are you wishing for this Christmas?!

Christmas Time travel

I'm traveling to NYC to see my family for the holidays. Can't wait to meet up with my friends.

Christmas in the city is one of my favorite things so your going to see lots of it!!

Online Dating 101

It’s hard to ignore the commercials: the wide eye couple, exchanging casual laughs and witty banter at a cool hot spot. It’s an online dating commercial. We’ve all seen them. But how do go from profile to date? As a serial online dater, here are some tips that will get you some dates!

Profile:
Your profile should give a quick snap shot of who you are! Make it light, flirty and direct. It should give your suitors a glimpse into your lifestyle and personality. Describe yourself as your friends would, but be concise and to the point. No one wants to hear about your baggage before they meet you.

The profile should follow this formula

• Who you are (in less than 7 sentences)
• What you are looking for (Ladies! Never ever put down that you are looking to “have fun.” Somehow, in a man’s mind that translates to “I want to have sex.”
• What your passion is (Lure your possible suitor with what drives you!)

Photos:
Let’s face it, when searching online dating profiles your pictures are the first line of defense! Recruit one of your closest friends of the opposite sex and go through your photos.  We are visual beings!  Illustrate your lifestyle through a carefully curated montage of photos. Include a close up of your face, a full body shot, an action shots.

Guys: Please spare the ladies from your self-portrait that you took in the bathroom. It’s not attractive and makes you look like a friendless DB.
 

Make a Connection:
So you read the profile, you are attracted to the photos, and now what?! Test the waters! Send the object of your attraction a wink or a poke. If that person reciprocates, then go ahead and start the conversation. A simple, “Thanks for the wink. Hope you’re having a good day” will do. There are lots of creepy people who will ask you strange questions. If it smells like a creepo, it probably is. Steer Clear.

Ladies: The male/female roles are more defined in online dating than in the real world. Men are hunters, if he is likes what he sees/reads, he will hunt you down and ask for a date.
 

First Date:
Before you go on your date, tell a friend who and where you're going out with. You must have a safety. Bottom line, whichever way you cut it, you are meeting a stranger.

Online first dates are a bit awkward, full of shy smiles, passing looks and (hopefully) laughs. After some back and forth on email, text and maybe a phone call, you agreed to meet to have drinks, dinner or just coffee. First dates are exploratory conversations. Do they match up to what you’ve learned so far? Are you attracted, and most importantly…Is there chemistry?! The Zsa Zsa Zsu, we are all looking for.  Not all of those questions will be answered on your first date, but if there is something there then go on another date. You will be more comfortable, and the second date is the make it or break it.

Second & Third date: If you’ve made it this far and there is still no chemistry, move on to the next one. If the sparks are flying like you’ve been hit by lighting then, go with it!

Online dating is about wearing your heart on your sleeve, having options, learning your likes and dislikes. Have fun with it, but don't it too seriously. It's all a learning experience. 

Proud to be an American

On Election night 2012, I was honored to have attended the Obama election rally in Chicago and be a part of history. I was so excited to have received this amazing opportunity. After long security lines, and on my way into the convention hall an Obama campaign staffer asked my group if we wanted to be part of the crowd of people behind POTUS (President of The United States) when he gave his re-election speech. Yes, please!

What I didn't realize was that being part of this select group also meant sitting behind the stage without TV's and little internet access. I know, I know-- but anyone would have reacted in the same way.  I managed to smuggle out of the holding area and get some of the election night action in the many events going on inside. I even mingle with some Obama supporter like Vivica Fox, Will.i.am and Star Jones (Ok. enough name dropping for one post).

The excitement was palpable when all the votes were in and President Obama walked out on stage with the first family. It was an experience I will never forget and a story I hope to tell over time. I've never felt prouder to be an American. 

Get the Glow - In Winter





 

Winter: The finality of sunny days and glowing tan skin. Or is it? You can't control the weather but you keep your skin smooth and glowing during this time of year. Below are some of my favorite tips and products to keep you glowing all winter long.
 

Wear Sunscreen:You may think sunscreen is only necessary when tanning on the beach or lounging by the pool, but even in the winter months the sun’s rays can still be damaging to your skin. A heavy sunscreen may not be necessary but make sure to use a moisturizer containing at least SPF 15 everyday. I love Kiehl's lightweight sunscreen. It can be price but its well worth it and trust me you will use it year round.

 

Follow a Healthy Diet:What you put on the outside is just as important as what we put inside. Eating a diet that is filled with Omega 3s, Whole Grains, and B Vitamins is essential to maintaining your skin’s youthful glow. I love a healthy, yet filling quinoa and salmon salad. Full of nutrient and taste great.

 

Stay Hydrated:There are a million different reasons to drink water but staying hydrated to help your skin may not be an obvious one. Drinking the recommended 8 ounces of water a day helps flush out toxins in your system, which in turn helps get rid of unwanted acne and blemishes. I love water but sometimes get bored. To mix it up, try naturally flavored water like HINT containing zero calories, zero sugar and no artificial flavors or preservatives. 

Keep Moisturizing: Having healthy skin doesn’t only mean having a blemish-free face, make sure you aren’t neglecting the rest of your body. Every morning after you shower and at night before bed you should be applying moisturizer to your entire body to keep skin hydrated. Also, it wont hurt to keep a bottle of lotion in your bag or on your desk at work for moisturizing your hands throughout the day. For body, I swear by coca butter because it works. At my desk and purse I like to keep a tube of l'occitane hand cream.

 

Beauty Sleep:Last but not least, you need to get 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. This will help keep off dark circles, puffy eyes, and keep your skin looking fresh and relaxed. 

Fake it 'till you Make It: Self tanners also help you keep that summer glow all year long. I like to apply a self tanning cream or lotion that will gradually bronze you. Spray tans are also a quick way to get you glowing.

Halloweeeen!

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays! Ever since I was a kid, I love dressing up. I've been everything from Cleopatra to ugly Betti. Take a look!What are you going to be for Halloween?

Twinkle, Sparkle and Bling

It's no secret that I am a little bit obsessed with jewelry. My heart skips a beat when I see beautiful sparkly, shiny jewels. As I was clicking through the internet, I was surprised to find an article in The Wall Street Journal's Personal Journal front page about the return of the yellow diamond. My love of jewelry is a hereditary trait, and my mom indulges in gifting me with beautiful pieces. For my birthday this year, I received the most beautiful citrine and diamond earrings -- not yellow diamonds but hey, I'm still blinging! Check out the yellow rocks below. Two words: I DIE!

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She's Crafty

As the days get colder, I'm starting to look for those items that will keep me warm while having a level of style. I found a great turban headband for those cold winter days. Living in Chicago teaches you how to dress warmly or else...you will freeze. So, when I saw this I thought why buy it when I can make it. Then, I thought why make it when  my awesomely crafty friend Lauren at She's Crafty  is an expert at all things DIY. Above is my inspiration from Eugina Kim collection...and below is the DIY from Lauren. (She made a two!)

Check out SHE'S CRAFTY...so many good DIY ideas! Thanks, LL!! Can't wait to wear it!

Hosting a Harvest Cocktail Party

October is the perfect time of year to host a Harvest cocktail party for your friends and family.  This is a great excuse to gather everyone before the holidays. To make the party planning a little easier, keep the ingredients simple and the drinks plentiful. Making creative use of the oven with classic autumn ingredients like pumpkin, caramel, and apples will leave your hands free so that you can enjoy a cocktail and the party! 

To create the warm autumn feeling for your gathering burn pumpkin or cinnamon scented candles, and create a beautiful but simple table top with season produce like acorns, hazelnuts, and seasonal pumpkins. You can do most the food recipes the night before and focus on decorating your party space the day of your event.

Check out my Pinterest for more ideas and links.

To Drink: 

Kissed Caramel Appletini

·         2 oz. SMIRNOFF® Kissed Caramel Flavored Vodka

·         1.5 oz. apple juice

·         .25 oz. lemon juice

·         .25 oz. simple syrup

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
Shake well. Strain into martini glass. Garnish with thin apple slices and a caramel rim.

Iced Strawberry Shortcake Martini

·         2 oz. SMIRNOFF® Iced Cake Flavored Vodka

·         3 fresh strawberriew

2 oz. lemonade

.5 oz. amaretto liqueur

Directions:

Muddle strawberries and vodka in a shaker.  Add other ingredients. Shake well with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a strawberry and a lemon twist.

Dessert Cocktail

 Iced Cake & Coffee

·         1.5 oz. SMIRNOFF® Iced Cake Flavored Vodka

·         3 oz. brewed coffee  (regular or decaf)

       1 oz. milk or half & half

   .5 oz. simple syrup

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well. Pour into a double rocks glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

To Eat:

Sweet Potato & Beef Shepherd's Pies

Pumpkin Sage and Spicy Sausage Pizza Recipe

Roasted Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

*This is a client

Good Girl Gone Bad

Hola Hola!

I wore this outfit last weekend for a night out. It's a twist on good girl gone bad. The details on sheer shirt and studded pencil skirt make all the difference!! Top it off with cool/funky hair, classic black pumps and voila! Sassy Friday night!

What do you guys think?

Glam Rock

My friend Z Money had the cutest outfit for #SundayFunday. Total Glam rock!

Five Fall Trends to Update your Look

Its official, the Fall Fashion season has started. It is that time of year when you are ready pile on the layers, pull up the boots and bring out the tights. Below is a list of the five key pieces you will need to update your fall look. No need to break the bank, you can find all the items for under $100.

 

 

1.      Peplum – The ruffle at the hip is what makes this shape wearable and flattering on almost everyone. It accentuates the waist and creates beautiful lady like curves. Peplum style is versatile, as you can wear it as a dress, skirt or shirt. There is no risk in this style, just reward.

Get The Look: http://www.lulus.com/products/marian-black-and-grey-dress/59178.html

 

2.      Leather – Mixing and matching leather into any outfit will guarantee cool points. The trick to leather is to try it with in unexpected style and mix with different fabrics.  There is no better  time year, than the fall to wear leather leggings. Yes, you read right.If that is too much, try layering it with a fur vest for a cool look.

Get the Look: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/frenchi-faux-leather-panel-leggings-juniors/3307926?origin=related-3307926-0-0-1-1&recommendationAttribute=IO

3.      Dark Floral – Flowers? For fall? YES! The key to pulling off this trend is to make sure the flower print is set to a dark background. Pretty pastels and whites are reserved for spring and summer. Autumn flowers are moody and full of attitude. My advice is to try this trend in an accessory, like a scarf or a wrap.

Get the Look  http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/aqua-poppy-flower-scarf?ID=646970&CategoryID=21314#fn=spp%3D66%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D28

4.      Moto – The motorcycle trend is here to stay and we couldn’t agree more. Wear a cool pair of boots or leather jacket and you will be instantly cool. Remember, moto doesn’t have to mean black, leather and studs. You can play with colors and textures.

Get the Look:  http://www.freepeople.com/studded-vintage-combat-boot/
 

5.      Collar Necklace – If can only upgrade your look with once accessory, we recommend getting a fantastic collar necklace. It will add an upgrade to your look and will put you in the “IN” crowd!

Get the Look: http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/zbrandskiosk/jewelry/apt_9/necklaces_pendants/PRD~1092642/Apt+9+Silver+Tone+Snakeskin+Collar+Necklace.jsp

Stranger Danger

Hola Hola!

It's been a while since my last post and during this time I've been gallivanting through Chicago, kicking ass and taking names. Anyway, It's still a (dating) jungle out there and this particular blog post is a warning for stranger danger. Here it goes:

The Background
A couple of weeks ago, while on my way out of Starbucks (grande coffee, skim, 1 Splenda w/ a straw) I was stopped on the street by semi ok guy. He gave me a compliment and a line about knowing each other from NBC in NY ("Nope. Sorry, I've never worked at 30 Rock"). I appreciated the courage and confidence so we exchanged numbers. A week later we met up for sushi and during the meal, he kept referring to everything as "real talk" while splaying his hands out in a feminine manner. I, for sure, thought he went both ways. I'm personally into manly men so "real talk" wasn't my kind of guy -- but I thought, OK maybe a new friend.

During the weekend "real talk" kept insisting on meeting up again -- at my apt. When I replied that my apartment wasn't suitable to host anyone he suggested to get a room at the W!! -- Hold up. What?! I was thinking about grabbing a drink -- not a room!

So, after MUCH consideration and hesitation (and placing a safety call to my homeboy) I had "real talk" over for a brief Sunday night drink. In his very feminine manner he kept saying how connected he felt. "We are, like, so connected in friendship level, a creative level and on a sexual level."
Say what, now?! With the most Queens attitude, I said "Listen, let me make this very clear. We are not connected on any level. Specially NOT sexually. I do not think you are attractive. We will never get it on. End of story, please leave." After the Queens Girl came out of me...he left. I thought that was weird! I erased his number and moved on with my life.

The Aftermath
Weeks later, I'm at work on a conference call and my iPhone starts blowing up with a NY area code number. I get off my call and think, "oh, shit. Somethings wrong at home" and without hesitation call back. To my surprise a woman answer and starts going off on me with a list of questions.
"Who are you? Why are you txting my fiance "real talk"? What is your relationship with him."

WHOA!!! (1. I thought he was gay, or at least bi; 2. Why is this crazy woman calling me? 3.Wow, my gaydar is really off!) When she finally stops, I give her The Background and tell her that her fiance was not acting like a committed man...and to save the drama for her mama. I'm out of this.

The Lesson
I hope this story has taught all of us a lesson. Stranger danger is alive and well. I think we have a sugar-coated view on love -- that it can be found anywhere -- but this is a scenario that has taught me to never take candy a phone number from a total stranger. Moving forward, all my interactions with guys need to have a third party involved. So, with that said...Does anyone know a handsome, successful, college educated brother/cousin/co-worker who might be a good fit?

xo
QQ

GLAMonday - NY Fashion Week

Tracy Reese was my first NY Fashion Week show and it was phenomenal. This season Tracy doesn't disappoint! We are loving the bold color and patterns. So QQ!!

My favorites are the neon trench and the monochromatic purple. Amazing!!

This tomato hot dress is MUY CALIENTE!!

The maxinista in me loves a similar version in the MM Couture or this lavender coat. I love the gold buttons! Shoes and accessories are the best way to add that POP to your look. I really like Jessica Simpson's shoe line. She is right on trend for less than $100. You can't beat that.

Cozy living - Apt. 2.0



The Pouf!



Breakfast Bar

 

Antique drawer knobs mixed with peak-a-boo tables from CB2

It's been a year since I moved to my humble abode and in that time I've added small details that make the apartment feel cozy, warm, modern and chic all wrapped into one.

I've added details like the Picasso print (recently purchased in Barcelona) and framed in an IKEA simple black frame. It looks great and is a reminder to explore the world!
You don't have to spend a lot to get the look you want. I love Overstock, for cheap finds. I was able to score the silver pouf and the breakfast bar tall chairs -- both for under $200! Another one of my favorites places for inspiration and good deals is Home Goods. I always leave that store with something. The silver flower votive are from there and they were only $10 for the set! SCORE.

Another simple swap is to change the knobs of your furniture. The antique TV stand was a gift from my mom and I thought it was bit country for my taste. But by changing the knobs (from Anthropology) the piece was transformed and is now one of favorites!
Side Note: The best way to incorporate color and life into your space is by adding fresh flowers. It really makes a difference! Try it.

Keep checking QQ for design tips!

GLAMonday - Shut your Mouth

For this week's edition of GLAMonday, bold lips! As in velvety reds, bright fuchsia lips and bursting oranges - I absolutely move a loud mouth!

 

I personally love MAC's Morange (Above). It brightens up my entire face. Check me out on the right wearing an orange hue.

Another favorite is Make Up Forever matte red. Every girl should have a go-to shade of red lipstick. Two words -- SUPER GLAM!

If the neon style is a bit much for you but you want to test out the look, I recommend starting out with a bright gloss. Bare Essentials BUXOM gloss will give you the hint of color and a burst of tingle that will give you Brangelina lips.

If all the above is just WAY too much...a simple lip stain can still add a pop of color to your lips. Tart makes them in a variety of color. Leave as is for a matte finish or add a dab of lip gloss for touch of shine.

SIDE NOTE: Remember, if your lips are bold, keep the rest of your makeup muted. You want to highlight one feature!

Now you're ready to pucker up.

Besistos,

QQ

GLAMonday - Nails on a Chalkboard

Happy GLAMonday! QQ is always trying to stay on top of all the beauty trends and in today's edition of GLAMonday, nails are on deck.
Nails are the easiest introduction to a new beauty trend. They can be in today and out tomorrow. It's so easy to switch it up and a great way to show your personal style.

For brave girls, I suggest ombre nail color (like Lauren Conrad) or even nail stickers.

Here's how to do it: Pick out four shades of in the same color wheel, paint your thumb and index finger the same color and then go down the color wheel and follow with your middle, ring and pinkie finger. Voila...Ombre nails!

I'm also OBSESSED with Kiss Nail Dress...Love the Black & Gold stickers! You can go wild and do all ten nails or use it as an accent nail. LOVE IT! So easy and they peel right off...

For those to like to side step danger, I say try a french manicure but mix up the colors. Light grey and dark grey make a great combo. Or see the rainbow below.

Side Note: Nail polish makes a great gift! Show your girlfriends a little appreciation and gift her a bottle of her favorite color. She will always think of you when she's getting her mani/pedi done.

 Today I'm wearing Smokin Hot by Essie layered with silver glitter -- Totally lovin' my look!

xo
QQ

This Weekend: Let's be Bad

The weekend is here and I can't wait to be off the clock and free to do I want! Although I tend to get into trouble when not supervised. Just a little...

This weekend, I hope you guys do what your little heart desires: Sleep in; stay out late; have that cheeseburger; dance the night away. Whatever makes you feel free & happy !!

Here goes a some of musical courage.


My horoscope is telling me that I should make love a priority this weekend. Maybe I should be bold and make the first move -- GULP!

Check out your weekend horoscope by (my favorites) the AstroTwins. Que Fancy!

HAPPY WEEKEND!

It's a (dating) jungle out there

Let me start this post by saying this: Being single is liberating, fun and you learn about yourself. I'm constantly meeting bachelors and going on dates. I have my elevator speech down and in a sea of awkward conversations and first dates, I have found real connections -- they are the exception. But it is a jungle out there...full of (horny and stupid) hyenas!

Last week - many weeks after our first date - I received a voicemail from one of these hyenas. In the voicemail, he very excited informed me that he had tickets to see Kathy Griffin and wanted to invite me. He also mentioned that the D Lister was dating his friend and we would go out with them after the show. I thought it would be a fun thing to do, so I said sure, why not. On the morning of the date, I received this long text that outlined an itinerary which included a time and place for us to "hook up" and then go about the date...This really happened. See the text below:

 I was floored by this text!!! Here goes my response:

If you are a single guy out there, please please think before you text!