The restaurant was GREAT! Well, at least the food was. My ruffled Miu Miu blouse caused a little jealously from a girl I wish I’d never met. I was sitting on the sidewalk patio with Jack talking, laughing and watching people pass by when a girl approached us. I noticed her off-white, silk Anthropologie dress and J. Crew leather riding-boots before I focused on her face. She was really pretty, but smiled meanly at me as she flipped her hair and turned her attention towards Jack.

I thought to myself, “Girrrrrl, I don’t need your approval to know I look hot, but your jealous glance speaks volumes.”

They spoke. I wasn’t really sure what the situation was, so I just smiled calmly at Jack and listened. I smiled (forcefully) as she walked away and put on an apron. She was a waitress at the restaurant! Jack looked at me and laughed a little. I laughed a little, too, out of both confusion and an attempt to avoid total awkwardness.

Apparently, she was he ex. I didn’t really find it funny. I nearly choked on my water. Why were we at a restaurant where his ex-girlfriend worked? I didn’t say this; I just looked back down at the menu. He rambled on and slipped that she had dumped him.

Things went down hill from there. He was nice, but I felt, almost, betrayed. No man takes a date to a restaurant where he knows his ex-girlfriend works, unless he a) wants to make his ex-girlfriend jealous out of bitterness of being dumped or b) wants to make his ex-girlfriend jealous out of some other type of bitterness. I felt ridiculous.

I didn’t kiss him goodnight. I’m not sure how I feel about the whole situation anymore. I was feeling pretty bummed about the whole thing until I woke up to a very lovely email this morning.

It was from Filippo, the guy I dated in Italy last summer. A guy that, had I stayed one more day in Italy, I would be madly in love with him. He’s 6’5’’, lean and muscular with curly brown hair, hazel eyes, and a chiseled jaw line. The thought of him still makes my knees weak.

The email was written in Italian. He asked when I was returning to Italy and if he could take me to dinner. Not only is he is the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen, but he embodies all of the romanticism that is Italy.

Ok, so now I feel a little better. Especially because I AM going back to Italy for a month this summer, and though I will be living in a small city on the coast, I rented an apartment for a weekend in Firenze (aka Florence, Italy) where I lived last summer. This is why I love Italian men…they don’t mess around. I already have a date in Italy and I’m not leaving for a few more weeks!

Tonight, there is a formal event at my school for the film department. It’s a showcase of all the big alumni films that have impacted the film festival circuit. I’m a little weary because Jack will be there, but I’m going with my girlfriends so they’ll definitely distract me.

I’ve got this insanely sexy black and white Herve Leger dress that I probably want to do a few sit-ups before slipping into; but paired with my gladiator Gucci heels—Jack is going to die. Am I evil for wanting to make him jealous? I’m going to go ahead and say no because I want to wear this dress and it’s not my fault if anyone gets jealous.  Wish me luck! I’ll let you know how it goes!

It’s my birthday today and this year is unlike any other. This is the first time that I’ve lived outside of Miami and I’m traveling back home for my birthday. Now that it’s rare for me to be in town, everyone was calling me to get together. Aside from the social aspect of the trip, I’m still constantly working and this trip was no exception. This year, I am in a very different state of mind than in the past and although I was on vacation and around my family and friends, I still had business on my mind. Maybe it was because it’s my birthday and so many people were asking me, “What’s going on in your life?” or “How are you holding up in LA?” that I started thinking to myself what am I doing? Of course, I got the urge to go into overdrive to overbook myself for work; I started making more calls and sending out emails.

Even though it was my birthday, I felt as though my professional ego needed more attention than my social life. I wanted to feel like the successful strong woman that I am and I needed to do something to make me feel like I was moving forward. That way, I could let loose and really enjoy the day. After a couple cups of coffee and some promising phone calls, I scheduled a lunch meeting with an old friend and business associate who introduced me to the Industry and whose opinion I care about very much. Dressed in the most rockin’ D&G high waisted pants and linen blouse, I felt in charge and ready.  Listening to “LA Woman” by the Doors got me mentally prepared as I drove to Akashi, a restaurant in Coconut Grove. This place serves amazing sushi and its outside seating is bigger than the restaurant itself.  We chose a great spot in the shade where we talked about what was going on in our lives over edamame and Japanese beers. The warm breeze was comforting as we laughed and talked about work horror stories and embarrassing moments we’ve shared. Through our bursts of laughter and eating, my friend looked at me and said, “You look great. You look like you are doing all the right things. Keep it up.” There it was.  Without even trying, just feeling in charge and being myself, my friend saw the image I try to project. People always say dress for the job you want and that’s exactly what I do.

We finished lunch and as I was driving towards my house to get ready for my birthday festivities and was delighted with how the day had turned.  As I blew out my candles and took a bite of my cake, it was a perfect end to a blissful day.

cheers…

I woke up at 7 a.m. I wish I could sleep more. I’m always thinking about what I have to do the next day, and now with the business, I have that much more to think about. My best remedy for not getting enough sleep is a good morning workout. It clears my mind and gives me energy for the rest of the day.

After a nice shower and a yummy, healthy, breakfast (which consisted of hot chocolate with milk and some whole grain toast with butter), I’m ready for my day.

This morning I had a casting for a print job. I had to be there at 11 a.m. and I didn’t want to rush. Of course, I don’t know what to wear. As I stand looking through my closet, I’m trying to figure out what would look model-like and casual at the same time. At model calls, they usually want us to look very simple and natural, but still fashionable at the same time.

Lately, my favorite pieces from my wardrobe have been my leggings. I have one in every color. They’re so comfortable and I can dress them up or just pair them with some flats and voila; I have a casual and fashionable look. Today, my black leggings will be perfect. They show my body, but are body conscious at the same time. Black always slims me down and looks good with, pretty much, any color.

My white Bebe top will go perfect. It’s long enough and the v-cut will show a little cleavage without being too revealing. My blacks pumps and gold bangles complete my look, and I’m ready. One last touch, another favorite: scarves. My black scarf will add that final, special, touch.

The casting went really well. Even though there were a lot of other models there, I felt confident in my black leggings. Being comfortable helps me feel more sexy and fashionable. It’s amazing how clothes give you different emotions and feelings about yourself. It’s like I assume a different personality with every outfit.

Tonight, I’m off to dinner with my boyfriend. I don’t have time to change. Maybe I’ll just switch my pumps to flats, add my black Zara coat, some eyeliner and I’m ready for dinner. I told you leggings were versatile. If you don’t own some yet, you need to get them; really it will change your life! Well, maybe not change your life, but it’ll make it a little easier and definitely more fashionable!

It’s just another manic Monday, well, sort of. I was a little nervous waking up today. I was invited to have dinner with one of my professors at university and the president of a TV network company that I would like to work for in the future. I’d been thinking about it non-stop all day and I’d given myself a few hours to get ready. I knew that I would have to somehow cover up my nervousness and wear an outfit that would give me confidence and distract from my shaky nerves. I searched through my closet and quickly realized that the best way to impress a future employer is by exuding professionalism. I needed my clothes to fit me lightly and not rub against my skin, making me more uncomfortable and nervous. I pulled out my long, black pants, a gray silk blouse with light diamond patterns, and my Ralph Lauren heels to accent my pants. I love wearing silk. It gives me an airy confidence that makes me feel more knowledgeable.

As I was getting ready, I received an email reminder from my professor about our scheduled dinner. I quickly skimmed it, and realized that I’d gotten the time wrong and I was supposed to be there an hour earlier than I had planned! I completely panicked. I wouldn’t have time to stand in front of the mirror and contemplate any changes I needed to make. I had to go; my professor lived at least 45 minutes away. To make matters even worse, traffic was awful! Completely, bumper-to-bumper. It amazes me how there are more cars than people in this town. Although I was annoyed, I decided to use my time wisely and finish my hair and make-up. At one point, the guy next to me in traffic gave me a thumbs-up. I took it as a compliment and gave him two in return.

I’m still not sure how this happened, but I was the first one there. I quickly took a trip to the restroom to survey myself in the mirror and check out my hair and make-up. In such a limited space as my Honda, I did a great job and impressed myself. As I walked out of the restroom, I saw my professor and the TV executive walk into the restaurant. My heart, all of a sudden, started pounding. I was so nervous; I could barely stop shaking. All I could think about was how happy I was that I wore silk!

My pounding heart and anxiety quickly vanished when the TV mogul introduced herself to me. She had such a warm smile that I couldn’t help but smile back. Dinner went by so smoothly. I felt silly for ever feeling nervous to meet her. To my surprise, there were no awkward pauses and we easily discussed all of the latest trends within the entertainment industry and how we think the future of the business will be like. At one point of the conversation, she even complimented my silk blouse. Coming from her, this blouse is a keeper!

Love always,
Mia

Where did the weekend go? If there’s one thing my good guy friends have taught me, it’s that the weekend isn’t over until you’re back at work. That means…one more night to enjoy myself! I’m currently listening to Alphabeat whose hit, “10,000 Nights of Thunder,” reminds me of the first storm I experienced in Italy. I was sleeping, and I shot up out of bed, early in the morning, because the rain was hitting the tiled roof so hard I thought the world was ending. I opened the shutters, stuck out my hand, and saw tiles falling off the roof and pounding the parked vespas below. Despite this intense memory, it’s really a great song! You should check it out. It makes me really happy, and the main singer is adorable. (The music video is super cool and artsy! Check it out!)

So, I know you’re all wondering what happened with Jack yesterday. He didn’t tell me much when he called to get my address, but he wasn’t a second late from the time he told me he’d arrive. As we got into his car, I noticed his blue plaid shirt fit so nicely on him and the rolled sleeves and just a hint of his chest made him look so much more relaxed. He paired them with some Armani Exchange dark blue jeans and some white Jack Purcell’s. I LOVE the way this boy dresses!  I wish more men would take a hint and attempt more style.

We drove towards the freeway, which is when I realized we weren’t staying local. He complimented my Free People tunic and I knew I had made the right choice.

We drove up through Palos Verdes and parked close to the shore. He grabbed a bag from his trunk, and we walked a few steps to the rocky beach. (By this point, I decided to leave my gorgeous leather ankle boots in the car) He laid a blanket on a big flat rock and we sat down. He pulled out some nice cheeses, crackers, grapes, a baguette and some sparkling water from his bag. This felt like Italy to me. A handsome and romantic boy, a wonderful and simple lunch, a beautiful view, and intimate conversation. It couldn’t get more perfect…or so I thought.

We sat there and talked for I don’t know how long. And then, suddenly it was dusk. He helped me up and we walked along the big rocks to this small patch of sand with a larger rock centered in front of it.
“Come on,” he said.

He helped me up on top of it, where it’s flat top allowed for comfortable balance And, thank god! It’d be pretty awkward if I ate it off a boulder, into the ocean, on our first official date. He told me to close my eyes. Reluctantly, I closed them, not wanting to miss the sunset.

His hand slipped around my waist, and he told me to open my eyes. Immediately I saw it; the “green flash.” It’s so rarely seen. It occurs at sunsets when the last part of the sun disappears over the horizon. I was in awe.

He smiled at me, and then he kissed me!

Jack wants to take me to dinner tonight at Open Sesame, a chic Lebanese restaurant in Long Beach. I’ve heard great things, and I’m excited to try it. Now the serious issue…what to wear? I’ve got this great Miu Miu silk ruffled top that shows off my curves. I think I’ll pair them with some dark Rock and Republic jeans and my black leather ankle boots again. (Hey! I hardly wore them yesterday because we were on the beach) I’ll let you know how it goes! Ciao!

Even though today is Sunday, I had no rest at all. My day started early, helping a friend of mine move. This girl has two cats and I think I found out I was allergic. I kept feeling like I was going to have an asthma attack. I helped out until about noon, and then I had to go home to get ready for two castings. One is for a four-day trip to Jamaica. That would be awesome!

My hair has been set for two days, so I’m having a really good hair day. I picked it out, and shaped it into a big curly Afro. My style is very bohemian. I wore a black and blue vintage top that I decided to wear as a dress. I chose my brown, leather, Steve Madden boots; I wrapped a leather string belt around my hips; and all my accessories are turquoise and silver. I blasted my favorite songs on the way to the first casting, and it put me in a more energetic mood. I felt like I was dressed to go to Jamaica.

I expected there, to be, at least 200 people waiting, but I was able to get seen in only five minutes. The casting director asked me for my comp card, which I happily gave him. He called me sweetheart throughout the whole process. I walked for him, oblivious to the other girls in the room. I was focused on Jamaica. The night before, I had a revelation about being able to make a ton of money doing runway and I wanted to do my best. I’d gone online studying the best Naomi Campbell shots. I gave my best Naomi walk and he thanked me, but didn’t make any promises.

I was late on the way to my second casting. This one was for a hair job, and as soon as I’m called up, I was immediately chosen. I am so excited. They pair me with another guy close to my height, and they start discussing the look they’re going to feature on us. It’s decided that bronze, gold and white will be our color palette. My hair is going to be dyed a soft brown color, and the male model is going to get his hair dyed blonde. We’re going to look amazing! We went over all of the details, since the show was the following day. When I finally do make it home, I need a nap, and just as soon as I can I need to scarf something down. I’m starving!

After being in Miami for a couple of days, I was completely relaxed. I was ecstatic to relax, while still networking for projects. Even better, I got a call from a production company that I’d worked for in the past. I’d heard they were in town, but didn’t expect to hear from them. Plus, they had no idea I was in Florida. At least, that’s what I’d thought. I set up a lunch meeting with one of the producers for the early afternoon. We would be meeting at a great Cuban place called Lario’s, on South Beach. I knew this meeting would involve a lot of negotiation, so I had to show that I was all business.

It is difficult sometimes, especially when meeting in social places, to make sure that the lines don’t get blurred. I had to make sure that I didn’t give off any impression that this was anything more than a business affair. I dressed in my most conservative Helmut Lang suit and pulled my hair back in a tight bun. I was the first to arrive and decided to get seated. I didn’t need the temptation of sitting at the bar. About 20 minutes later, he arrived, hardly apologetic and seemingly in a rush. At this point, I was pretty fired up and had almost convinced myself to walk out. I wish I would’ve been able to just order food to go and leave before he got there, but I was more professional than that. I took a deep breath and just went with the flow. I decided to hear his offer and take it from there.

He explained the details of the job. There were serious issues with the artist acting like a diva, giving absurd demands, and all sorts of problems with the director. The more he spoke, the more it seemed like there were a lot of ongoing issues mixed into this production. It was work and times are slow, but the project seemed unorganized and highly stressful. Aside from that, I would have to change my flight to stay two extra days in Miami and I’d have to pay the airline fee. By the time we were eating dessert, our negotiations turned into casual conversation about travel and food. As we finished our meal, it was clear that this deal wasn’t going to work out. He promised to keep me in mind for future projects and was sorry it didn’t work out. As we said our good-byes, I couldn’t help but feel good about how the meeting went. Although it started off a little uncomfortable, it ended up being a great lunch with interesting possibilities.

Until next time…

cheers…

I’m back in Los Angeles, and now it’s time to get back to work. I still feel so jet-lagged. My whole body hurts, but it’s a good pain, the pain of someone who had too much fun on their vacation. I really think I need another vacation from this vacation!

I need to concentrate now, and focus on my business. I have a meeting today with some investors and I need to prepare my business plan and create some marketing pamphlets. I’m still in vacation mode and I’m doing everything in slow motion. I, seriously, need to focus. Once my paperwork is done, I have to figure out what I’m going to wear to the meeting.

The weather is hot here in Los Angeles and perfect for my Michael Kors pencil skirt. I’ll get to show off my tanned legs and just a little bit of skin, but nothing that would give the wrong impression. For my top, I’m thinking something more conservative but feminine. I grabbed my Max Mara belted white blouse. The white will show off the tan I’m so proud of. I’m really obsessed over my tan. When I’m darker, I just feel so beautiful, like I don’t need to use as much makeup and the colors of my clothes just pop! I keep it simple with my shoes and choose some black pumps. I add a black headband, my stud earrings and I’m ready for the meeting.

The meeting goes really well; the investors are excited about Likida and everything is going as planned. Likida is moving forward; the extra working capital is definitely going to help with the marketing and production of my line of water bottles. I’m so excited. I can’t wait for everyone to find out about Likida. Oprah here I come!

Sometimes, it’s hard for people to take me seriously. Being a young businesswoman, I need to be confident, and what I wear plays a big part. The outfit I picked today, made me feel confident, yet feminine and age appropriate. I’m so proud of myself. I accomplished all that I wanted today and now I’m going to celebrate. A nice dinner and a movie sounds like a plan. No need to change, I’ll just grab my black jacket and I’m ready to celebrate. Life is good; dreams can really come true!

What a glorious day to be a model in the LA area! Today was a day that I’d been looking forward to all week. I’d been picked for a photo shoot in Manhattan Beach! It was the first time I’d been cast for a photo shoot alone. I wouldn’t be able to rely on another model, something I was trying not focus on. The overall theme of the photo shoot was vintage romance, and there were five different dresses for me to model. Even better, I got to choose the looks. I’d been given a certain budget to purchase the dresses that I felt best represented vintage romance. A shopping spree that every girl dreams of!

The beach was beautiful! It was my first time in Manhattan Beach, and I was amazed at how pretty everything and everyone looked. I saw girls in their bikinis playing volleyball, people jogging on the pathways with their dogs and couples holding hands, taking a stroll on the beach. It was as if I was watching a scene from “California Dreamin’!”

My favorite look was a red, knee-length, flowing sundress that had a flower pattern at the bottom and a black upper half. We were trying to play with fabric and make it flow in the wind, so the red dress was perfect for this type of shoot. Since we were on the beach, I was told not to wear shoes and model with bare feet; something that I’ve never done before. My weekly pedicures were definitely not a waste of money.

Simplicity was important in this photo shoot, so I wore no jewelry other than a pair of small hoop earrings to accentuate my face. During the shoot, I felt the wind flowing through each dress giving me a sense of freedom and comfort. Hearing the waves crash around me made me feel like I was swimming with nature, making my photo shoot much easier than I anticipated.

Surprisingly, my confidence grew as onlookers continually complimented me and even asked to take my picture! I overheard one couple raving about the red dress. Several guys stood watching, whistling and proclaiming my beauty to anyone who’d listen. Instead of making me more nervous, my confidence grew and I felt like a pro. I can’t wait to pose on the beaches of Jamaica and the Caribbean. I could totally get used to days like this.

The best part of the shoot was at dusk. Sunsets are breathtaking, and the lighting was perfect. That was when all of my energy was bursting out, and I kept experimenting with poses. As a model, there isn’t a better feeling than having snapshot after snapshot taken of you when you know that you look your best. A big part of modeling is improvising and feeling confident, and I knew that for once I was doing everything right. I believe the red dress contributed a lot to my wonderful day at the beach; I was able to use the flowing fabric as a prop and improvise a lot of poses. I always view photo shoots as an opportunity where I get to become a different character and step out of my own skin. I can experiment with looks that don’t always reflect who I am and I get to play around with re-inventing myself. Days like today are what make modeling so special.

Love always,
Mia

Saturday’s are usually a day off for most people, but in my industry the weekends are always busy. I have a fashion show today and I have a lot to do. Before any show I make sure to workout. I have these cute DKNY tights that I love to wear, because they make me feel fit as I’m working out. I like to run the stairs in Santa Monica and today it was really crowded. Once I was done I went to the spa to get a facial and a full body exfoliation. It sounds like a lot, because it is. I only pamper myself like this right before a show. Tonight I’ll be wearing a wig, so at least I don’t have to worry about my hair.

The spa took longer than planned and I rushed home to get dressed. LA traffic is around-the-clock and now I was behind schedule. Luckily, I already thought about what I was going to wear. I had this short, silk, multi-colored Roberto Rodriguez dress that I usually wore during the day, but was perfect to dress up for the evening. It’s a favorite because it’s comfortable, but still cute and fashionable for going out after the show. I’m going to be there for at least 12 hours so I dash around grabbing some comfy slippers for backstage and a magazine to read while I get my make-up done. As usual traffic took forever, but I made it to the venue just in time to catch someone leaving right out front, so I didn’t have to pay for valet. Thank God!

When I get inside I go right for the clothes to get an idea of what I’ll be wearing. I look through the racks and find my name and my three looks for the night. My first walk down the runway, I’ll be wearing these funky jeans with a wife beater. The second look is a strapless, red organza dress with a flared skirt. I couldn’t wait to strut my stuff in it. My last look is a gold cocktail dress with an empire waist. Cute, but it didn’t touch the red dress. I brought black patent leather stilettos that I planned to pair with every look.

After a run-through of the show, I immediately go to make-up where it’s decided that my look will incorporate lots of hot pink, purple and silver. Not your every day look, but it turns out beautiful. Fashion shows always have a way of making everything look like a dream.

Finally, it’s time for the show and right before we go on we all meet Julie Newmar, the first Catwoman. I think she’s a partner in this new fashion line, and she is amazing. The DJ starts blasting The Tings Tings, and we all line up. It’s show time!

Seriously, this was one of the best shows ever! The crowd was hype and everybody really got into it. On our last walk down the runway there was so much excitement. I thought some of the models were going to start dancing right there on stage. Everyone couldn’t wait to go the club afterwards and we all left with a gift bag. It’s really late and even though I have another busy day tomorrow I can’t help it, I have to go out!

Could Jack be any more romantic?

I’d been looking out for him and was glad I had to sit at the entrance table taking tickets. My heart skipped a beat when he finally walked in. He wore a well-fitted black suit, white dress shirt, and a dark red paisley skinny tie. My red, Vera Wang, dress draped perfectly across my body and I was secretly happy that we matched. He looked like a million dollars; I felt like a million dollars. My boss was sitting right next to me and though she was distracted, Jack and I weren’t really able to talk. He disappeared and I spotted him across the room writing a note against the wall. I grinned and watched him head back in my direction. He reappeared and discreetly passed me a note. Of course, I smiled. My palms were starting to sweat which could have meant disaster for my dress if the problem spread. I excused myself to the restroom.

The ceremony was just beginning, which meant the restrooms were empty. I opened the crinkled paper that hopefully my sweaty palms hadn’t smeared.

“Gabriella,
Ever since I saw you sitting on the grass in that yellow dress I couldn’t shake your image from my mind. Seeing you up-close at the club last night—well, your beauty was breathtaking. I’d like to take you out tomorrow afternoon for a picnic, if you’re available. Slip me your phone number when I come out to ask you where the bathroom is.  —Jack”

Ok. What is this? A movie? I couldn’t have written a script more romantic than this. This guy is golden! I washed my hands and dried them thoroughly, grabbing some extra towels just in case. He came out just like he said he would, and I slipped him my phone number on the back of a ticket stub. I sat there daydreaming and was startled back into reality when my phone started to vibrate.

It was a text message, from Jack: “You look so beautiful tonight. I wish we could get out of here and go grab something greasier to eat than the dry chicken they’re serving. But, I‘m stuck.”

So, coffee didn’t happen that night, but it didn’t matter. I’d gotten lots of compliments on my dress, but the only compliment that really mattered to me was Jack’s.

Of course, I’m already thinking about tomorrow. I think I’ll wear this great Free People tunic. It flows like that yellow dress Jack remembers, and it’s got a great paisley print. It’s comfortable and the straps criss-cross over my back showing just enough skin. It’ll go perfectly with these great 6126 black leggings I picked up. As for shoes, I’m thinking my leather ankle boots from Florence will be perfect—just enough to make me feel like a true rock star. For added sex appeal I’ll wear my hair in a messy bun so my sexy back straps can be seen. Ah, the clock is ticking. I need to go to bed so tomorrow can come even quicker!

Waking up this morning to the aroma of homemade Cuban coffee, the sounds of the Buena Vista Social Club and my family stirring, gave me a warm, familiar, feeling that I had been longing for. It’s those mixed emotions, that only come from being home, that comfort me and push me towards my dreams at the same time. It was nice to walk into the kitchen, where my mom was frocked in one of her favorite Dolce dresses on the phone, with the aroma of coffee in the air. Even though it was Mother’s Day, I felt like the special guest of the house. My mom was so fabulously dressed because we were heading out to brunch. Ah, yes, the famous Mother’s Day Brunch; a yearly event where I crave things like deviled eggs, smoked fish and endless mimosas. Needless to say, aside from my obvious excitement, I was concerned with the little issue of the ten pounds I was sure to gain after going through the buffet line multiple times. Seriously, I needed camouflage. And, because I’m a foodie and a fashonista, I’m always prepared for events like these. I wore my antique white skinny jeans, Ralph Lauren baby doll shirt and Steve Madden heels. I had the right amount of tight, but enough hidden wiggle room to eat my heart out.

My mom, two sisters, niece and I, lunched at the Biltmore Hotel. Walking into the Biltmore is like walking into a fashion show; Balenciaga, Kate Spade, Ferragamo and Gucci clothes were all over the place. The people in Miami are serious about shopping.  The walk to the table was like walking through a catalogue of clothes I’d like to buy. We all “window-shopped” by looking at all the people around us. While we waited to be seated, I told them why I chose my outfit. My sister’s face started to change, and before I could ask what was wrong, I realized that she had a high-waisted skirt with a tight thick belt. She looked killer, but it was definitely not buffet attire.  We all laughed about it, and from then on started pointing out all the things on her plate that might make her belt pop.

Towards the end of brunch, we all gave my mom her Mother’s Day gift. We’d gotten her the Michael Kors shoes she’d been wanting and some stunning Prada sunglasses. I almost wanted to keep the glasses. But, the best gifts are the ones you want for yourself! The look on my mom’s face was enough to make me happy. She was so excited about everything, it made me think, what a great mom; she had to put up with three very different and intense girls. Gifts can never repay all the things she’s done for me, but hey, I guess that’s why I get a chance every year.

It’s our last day in Hawaii. I can’t believe time went by so fast. I’ve had the best time. It’s really beautiful, and it’s a great break from my hectic life in Los Angeles. I’m thinking of getting a place here. How can you not fall in love with Hawaii!

During the day, it’s sunny and warm, and at night the temperature was perfect for walking. Can I just tell you, I never walked so much in my life; that’s another great thing here, you can walk everywhere. I wore a dress every day. I couldn’t even imagine wearing pants here. Plus, dresses are so easy and they make me feel so feminine, while being comfortable and fashionable at the same time. With all the styles, you’re sure to find one that fits your body. Even if you’re feeling a little bloated, just wear a flowy dress, fitted at the top and loose at the bottom, and you’ve instantly slimmed down!

For our last day, we decided to do some driving around the island and have lunch in the north shore, at the Turtle Bay Resort. Tonight, we’re going to the Polynesian Cultural Center for their famous Luau! I’m so excited to see the show; they say it’s one of the best.

Since I won’t be able to get to the hotel and change for dinner, I need a dress that will work for lunch and dinner, both casual and dressy. Honestly, I don’t like wearing the same thing for lunch and dinner; especially when I brought so many clothes. I really would like to wear them all. I needed to make a decision, otherwise we were going to be late for lunch. So … I wore my white Free People dress. It has these really cute yellow ribbons, which will go perfect with my yellow Moschino sandals. For dinner, I’ll dress up my look with my yellow Jimmy Choo Gladiator Sandals and some pearl earrings. After a little thought, that was easy! Just a couple add-ons and I’ve got a completely different look.

The Polynesian Center was the perfect end to my trip. The Hula dancers were so beautiful and they all wore a beautiful variety of flowers; the colors were amazing, and boy can they move. My dress was perfect for Hula Dancing; I could move freely and still do my sexy moves!

Tomorrow, it’s back to Los Angeles, but, not before I have another Mai Tai; they’re addicting.

My day started out like every other lazy Saturday; rolling out of bed, bumming around the apartment and watching some meaningless television in the afternoon. I felt like a couch potato. All it took was one phone call to change everything. My friend from New York called; she was in LA and thought she’d surprise me. We made plans to go bar hopping downtown, starting at The Standard Hotel. It’s my favorite hangout spot. I texted a few other friends about later and finally left my comfy couch and dashed to my closet to figure out what to wear that would impress my friends.

I didn’t want to be overly fancy and wear a cocktail dress because I knew there would be plenty of those types walking around downtown. I was aiming for a look that would make me feel comfortable, yet chic, like a tight-at-the-waist dress and a flowy bottom. I finally settled on my black and purple sleeveless dress from Betsey Johnson that I bought with a friend a couple years ago. It felt good that I still fit it. I wanted to enhance my petite size with heels, and to make me look leaner, so I grabbed my black lacey shoes, also by Betsey Johnson, and laid everything out on my bed. I tend to do my makeup first and then change into my outfit, that way I don’t get powder all over everything.

It was wonderful seeing my friend again and hangout as a group like we used to. Both of our lives have been so hectic with work, school and meetings and now that we’re coasts apart we haven’t been able to sip Cosmopolitans and catch up on life, like we used to do. Sitting on the rooftop overlooking downtown Los Angeles at The Standard was the perfect way to reconnect. I knew I chose the right outfit when one of my girlfriends couldn’t stop admiring my lacey shoes. They were such a perfect compliment to the dress and everyone couldn’t help but notice my style. She even wanted to try them on! I was kind of glad when one of the girls suggested that we stay at The Standard instead of bar hopping around town, because I didn’t want my nice Betsey Johnson shoes to get damaged…

Despite my best efforts I still managed to get a drink spilled on my dress. Luckily, it wasn’t a large amount, but it did stain at the bottom. Even though I wasn’t happy about it, I wasn’t going to let it ruin my evening. Ironically, the drink spilled on me when my friends and I were talking about where I got the dress. I guess someone in the crowd really didn’t like Betsey Johnson! Whatever. I still felt chic and sexy. While an outfit influences a lot about my mood, being surrounded by my friends is what made the evening so perfect.

Love always,
Mia

I love the feeling of being a night owl. Getting home late, (or rather, early in the morning) and sleeping until noon is what college days are made of. Seriously, good times! I have a few more hours of downtime, but tonight is another exciting night!

Yesterday at the club, before I could even spot him, that boy from my film class approached me! I knew that Marc Jacobs dress and my black L.A.M.B pumps would be an attention-getter!

When I saw him, I had to glance away I was smiling so hard. It was almost embarrassing, but I couldn’t help it. He was wearing fitted black Levi jeans with a white Gucci dress shirt, a skinny black tie and what looked like Armani loafers. I know: Man-fashion fantasy, anyone? I was almost at a loss for words when he approached me. A man with the confidence to wear a white Gucci dress shirt? And, to the club? Come on ladies, men need to know how much we love it when they show style.

The first words out of his mouth were about how stunning I looked. I couldn’t STOP smiling. Ten points for you, film boy, for noticing my style (his name is Jack by the way). We talked—or yelled, rather, due to the horrific level of the music. I found out Jack HAD noticed me first. Sometime last semester before I even knew him. He said he’d seen me sitting on the grass in the quad in an airy yellow sundress with gladiator sandals in the beginning of fall semester. I’d been playing guitar and singing with my friends, and he said he just couldn’t shake that image of me singing in that yellow dress. Kind of romantic, don’t you think? The power a single outfit can have over a man. I love it! It only encourages my obsession with fashion.

So, tonight is a formal event at my school for graduating students. While I’m not graduating this semester, I’m volunteering to sit elegantly at the front table and take tickets at the door. I love being the first person that everybody sees because not only do I get to see what everyone is wearing I get to take inventory on every cute guy there. Jack said his best friend is graduating this semester so he’ll be attending the formal dinner too. All the more reason for me to look my best!

At first I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to make the same impression on Jack that I did last night. How could I possibly step it up after that sexy outfit? Then, I found the perfect dress! It’s a red, silk Vera Wang dress. It’s strapless with an empire waste and it falls just above the knee. The ruffles of the hemline are so romantic looking—I feel like I’m in a movie. It’s a burnt red so I think my classic Salvatore Ferragamo black pumps and some red lipstick will really tie the whole look together.

I can’t wait to see people’s reaction to this timeless dress, but more importantly I can’t wait to see Jack’s reaction. If I’m wearing a dress this hot, I can only hope for an excuse to go out somewhere afterwards and show it off; maybe an after-event coffee with Jack? With this dress, I know I’ll have the confidence to ask him. Plus, it would be funny to sit in a coffee shop in a dress like this—people would DEFINITELY notice my style!