Tierra Querida

Colombia is filled with beautiful natural treasures. Just a few of these are the Andes mountains, both the Atlantic and Pacific sea and the Amazon rainforest. Coveñas is a part of these treasures with its perfectly clear blue water and white sandy beaches. It’s less developed than Cartagena so it is really great place for relaxing and disconnecting. To get to Coveñas, there is a small airport nearby or you can fly to Monteria which is about a 90 minute drive. Your best for accomodations is renting a beach front property to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets.

Outfits: Mar

Barrio Colombia

Barrio Colombia, Distrito de Artistas, is home to 36 artists that have their studios/workshops in this vibrant neighborhood of Medellín.  It's close to the Museum of Modern Art, which is also worth a visit.  After the museum stop, take a walk around the neighborhood to meet the amazing artists, view the colorful street art and support the local community.

Top: @lan.ark.ph Dress: Walmart

Checkmate

Who doesn’t love a good Target collaboration? The latest one with Rowing Blazers is a colorful and fun twist on preppy classics. There was a lot of cute pieces in the collection, but my favorite was this bright checkerboard t-shirt dress. I paired it with these white boots but it looks just as good with sneakers.

Dress: Rowing Blazers x Target Boots: Bendita Seas

Charleston

Charleston has to be one of the most picture perfect cities in the United States. Known as the Holy City, its rich history can be felt as you walk through its cobblestone streets and admire the collection of candy-colored, pre-Civil War houses.

Charleston’s food scene is incredible with an abundance of amazing restaurants. Local delicacies like shrimp and grits and she-crab soup are a must! I think it’s hard to have a bad meal anywhere in Charleston but some of my favorites were Leon’s Oyster Shop, Henry’s (get the she-crab soup and stay for the live music) and O-Bar at Oyster House (cannot miss their oyster happy hour). After dinner, head to Commodore’s for live music and dancing.

Only a two-hour flight from New York, it makes for an easy weekend getaway to explore the charming South.

Dress: Mar Sandals: Schutz Bag: Kate Spade

Spread Your Wings

There could not be a more perfect dress for Cartagena! Both comfortable and stylish- it was made for sunny adventures. I adore the colorful butterflies against the white background and the best part is that it has pockets!

Dress: Mar Sandals: Stuart Weitzman

Scarlet Fever

SALE ALERT! This outfit is majorly discounted right now- the pants are marked down and then an extra 60% bringing them to only $32, They run large and stretch out a bit during the day so be sure to size down at least one size. I absolutely adore the fair isle print and vivid color of this sweater- it’s a must have and also $32 right now. Grab them before they sell out!

Sweater: Ann Taylor Pants: Ann Taylor Shoes: Circus by Sam Edelman

Free As A Bird

I love everything about this dress but the embroidered bird detail has me head over heels! Set against the burgundy backdrop, the center front detail immediately demands attention. The puff sleeves and back tie closure also make a lasting impression from behind.

Dress: Especia Sandals: Schutz

El Castillo en Medellín

Much to the surprise of many, Medellín has its own castle that now serves as a museum. It was built in 1930 for one of the wealthiest businessmen in Medellín at that time named José Tobón Uribein. In 1942, after José Tobón Uribe’s death, the home was then acquired by Diego Echavarría Misas and his wife who expanded the home and filled it with art. It’s a serene spot for a picnic in its beautiful gardens with a view of Medellín. The entry fee is minimal (about $4) so it’s really worth a stop when exploring the city.

Dress: Bendita Seas Boots: Bendita Seas

Wonderland Dreams

Wonderland Dreams is an immersive art experience inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and hand-painted by Alexa Meade. Alexa Meade is recognized for making 3D objects look like 2-dimensional paintings creating an illusion where you become a part of this whimsical world by stepping into the painting. Get lost in reality as you explore the 26,000 square foot magical space and do not forget your camera! The exhibit will run in NYC through spring 2023 (tickets are $10 less Monday- Thursday). There is also a bar near the entrance should you just want to grab a drink and take a peek at the space.

Dress: Kika Vargas X Target Shoes: Circus by Sam Edelman

Santa Monica

It was my first time in the Los Angeles area and fell in love with Santa Monica. The pier, the beach and the laid back California vibe was a nice change from the urban jungle of New York. The Shore Hotel has the perfect location right across the pier and a few minutes away from the 3rd Street Promenade. It’s also an easy walk or bike ride from Venice Beach (Shore Hotel provides free bike rentals too!). The Misfit Bar literally has the best happy hour every single day- 50% off all cocktails. Established in 1959, Chez Jay is an absolute must (try the signature butter steak). Just a few recommendations to check out when in lovely Santa Monica!

Dress: Mar Sandals: J. McLaughlin (old)

Firenze

Firenze (or Florence) is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy with a rich history of art and culture. Its iconic Duomo is distinguished by its magnificent Renaissance dome that was built two centuries after the rest of the cathedral was completed and is still an architectural marvel. The exterior is covered in a decorative mix of pink, white and green marble, but the interior is pretty plain except for the dome’s ceiling. Walking the 463 steps to the top is worth the breathtaking views.

Meandering through the streets of Florence let’s you take in all the magic and history of the area. Paninis (I Fratellini serves one fo the best!) and prosecco are a must during your visit. Grab a pizza and a bottle of wine and bring it to Piazzale Michelangelo to watch the sunset. There are many museums and art galleries to wander during the day to view some of the world’s masterpieces. Florence will leave you charmed with its scents and beauty!

Dress: Abercrombie & Fitch Sandals: Laura Cepeda

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo di Milano (i.e., Milan Cathedral) is one of the most magnificent buildings I have ever seen. Its Gothic architecture and massive size (the largest cathedral in Italy!) are jaw dropping. Taking almost six centuries to complete, the level of detail and devotion is evident in its more than 3,500 exterior statues and beautiful stained glass windows. Be sure to check out the museum too (the entrance is included with Duomo ticke)- it’s absolutely worthwhile.

Dress: CLC by Corey Lynn Calter Sandals: Schutz

Live In Color

I fell in love with this dress as soon as I saw it. The bold and bright stripes, the beautiful, embroidered waist detail and the flirty skirt make this the perfect summer party dress. All the pieces from the brand Neubyrne are color perfection!

Dress: Neubyrne Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

Follow The Rainbow

This rainbow striped cover up is what happiness is made of! The vibrant array of colors brighten anyone’s day. I also love its versatility- you can wear it over your swimsuit or as a fun wrap dress (it even has pockets!).

Dress: Target Sandals: Raye

Comunas de Medellín

Medellín is made up of 16 comunas- this most infamous of these being Comuna 13. It has a history of extreme violence and poverty as it was a center for guerilla and paramilitary activity and gangs, but it is now known for its impactful street art and flow. Music sounds everywhere and the community is proud of its resurgence from its dark past. On the weekends, Comuna 13 is overrun with tourists so I would recommend taking a guided tour during the week to get know this colorful and resilient community.

Top: Mar Shorts: Express Sneakers: Adidas

Roosevelt Island

Whether you take the air tram or the ferry to Roosevelt Island, getting there is half the fun. With a history of asylums and prisons, there is plenty to check out on the two miles that make up the island. Four Freedoms Park is a memorial dedicated to FDR at the southern tip of the island with beautiful views. The ruin from 1856 is the former Smallpox Hospital that now is home to many, many cats is also worth admiring. End the day with a tasty cocktail at the rooftop bar Panorama Room at the Graduate Hotel.

Dress: MDCR Shoes: Castañer Bag: Mark & Graham

Storm King

Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, there is a beautiful and expansive 500-acre outdoor museum with huge incredible sculptures that have the picturesque Hudson Valley as a backdrop. Plan the perfect summer day by packing a picnic, hiking through the grounds and enjoying the sculptures at Storm King Art Center. On the weekends they offer shuttle service from the train station making it easy to hop on Metro-North to take the ride to Beacon.

On to the fashion, I’m obsessed with the sleeve detail on this white linen dress from Colombian brand Mantra Pacifico! It adds an unexpected whimsical touch to the dress.

Dress: Mantra Pacifico Sandals: Velez Clutch: Tania Foliaco

Splash of Color

This is happiness in a dress! The abstract rainbow striped print is bold and captivating The ruching is universally flattering for everyone and the short puff sleeves are perfectly on trend. To finish it off, the fluted hemline adds an adorable touch to the dress. I will be looking for reasons to wear this dress on repeat!

Dress: Alexis Shoes: Stuart Weitzman (similar) Bag: The Daily Edited (old)

Stella Jean

Stella Jean is an Italian Haitian designer that creates bold and colorful ethically sound clothes. She recently collaborated with the Barcelona brand Desigual for a fun and more accessible collection. Each piece demonstrates Stella’s love for vibrant prints and her commitment to celebrating multiculturalism. It was hard choosing just one piece from the collection, but I instantly feel in love with this flirty fringe mini skirt. This is a skirt I cannot stop twirling in!

Skirt: Stella Jean x Desigual Top: Target Sandals: Velez Bag: Tory Burch

Spring Is Springing

Spring is springing in New York making it the perfect time to visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to escape to for the day. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is my favorite section and is one of the oldest and most visited Japanese-inspired gardens outside Japan. If you can catch the spectacular cherry blossoms in bloom, you will be in for a special treat!

Dress: Mar A Mar Sandals: Schutz