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Dressing boys can be fun – with celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

Posted on by Posted in Mommy Approved, The Best You .

Who says boys are no fun to dress?!
bow tie

Les Gamins G&R bow tie

Being a woman and a mom, I’ve always incorporated boyish elements into my code of dress.  So when I became a mother to two boys, it was a thrill for me to be able to create cool boy looks and drape them on my lovable, little monkeys.

It can be challenging to find stylish duds for little men. I do find that there is a lack of good options when i walk into independent kids clothing boutiques.

For high street stores like Zara Kids, they do have quite a good array of options when it comes to basics – ie: your skinny black jean, lowered crotch jeans and nice thin cotton t-shirts.   But when it comes to unique pieces to layer, it can seem like you have to search high and low before finding that perfect piece.  Here are a few designers and pointers that will make your fashion hunt a lot easier.

  1.  Remember not to shy away from fun patterns when dressing boys.  Mix and match and have a blast – after all you’re only a kid once. (I think…)
  2.  Kids can wear boy ties too!  A nice way to dress up a boys look for a special occasion or dinner out is by choosing a bow tie with a playful pattern. I really like skulls on little boys.  Check out the bow ties below.  My favorite label is Les Gamins G&R.  They are available online…get yours while they last!
  3.  Just like for women shoes are also a hot accessories for boys. They add personality to any little ensemble. Vans are definitely my go-to, but check out AKID as well for some great styles.
  4.  HAVE FUN – these petit munchkins won’t always let you style them so take advantage while you can!

 

 

 

Mama’s still got it! And celeb stylist Alissia Marciano tells you how to wear it for Mother’s Day

Posted on by Posted in The Best You .

As mothers and women we should never want to sacrifice style for comfort. But I do understand, being a mother myself, that wearing 6 inch heels is not always conducive to running around after our kids.

I’ve found that it is possible to look chic and feel comfortable at the same time amidst our motherly challenges;)  The trick is to look like a lady but be able to play with the boys. It really is no fun it we can’t get a little dirty…..

Here are a few tips and options for stylish and effortless ensembles to wear on Mother’s Day.

1. A great option instead of wearing a long dress (which may get in the way, or tripped upon) is a jumpsuit.  It’s effortlessly chic. You may even find yourself falling asleep in them:)  Add your own personal touch by choosing your favorite color and texture in a belt.

navy jumper - mommy looks

Jumpsuit by Electric Feathers

mommy looks - cream Crane jumpsuit $235

Jumpsuit by Black Crane

2.  Some of us are so comfortable in our jeans.  Even though I’m a HUGE advocate to dressing up there are a few exceptions to my style rules.  If you wear black or dark blue skinny denim and pair it with a luxurious silk Kimono jacket then the entire casual denim look can be transformed into an exotic Mother’s Day outfit.

Printed Kimono Court by Cher Michel Klein

Printed Kimono Court by Cher Michel Klein

3.  I’m always on the hunt for a unique stripe.  This cocktail dress is perfect for a Mother’s Day brunch.  This style and silhouette are extremely flattering on every body type.

Dali Stripe Claire dress by Samantha Sung

Dali Stripe Claire dress by Samantha Sung

4. A Bohemian-inspired skirt look.  Feel like channeling your inner hippie child? Or simply cannot get enough of embroidery when the hotter months are upon us?  Well, Isabel Marant is the queen of this vibe.  Pair this look with a pair of K Jacques and the South of France for Mother’s Day awaits you:)

 Etoile Vince Top by Isabel Marant, Etoile White Vittoria Skirt by Isabel Marant, Sandals by K Jacques

Etoile Vince Top by Isabel Marant, Etoile White Vittoria Skirt by Isabel Marant, Sandals by K Jacques

5.Dare to wear:  For those of us who like to be a little more daring – this pant look is the perfect ensemble to make a lasting impression.

Top and Pants by Electric Feathers

Top and Pants by Electric Feathers

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

5 awesome things to do this Mother’s Day

Posted on by Posted in Urban Suburban Mommy .

What does Mother’s day mean to you?


image

It means something different to me now, compared to when I was a child. In the past it was a day to honor my mother and shower her with flowers and a gift – which i still do even though now we live thousands of miles apart.

I’m sure she loved the thoughtful gestures that my brother and I did every year, but the truth is we really had NO idea how fortunate we were to have such an amazing woman raise us. Looking back, she made everything look so effortless. I have an enormous amount of love and gratitude for my mother and really reflect upon motherhood each Mother’s Day.

Reflecting on motherhood isn’t something I did prior to having children. Being a mom is hard work. There is no rule or guide book that works magic on every child. You make things up as you go along, with the guidance of family and loved ones, but it’s your inner gut that navigates you through this wonderful journey called life/motherhood. As a mother what makes me feel fulfilled and happy is seeing my boys wild, happy and of course, well behaved;). The three of us are happiest when we’re on an adventure in nature. The boys are able to roam around freely and explore, thus keeping us grounded and thankful for the beauty that surrounds us.

Here is a list of 5 activities and some recommendation destinations that will take your Mother’s Day to the next level. Hold onto to your adventure hat…it might get a little bumpy!

1. Camping: Canada: Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island; Tobermory, Ontario.
USA: The Joshua Tree National Park

2. Surfing: Canada: Tofino, B.C.
USA: areas close to LA – Topanga, Venice, Sunset or Malibu

3. Nature walk: Canada: The National Trail; Niagara on the Lake Waterfront Trail. I
USA: Solstice Canyon and Sycamore Canyon near LA

4. Waterfall hunting: Canada: Shannon falls Provincial Park, BC.
USA: Havasupai Falls, Arizona

5. Star gazing with your boys: Set up a little viewing deck area outside with cozy blankets and pillows, prepare some hot chocolate with marshmallows and sit back and relax while the stars shine above!

image

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

What mama secretly wants for Mother’s Day

Posted on by Posted in Urban Suburban Mommy .

Mother’s Day. Because one day a year we need to be forced to stop doing all of the looking after and let them dote on us without feeling guilty that we’re not doing all of the work. I love the cards, and kisses, and hand-made crafts and attempts at breakfast in bed.

But along with those lovely keepsakes there may or may not be a significant other that buys a thoughtful gift, plans a brunch, permits a sleep-in, coordinates a house-cleaning or does some other pleasantly surprising thing to help us celebrate Mother’s Day. Urban Suburban Mommy asked contributors what tops their list this Mother’s Day – A want, a need and a dream.

AlissiaFashion & Lifestyle Expert
Alissia Marciano 

A Want: I want to provide my boys with the most adventurous and unique life possible by traveling up and down the coast of California in an airstream.

A Need: I need to have an adventure in nature on a regular basis.  Whether its camping, surfing, hiking or getting lost in the desert or forest it keeps me grounded, happy and inspired.

A Dream: To travel to Morocco, drive to the coast and surf with my partner and then one day with my boys.

erica with clientHair & Beauty Expert
Erica Wearing

A Want: Being on my feet all day long at the salon and on the run with my little guy  can leave my body achey and my feet  tired

What Momma wants is a good foot rub

A Need: What Momma needs is a mani pedi 💅🏻

A Dream: And what my dream would be is to have a day at the spa indulging in a full body massage  and any other treatment that will leave me feeling like I’m floating on a cloud

(Hint hint Daddy)

Now that’s a Mother’s Day 😊😉

alexis-head-shotLifestyle & Mom Experience
Alexis Nicols

A Want: Bradley Cooper cleaning my bathroom while I sip a chocolate-tini.

A Need: Paying someone to clean my house while I sip vodka mixed with a blue Mister Freezie because we ran out of mix. I call my new drink “Anti-Freeze”

A Dream: Honestly, my dream was to become a parent. As far as I’m concerned, every day is Mother’s Day because every day I get to be a mother.

Krista HolmsLifestyle Contributor
Krista Holmes

A Want:  A day to myself! Seems simple, yet likely unachievable now that the busy season of work and fishing tournaments is here. Give me a day at the spa, a good book and a dinner at one of my favourite restaurants with my husband.

A Need: A housekeeper. I would LOVE to not have to clean or cook. Even just for a week or two. This is a close “wish” to my dream (and it’s definitely second in line for a dream – especially if it happened on a regular basis).

A Dream: A holiday. If my husband couldn’t get the time off, I would be more than happy to go on my own! (As he’s been on 3 “holidays” without me, either while pregnant, or since giving birth). The thought of having a couple of days to myself is enough of a reason to dream about a vacation, but ideally not having to cook for anybody, or do any housework makes it that much more of a dream.  Top if off with a delicious tropical bevvy and my dream is complete. (Ok, sunshine and some time at a pool would really help, but who are we kidding – I could easily vacation just about anywhere, anytime as long as I don’t have to cook or clean!)

Urban Mom4844 Elisa KeayCofounder/Editor
Elisa Keay

A Want: A car detailing. The kids make such a mess of my car. I admit, part of it is my fault, I let them bring their breakfast into the car when I’m running late or have a drink or a treat on a long drive, and it ends up mashed into the seat and floor. The leather seats need a treatment. The smell that has developed needs to be banished. The toys and schoolwork needs to be managed… HEY, wait – this shouldn’t count as a Mother’s Day gift or even a want. They OWE me a car cleaning since it’s THEIR mess! (Before kids, my car was always impeccable… is that too much to ask?)

A Need: I need a new bike. I hate my bike plus it has a wonky pedal. The kids are now at the age that we can start riding places as a family. My stupid bike is fine for popping out to the store or to meet friends for a drink, but it’s not comfortable if we’re going to head out for the day.

A Dream: A Porsche. I want a Porsche. A silver Porsche. Then I could drive over to Alexis’ house and help her watch Bradley Cooper do the cleaning.

(Wait. Why am I the only one not interested in alone time and a house cleaning? My house is a mess and I’m never alone – even when I pee. Nope. I want a Porsche.)

And I judge teachers by the crafts they think of for the class to make mom. The cards and gifts that last, that include a picture or a handprint in clay get bonus points. The ones that create big bobble jewelry for me to wear for the day also get points. The ones that make things too delicate for a 5 year old to manage getting home so that the day starts with tears and a hot glue gun, however, are the ones that inspire me to feed said 5 year a cappuccino and two bowls of high-sugar cereal before sending them off to school for the rest of the school year.

michelle for mothers day postCofounder/Editor
Michelle Daides

A Want: I want 8 hours of uninterrupted blissful sleep. I may have to file this one under my dream category considering my current situation with my two little monkeys! But all I really want is a night (maybe at a hotel alone with a cozy down comforter) where I can drift off to sleep and actually dream.

A Need: I need Octopus arms so I can juggle the many tasks I tackle everyday as a working mom. Way too many!

A Dream: An extended vacation in a very exotic place like Fiji or Greece. A place where I could sleep for 8 hours uninterrupted. Use only 2 hands to practice yoga. Eat healthy food cooked by someone else. Breathe in the salty ocean air. Walk down the beach before sunset barefoot with the sand tickling my toes…my children and husband greet me with a big hug and kiss. Not sure I want to wake up from this one…

 

 

Alissia Marciano’s 5 fave looks this week for mamas

Posted on by Posted in Fame & Fam, The Best You .

I’ve lived in Venice for a quite few years now and love the vibe and cool boutiques it has to offer.

And of course the proximity to the beach!!

I am always on the go, whether it’s going to art galleries with my boys, surf lessons, swimming lessons, preschool – and the list goes on.

Despite having a hectic schedule, it’s important to me to be well put together. One of my favorite shops in Venice is Guild.  It’s an amazing clothing boutique found at 1335 Abbott Kinney Blvd.  A definite destination when you’re in LA.

It’s no secret that I have always been a fan of my black leather jackets and rock’n’roll tees. I thought I would put together 5 looks from Guild that can take you from art gallery to romantic dinner incorporating my old standby favorites. Here are a few looks that I love incorporating my must have pieces for easy, effortless rock’n’roll style.

Look #1: Let’s spend the night together

This is a great look that can start any day of the week off, and also end the night off having a cocktail at the bar. The leather skinny black pants give it that perfect sexy rock’n’roll vibe, along with the vintage-inspired Rolling Stones Tee.  Pair it like I did, with canvas Bensimon’s and a plaid shirt with a comfy black cardigan during the day.  But when it’s cocktail hour, throw off your sneakers, tie the plaid shirt around your waist, take off your cardigan layer on some silver bangles and cuffs along with a high pair of heels, and you’re good to go!

Alissia Marciano OOTD plaid shirt

  • Made Worn Rolling Stones T-shirt
  • Frame’ Skinny leather jeans
  • Organic by John Patrick black cardigan
  • Pharaoh plaid shirt
  • Bensimon runners (Alissia’s own)
  • All clothing found at Guild 1335 Abbott Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA

Look #2: Mystery woman

It’s always nice to have a little air of mystery. You never want to fully divulge everything:) Isn’t that a woman’s and mother’s secret to keeping the spark alive?! An oversized hat says that quite nicely as well as protects you from the outdoor elements – whether it’s the sun or chilly air. This is a great neutral look in army green tones, and by adding a red lip you will get a nice pop of color. For the day, add a pair of ridding boots and a tight white t-shirt to give it that equestrian-inspired feel, and by simply adding a pair of heels and cream camisole take it into the evening for date night.

Alissia Marciano OOTD jacket and hat in chair

  • Haider Ackermann Cropped Jacket
  • Pharaoh pants
  • Gladys Tamez Millinery Hat
  • All clothing found at Guild 1335 Abbott Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA

Look #3: Apres surf Baja hoodie

For all you active mamas out there – and I hope with my recent articles that I have inspired a few more of you to get outside and experience the great outdoors – this look is the perfect apres surf or outdoor activity pull over. If you live in a warmer climate like I do in Venice, CA, then you can throw it over your bathing suit and slip on a pair of vintage Levi’s denim shorts. Or pair it with a skinny pair of black jeans and canvas sneakers to complete this casual Baja California inspired look.

Alissia Marciano OOTD shorts on chair

PS: Those knee bruises are the real deal, care of a day at the skate park!

  • KozaBaja Hoodie
  • Hoodie from Guild 1335 Abbott Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA

Giulian (Alissia’s son) wearing: all his own clothes

  • Harley Davidson leather jacket
  • Junk Food Grateful Dead vintage inspired t-shirt
  • JNBY jeans
  • Vans kitty runners

Look #4: ‘Jumpsuiting’ with the boys

This is the most comfortable and effortless look to throw on for whatever is thrown at you during your day. I am huge fan of all things denim – but maybe I’m a little partial to denim due to my Canadian roots and love of the ‘Canadian Tuxedo’.  Instead of jeans, try a denim jumpsuit to refresh your wardrobe while staying on trend this season.

Alissia Marciano OOTD denim and hat with son

 

  • 6397 Denim jumpsuit
  • Reinhard Plank Hat
  • All clothing found at Guild 1335 Abbott Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA

Look #5: It was just a kiss

It’s important to get dressed up at least once a week and be in touch with your feminine side.  A sexy short cocktail dress will always do the trick. I love wearing shorter hemlines and showing off my legs even when – yes – I have evidence of a skateboarding accident on my knee.  It keeps it real and reminds me that I am a mom on the go with two boys in tow:)

While I like dressing femininely I also like to add a little edge to my look. I often wear a black leather jacket to complete my looks, whether it’s pairing it with denim or a silky cocktail dress. A silver clutch and black pointy shoes with a unique heel completes the style I am going for.

Alissia Marciano OOTD black plunge dress

  • Mason Cami wrap mini dress
  • BECKY Golden Goose Deluxe Brand Black Heels
  • Vere Verto Mini Mox silver bag
  • C/CHRIST Black leather Jacket
  • All clothing found at Guild 1335 Abbott Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA

Remember to infuse your own style into each look.  Make it your own and you will always shine!

Photographer: Fawnda Denham

 

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

 

2016 nurturing you – Getting yourself to shine, post-holiday

Posted on by Posted in The Best You .

The holiday season was hectic.  You’re feeling tired, over worked and in desperate need of a makeover. Instead of the usual beauty tip remedies we see come out every January 1st, I thought I’d share with you my secrets to getting glowing skin and a permanent grin from the inside out.

Being a mother means meeting the demands of many individuals, your children, your partner, you career and then – finally – you.

It can be challenging to find that balance where you feel personally fulfilled.  January 2016 marks the beginning of a new year.  I wanted to make a conscious decision to make intentions this year, rather than resolutions.  It’s important for me to live a life of excitement, passion, love and adventure. I want to lead by example for my boys. I want to expose them to a multitude of activities, environments, cultures, languages and the list goes on… Maybe forever 🙂

Boarding with the boys around Santa Monica

Boarding with the boys around Santa Monica

Set intentions that will nurture your mind, body and soul.  Start shinning from the inside out.  That is where the true beauty lies and pure happiness stems from.  Here are a few of my intentions for this year:

  1. Surf with my partner once a week
  2. Have an adventure day once a week- whether it’s going on a hike, checking out a new installation at an art gallery, snowboarding, skating or doing photography.
  3. Teach my boys a new skill in the outdoors
alissia surfing

Alissia Surfing

Experiencing something new or doing a physical activity with your partner or children results in expanding your mind and gets the endorphins flowing.  Is there anything better than that?

So remember mums, take action to create the life you want to live with your children and partner.  This is the year to put those intentions into action; by doing so, I promise that you’ll notice a positive mental and physical shift that will set the tone for years to come.  What are you waiting for? There is no better time than the present to shine from the inside out!

kids in desert

Sharing a special moment in the desert

If you loved this article you’ll also love: Fashion stylist to the stars Alissia Marciano gets down and dirty on being a styling mommy

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.