Fall 2020 Interior Design Trends

If you’re anything like me, mixing it up every now and then is just as important as developing a signature style for your home. However, incorporating new and trendy pieces can seem like the most daunting thing to do. 

The key to seamlessly including the fall 2020 interior design trends isn’t as elusive as you think. Here are three of the best trends and the easiest ways to bring them into your home this season. 

1. Natural Materials 

Pieces made with natural materials and fibers will continue to be present in the trendiest homes this fall. The basket pendant lights and hand woven jute rugs that we saw everywhere this summer, are definitely here to stay and bring a fresh bohemian vibe that’s very current. 

Effortlessly incorporate this trend by adding a bouquet of pompous grass, bunch of dried bamboo, or even a bowl of moss to your coffee and dining tables. A little goes a long way with this trend. 

2. Modern Farmhouse Elements 

The modern farmhouse aesthetic is also here to stay in fall 2020. Some of the most chic elements of this style are smooth lines, wood elements, neutral color schemes and warm rustic accents. 

My favorite element from this style, and one of the easiest to adopt, is high contrast black finishes. Switch out your cabinet handles with something sleek, in an oil rubbed bronze finish, or paint your window frames a deep espresso. If you’re game to go the extra mile, you can also bring this look to life by changing out your faucets and light fixtures to dark metals as well. 

3. Gold/Brass Accents

It’s very on trend to bring in classic glam elements to modern and even classic style homes. Restoration hardware is very well-known for adding their Louis Philippe Gilt Mirror to every room they stage. It seems its time for us to catch up to their vision of this bold and elegant design choice.Go for a gilded mirror or simple gold picture frames to try out the trend this season. 

RTV 3531 Reflection

This class has been a great introduction to multimedia production.

We practiced editing, shooting, writing, and reporting.

However, this semester has been
very different in the sense that there have been no in-person meetings.
Projects, that we would’ve gone out to shoot quickly in class, took way more
planning and preparation. Additionally, each student is dealing with multiple
other remote classes, work, and personal issues related to the pandemic.

I myself have had multiple family
members diagnosed with the coronavirus. At one point I even had to quarantine
at home because my boyfriend and I were both exposed. This has made the
semester more difficult overall. However, I am satisfied with my effort in this
class as well as my others.

At the beginning of this class, I
wasn’t the best editor. Now, I know how to do chroma keys, use photoshop, and
use multiple elements to create news packages.

Although editing isn’t my
favorite thing, at least now I can say I know how to.

This class also confirmed to me
that I enjoy being on camera and writing stories.

I plan to do more on-camera
reporting in my next couple of classes, and maybe even for The South Florida
Media Network.

My favorite project by far was the feature report assignment. My group and I
were able to be creative and brainstorm an idea of what we would like to cover.
Being given creative freedom isn’t something that happens in newsrooms all of
the time. I was thankful we got the opportunity to choose.

We ended up covering how musicians and music venues in South Florida are
doing during the pandemic. Live performances started again recently, and we thought
it’d be an interesting story. Going to local concerts and bars has been so much
fun. Reporting on the music scene isn’t something I considered before. But
after this project, I’d love to do more stories on artists and musicians in the
lively Miami music scene.

Dorm Room Decor Ideas Under $100

Ahh, dorm room décor. A fresh new space can be daunting, with its empty walls and a multitude of possibilities. You might also be trying to rack up the least amount of money on your new decorative purchases. Trust me, we all know how expensive décor can be. That’s why I’ve come up with a few options for affordable dorm decorations depending on your personal style. This guide will allow you to pick and choose your favorite ideas from each category, because if you’re anything like me, then your personal style doesn’t fit neatly under one label.

 For the plant mom:

 I like to consider myself a plant enthusiast. I find incorporating natural elements into any space is a surefire way to make the room more cozy and bright. Although natural elements may be the preferred way to bring life into your room, I also know that remembering to water every one of your little green babies can slip your mind. To avoid any plant damage, I would recommend incorporating real and artificial plants into your space.

 For the literature lover:

 There’s something so special about a warm, well-lit room and a cozy nook to enjoy a book. I am definitely someone who loves to spend hours reading a new book or reliving a favorite. To create the perfect book lover’s dorm, you’ll need some shelves to display your favorite texts. You may also want a few wall art pieces that elegantly express your love for literature. Adding string lights will give you a warm atmosphere while also giving you some light, so you can keep reading even when your roommates have gone to bed.

 For the modern minimalist:

 A minimalist space offers tasteful décor without being too overdone. I prefer the simplicity of minimalism with a few highlights of warmth and color. Looking to get that clean and modern feel? I think a real statement is a wall covered with faux brick wallpaper. This décor piece will make heads turn without cluttering the room. Simple wall art is a great way to have a tasteful and modern dorm room.

How to Level Up Your Instagram

Instagram aesthetics and planning out your feed might seem so pretentious and influencer-like at first until you spot a grid that’s just so perfect you become full of awe and can’t help but compare yours to it.

We’ve all been there.

You might have a love/hate relationship with Instagram aesthetics. Maybe you’ve tried to color coordinate your feed before and gotten frustrated, burnt out, uninspired, or just plain tired of keeping it up. Maybe this is your first time trying to achieve “feed goals” and you don’t know where to start. Whatever the case may be, I’m here to help.

Here is how to level up your Instagram, in order to make it the cutest page even an influencer could be envious of. I’ve learned these tips through trial and error and made it out on top. You can too.

Pick a theme/color and stick to it. 

Okay, this part might be hard.

Even though I think I’ve mastered the Instagram game, I still struggle sometimes with sticking to my color scheme. I try to keep my feed full of warm neutrals and muted pastels, but sometimes my surroundings don’t exactly match my social media aesthetic.

I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that many of the photos I take can’t be posted to my grid. You’ll probably have to come to terms with this as well.

If you decide on a bright and colorful feed, obviously you’re going to have to let go of your love for Black and White photos. Post any pictures that don’t match your feed to your story, and move on.

Don’t ruin your aesthetic with emotional posting. That’s my number one tip.

Use the same filter on every photo.

Now, it’s time for the easy part.

Using the same filter on every photo is the easiest way to give your grid an aesthetic. Of course, you can customize other aspects of the photo, to give it your own unique flair, but ultimately this is key to making your grid look consistent.

Pick a filter that goes well with your color scheme. Find something that pumps up the saturation if you want a bright feed. Adversely, find something with a lot of fade for a more moody look.

Try to mix up your poses or photocomposition. 

Your Instagram is going to look repetitive if you pose the same way in all of your photos. Taking the same types of pictures might even be subconscious, so try to mix it up!

If you do find yourself faced with this problem, an easy fix is to post another photo in-between the ones with a similar composition.

How To Pack For Vacation Like A Pro

Packing for a vacation, no matter how long the trip, can feel extremely daunting.

Trust me, I’ve been there.

The easy option, of throwing a bunch of stuff in your suitcase and hoping for the best, isn’t the most practical and oftentimes doesn’t produce the most stylish outfits either.

But packing for a weekend getaway or even a two-month holiday doesn’t have to be difficult. With just a little bit of planning and these Modernista tips, you can be the best-dressed gal on the go anywhere in the world.

Tip #1: Gather Inspiration 

Packing like a pro and styling outfits, in general, is easier when you have an idea of how you’d like to look.

If you just go into your closet and approach your wardrobe how you usually do, you might just end up picking the same outfits you always wear.

I recommend making a mood board of looks that would go well with your plans. For example, start searching for “tropical fashion” on Pinterest and save the outfit ideas you love the most to a board. You could also create a fashion inspo folder and Instagram, and save photos of your favorite blogger’s outfits as you find them.

When you’re ready to pack, refer back to these photos so you can remember the type of vibe you’d like to achieve with the clothes you decide to bring.

Mood boards could also help you find out what items you need to buy for the trip.

Tip #2: Get Your Camera Ready!

This might not be the tip you expect, but it’s the one you need.

Heather Dubrow’s packing advice changed the game for me. In a YouTube video from a couple of years ago, the actress revealed that before going on a trip she lays out each of her outfits down to the accessories. Then, she takes a photo.

This will allow you to see if your outfit choices go well together beforehand. Additionally, you can refer back to the photos to remember what you packed.

Tip #3: Essentials First

When you’re ready to start putting items into your suitcase, make sure to pack your essentials first.

Essentials include:

– Pajamas

– Underwear

– Socks

– Hygiene Products

– Your coat(s) if it’s chilly, your swimsuit(s) if it’s warm, etc.

Getting your essentials out of the way is the easiest method to make sure you’re not forgetting anything, and get rid of some of those travel jitters. Funny story, I once went on a trip where I forgot to pack any underwear! Wal-Mart panties did not feel good underneath my designer jeans in NYC. Don’t make the same mistakes as me.

Why you should adopt an anti-aging skincare routine in your 20s + Tips

Friends,

I used to think that retinol and night cream was reserved for women over 30. So you can imagine the shock and disbelief I felt after watching Kylie Jenner use eye cream on her YouTube channel.

I thought to myself, ‘but she’s only 20!’

After doing some research, I found that many young stars use anti-aging skincare techniques to combat their busy lifestyles.

This fact brought me to an interesting conclusion.

In the age of Instagram and FOMO, I’d argue that we should all adopt better skincare practices because of our lifestyles.

The partying, late-night study sessions and summer trips to Cancun will catch up to all of us sooner than we think.

Here are some anti-aging skin care tips we should all implement today.

Drink Water

This one should be a no brainer. Every doctor and dermatologist has spoken on the importance of water in a healthy lifestyle. However, some of them fail to mention how important this is when you’re young.

If you’re a partier, your skin is way more likely to age due to dehydration. Alcohol and lack and sleep can do this in as little as a couple of years.

We’ve all heard about the “freshman 15” and tried to avoid it. We should also be trying to avoid the “senior sag” when it comes to our skin.

Use Eye Cream

Everyone over the age of 18 should be using eye cream daily.

I came to this conclusion after taking a tip from Kylie. I started using the Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream and immediately noticed a difference. Now I barely have to use concealer, and my under eye area creases less when I do.

Use Sunscreen

The sun causes the most damage to all skin types. According to dermatologists, it is important to use some form of SPF every day.

This is especially important for those who are traveling or raging over spring break. Protect your skin.

Anti-Aging Products Are Your Friend

Don’t be scared of retinol and heavy-duty moisturizers like I was. Welcome them and try out different products to see what works for you.

I’d recommend starting with products containing Hyaluronic acid. It’s a chemical exfoliator and effective for dark spots and wrinkles.

Modernista Favorites | The Best Restaurants in Miami

The other day an old friend asked me for a restaurant recommendation, completely out of the blue.

I hadn’t spoken to her in years, so I asked why she thought I’d be a good person to seek out. She simply said, “I just feel like you would know.”

My old friend’s question is what inspired me to write this post. It occurred to me that some of you might also be interested in my opinion on the best restaurants in South Florida.

I am a Miami girl through and through. To me, it’s one of the best cities in the world, in terms of style, culture, nightlife, and – yes, very often – eats.

So, I’ve compiled an intimate list of mid-range local favorites. If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by the countless restaurant options in local guides, this one is for you. These restaurants are my absolute no fuss go to’s, for when I’m just in the mood for good food and a good time. I hope you enjoy them.

Finka Table and Tap

Price Range: $$

One of Kendall’s hidden gems, Finka boasts a large menu of Cuban and Asian fusions. Try out their famous Vaca Frita Tostones or Korean Fried Chicken, for a unique dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Not only is the food amazing, but they also have an extensive list of specialty craft cocktails. Finka’s atmosphere will also make you feel like you’re in a trendy Brooklyn bistro.

Whisk Gourmet Food & Catering

Price Range: $$

Located in South Miami is another local favorite. Whisk is a modern rendition of a southern café, with gourmet influences. Try out the bacon-wrapped gorgonzola filled dates as an appetizer, or the BBQ pork chop. *Chef’s kiss*

As far as the vibe, you’re in for a comfortable but upscale family environment.

Meraki Greek Bistro 

Price Range: $$

Meraki Greek Bistro is one of downtown’s low-key staples. You won’t find this restaurant on any other list, since it’s still up and coming and is mostly known to locals. This place has some of the best lamb skewers I’ve ever had. It also boasts large portions and a coastal Mediterranean vibe. Any restaurant with string lights on the patio is automatically getting a few stars from me.

Honorable mentions that are more upscale ($$$):

Byblos

Yardbird

Mandrake

Barton G.

Baoli

Honorable mentions that are affordable and chill ($):

Pho 79

Little Louie’s Italian Kitchen

Empanada Harry’s Bakery & Cafe

Fashion Picks You Absolutely Need For This Fall

Ahh, sweater weather is finally upon us.

It’s time to cozy up your wardrobe once again as fall, which is definitely my favorite time of year, quickly approaches.

Although it won’t be the type of season any of us expected, it could still be fun to get into the spirit by updating our wardrobes. Some really cute trends have been doing the rounds on social media, and there’s no reason that we all shouldn’t enjoy them – even if it’s just by ourselves at home.

Here are a couple of wardrobe staples that NEED to be in your closet this season.

Sweater Vests

Perhaps the most unexpected fashion piece that’s grown in popularity this fall is the sweater vest! I love this trend because it’s so unexpected, and we haven’t really seen these since the mid-2000s prep scene (think Blair from Gossip Girl).

The modern reimagining of this trend is more on the edgy side. Zara put out a bunch of oversized sweater vests that could also double as the most adorable dresses.

This trend is extremely easy to style and is also versatile enough to take from day to night or home to outside. Exactly what we all need during this time.

Mid Calf Boots

I cannot be the only one who’s tempted daily by Public Desire’s new boot ads on Instagram. I never thought I’d see the day where over the knee boots would kind of go out of style. But that’s where we are!

Mid-calf boots, or boots that stop just below the knee, are everything right now.

Pair them with one of the sweater vests I mentioned before, or with any other oversized piece for a chic yet comfy autumn look.

Leather Trousers

The leather trousers and joggers that first emerged last winter are back in every blogger’s wardrobe and all of the high street store’s collections.

These pants are so much more flattering than the leather leggings of a couple of years ago, and they’re also the perfect piece to keep you warm.

I’d personally suggest you go for high-quality pleather. Matte or shiny doesn’t matter, you’re going to turn heads in this one either way you guys.

How to Trick Yourself Into Liking Salad

“Real adults eat salad.”

I remember saying this to myself while trying to finish an awful romaine filled plate a couple of years ago.

The truth is, as a kid I hated vegetables. And although I managed to grow out of my pickiness for most of them, salads still disgusted me well into adulthood.

I believe living your most chic and elegant life is about bettering yourself on the inside and out. In my mind, I’d suddenly turn into the most elegant and fashionable lady if I learned to eat salads and truly enjoy them. Think skinny legend Meredith Blake vibes.

With that being said, I set out to train myself to enjoy salad, in an attempt to lead a more healthy and balanced lifestyle.

If you’ve struggled with vegetables in the past, trust me I understand your pain. But there are some easy fixes to help you make a better salad and start enjoying them all today.

Here’s what I learned.

Chuck the lettuce.

The problem might not be that you hate salad. It’s very possible that you just dislike lettuce.

There are so many other alternatives for lettuce in salads. My favorites are spinach, arugula, or a mix of spring greens.

Try out different types of leafy greens, and find out that works for you. This can make the world of a difference, and oftentimes these greens have better nutritional values than lettuce anyways.

You never have to endure the watery crunch of romaine again, if you don’t want to.

Get creative with your toppings.

Another problem you might be having is that you’re bored with traditional salad toppings.

If I’d only tried grilled chicken, Parmesan, and crouton combos I’d be disinterested too.

Try adding unconventional ingredients like avocado, quinoa, dried cranberries, or beans.

Add seasoning and stick to natural dressings. 

Drowning out the taste of your vegetables with artificial-tasting dressings, like ranch or thousand islands, isn’t the only way.

Try seasoning your salads.

This should go without saying, but so many people forget this little trick when making their meals. A little salt and pepper can go a long way, but you can also try adding parsley or red pepper flakes to spice everything up.

Dressings that you can make yourself are also a great way to switch things up. Try the classic olive oil and balsamic combo if you never have, or keep it simple with some lemon. These are lower-calorie options that also taste great. 

Paris Fashion Week Spring 2021 Trends

Fashion Month’s grand finale went on without a hitch in the city of lights last week and brought us a bunch of beautiful trends for next spring. That is if we’re all out and about by then.

Despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Paris Fashion Week had socially distanced runways and tried to operate like it was ‘business as usual’. While many fashion houses around the world had digital presentations of their collections, other European staples like Louis Vuitton and Chanel said the show must go on.

Although times are strange, designers aimed to inspire the public last month, and remind us that fashion and art will continue evolving and be there when we’re ready for it.

Here are a couple of the breakout trends straight from everyone’s favorite runway shows this season.

Colorful Stripes

A carryover from London, bold stripes were all over Paris. French designers imbued the lines with vibrant colors to make them feel fresh.

My favorite looks were the beautifully patterned dresses featured in the Kenneth Ize show.

Netting

Sporty netting also emerged as a major trend this season. Hermes sent a sleek leather net dress down the runway, while Dries Van Noten created cool and casual net outerwear.

Orange 

Orange was one of the main colors to come out of the shows last week. Rust, sherbet, and neon were all seen from gowns at the Ralph and Russo Show to casual looks on the Acne Studios presentation.

Slouchy Suiting

Perhaps my favorite trend from the Paris shows is oversized slouchy pantsuits, as seen on Altuzarra and Coperni runways. The feminine linen fabrics and the effortless masculine tailoring made for the perfect combo, that I think we’ll see a lot of next spring, as many people continue to work from home or have transitioned to more casual settings.

How to Level Up Your Style

Have you ever gone into a Pinterest fashion spiral? Where you start off casually looking at the newest fall trends, but end up seven boards deep enviously staring at a page filled with the most stylish Korean women you’ve ever seen?

No? That’s just me? Oh OK.

Even if you haven’t been in one of these trying situations, I’m sure you’ve wondered before how to easily upgrade your style. Whether you’ve got Pinterest and Instagram model envy, or just want to know how to refine your wardrobe, here are some tips on how to do it.

Stop wearing jeans and leggings.

This might be a pretty unpopular opinion, but many stylists say the easiest way to level up your style is to stop making jeans and leggings your wardrobe’s staples.

We all love a comfortable and fashionable fit. But unfortunately, these items often look too casual and can even make you look less put together.

There is a time and place to wear your favorite jeans, so don’t chuck them from your closet just yet. Instead, opt for other kinds of trousers, pants, and shorts.

Linen, cotton, or even woven material pants will keep you cool and comfortable, while also elevating your outfits. Don’t knock it till you try it.

Invest in designer pieces.

You might think that you don’t have the budget to splurge on that new Prada bag, but I’m here to tell you, ‘if there’s a will there’s a way’ (and I’ve found it).

Nothing elevates your wardrobe more than investing in high-end quality pieces that you love. Try shopping for designer items on resale sites, like Poshmark or Rebag, and go for basics, classics, or neutrals. That way, they can match with everything.

Make alterations to your clothing.

When it comes to leveling up your style, how your clothing fits is everything.

It’s important to buy clothing that fits you properly, but if you’re particularly tall, petite or curvy, this can be a real challenge.

Honestly, everyone needs to find a tailor and make them their new best friend. The most stylish individuals know the importance of customizing their clothes to achieve the perfect look. If you’re crafty enough, you can even do the tailoring yourself after watching a few how to’s on YouTube.

The point is, your vintage designer blazer will only look as good as it fits. Make sure it hits right at the end of your wrist because these little details help take your outfits to the next level. Thank me later.