Malibu Barbie Cafe: Chicago

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

According to my mother and Nordstrom, I’ve always been obsessed with pink and of course, Barbie! With the world premiere of the Barbie movie and a collaboration with pretty much every major brand, and now the launch of Malibu Barbie Cafe” I am truly a Barbie girl living in a Barbie World.

Every year, my family vacations along Lake Michigan, and this year it was in Racine, Wisconsin. I quickly learned that it is a 2-hour drive to Chicago, where Malibu Barbie Cafe is located. From start to finish, it is an experience. First, you must make a reservation via bucketlisters.com where you have the option to have bar or table seating (pricing will vary). Then you select your entree off of the menu which is included in the ticket price. I opted for the “Pacific Paradise Rainbow” pancakes and my dad, who was my date for the event, opted for the “Beach Burger” which was served with this flavorful “secret sauce” which was amazing. Drinks are ordered once you are seated; they had pink-themed cocktails, beach-themed teas, and non-alcoholic drinks. I opted for a “big splash soda” (coke).

Once you enter the cafe, you have stepped into Malibu Barbie’s World and you are surrounded by beach themes and pink! The cafe has a gift shop where you can purchase Malibu Barbie dolls and other Barbie accessories. Then there is the bar which is decorated with surfboards and accents of pink, even the cocktail napkins were..you guessed it pink. The waiters were all dressed as Ken dolls all wearing pink short sleeve button-down shirts…classic!

Throughout the cafe there are many photo ops from the pink phone, to the boom box and of course a life-size Barbie box. There was an outside area where you could eat, take many more photos, and for a $1 donation, you could rollerskate. Unfortunately, it started raining so we stayed inside. Looking around I saw so many moms there with their daughters and experiencing Barbie’s world. If you loved Barbie growing up (and still do as an adult) I recommend the Malibu Barbie Cafe Experience, you will be in great pink company.

The Malibu Barbie Cafe pop-up is in the following cities: Austin, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, San Diego, and San Francisco. Unfortunately, they don’t have plans to come to the Washington D.C. area ( I asked).

The Look of Self-Love

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Self-Care and Self-love look similar to one another and are often used interchangeably when discussing the topic of emotional healing. Social media often depicts self-care such as facials, manis-pedis, massages, or retail -therapy sessions. All of these are great forms of self-care and provide mini breaks from the stresses of daily life whereas, Self-love requires more than moments of self-care, it requires introspection.

Before my divorce, my self-care sessions were moments of distraction rather than self-reflection and self-care; they were moments of escape. However, after these moments, I would return to reality even more frustrated. Many of us have looked outward for personal fulfillment only to be disappointed or hurt. After a while, you have to learn to look within and learn self-love. This journey will look different for everyone but my journey started like this:

“Say No”. I would say “yes” because I didn’t set boundaries in my personal or professional relationships. I often overcommitted myself to the point that I had no personal time. It was so bad that I bought new outfits because I didn’t have time to do the laundry. Sleep seemed like a luxury that I thought I couldn’t afford. It was hard at first but learning that “no” is a complete sentence and you don’t owe anyone an explanation. It’s a difficult start, but worth it in the end. You will not only set your boundaries but you’ll see people in a better light. Many people love “yes” people. because they’re self-sacrificing. They will deplete their emotional and spiritual reserves to keep the peace and make others happy. By implementing “no,” you’ll see who has been exploiting you and who is your true friend.

Self-reflection: I found journalling a potent tool for self-reflection. It allows you to recognize your shortcomings while documenting where you thrive and where you need to improve. You can pour your soul out on paper and look at your thoughts months or years later to see how far you’ve grown. Personally, writing my thoughts and goals down helps me be more accountable to myself. I had no problems showing up for others and often times neglection my own needs and interests. Be honest in your self-reflection, it doesn’t help you to falsify your faults. Acknowledgment and acceptance are tools in the step to recovery. It’s difficult to improve upon a problem within yourself when you fail to admit you have one. You have to accept responsibility for your role in your life and your relationships. , and accept responsibility for the role you played in the relationship.

Set Boundaries and Standards: Self-Love requires setting boundaries and protecting your peace. Setting boundaries initially will be hard and you may even feel some guilt about them but I promise you, this is a necessary step in your healing. And individuals that have a problem with your new boundaries are the individuals that benefited from you not having standards.

Self-Love is not a final destination. It is a lifelong journey that is filled with twists and turns. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll be in awe of what you have and will accomplish. Self-love is not selfish, self-love is self-care that well all deserve.

Stepping into 2023: Refreshed and Refocused

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Though the posts for the blog stylebysyraluna have been silent for the past couple of months, I haven’t forgotten about you, my readers, or the overall purpose of why I started the blog. I needed time to refocus on myself and the many changes that were happening in my life and I couldn’t give the attention that my blog deserved. Now that I’ve been focusing on healing, I’m ready to blog again.

Personally, 2022 was an amazing year and I’m looking forward to 2023. Self-care was my theme for 2022 and it has been so very rewarding. The past year was about self-reflection, healing, and choosing to be at peace. Choosing self-care also means being intentional about my time and who I spend it with. Being intentional is helping me learn from my past mistakes and not to agonize over them. It is also teaching me to be very aware of my feelings, especially after interactions with particular people in my life which resulted in some much-needed “life edits”

Throughout my journey of healing and self-reflection, I’m learning that you can’t heal in the same place that hurt you, so I had to make some moves…physically and emotionally. First, I moved into a fantastic apartment, which has given me the much-needed space, privacy, and order I needed to heal. I didn’t bring old furniture or dishes with me because I wanted a fresh start; furnishing my new apartment has been fun and therapeutic. Changing your space also means changing your mindset and gaining clarity. Second, my divorce was finalized and truth be told I felt relief. My marriage had become a huge stressor in my life and after much prayer, therapy, and counseling, I knew that divorce was the ultimate answer. I walked away from my marriage without doubt and peace of mind. So begins my self-care journey.

Self-care will take many forms: Prayer, journaling, spa days, pampering, or therapy (and yes retail therapy counts, within a budget of course). For me, self-care does include those things but it also requires setting boundaries, learning from my past and being intentional about my time and who I share it with. It has also required me to create an environment filled with beautiful and serene things that brought peace and joy into my life. Most importantly, I’ve learned (and am still learning,) that self-care is about forgiving yourself and others. You cannot move forward while keeping yourself tethered to the past. Love yourself enough to let go and move forward, take that first step into your potential, and open yourself to receiving your many blessings

I want to say thank you for your patience and Happy New Year!

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    Amigis Greek Olive Oil

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Be Intentional and Celebrate the Everyday

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

It is so easy to get wrapped in the routine of everyday life and overlook the beauty that can be found in the day-to-day. These last two years have challenged so many of us to reexamine our daily lives and learn to really appreciate what is important and to be really present in the moments that make up this journey called life.

Turning 40 has changed my perspective on many aspects of life and choosing to be more intentional about my daily life has become a focus. I first wanted to be intentional about my personal space and this meant moving into a luxury apartment and creating my ideal oasis. Before furnishing any other room in my new space, I made sure to create my dream bedroom. Those that know me know that I’m obsessed with pink. I opted for a blush pink duvet set by Pottery Barn Teen (yes it’s teen but everything I wanted) and complemented the room with blush-coloured accent pieces and curtains that created my pink oasis.

I’ve moved a lot in my life and every time it is a reboot in my life and this move was filled with a lot of emotion for many reasons but it has really encouraged me to unplug and enjoy my space with a bubble bath or an amazing view of the sunrise and sunset.

My time in Spain taught me that meals are more than just eating food; they are an experience to celebrate the many events that makeup life. Meals are so rushed in the U.S. that we neglect the beauty that meals bring: time with loved ones and recapping the day, celebrations, or just a break throughout the day. Sandwiches are a snack, meal or an extraordinary experience. I’ve always enjoyed sandwiches, they’re simply easy to make yet delightfully satisfying with simple ingredients like PB and J to a classic Turkey and Cheese, the options are endless. I came across a flavorful sandwich made of chewy ciabatta bread, smoked gouda, smoked turkey breast, sweet honey mustard, and crisp sliced apples combined to make an amazing food experience. I found myself reveling in the exquisite taste of this one sandwich that has become a staple on my menu. This is more than building an incredible sandwich; it was about savoring an experience, combing different ingredients, and sharing that with my family, (who also love it, including a vegetarian.) Not only have I elevated the ingredients for the most amazing sandwich I have ever assembled. I’ve even elevated the dishes to the Aspen Collection from Crate and Barrel, to serve all of my meals on and create a daily culinary experience of excellence.

Being intentional will elevate your daily experiences but it will also encourage you to be patient and appreciate the process of becoming a greater version of yourself. Now go and celebrate the “every day.”

Hello 2022

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

2021 is coming to a close and I know that I have M.I.A but with good reason. This year has brought so many challenges for many but it has also brought many blessings. As promised, I want to share with you why I’ve been M.I.A.

Around this time last year, I learned that mom has a brother via AncenstoryDNA who looks like he could be her twin. We have a new uncle! it has been exciting getting to know the latest addition to our family. In June, we finally decide to meet in person, choosing North Carolina as our meeting spot because it was the halfway point between Maryland and Florida. It was a powerful, emotional, and insightful reunion that is blossoming into a beautiful relationship.

2021 was also a time for personal reflection and growth. I moved which helped change my perspective on many issues in my personal and professional life. Moving and decorating have allowed me to express my style in home decor. I love expressing my personal style fashionably but being able to express your style throughout your home is happiness and creativity on another level. One of the most important things that I’ve learned this year is that your environment has a direct correlation to your personal growth and healing. Of course, there are many books, blogs, and videos dedicated to this topic but to experience that peace is incredible.

As we approach 2022, I personally want to approach the year with intent. I want to be intentional about my time, the people I choose to surround myself with, and what I spend my time on. So in 2022 be happy and be intentional.

Modern Lusso: The Pop-Up Shop

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Every month, I like to provide you content that is important to me. However, these past few months, life has been filled with so many changes that have interrupted my writing. Eventually, I will share with you what I’ve been up to, in the meantime, I want to give you an update on Modern Lusso.

Modern Lusso has brought the brand from online to pop-up shop. It is in collaboration with Concept 31 which houses many up-and-coming brands. Modern Lusso made its debut as a European brand with an emphasis on Greek designers and culture. Niko, the creator and designer of Modern Lusso has decided to streamline the brand, changing its focus from a curated brand of various Greek designers to the in-house brand that is Modern Lusso. The luxury brand will continue to celebrate Greek life and culture but will shift its focus on the brands core items such as Petra-washed tees, joggers, candles, olive oil and semi-precious stone bracelets. Check out the newly designed website and current pop-up shop in Georgetown on M street.

40 and fabulous

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

As I counted down the days to my 40th birthday, I naturally found myself reflecting on the past years of my life and I quickly decided that I was going to embrace this next decade with the things I love most, my baby sister and photographer Michelle, fashion, glitter, pink, chocolate, and elegance.

I opted for a 40 and Fabulous photo shoot to celebrate such a milestone birthday. I rented a room at the Omni Hotel in DC where I gave myself the gift of luxury. I planned my outfits for many months selecting pieces that I felt forty represents: fabulous, fun, flirty sexy, and spontaneous.

I had an incredible time celebrating me. My day was filled with luxury, dramatic garments, great food, and best of all I was able to capture it all with my bestie. Yes is great to feel special on your birthday but every day is a special occasion, so dress accordingly.

Eloquii blouse, Fashionbombdaily Skirt
Eloquii mini dress, Ann Taylor shoes
Eloquii Sequins Dress
Just Fab Shoes

Modern Lusso: The Pop-up Event

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

When it comes to fashion, I adore the uniqueness of boutique brands; they have a way of capturing and promoting quality and culture within a label. Niko Kokkinos, creator of Modern Lusso frequently visits Greece, collaborating with local Greek designers bringing their hand-crafted creations to the US market with the e-commerce boutique.Niko is back from Mykonos bringing with him several inspired pieces reflecting the culture of Greece, from the azure blue of the waters to the meandros or Greek key design stamped on the sites attributed to Greek mythology, love, and moral virtues. A taste of Greece was showcased in a private outdoor event, presenting the latest collection and a preview of what’s to come from future pop-up shops.

The event held at his residence had a couple of tables set with Greecian wares. The slowly setting sun glints off the hand-crafted jewelry while the Mediterranean scents of the candles danced through the evening. Clients perused stone-washed tees, hand-woven clutches, and other Great finds while sampling the traditional orekitkó (Greek hors-d’œuvre).

Until the official pop-up shop, you can shop the latest collection at http://www.shopmodernlusso.com. Photography by British Neko

Modern Lusso
J Brothers(coming soon)
Stories2Wear
necklace by Stories2Wear
JourNaper Athens
Argalios Woven Clutch
Natalia Ntefa
Devine Reed Defuser by JourNaper
Themis Greek Key Drop Earrings

A day in M-day, a German brand

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

One of the most beautiful things about social media is connection. Connection with family, and friends that I’ve met throughout my travels, and exposure to different cultures, fashions and ways of life across the globe. With my daily visits to TikTok, I am getting to know incredible designers and stylists. One, in particular, is M-Day , a German brand with edgy classic styles. As soon as I saw this, pink striped long cardigan (pink is my favourite colour) I had to have it. Naturally, I made the international purchase and added it to my wardrobe…Vielen Danke. I will be returning for more pieces. Check out their website for some very cute and must-have items.

Strickmantel Länge Maxi beige mit pink MG-999

59,99 €
Knitted coat length Maxi beige with pink MG-999

59.99 €

Beyond the Sample Size: Clothing for women with curves.

~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Growing up in the 90’s the standard of beauty was thin and thinner a look made famous by Kate Moss. Her body type was a blank canvas which was ideal for designers and runways to create their desired look. Though we had other beauties like Cindy Crawfrord, Naomi Campbell and of course Tyra Banks that could be considered curvy, many of their magazine covers were airbrushed portraying unattainable looks for models and the everyday woman. Retail fashion of the ’90s was experiencing much of the same. Popular fashions like Gap, Tommy Hilfiger, and many more had many options for standard sizing but limiting for plus size options or none at all.

Until recently, a standard size run in stores included a size 0-10, sometimes a 12 which really excluded the curvy market. Extended sizes were sold only online and for some retailers, this is still the case. The term “plus size” is an inclusive yet exclusionary term because not all curvy bodies are created equal. Case in point, women with a curvy derriere wearing a size 10-18 pant could wear a size small/medium top. Then there is a body type like mine, I’m bustier on top usually wearing a 18-20/XXL top but I struggle with pants and jeans at a retailers like Lane Bryant and Torrid.

Lane Bryant made its debut in 1904 with designs for curvy women leading to the first retail store in New York and It paved the way for the current curvy brands. I appreciate the brand but in my opinion, Lane Bryant over the years has become stuck in their plus-sized looks except for the collaboration with Beauticurve. It was fresh, stylish, and well fitting. Torrid, the polar opposite of Lane Bryant offers every trend in curvy yet still missing key elements for curvy fashionistas.

As fashion continues to embrace natural beauty and bodies, I want to share with you some of my favourite places to shop for curvy fashions:

J.Crew: I love this brand! Most of you know that I worked for the brand for 10 years and I saw the company go through many design changes but I was so excited when the iconic brand announced that it will be more size-inclusive offering sizes 00-24.

Eloquii has captured the essence of fashion (where I feel other brands have missed the mark). The brand is romantic, sexy, professional, and fashion-forward while being classic and true to size. I appreciate this brand and I’ve added many pieces; I find the brand to be a bit expensive but worth the investment.

Hologen at Norstrom: The brand is perfectly classic and essential pieces for every wardrobe. Their blouses, tanks, and v-necks hit the perfect length without being too revealing especially if you’re busty.

SHEIN: If you know, then you know. The brand offers very bold, trendy, and fashion-forward pieces. The curvy portion of the brand provides endless options at insanely low prices. I do recommend reading the reviews before purchase and Don’t wait too long, pieces sell out quickly.

I occasionally shop at Ann Taylor and Loft but I don’t own many pieces because the brand’s sizing can be inconsistent from season to season and year to year. Also, the news that Loft will be eliminating their plus collection and only carrying up to an 18 is upsetting eliminating a popular option for many.

Curvy fashions continue to grow and many designers have expanded their collections to include plus sizes and offer more variety to all beautiful bodies.