February in NYC.
New York City, Events alessa m. rodriguez New York City, Events alessa m. rodriguez

February in NYC.

Grab your latte (you know I already had mine), cozy up, and let’s catch up on all the amazing things happening in New York City this February. Whether you’re plotting a snug weekend getaway, planning a cultural deep dive, or simply craving fresh ideas for a spontaneous city adventure, this guide has everything you need to make the most of the month.

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the february edit.
Style, Shopping alessa m. rodriguez Style, Shopping alessa m. rodriguez

the february edit.

February always feels like that quiet in‑between moment. Winter isn’t over yet, but you can feel something shifting — the days are a little longer, you’re craving color again, and getting dressed starts to feel fun instead of purely functional. This month’s edit is all about making what you already own feel more intentional and considered, with a few trend‑forward ideas sprinkled in for when you’re ready to refresh your wardrobe.

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The Power of Self-Care: My Favorite Face Masks.
Beauty alessa m. rodriguez Beauty alessa m. rodriguez

The Power of Self-Care: My Favorite Face Masks.

Let’s talk self-care — the real kind. Not the perfectly aesthetic, candle-lit, influencer version (though I do love a candle), but the everyday moments where you pause, take a breath, and do something small that makes you feel like yourself again.

For me, face masks are one of those simple rituals that instantly slow things down. They’re low effort, high reward, and feel like a quiet check-in with myself — whether it’s after a long day out in the city or during a cozy night in Harlem.

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Accessories Makeover: How to Elevate Your Outfit.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

Accessories Makeover: How to Elevate Your Outfit.

Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of getting dressed: accessories. The quiet little details that somehow make a simple outfit feel intentional, styled, and very put together — even when you’re running on iced coffee and vibes.

I’m a big believer that you don’t need a brand-new wardrobe to feel refreshed. Sometimes all it takes is a good accessory moment to make what you already own feel exciting again. Think of this as your gentle reminder that accessories aren’t extra — they’re the main character.

Below is my go-to guide for giving your outfits a makeover using accessories, NYC-girl style.

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The Ultimate Guide to Building a Timeless Wardrobe.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

The Ultimate Guide to Building a Timeless Wardrobe.

If you have ever stood in front of a full closet and thought, “I have nothing to wear,” you are not alone. I have been there more times than I can count. Over the years, living in New York City and moving through different seasons of life, I have learned that a timeless wardrobe is not about having more clothes. It is about having the right clothes.

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why i’m obsessed with the gap x summer fridays collab.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

why i’m obsessed with the gap x summer fridays collab.

so i just have to talk about the latest drop that’s everywhere and honestly it’s giving all the cozy, comfort-filled vibes i’ve been craving lately. gap teamed up with beauty brand Summer Fridays for a first-ever apparel collection that feels like it was made for slow mornings, quiet nights in, and really leaning into your self-care moments out loud. the pieces look thoughtfully designed, soft, and easy to live in — the kind you reach for on repeat, whether you’re layering up for a relaxed day at home or heading out for a low-key coffee run. you can see the full range right here on gap’s site.

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Happy Birthday to Me! + a Little Break.
Events alessa m. rodriguez Events alessa m. rodriguez

Happy Birthday to Me! + a Little Break.

If you’re reading this, that means I officially made it around the sun one more time — and I wanted to pop in here with a short birthday note, a few words of gratitude, and a small heads-up about what’s coming next.

I’m taking a mini break from the blog.

Nothing dramatic. Nothing sad. Just a pause.

This season of life has been asking me to slow down, celebrate what is, and give myself permission to rest without guilt. And honestly, what better time to do that than my birthday?

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the january edit: Winter Layers, Cozy Cool & Quiet Luxury.
New York City, Style alessa m. rodriguez New York City, Style alessa m. rodriguez

the january edit: Winter Layers, Cozy Cool & Quiet Luxury.

January style in New York City is all about balance and subtle restraint. It’s about staying warm without sacrificing personal style, thoughtfully embracing layers, and finding quiet beauty in practical pieces that work day to night. Winter fashion in NYC doesn’t shout; it settles in with calm confidence and an understated sense of purpose. January 2026 style trends reflect comfort, clear intention, and an effortless, polished ease that feels both modern and timeless.

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NYC Events in January 2026: What to Do, See & Experience This Winter.
New York City, Events alessa m. rodriguez New York City, Events alessa m. rodriguez

NYC Events in January 2026: What to Do, See & Experience This Winter.

January in New York City has a very specific kind of magic. The holidays have wrapped, the city feels a little quieter, and everything moves at a slower, more intentional pace. It’s the perfect month to explore NYC without the crowds, lean into cozy culture, and rediscover why winter in the city can be just as inspiring as any other season.

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December Reflections: What I Learned in 2025.
Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

December Reflections: What I Learned in 2025.

December always asks me to slow down, whether I want to or not. The city feels quieter in a way that only happens right before the year turns. Fewer expectations. More space to think. And honestly, I’ve learned to listen to that pause instead of rushing past it.

2025 wasn’t loud for me. It wasn’t about big viral moments or overnight wins. It was a year of showing up, trying things out, pulling back when I needed to, and slowly understanding what actually matters to me. Here’s what this year taught me.

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Happy New Year & Break Time!
Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

Happy New Year & Break Time!

as we step into a brand new year, i wanted to pop in here and say thank you. truly. for reading, watching, commenting, sharing, and letting me show up in your inbox or on your screen this past year. it has meant more than i can ever properly put into words.

with that said, i’m taking a short break.

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NYC in December: My Favorite Holiday Spots & Winter Rituals.
New York City, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez New York City, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

NYC in December: My Favorite Holiday Spots & Winter Rituals.

December in New York City is a magical mix of sparkling lights, crisp air, and cozy corners. After living here for a few years, I’ve learned how to enjoy the season like a local — slowing down, savoring little moments, and seeking out the quiet spots and hidden gems that make winter in the city feel especially charming.

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My Favorite NYC Moments of 2025.
New York City, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez New York City, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

My Favorite NYC Moments of 2025.

2025 has been a year full of adventures, little discoveries, and slow, cozy moments around New York City — the kind that stick with you long after the day is over. From early morning coffee runs in Harlem to spontaneous evening walks through quiet, tree-lined streets in Brooklyn, this year reminded me again why I love living, wandering, and discovering new corners of the city so much.

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The Soft Girl Holiday Gift Guide 2025.
Shopping alessa m. rodriguez Shopping alessa m. rodriguez

The Soft Girl Holiday Gift Guide 2025.

The holidays in New York feel like something out of a movie — fairy lights delicately woven between brownstones, the comfort of warm coffee in freezing hands, cozy scarves and brisk walks, and that quiet, familiar magic that gently settles over the city as December draws near.

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A Cozy Winter Weekend in Harlem: My Go-To Spots Right Now.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

A Cozy Winter Weekend in Harlem: My Go-To Spots Right Now.

There’s something about winter in Harlem that just feels different — softer somehow, even when the city is loud and cold and people are rushing past you. When the temps drop and the days grow short, I find myself craving the warmest, most familiar corners of my neighborhood… those little spots that make a winter weekend feel slow, cozy, and quietly magical.

If you’re looking for the perfect Harlem winter weekend — whether you live here, you’re visiting, or you’re just building your “NYC list” — here’s exactly where I’ve been spending my time lately.

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NYC Holiday Magic: My Favorite Spots to Feel the Cheer.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

NYC Holiday Magic: My Favorite Spots to Feel the Cheer.

There’s something about New York City in December that just hits different. The streets feel softer, the nights glow a little brighter, and even the cold air carries a kind of sparkle. If you’re looking to step right into your own holiday movie moment, these are the places that never fail to give me that warm, twinkly feeling every single year.

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Gift Guide: What to Get a NYC Creative.
Lifestyle, Shopping alessa m. rodriguez Lifestyle, Shopping alessa m. rodriguez

Gift Guide: What to Get a NYC Creative.

Finding the perfect gift for the NYC creative in your life is an adventure of its own. New York has its own rhythm and people who make art here move through the world with a mix of hustle, imagination, and a deep appreciation for things that spark inspiration. Whether your creative friend is a filmmaker, designer, writer, or someone who simply loves beautiful experiences, this guide will help you pick something that feels thoughtful and personal.

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december in nyc.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

december in nyc.

December in New York City feels like stepping straight into a snow-dusted movie set — the twinkle lights, the crisp air, the crowds huddled over hot cocoa, the energy that somehow gets softer and louder at the same time. Whether you’re a local looking to make the most of the season or planning a holiday trip to the city, December is packed with events that bring out the very best of NYC.

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the december edit.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

the december edit.

December in New York is equal parts cozy and celebratory — subway layers by day, sequins and sparkle by night. This month’s fashion mixes tactile winter staples (think shearling and wool) with full-on festive moments (metallics, feathers, 24/7 sequins) and a streetwise New-York take: wearable, bold, and just a little bit dramatic. Below are the trends to watch in December 2025 and exactly how to make them work for life in the city.

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