chicago: the vlogs.
Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

chicago: the vlogs.

This summer, I traded my usual NYC backdrop for a new adventure: a trip to Chicago. And of course, I brought you with me. My Chicago vlog series on YouTube is now live, and it’s packed with all the city magic — iconic landmarks, hidden gems, incredible food, and those little cozy travel moments that make a trip unforgettable.

If you’re planning a trip soon or just curious about things to do in Chicago in 2025, these vlogs are for you.

Read More
fall reset: what i’m changing about my routine this season.
Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

fall reset: what i’m changing about my routine this season.

Fall in New York City always feels like a gentle, soft reset button. The crisp air shifts noticeably, the city’s pace changes, and suddenly I find myself craving routines that feel more grounding instead of the carefree chaos of summer. Maybe it’s the familiar school-year energy that lingers sweetly in the air or simply the relief that I can finally sip my coffee without immediately breaking into a sweat—but I truly love leaning into this season as a valuable chance to pause and reevaluate how I’m living day to day.

Read More
building a creative life in harlem.
alessa m. rodriguez alessa m. rodriguez

building a creative life in harlem.

There’s something about Harlem that just makes you want to create. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the streets, the murals splashed across brownstone walls, or the way the community shows up for one another. Living here has taught me that creativity isn’t just a side hustle or a cute hobby — it’s a way of life.

If you’ve ever dreamed of building a creative life in New York City, Harlem is one of those places where art, culture, and daily living collide. And I want to share what it’s looked like for me to grow roots here while also chasing my creative spark.

Read More
travel: chicago. the food, fun & skyline views.
Travel alessa m. rodriguez Travel alessa m. rodriguez

travel: chicago. the food, fun & skyline views.

Last year, I shared my first Chicago adventure (you can read that post here), and I couldn’t wait to return. This time, I had five full days to dive deeper into the city’s landmarks, food, and hidden gems. From SkyDeck thrills to concerts, architecture tours, and Wrigley Field, here’s how it all unfolded.

Read More
Transitioning Your Wardrobe (and Your Mind) from Summer to Fall.
Style, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Style, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

Transitioning Your Wardrobe (and Your Mind) from Summer to Fall.

We’ve officially entered that tricky in-between season — when it’s too chilly for tank tops in the morning, but the sun comes out by lunch and you instantly regret wearing a sweater. Welcome to the transition from summer to fall in New York City, a time full of unpredictable weather and shifting vibes. And honestly? It’s not just about what you wear.

Read More
zara favorites for fall 2025.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

zara favorites for fall 2025.

We’ve officially entered the wonderful season of cozy layers, rich textures, and all the little details that make getting dressed in the fall such an enjoyable and comforting ritual. I’ve been leisurely wandering through Zara—both in-store and online, because let’s be honest, sometimes the fitting rooms can be a bit overwhelming—and pulling together a curated selection of pieces that feel like instant staples for this fall. Think timeless yet playful styles, with those effortless “throw on and go” vibes that I absolutely live for and can’t wait to embrace all season long.

Read More
the september edit.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

the september edit.

there’s something magical about september in new york city. the air shifts, the light softens, and suddenly every sidewalk feels like a runway for the start of fall fashion.

This month’s trends are both playful and polished — imagine polka dots with a bold attitude, collared sweaters that perfectly capture that nostalgic “back-to-school” vibe, and plaid patterns in every imaginable form. Flat mules are making a stylish statement for chic commuting, and yes, knee-high socks are making a strong and fashionable return. Consider this your ultimate guide to what to wear, how to style each piece effortlessly, and (most importantly) the best places to shop these must-have looks.

Read More
5 NYC spots to savor before summer ends.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

5 NYC spots to savor before summer ends.

There’s something uniquely magical about late August in New York — the air remains sticky yet warm, while the sunsets gradually turn a rich, golden hue. The city’s usual relentless pace slows down just a bit, almost as if it senses we’re living on borrowed summer time. If you’ve been wanting to sneak in a few more unforgettable summer moments, I’ve got you covered.

Read More
how I’m dressing for the very last days of summer in NYC.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

how I’m dressing for the very last days of summer in NYC.

End of summer dressing is truly a whole mood. It’s not quite the season to break out chunky sweaters just yet, but honestly… I can’t handle another full day in denim shorts without feeling like I’m melting away. The secret? Embracing transitional pieces that allow you to glide through these sticky, humid August days while still maintaining your effortless, cool vibe.

Read More
summer dates in NYC that don’t feel cheesy.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

summer dates in NYC that don’t feel cheesy.

Because you deserve a date that’s thoughtful, fun, and just a little bit magical.

We are reaching the end of the summer! I can’t believe it!

There’s no shortage of date ideas in NYC, but let’s be honest — a lot of them feel like they were pulled straight from a rom-com checklist. Dinner in the West Village? Cute, but predictable and often crowded. Rooftop drinks? Gorgeous views, but maybe a little too expected and overdone. If you’re looking for summer date ideas that feel genuinely fresh, fun, and actually thoughtful (read: not cheesy or cliché), I’ve got you covered with some unique options that will impress without feeling rehearsed.

Read More
my favorite cafés in harlem (and beyond) to sip + write this spring.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

my favorite cafés in harlem (and beyond) to sip + write this spring.

spring in harlem hits different. there’s something about the energy shift when the sun actually sticks around and the sidewalks start blooming with tulips, toddlers, and iced oat lattes. i’ve been reclaiming my writing rhythm lately, and that means finding little corners of the city that let me sip slowly and think clearly.

if you're like me — looking for cafés with charm, caffeine, and a seat in the sun — here are two of my favorite outdoor spots in harlem right now. both are perfect for getting some writing done, people-watching, or just giving yourself a moment to breathe.

Read More
fall fashion in NYC 2025: what to wear to look chic.
Style, Shopping alessa m. rodriguez Style, Shopping alessa m. rodriguez

fall fashion in NYC 2025: what to wear to look chic.

There’s something truly magical about fall in New York City. The air turns refreshingly crisp, the leaves in Central Park gradually transform into that iconic amber-golden hue, and the city’s collective wardrobe shifts almost overnight from breezy linens to cozy, structured layering. If you're anything like me, you’ve already lit your first “cashmere sweater” candle, started eyeing ankle boots with eager anticipation, and maybe—just maybe—begun carefully planning your perfect sidewalk-strolling outfit for those crisp autumn afternoons.

Fall fashion in NYC isn’t just about staying warm and comfortable. It’s about telling a story—one where your carefully chosen outfit seamlessly carries you from a cozy Brooklyn coffee date to a chic art exhibit in Chelsea, and then straight into a dimly lit, intimate dinner in the East Village. Whether you're exploring uptown, downtown, or somewhere in between, here’s everything you need to know (and wear) to step confidently and stylishly into Fall 2025.

Read More
how I prep for fall as a content creator in NYC.
Tips & Tricks, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Tips & Tricks, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

how I prep for fall as a content creator in NYC.

Fall in New York City is its own kind of magic, unlike any other time of year. The crisp air changes everything, the city softens beautifully under warm, golden light, and suddenly, everyone is pulling out their best layers, wrapped in cozy scarves while dreaming about new beginnings and fresh opportunities. As a content creator, this season feels more than just cozy — it’s strategic and full of potential. Between the evolving fashion trends, the vibrant energy of the city, and countless seasonal events, fall becomes prime time for creativity and personal growth. So today, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing in depth how I prep for fall as a content creator living in the heart of Harlem. Let’s get into it and embrace all the inspiration this season has to offer.

Read More
the august edit: soft staples i’m into right now.
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

the august edit: soft staples i’m into right now.

new month, new vibe. august is that in-between energy: soft, a little slow, but still full of potential. this edit is everything i’m reaching for lately — soft girl staples, cozy beauty picks, and nyc lifestyle faves that feel just right. whether i’m filming in harlem, running to grab coffee, or spending a slow sunday at home, these are the things that are really showing up for me this season. think of this as a journal entry, but with links.

Read More
august in nyc.
New York City, Events alessa m. rodriguez New York City, Events alessa m. rodriguez

august in nyc.

Here’s your comprehensive August 2025 New York City Events & Cultural Guide — a detailed and full rundown of music performances, vibrant community festivals, engaging public programs, captivating art exhibitions, and iconic happenings taking place across the five diverse boroughs…

Read More
my everyday essentials: a soft girl’s guide to what I actually use.
Beauty, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez Beauty, Lifestyle alessa m. rodriguez

my everyday essentials: a soft girl’s guide to what I actually use.

If you’ve ever watched one of my vlogs and found yourself wondering, “What gloss is that?” or “Where’s that candle from?” — then this post is absolutely for you. I’ve thoughtfully put together a special little corner of the internet where you can easily find every single one of the things I genuinely use, wear, and consistently reach for on repeat in my daily life. It’s a curated space designed to share the essentials that truly inspire my style and routine.

Read More
so, how do we create a wardrobe that makes us feel great now and remains stylish for years to come?
Style alessa m. rodriguez Style alessa m. rodriguez

so, how do we create a wardrobe that makes us feel great now and remains stylish for years to come?

Let’s talk closets. More specifically: how we thoughtfully build a wardrobe that truly feels like us — not just for this week or the next season, but in a lasting way that still resonates and fits our style five years from now. You know that feeling when you put something on and instantly feel good? Like you’re standing a little taller, walking with a bit more confidence, maybe even smiling at strangers without thinking about it? Yeah, we want more of that. But also — we want it to endure. Not trend-chasing, not fast fashion fatigue, and definitely not another bag of “maybe I’ll wear it someday” shoved in the back of the closet gathering dust. We want pieces that tell our story and grow with us over time.

Read More
my lazy girl guide to getting ready fast.
Lifestyle, Beauty alessa m. rodriguez Lifestyle, Beauty alessa m. rodriguez

my lazy girl guide to getting ready fast.

because sometimes you’ve got 20 minutes and a dream.

let me set the scene: you’ve snoozed your alarm three times, your iced coffee is sweating on the counter, and you need to be out the door in less time than it takes to finish an episode of sex and the city.
been there. too often.

this is the lazy girl guide — aka how i get myself looking cute, put together, and semi-awake with minimal effort. think soft glam, low lift, and still catching the train on time.

Read More
businesses to support in harlem in this summer.
New York City alessa m. rodriguez New York City alessa m. rodriguez

businesses to support in harlem in this summer.

as the sun settles in and summer hits uptown with all its golden-hour glow and sidewalk energy, i’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to show up for your neighborhood. and if you know me, you know harlem is more than just where i live — it’s a place i love deeply, with a heartbeat that’s unlike anywhere else in the city.

Read More