the world according to sherimaven

Hiya hi hi Monday...I have a bit of a cold but man that Nyquil put me DOWN last night...usually I can't sleep but last night was positively Rip Van Winkle-esque...sleeping is the best revenge. Felt so good. Like most of you, I watched the Oscars and enjoyed the rouge carpet way more than the show itself. My top picks? Gwyneth beyond in white Tom Ford, Angie in Atelier Versace that looked very Madame X (but seriously, stick that gam back in the skirt- what was with all of that posing?) , Rooney in Givenchy Couture, and Michelle Williams in tangerine Louis V. Oh and props to Viola Davis and Glenn Close- fabulous for both- Viola in green green green  Zac and Glenn in deep green Zac Posen. Risky both, but paid off in spades.

Which brings me to the dresses I often hate- the dresses that make women look like cupcakes. Since I have no ties to Hollywood and don't have to suck up to Harvey Weinstein, I'm going out on a limb and saying I am not a Marchesa girl (his wife is at the helm). I just hate overly girly, femmy things- they don't feel at all modern to me, not strong, and generally out of touch with womanhood today- because looking like a piece of cake does not allow you to eat it too, and that's what I hate about girly girlness. Which brings me to the best collection I have seen on any runway this side of the New York, London, and MIlan shows. I'm talking about Raf Simons' last collection for Jil Sander, and wow, what a way to go out. These looks are wearable, comfortable, and above all, beautiful.

Look after look came down the runway and had me transfixed- it's hard to put into words what I mean when I hate fussy, girly clothes, but these looks are a perfect example of how you can stil look utterly and perfectly feminine without looking like dessert. There is no fuss here, people. But what there are in spades are clothes that are soft, elegant, and sensual- wearing pink can be a challenge if you don't want to look like a lollipop, but wow. The pinks here are soft as cotton, and the clothes here are so utterly understated and wearable. I've talked on this blog about wanting to see Mrs. Obama in looks that don't feel so retro, so nipped in, so 50s housewife.  Meryl Streep, I live for you, but look at these clothes- actually don't just look at them. Put them on. These are the clothes that soothe that ill- I see these looks as the antidote to any self imposed malady of how to look female yet not strong. I can see any high powered woman wearing these to embrace that lovely yin. That pale pink wrap coat is simply everything, and nothing less. The lovely muted tones of this collection feels positively heaven sent, though the black dresses are equally fabulous as is that shawl collared red coat below. The ease of these pieces just knocks me out. There is no sense of trying too hard, sucking it in, or starving oneself. Just look after look of timeless yet somehow completely modern clothes. I love. A lot.

Sure these clothes don't feel overly youthful- these are pieces for a woman who knows herself, who owns her feminity, but does not want a great deal of fuss. These are not clothes for flights of fancy or hapless whims- they're for ladies who have been there and done that, and want to just get it right. Piece after piece was perfection- if I had the funds, I would buy every piece here, and wear not much else. These clothes have an ease and are the perfect accompaniment for the woman who is confident in her own skin. Tina Fey, are you listening? I find her constant push to be high fashion all wrong- sure she wears lovely dresses, but all of that structure always makes me feel for her- like she can't wait to go home and put on her sweats. We've all been there- it's hard to be confident in clothes that are not true to one's style DNA- that's why Gwyneth's look worked for me- effortless, simple, transcendent, and beyond chic. I mean, isn't life hard enough? Why should fashion be so complicated? Leave that to Daphne Guinness- she's one of the few that to me looks more comfortable in heavily structured medieval threads.

Raf and Jil- they climbed that hill, and now I don't want to come down. I am beyond inspired to be a better woman when I look at these clothes- thank you Raf, for making a collection that feels so right. And is it me or are you feeling a very (more than slight) nod to Hitchcock's "Marnie" here? Tippi, I'm feeling you here- elegant and simple and lovely and feminine. Lord, I love me some good fashion. Since I've been rocking that Alex Wang blackness for some time now, feeling like it may be time for me to lighten up. Thanks, Raf, for showing me how much I love being a woman. Genius collection and beyond inspired...can't wait to see where he goes next, though it's rumored to be Dior...and with news of Stefan Pilati leaving YSL, the fashion world is having its very own 2012 moment- not in terms of the end of days but instead a huge sea change towards a new enlightenment. Consider me a rapt pupil. Cause that, THAT, is what's up this post Oscar keepin' it simple and lovely and feminine kind of Monday in the 718. All the love, children. All the love- by far, this collection was beyond my favorite of the season, so far. Eat your cake, ladies. Eat your cake. XO

Hello, gorgeous people of the Internet. It's a crap Friday weatherwise here in the big city, but I'm happily ensconced indoors and looking forward to the weekend. Without further adieu, I give you five for Friday:

For the face:The Nars store, Bleecker Street- So I had a few hours to kill yesterday as David took his first day off in three weeks or so and thrilled me with a jaunt into the city to see some friends from Miami, and then a walk around my favorite upscale mall aka Bleecker Street. While David went for a massage, I found myself with an hour to kill (not a problem if spending time at said upscale mall) and popped into the Nars flagship. Listen, ladies- if you need a bit of a lift, the lovely folks at Nars will hook you up- they literally did my whole face and showed me a trick to line the top of my lashes with black pencil that was transformational. If you are in need of a makeover, go there. They are completely low pressure in terms of sales (at no time did I feel the need to buy everything they put on my face, though boy did I want to) and the staff are accessible and hilarious and super helpful. Needless to say, I ended up with two more of those lip pencils and a few other goodies to boot. Love. Best place to get makeup done and consult, hands down, with not an attitude in sight.

For the hair: Flouro 5 Elixir Restore and Repair Oil- I found this little serum of love at a store called Shen here in the neighborhood that specializes in organic products. I have no idea what's in this stuff but in addition to it being icky chemical free (and on sale there), by putting a few drops into your damp mop and then a few when it's dry will change your life. Your hair will look freshly Keratined- and not the first two days when it looks flat either- just fuzz free, shiny, and healthy. Love.

For the fashionista: Max Mara Fall 2012- Yes I know the runways in Italy are abuzz with talk of Prada's return to its 90s gutsy glory, but I absolutely love Max Mara's looks- we all know the brand does outerwear better than anyone, and if you look beyond some of the weird accessories they showed (leather legwarmers, no thanks) you can see how wearable and chic these pieces are. Love. PS I snuck in the royal blue short coat from Moschino just because I live for it and love the Belle du Jour whimsy thing. Who doesn't?

For the lifestyle retail fans with a heart: Treasure and Bond- I popped into this lovely store on my walk yesterday- it's right by the Soho Grand and it's an emporium for designy types- think striped poufs, Pantone notepads, and clothes more suited for readers of graphic design annuals than those who read the Economist. (Though reading both for balance is not bad). The store has been open for a tick but little did I know it's owned by Nordstrom, and here's the best part- 100% of the proceeds from sales go to charities that help children. Way to go, Nordstrom. Thanks for taking your excellent customer service model to the next level and going beyond the store to help those in need, and with great products to boot.

For the soul:Compassion. OK this one is a bit broad, but can we all be a bit nicer to each other? The more I work from home, the more I have a chance to actually stop and think about how lucky we are to have what we have, and how crappy most of us behave when it comes to basic acts of kindness. With all of us here, there, and everywhere when it comes to speaking our minds, try to say something nice for a change. It goes a long way. Compassion is the new black, people, so put that in your Phillip Treacy fastener and smoke it.

That's about it, cuties. Have a wonderful weekend and keep reading. I'm working on some other things as I mentioned but will be here for you as well, with everything that's fit to post. Cause that's what's up this five is the magic number kind of Friday right here, right now. All the love, XO

Hi, Wednesday. It's a gorgeous spring like afternoon in New York City and I'm both enjoying the weather yet also wondering if this Al Gore character may have a point. I can't complain about the unseasonable warmth, but I can wonder why in the world the temperature is as high as it is, this being FEBRUARY.

But since we're nice and warm, I wanted to share with you my new favorite thing for Spring- bright lipstick. Now, look here- I'm not a lipstick girl AT ALL. I've always been more prone to dramatic eyes and less on the lip- have always thought lipstick looks terrible on me, especially those of the bright variety. 

I have tried them all in pursuit of the perfect hue and consistency, and the latest genius creation from Nars may be the answer to all of my lipstick dreams- their Velvet Gloss lip pencil is a gift from above. I have always found lipstick in pencil form to be too matte and too drying, but this pencil is both creamy and shiny at the same time, and lasts through at least two sugarfree vanilla lattes and then some. I adore the Mexican rose shade- it's a way to wear bright color but somehow it's still sheer and remarkably wearable. It's a lovely hot pink that feels vibrant and lovely and sexy and bright. And the texture is one of  lip balm and does not feel heavy, which I adore.  It's also a fab way to spruce up the face when there's no time for your full regime- just a pop of color on the lip and it looks like you're fully dressed. This lipstick is the equivalent of the perfect black dress- it's all you need to feel dressed up, pretty, and just right all at once. The other shades are equally lovely, and I may just have to get them all...it's not the first time a Nars lipstick has won my heart- I have worn their Dolce Vita forever- the perfect little hint of rose that makes your lips look full and pinky but not overwrought. They also do a shade called Mayflower that is equally plucky for those of us afraid of an overdone lip. 

In any case, try this fabulous creation, at once. Global warming aside, it's time to start thinking about all things Springtime, from my (nicely tinted) mouth to yours. Cause that's what's up this kissable Wednesday in Cobble Hill. Mwah mwah. XO

Here's the link to purchase:

http://www.narscosmetics.com/the-latest/artist-favorites/~/mexican-rose

Gotta love Christopher Bailey who crafted yet another winning season of clothes for the sartorial and veddy British brand...let your love rain down on me. XO

Hi, Monday and day of El Presidentes.

I was up the Hudson at Bard College this weekend with my niece and sis looking at the school...oh the headiness and possibilites of college, when you are broke, hungry, and full of wonder. It's almost too much to bare- had a fantastic time and just love that part of New York- epiphanies abounded and all I know is I am going to use this new time in my life to figure some stuff out, the stuff that will take me back to that very same sense of wonder- I am hoping to live without the broke part, and the hungry part will not be hungry for a homecooked meal but hungry for satisfaction and personal growth. This much I know, friends, this much I know.

On this day of celebration of our great leaders (not to mention phenomenal sales at the stores), I am moving forward- I know I came back to New York for more than this moment, and I'm dedicating myself to the simple goal of finding it. Not so simple, I know, but simple in its singular dedication to getting "there", wherever there may be.

That means that I may not be posting quite as much as I do on this here blog, because I'm devoting myself to starting a book (not to read, but to write) on all of these things and many more. I will not, however, be writing about dead presidents. Look elsewhere for that.

But know that this blog has meant more to me than anything- I found my voice again and look forward to more sharing here and beyond this coming year. I'm not leaving my love of fashion behind, but I'm redirecting a good deal of my energy and wanderlust to a more concentrated effort of the written word, so be patient, be kind, and be devoted.  And trust me, this blog ain't goin' anywhere- I may just not be musing on the daily right now. 

I can't do this without your support- my ego won't let me (ha). Being on a campus this weekend made me realize I need to go back to school- to learn all of those things that matter, make sense, and fulfill. Much of this will be self taught, PS. I'm looking forward to being back in class and need to be discplined and focused and conscientious as all get out. For those of you that hire writers, don't hesitate to reach out. I would love to coin a phrase for you, or do whatever else you need so as to support myself in this endeavor. And if you need a good producer, well dang, I can do that, too. I feel blessed by the peeps who have already called with work- you know who you are, and needless to say, you are the greatest. This book thing ain't gonna happen overnight, so I still very much look forward to continuing to rock and roll with all of you and make great things.

All the love, friends. All the love. Here's to being young, hungry, and on the hunt for knowledge and wisdom and all of the possibilities. A bientot...cause that's what's up this school is officially in session kind of Monday in the 718. Gotta go and get to class- because it's never too late, is it? XO

Good late morning, Friday. I just took a tough spin class and am feeling kinda tired. Khan and I have lots of work to do today, so let's get to it, shall we? Here are my Five for Friday, the Fashion week edition:

Ralph Lauren- Ralph is the quintessential American designer, and that's that. His fabulous show this week proved he has the chops to compete with the young and the fabulous, and his collection was a mix of Edwardian fabulousness (I was scared for a moment as I watched him hover a bit too close to Albert Nobbs territory for my tastes, but then he redeemed himself) and sensational looks for evening- bravo, Mr. Lauren. Bravo. I love the air of Gatsby too- very F. Scott Fitzgerald and a big nod to a chic and dashing American mystique that still continues to shine.

Proenza Schouler- Fabulous looks from the dynamic and dashing duo who make the bag I want more than any other. I love their good girl/bad girl thing and think their show this week was a real winner. 

Tommy Ton- his amazing documentation of the fashion crowd still knocks me out. Adore his use of fashionable humans as chic still life, as well as his innate ability to spot trends and the best accessories in town. Always fun to see his stuff.

Melissa Stasiuk- a new favorite model of mine- love her hair and rocker thing...making it a goal to grow mine so finding her look inspiring.

A looser silhouette- Almost every runway this week offered up looks that were a big departure in terms of shapes- I love that we can look forward to clothes that are still feminine, but more forgiving, less body con, and generally more wearable and fresh.  I love this image that shows what this new look is all about- a bit of the comfortable cocoon for times that feel less than safe and straightforward.Yes, please.

That's all for now, folks. Hope you have a wonderful weekend. I'm off like a tired old bandage dress, cause that's what's up this everything new is new again kind of Friday in the greatest city on Earth. All the love, and XO

Ralph Lauren is a complete genius.

Proenza Schouler are transcendent.

Ok, three things- I have no time to post today (that's the third). Busy as hell making shit happen and meeting with talented people with great ideas, so be back tomorrow to tell you more...all the love, and oh, hello Thursday almost evening- I forgot to say hi to you today amidst my move making. All the love, cause that's what's up this everyday I'm hustlin' kind of Thursday in the 718, yo. Ta ta. XO

Good afternoon, Wednesday. My day has been spent recalling many happy moments with David, and looking forward to many more. Of course, I've also been watching the shows from Fashion Week online, and I just love what I'm seeing from Ports 1961, a favorite designer of mine for its elegant clothes that are free of pretense or fuss.

As I've been nostalgic today because of the anniversary, I also started to think about my career, in all its various stages and iterations. I remember years ago when I worked in the trends world following every word Faith Popcorn, a woman reknowned for her trends work at the time, to see what we were all going to be like in the future. One of her most famous observations was a concept called "cocooning", where we would all focus on our homes and creating a safe environment from which to sleep, eat, work, and love. I can't help but feel this trend having a big resurgence not just because so many of us are freelancing or refocusing priorities amidst all of this talk of work/life balance, but because we're seeing it on the runways as well.

There's a new shape happening for Fall 2012 that stateside designers are serving up- and it feels much like a cocoon, a tulip, or an organic funneled form that is at once totally modern yet totally homespun. Lest you think this shape is dowdy or unflattering, fear not. We've spent years sucked into tight clothes and such, and perhaps it's time to loosen up and rethink what sensual means- perhaps it's not as obvious as a body con dress and it's more about warmth, comfort, safety, and pleasing to the senses. I am loving the colors of this collection (that deep green again has me knocked out, I can't get enough) and the shape of the silhouettes is exciting- perhaps these looks are better suited to a more mature audience, but take this shape and make it into a short, metallic dress and things can get pretty cute. In any event, we're all going to be wearing this look come Fall, so get used to it. As someone who is very much cocooning these days, I find these looks immensely reassuring that I am on the right track.

Cause that's what's up this newly shaped Wednesday in New York Citay, brought to you live from my very own cocoon in Brooklyn. XO

Hi, Wednesday- gloomy day in the city day after Valentine's Day...today I'll keep it brief because I'm off to the gym and want to dedicate my post today to my wonderful husband- nine years ago today we went to Vegas, me with an unfortunate haircut (assymetrical shortness) and he clean shaven and in a beautiful suit to marry up. There are really no words to say how much I love him, how much I appreciate his unwavering support of all my whims, thoughts, and impulses. I wouldn't be back here in New York without him and would in no way be strong enough to try this freelance thing and be who I am. Find somebody who makes you better and you can't lose. David I love you more than you can imagine- you have been through a lot with me and I am eternally grateful and thankful for you. The pic above is from our trip to Paris, and one of my all time favorites.

Cue violins. Dim the lights. Clink the glasses. Today amidst all this rain and grey I feel like celebrating our life together...here's to many more years and many more adventures. All the love- cause that's what's up this letting love rule kind of Thursday in the 718. Love is all we need.  XO

Good morning, Tuesday. Here it is Valentine's Day and such, and regardless of which way you swing on the pendulum when it comes to this holiday, you should still believe in love, and that's that. All of you toughies out there soften up today. Love is good. Some say it's all you need, even.

So yea, it's still Fashion Week here in the most lovable city of all time. And as I spent yet another sleepless early morning reviewing all the stylish news that's fit to print, I realized that yesterday's shows could very well be equated with the stages of a love affair. So without further ado, let's do: