the world according to sherimaven

Good morning, Wednesday. A Happy, Healthy Thanksgiving to all my friends and family. May you enjoy this holiday and surround yourself with all you are grateful for. Oh, and eat lots of pie. That too.

I guess I'm grateful for not having the time to write on this blog. Let me explain.

For the past month and a half I've been writing full time freelance. It has been wonderful. I'm working with a beauty brand on some of their holiday efforts as well as a ton of editorial for a website relaunch early next year. I am amazed. Because finally I am happy at work. Something I have longed to say for many, many years.

Is it perfect? Nope. But I am so thrilled to be writing for a living that the pros far outweigh the cons. For years, I've been a producer, and a decent one at that.  But with the world changing and some family stuff happening, I've been rethinking what I want (really forever now) and production is not necessarily it. I am so loving being creative for a living my heart is full.

I've spent a lifetime hustling, obsessing about success, and trying to figure out how to have all the stuff I thought I wanted- nice stuff. But stuff nonetheless. It's true I may not be rolling in the dough any time soon, but I'm happy. I stress about money. But I'm happy.  I've felt something missing my entire career. Though I have loved production many times over (the people, the places, the thrill of problem solving), I've grown a bit tired of saving the day. Every day. And since my true soul has always yearned a creative path, here I am. I honestly can't believe it's taken so bloody long to get here. But I'm here. And I'm grateful.

I'm not sure how long this gig will last (I hope a while). But what I have learned is that no matter what, I need to focus on writing and creativity- more in 2018 than ever. It doesn't mean I'll never produce again, but for now this is my focus. And I'm eternally grateful for a focus. In the New Year I plan to mix up my offer a bit to include some personal styling services- more on that soon. I'm revamping some things but look for that in the new year- and if you want to get started now with some fun finds, call me. Write me. Smoke signal me. I'm here to help you get dressed. I'll even help you with makeup and skin if that's your need. I'm here for you. I'm up for that kind of save the day, ps. That's just fine with me.

So really as this year is ending and I think of the future, I'm giving in to my desires and shifting gears to go from sometimes writer to most of the time writer. Oh and as for this blog- I've been shite at keeping it up lately. But that's probably because I've been writing steadily every day at work, which leaves little time for this. I'm not abandoning ship, I'm just making a few less stops along the way.  Let me try to fix that as the year comes to a close.

Cause that's what's up this T Day eve kind of Wednesday in the 212. I'm grateful for my beautiful family and for all of you. And of course, for little dogs called Khan. Hoping you see some light and gratitude at this somewhat dark juncture in the good old US of A. I'm glad I can still find things to be thankful for. Yours, in finding the light as I write. XO

Hi, there Thursday. Busy day today but thought I'd take some time out and tell you a little story.

I've been sick this week with a bad cold and an even worse sore throat. You know the kind of sick when you can't even summon the energy to watch television? That's the one. I've also gone from absolutely ravenous in the earlier part of the week to being absolutely revolted by all food but So Delicious almond milk ice cream, Cookies and Cream flavor, naturally.  David's been out of town so I stayed put for a few days, but decided to go back to the office yesterday, which probably was a terrible idea. I truly just wanted to stare into space and embrace my ice cream only diet, but oh well. 

Last night when I got home, I started feeling worse. So after finally being able to watch some housewives in New Jersey yell at each other in menopausal spasms, I knocked myself out with NyQuil. And Unisom. I'm a horse. It takes a lot to put me down. I can't help it. Plus after watching Siggy Flicker one needs something strong. She's cuckoo.  I'm also very concerned about Theresa Guidice's lipstick. SO WET. Why? It makes me nervous. And Dolores and the ex who Darwin clearly forgot about. I can't. 

So Khan and I crawled into bed early and damn if he didn't start a crazy coughing fit at around 5 this morning, while the rain came down out my window. I don't know if any of you have a smallish pooch, but they do this reverse sneeze thing that is just nuts. So he started coughing, and then I started coughing. Coughing so hard I scared myself, and him. After I rubbed his neck for what seemed like an eternity (that's what you're supposed to do, as well as bonk them lightly on the top of their head), he stopped coughing. And then I kind of stopped coughing. And then he passed out in my arms. Literally. And we slept until the alarm went off about an hour later. It was the most delightful moment of the week.

Cool story, huh? That's about what I'm working with this week. Truth is- this writing for a living leaves little time for this blog, which is unfortunate. And I'm also so super bummed about the country it's hard for me to think straight. Oh and I've been hacking up small nations of phlegm. That's been a delight. And that Motorhead sweatshirt I've been wearing every night has magic powers when I'm under the weather. But soon it probably needs to get washed or it's going to stage a coup.

I bring up the story not because I want you to make a link between dog sneezes and human coughing, but because there is simply nothing better than a dog snuggle when it's raining outside and the alarm is not due to go off for another hour or so. We were there for each other last night and I suppose that's all a girl could ask for. Actually somewhat grateful David was in LA- it wasn't cute last night and sure he would not have appreciated the emotional journey Khan and I took last night. Can't wait to see what this evening brings. Oh also- NEVER get chicken soup from Fairway. It's absolutely awful. How could a New York institution muck up chicken soup? I know, right? Disgusting.

So lest you think I'm living some sort of glam life where I'm bouncing around town, I'm not. At all. But at least Khan's great company. Truly grateful for that little guy. And David comes home in the middle of the night tonight so excited to see him too. Last time he did that, Khan started barking like a lunatic and almost gave me a heart attack. Prepped for another late night party tonight too. ;) Oh how I wish my throat would stop feeling like target practice for a knife throwing club. 

Cause that's what's up this scourge of a Thursday in the 212. Yours, in dog spoons and non dairy ice cream. XO

Good morning, Tuesday. I'm WFH today as I'm sick with that nasty cold that seems to be going around.  So much to do but sometimes you need to take care of yourself, right?

So yesterday all of my winter clothes came out of storage and ugh. I hate them all. It's so bad. I'm not much for shopping right now but damn if I'm not in my very own style rut. At times like this, I find myself reaching for something that feels more like a uniform- lately I've been wearing a lot of tights and dresses so guess I'll just stick to that. I can't seem to wrap my head around my own look right now. Oh well.

Also- my workouts. I am in the worst workout rut and not sure how to get out of it. I've been a barre devotee for years and now I'm finding myself not as into it. I still like spin but can't do it every day. Looking for a major switch up in that department as well.

And truly, finding inspiration of late for this little blog has been challenging. On the glass is half full side- I've been writing almost full time for a freelance job which has been absolutely wonderful. On the half empty side, I don't feel like writing for myself as much when I'm doing it for a living.

And therein lies the issue.

I have a tough time really taking care of myself. Sure I spend gobs of money on self care or intended self care like hair, makeup, good skincare, etc. But that's not really self care now is it? Lately this has come up for me because my mom has needed some attention and I felt for the first time in forever I needed to really be there for her, be present for her. I have always put work first and family second. That's a terrible thing to say, but it's true. I realized this past month how life has a funny way of showing you what's most important. I know that sounds cliched, but it's real. I think when a parent needs you it puts your own life in perspective, and right now I realize I need to listen to my body and self. I need to take a sick day when I don't feel well. I need to find a new workout situation that makes me feel great again. And I need to not bite off more than I can chew every single day of the week. Because I need to keep working but I also need to keep doing my own stuff- working out, writing here, discovering some new sources of joy.  I quit my art class because I couldn't find the time, and that's stupid.

Not sure where I'm going with all of this but I've been little Ms. Meh of late and I want to change that. Probably does not include a wardrobe change though. I'm sticking with what I have for now because I'm not interested in more. I'm interested in less, but better.And that applies to all areas of my life- don't need to work out like a lunatic six days a week and don't need to make myself crazy wondering what's next.

And lest you think I'm contradicting myself by saying I need to take care of myself when I just said I need to take care of my family, you're wrong. I need to be strong and healthy and not bury myself in stuff that I shouldn't be sweating when "real life" is calling. It doesn't mean I don't care about work, it just means I need to make some space for family and for myself. That's all.

Cause that's what's up this friends and family first kind of Tuesday in the 718. Yours, from under the duvet. XO

Good afternoon all and Happiest of Fridays to you. Funny I wrote that post yesterday and not one man wrote to me. And then just a few hours after I posted, the Louis C.K. news broke. Oy. 

But I'm not here to discuss any more of this with you right now because I want to talk about how cold it's gotten outside. My winter clothes are still in storage and I'm not getting them back till Monday. This weekend should be interesting with my Summer wardrobe. #closetfail

Sometimes when you peruse sites and stores, you sense trends very quickly. One such is a return to the sherpa lined denim jacket a la River Phoenix in "My Own Private Idaho". Sure his is cord but I love it in denim. VERY 90s.  Love it. I had one that I loved so much, though my favorite was a Seven tan cord jacket with a snap front and sherpa lining that was just so cool. Where did that jacket go? No idea.

But here are a few lovely lined denim options- so many price points and styles to choose from. Hopefully you'll get your newly frosty mitts on one. I'm kind of feeling the Marc Jacobs for a change of pace/new take on the trend. Though I do adore the Madewell number- very true to the 90s versions.

You pick which you like:

And always look to Urban Outfitters for great trend hacks. Solid choice. Love the lighter wash. And bonus points because it's Levi's.

So if you're in the market for a denim update and looking to stay warm, boom. You got it. Cause that's what's up this lined up kind of Friday in the chilly city of New York. Yours, in keeping it cozy. XO

Good morning, friends.  I literally forgot what day it is today and had to take about ten child's poses in barre this morning. I'm so out of sorts. Make it stop.

So this week saw some women rise to prominence in politics, and for that, I am relieved. It's time to change things, even though Trump got elected just a year ago, it feels like a year too long. I'm excited to see what the womenfolk can do to dismantle the patriarchy. Heavy I know, but needs to happen. Now. And lest you label me a man hater, I'm far from it.  But wow, y'all are in a bad place. 

And I've been thinking a lot about men and how they must be feeling at this moment in time. Particularly white men. Yesterday I read about Charlie Sheen raping Corey Haim and I couldn't believe what I was reading.  WTF?

Men behaving badly is hardly news. We've seen it for years but right now is a real watershed moment of badness. And if you're reading this and you're a male or a white male in particular, I ask you- how you doing? What's it like living in a world where all eyes are on you? I'm not demonizing any of you out there, mind you. I'm just wondering- what's it like to be a man these days? Is is the same as it ever was or is there a new normal of walking on eggshells mixed with fire? I'm just wondering what's going to happen to men now that all eyes are on them and their behavior, particularly towards women. Hmm. Just thinking about that. Does it change dating? Does it change workplace behavior? Does it change basically everything? One wonders.

Sure we're talking about very public figures, but clearly this will trickle down to the rest of you. How do you plan on evolving as a result? 

So if you feel like, drop me a line and let me know what you think in the comments.  Oh, and watch your backs, and your upper hands, and really, everything else. We're coming for you. And when we do, keep your hands to yourselves. 

Cause that's what's up this wondering about men kind of Thursday in the 212. Yours, in the battle of the sexes. XO

Good morning, Monday. Up and at 'em again and again and again...ps it's Christmas. Banana Republic by Grand Central is blasting holiday music and every website is already stocked with gift sets and holiday festoonery. Oy. Too soon.

Like most of you, I'm weather obsessed and these balmy temps are not long for the season. I noticed a big dip in the mercury this week and needless to say, my mind is on a good coat.

Coats are difficult for me. It's hard to find a good fit when you have anything more than a flat chest. I'm serious. And the other thing that drives me crazy is that feeling of being sausaged into a down coat as you sweat to death on the subway. Not fun for anyone.

So when I saw this coat on No.6's site I fell in love.  I have not yet seen it in person so can't vouch for how warm it is, but love the duvet like feel of it- looks oversized in the coolest of ways. I'd opt for the black naturally, but also like it in that happy orange color. They also have a shorter version in the pink but longer coats are warmer and that's that. I'd throw this on for early mornings to the gym and know that all my layers would fit underneath it too. Oh and the name? The Happy Coat. I so need that in my life right now. (Don't we all though?)

PS- check out the brand's website- they're from East London and I'm loving their vibe. 

Thought you would enjoy a little coat action on this Monday am. Cause that's what's up this covered up kind of Monday in the 212. Yours, in all wrapped up for the holidays. XO

Good morning, Friday. I'm WFH today and enjoying the nice patch of sunlight streaming in through my bedroom window.  I'm working from bed. I know. It's noon. So?

I've been remiss to post of late and I apologize- been busy writing a ton for work but wanted to find some time to show you some of my favorite dresses for holiday. You know I love myself a good dress- here are five festive favs to dazzle at all of your parties and functions this season (I'm in Holiday Head- see aforementioned writing job). Get a jump start with these great looks that are easy, fun, and super stylish:

For the luxe lady.  This Isabel Marant dress is a small fortune. But it is just so so major. It feels vintage and fabulous and those sleeves are amazing. Plus leopard. So gorgeous and elegant and can be worn with everything from sneakers to boots to Mary Janes to a classic red lip. I adore it. I dream of it. I want it. 

For the frugal fashionista. This H&M dress is so so fabulous and also affordable. I saw a girl rocking it yesterday in midtown and it looks so premium and pretty. I love how you can dress it up or down depending on your accessories- I'm a huge believer in night for day and vice versa- this dress takes you from work to party in a major way. Still miffed about yesterday, ps. But great style must go on. 

For the independent spirit.  I've mentioned how much I love Kate Towers forever, an indie designer I stumbled upon in Portland,  and going back on the record to say these lace dresses are like a wardrobe BFF. Gorgeous with high heels, gorgeous with everything. I love the look with pants too. I've become friendly with her and she is the loveliest and most talented woman. She will also customize the length if you want her to as well as do custom orders for color.

For Anglophiles. This A Detacher piece ( a fav designer of mine) is oh so Brit and cool. I love it with patent leather shoes or booties for a bit of Holiday cheer. So chic.

For classic babes. And of course a red dress. I mean, why not? It's the Holidays. This one's on sale from DVF and is just stunning and a showstopper. So glam and pretty.

So there you go- jumpstart your holiday shopping- before you know it you'll be knee deep in wrapping paper and eggnog. I'm excited to socialize this season so happy early holidays from me to you. Cause that's what's up this Xmas in November kind of Friday in the 718. Yours, in early season's greetings. XO

Good morning, Thursday. I haven't written on the blog for a minute because well, I've been writing for a living of late. No excuse I know. But it's a true fact.

But thought I'd take a moment and tell you how utterly pissed I am at the launch of H&M's Erdem collaboration. I went on line a few minutes after 8 am, and put two dresses in my cart. I immediately went to checkout and as I was entering my card info, both items disappeared from my cart because they sold out while I was paying. My cart to checkout experience should have been seamless as it was a two minute total transaction, but alas- how is it that items could leave my cart that quickly? I am super annoyed. Should I have waited online at the store like a rube? Perhaps. Perhaps I should have.

Did anyone else have that experience? Inquiring minds want to know.

Cause that's what's up this retail fail of a Thursday in the 212. Yours, in failure to launch. XO

Good afternoon, Thursday. Week is winding down and I'm looking forward to the weekend. It's been a long and productive week but I'm ready for a bit of a sleep in if at all possible.

But one thing I'm not feeling sleepy about are my new favorite leggings/pants/whatevs. They're from Ann Taylor's Luxewear collection and I gotta say- they're all that. They're a legging in a bit of a scuba material (don't worry they're not schvitzy at all) that has a great ankle detail (a slit) that feels ultimately Celine inspired, whose great looking pants are at the top of this post. Needless to say, they are chic and super comfortable and I'm madly in love with them. Don't be afraid of athleisure ladies. It's not going anywhere and love how luxe these pants feel. I've got them on with a tunic top and some suede flats and they look super chic. Get them. Get them now. I made my sister buy them this weekend and they're just the greatest- looks great with a blazer and nice blouse too for a bit of travel chic- with all the holidays coming up the need for elastic pants is fairly well documented. Why not wear them in style from the airport to the holiday feast? I'm thinking about them in navy now. I love them in black but navy is nice too. Hmm. On sizing, I suggest sizing down- they run a bit large in my opinion.

Just a little tip for those that wear the pants. Everyone knows I'm a bit of a dress girl but I lovvvve these. Link to buy here. 

Cause that's what's up this luxe and cozy Thursday in the 212. Yours, in style can be comfortable (yes it can). XO

Good morning, Wednesday. It's feeling like Fall in the city now and this is good news.  For me, anyway. I love Fall. 

So you all know how much I love products. I'm a junkie. I'm obsessed. I'm an explorer of all things new I can put on my face, spray on my body, and put in my hair. And I have to say one of the most exciting product launches of recent memory is that of Pat McGrath makeup. From a branding perspective, it's so dialed in and incredible it makes my stomach hurt. In a good way. So much great thinking on the brand- sure the products themselves are amazing too. I need to try them. Pat McGrath matters. To me. A lot.

If you are not familiar with Pat McGrath, just look at any of Steven Meisel's amazing pictures from the 90s to whenever- you'll see Pat's makeup all over those pages- she and Garren for hair were the glam squad to end all glam squads and Pat's work for all the runways and editorials shot in those gorgeous years is beyond iconic.

And though I have yet to try any of her products in the line, I'm quite sure they're extraordinary. This is makeup for women who truly love makeup, who love to play and experiment, and who want to have fun with their face.

I just spent a half hour on her site, which is so fabulous and referential- it's instant inspiration.  As for the products, I love all the packaging- the lipstick with the little lips on it, the gorgeous eyeshadow palettes you desperately want to place on your bathroom sink or makeup table. Gorgeous. I know her launch was very much a limited edition type of affair, but now it seems there's a permanent collection just waiting to be enjoyed by makeup mavens like moi et tu. I mean that highlighter just above looks like makeup for a future in space. How can you not want that? 

So basically I want it all and want to play with all of it and pretend I'm Linda Evangelista in the 90s. That's it. End of story. As the SOUP Dragons famously told us back in the day (and the Stones before that) to not be afraid of our freedom, I would counter with a 2017 version, and that is, "don't be afraid of your makeup". You are indeed free, to do what you want, any old time.

Cause that's what's up this made up Wednesday in the 212. Yours, in product porn and supermodels. XO