the world according to sherimaven

Good afternoon, Thursday. 

There's no need to express disbelief at the horrible shooting yesterday in California. I'm not sure how many times we can become enraged that these awful and senseless tragedies keep happening- like all of you, there are simply no words anymore. I pray we can get through this. A future that looks like this is simply not an option. 

So today I'm going to try and take this post somewhere else and talk about something much more shallow and light- "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills", whose new season premiered this week on Bravo. 

So Yolanda Foster, mother of supermodel Gigi Hadid, has Lyme Disease. A really bad case of Lyme Disease in fact. She's holed up in some apartment in Hollywood (it's since come out she's getting a divorce and selling her Malibu mega mansion) trying to get well. But the other ladies on the show want her to come to Lisa Rinna's birthday bash in Bev Hills, so she arrives. Without a stitch of makeup. With no hairdo. And with an outfit most of these ladies would wear on a very down day, certainly not to a fancy dinner with "Harry Hamlin". 

Then all of the ladies chatted incessantly about her looks, and how awful it was she came to a party looking this way. It's like they were more offended by her lack of makeup than they were sympathetic about her condition. It's true she did not look her best, but to thpse Bev Hills babes, not wearing makeup is a cardinal sin. And every time I watch the show, I find it cringeworthy not only for their catty ways, but for their awful aesthetic. If I had their money, there is no way I would be wearing goopy pink lipstick or bad sunglasses, let alone a maxi dress to showcase my fake boobs (don't have those by the way...settle down).  Which brings me to the real housewives of Brooklyn.

I happen to live in an affluent part of the BK, where alpha moms take Pilates and take lunch and shop and gossip. They are all very rich and very stylish, but man- what a difference when it comes to a "look". In my neighborhood, wearing too much makeup, or really makeup at all other than a dab of mascara and some organic tinted moisturizer would be vulgar. And truth be told, most Cobble Hill housewives would not be caught dead with trout mouth or clothes that are too tight, too pink, or age inappropriate. Bear in mind- these women are gorgeous and thin and could probably wear whatever they want- but their look is dependent on loose basics that leave everything to the imagination- think booties with voluminous tops from Rachel Comey or Ulla Johnson or Black Crane, thick tights or leggings, or boyfriend jeans and their husband's cashmere sweater, in the requisite navy, black, or grey. I see these women every day and not one of them looks like Kyle Richards or Lisa Vanderpump, and for this I am eternally grateful. And though I am neither a housewife or rich, I like living somewhere where less is much, much more. (Not when it comes to cost of living of course- have you priced a Brooklyn brownstone of late? It rivals Bel Air). I found the show so insipid (even more than usual) and that a group of women would take issue with a beautiful woman who simply did not have the energy to put on makeup, but perhaps wanted to see her friends? Ridiculous. Not to say the BK housewives are not on the meowy side, but at least they look cute. Not a housewife but think of someone like Kerry Diamond of Cherry Bombe, pictured below, who epitomizes an effortlessly cool Brooklyn chic, or Ulla Johnson and friends, who take modern boho to the next level.

What a difference a coast makes, even if you're not "really" a housewife. Cause that's what's up this thoroughly Brooklyn kind of Thursday back East. Yours, in keeping it real. XO

Good morning, Tuesday. It's a rainy lazy one here in the best city on Earth. I would do anything to keep it sleepy, but duty calls and conference calls and you know the rest. Work. Rinse. Repeat.

So we've all got some muses and inspirations in our lives. Although you may not know this (Maven is full of surprises), I'm a huge fan of Muhammad Ali, and have always been a big boxing fan as well. I love the stories of boxers, I love their elegance, and their brutality. There was some time in my 20s where boxing was my workout of choice, and I never felt more alive or stronger or more like a badass. It's such a powerful sport, yet so delicate in many ways.

Muhammad Ali's passion, showmanship, and sportsmanship has always been irresistible to me. Not to mention his great style and way with words. He's simply one of a kind, and a great American brand.

And speaking of great American brands, Detroit based watchmaker and leather purveyor Shinola is tops in that department, so when they decided to serve up a Muhammad Ali collection, I became an even bigger fan. And my dear husband was sweet enough to gift me with this very amazing robe, which is soft and delicious and completely decadent. It was designed as a collab with Sleepy Jones, my favorite pajama brand. Wearing the champ's robe is pretty fantastic. If you are looking for the perfect gift for your man or for the woman in your life that packs a punch, look no further. 

Other offerings in the collection don't disappoint- I love the sweatshirt with the iconic "Cassius Clay" font, and the watch is a great limited edition timepiece (they are only making 400) in collaboration with the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, his hometown. (And David's of course). These are gifts that are on the extravagant side, but making like a champion does not come cheap. Plus, you're worth it. And so is that little badass of yours most likely.

To peruse the collection, check it out here.  And if you've never been to the Tribeca store here in the city, it's worth a visit. I love the vibe and it's a great shopping experience. Cause that's what's up this iconic Tuesday in the 212. Yours, in floating like a butterfly. XO

Oh and if you want to read an amazing book about the man, the myth, sports writer Davis Miller's The Tao of Muhammad Ali is one of my favorite books of all time- a deeply touching account of his relationship with Ali, you'll laugh and cry and be amazed at the magnitude and depth of a great American hero.

Oh, hey Monday. What a lovely weekend full of food, wine, and long walks through the neighborhood. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving- it truly is a wonderful holiday. 

So if you, like me, are being deluged by Cyber Monday emails, maybe you feel like shutting it down today. It's all too much and the deal chasing has become more of a chore than a value add. I'm over the frenzy- only a few weeks till Christmas and the countdown has me fritzed out. 

And as I search for gifts for friends and family, I will say one nice surprise was the discovery of Beast and Babe, an awesome maker out of California who does these fabulous dog leashes and collars. I spotted them on Mrs. Sizzle's Instagram- ps if you're not reading Mrs. Sizzle on the regs and you have a dog or simply love them, you must. It's such a stylish, fun resource for the coolest dog stuff around. I'm obsessed. Love her taste and of course, her love of dogs. 

I adore these leashes and collars that have a cool hippie vibe, perfect for my little scrappy doo. With names like Funk & Patchouli and Lazy Sunday, I love the handcrafted goodness of these fun accessories for laid back pups. Made from vintage fabrics from far flung locales like Guatamala, these pieces will surely get better with age.  And yea, they're not cheap. But since I don't have a human child, I'm happy to pony up some money for Khan, because I don't have to worry about sending him to Harvard and enjoy giving him all that I can. (He's more of a Dartmouth man really). Oh and Beast and Babe is partnered with Peace Animals, a non-profit who works to spay and neuter homeless and neglected dogs and cats in Mexico. With every item purchased they help "provide treatment and vaccinations for fleas, ticks, worms and mange to an animal in need", so you can feel great about your purchase.

So take a break from seeking out those crazy deals and spend some cash on a furry friend or two. Great find, and thus, my pick of the day. Cause that's what's up this well woofed Monday in the borough. Yours, in puppy chic. XO

Good afternoon, Friday. It's a beautiful day in New York- warm sun, chilly air. Perfect.

I've been thinking lately of how often I like to switch up my look, though as I get older, I tend to go with the tried and true because I'm too tired to explore- but really more because I have a fairly good idea of what works for me and what I like. However, there's always room for a style curve ball, and I've a few thoughts on how to get out of my comfort zone this holiday season and beyond. Wondering what you are all thinking in terms of switching it up? Here's a few I thought of trying to keep things fresh:

Red lipstick- I've written about red lipstick before, mostly because it confounds me. It's so hard to get it right and because I tend to prefer well done eyes, I tend to go more spare on the lips. But I just found a great way to do red that's not SO RED and I love it- it's from Lipstick Queen's Seven Deadly Sins gloss collection, and it's called Lust. (Of course it is). I love how a gloss can give you that red look without the hyper pigmented lipstick thing- plus it fades nicely and doesn't feather and keeps your lips moisturized, a big issue with reds and me because they tend to be drying. And it's not really such a shiny red either- just a lovely amount of color. I may be all about red lips this winter- a new one for me but a nice change, and always a classic.

Men's oxford- I have a real love/hate when it comes to wearing a mannish shoe- I love the look on other people but on me I tend to feel a bit frumpy/dowdy/clunky. I still think they work best on the tall and willowy, but I'm coming around to the idea of one- particularly with a cropped trouser or with tights and a short dress. I may have to go there and embrace my fear of mannish feet. They do look very badass- particularly fond of the offerings from Church's (the classic English brogue purveyor) or the cool ones from Brooklyn favorite Rachel Comey (she's not from BK, but girls who live there love her geek chic vibe). Hmm. Perhaps. Very French too, if done properly so cute.

White tee shirt- I know this one seems ridiculous. But my default every day tee shirt is black. Full stop. Muscle shirts. Short sleeves. Long sleeves. Crew necks. V necks. Always black. I need a good white tee in my life- and spotted a perfect one by Raquel Allegra the other day, as well as some nice ones at Rag and Bone. I may have to go there- it's a nice lift in the winter around the face when my wardrobe is anything but bright.

Losing the specs- I've been wearing glasses for a minute and I'm kind of over it. As much as I love my outsized Celines, I'm kind of in the mood to be lens free. And since contacts and I do not get along, I may pony up for some Lasik love. I'd like to be able to not wear glasses, particularly on nights out, or experience the joy of buying cheap sunglasses without worrying about a prescription. Yes please. I'm sure this will more than change up my look- hopefully I won't miss them.

Growing my hair out- Sigh. This one is always tough. I love my hair short so much but part of me really wants to grow it out. Not long. But maybe collar bone length, with long bangs, like this girl. Long hair is way out of my comfort zone, not to mention my skill set. I suck at doing my own hair but maybe I'll give it a whirl.  Funny for most chicks it's quite the opposite- but short hair is my lazy default. (This will no doubt be my biggest challenge because hacking at my hair is more tempting than any vice available to me. I just can't help it).

Sure in the grand scheme these changes are not a big deal in any way. But sometimes I like to switch it up, and it's all about baby steps to get there, one white tee shirt or mannish shoe at a time. Cause that's what's up this constantly evolving kind of Friday in the 212. Yours, in style shifting. XO

Good morning, Thursday. It's been a tough, tough time of late in the universe and I've struggled to make sense of all the terrible things that have been happening. I have to believe we will find our way back to peace and safety. I pray that's true.

On a lighter note, I had the pleasure of doing a nice Sunday brunch this weekend with some old pals, and then walked to Soho with one of those said pals and checked out Kit and Ace, the tech/cashmere outfitter founded by Mrs. Lululemon (she's married to the founder). 

I've gotten caught up in the whole athleisure movement and really do love my jogger jeans/pants/leggings and any number of cool sweatshirts and luxe tees. And as someone who makes a living as a producer, I think Kit + Ace may be the perfect wardrobe for girls (and boys) on the go. I loved so many of the pieces- they feel absolutely amazing (cashmere darlings) and are chic enough to tread that work/life balance thing we all seek. I can see packing a whole suitcase full of this stuff with a couple of pairs of great shoes and a good blazer and being ready to go. Sure these pieces are great for more fit people, but there's plenty of pieces that would flatter all sizes and I love the tech vibe of a lot of these looks.

Here are some of my favorite pieces- they're all so easygoing and chic. I think that creme wrap jacket may be my favorite- and I saw a girl trying on those trousers and she looked beyond fabulous in them. They also make some great foundation pieces- nice little bras and underwear that are soft beyond comprehension. I'm showing you a lot of black, naturally, but they do cool neutrals as well if you are not as dabbled in the dark arts like myself. And the men's tees are absolutely hug worthy. Love them. This is smart design for busy people- sure the pieces are not inexpensive, but I can't help but think that those of us who grew up on the Gap and Banana Republic will find this great basic brand next level. I'm a fan- I have not tried anything on, but it's on my list. I really like the idea of tech minded clothing being super soft- it's a nice balance. And who doesn't need some of that right now? 

Cause that's what's up this loving on the basics kind of Thursday in the anything but basic 212. Yours, in kits and aces. XO

Good morning, Monday. A few thoughts.

This weekend was obviously a terrible one for all of us who were following the horrid news coming from Paris. Many changed their Facebook profile pics to reflect a solidarity with the French people, by putting a French flag overlay on their photos. 

Of course people took issue and said what about Kenya? What about Beirut? What about the million of other places on Earth where terror destroys human life every day?  So why Paris and not all of the places around the world? The places you may not hear about or see or visit in your lifetime?

Grief is much harder when you are personally connected. You obviously grieve harder for your own family and loved ones. You feel a synergy with distant friends that lose people they love, but when it's your own, it's much tougher. It doesn't lessen the other pain and suffering, it just hurts deeper when it's closer to home. I'm not saying many of us have had the privilege to call Paris home. But many of us feel a connection to Paris that is very, very strong. For those of us who have been there, it's a magical city, unlike any other.  My best friend and I were thinking of taking a trip there this Spring to celebrate 20 years of friendship- a friendship steeped in late night conversations about art, fashion, and philosophy. Where else to celebrate such a bond but Paris?

For many, Paris is a place of fantasy, romance, style, and intellect. It is a sensory landmark with the greatest in food, art, beauty- with every sense being stimulated in an almost overwhelming display. I can recall being teary eyed when walking the streets- not believing I finally got to visit a place that has been in my fantasies since childhood, and with the man I love to boot. In fact, growing up, I often envisioned myself getting married there, and later, growing old there. I have always thought Paris would be a wonderful place to grow old- surrounded by charm, beautiful museums, wine, and many a park bench to people watch and enjoy crisp afternoons, watching the beautiful world go by. As a young girl raised on a diet of Vogue magazine and books about Renoir and Picasso, Paris has always had a big place in my heart, even before I visited as a grown woman. Because even before I touched down at CDG for the first time, I had been to Paris many times in my dreams.

So really, Paris is personal. And when maniacs threaten a place occupied by endorphins and imaginations, it's hard not to feel it just a little bit more. As a human being, we connect with people everywhere who are feeling great pain and suffering and loss. But when they struck Paris, the wounds felt so very deep.  Is that really so hard to understand? 

So today as we walk around New York and get back to work- vigilant and mindful that the world is on edge, I think of Paris and the people there, and hope that others around the world will be able to one day be able to look at France once again with hope and inspiration, and move past this horrible tragedy.

Paris, you have once again inspired all of us with your grace and beauty. I am sad not just for that beautiful city, but also for the world.  I hope the people there and everywhere stay strong as we all process how to live in this crazy world. Love to all who have been touched by this and any number of terrible tragedies- it's hard to think about moving on, but we must. Cause that's what's up this thoughtful Monday in New York. Yours, in peace. XO

Good morning, Wednesday. The weather has me sleepy like nobody's business. Khan was reluctant to leave the bed today and I don't blame him one bit- it's chilly and misty on this Veteran's Day- quite lovely for staying home and listening to records but not so much for commuting and working and all that jazz.

But as I got into the city today,  I was fortunate to see the vets prepping for their parade- tons of them off of Fifth Avenue, dressed in fatigues, riding by on motorcycles, and rubbing shoulders with the midtown masses drinking their morning joe while trying to get their heads in the game for the day ahead.

Full disclosure- I've been going through it a little bit lately. I'm busy and stressed and just trying to get by. This too shall pass, but when I saw those young soldiers today, I got choked up big time. Because I'm so lucky to have options and a career and a home where I can be whoever I want to be.  

And it's true that of late I've questioned my patriotism and what it means to be an American- because there are many out there who I simply can't relate to in any way.  As I watched the Republican debates last night,  I found myself wondering how it was possible that Ben Carson  was winning over potential voters with his narcolepsy. And it's hard to believe that Trump's bravado and cheap swagger has Americans feeling good about him as a contender for the most important job in the nation. I wondered why it was Carly Fiorina was dressed like a character in Star Trek.  But really, what got me the most and what continues to get me about this race for President is that its hard to relate to most of the folks on the dais these days. It's not easy being an American these days, let alone a human being. I

But when I saw those soldiers and watched a parade of Harley riding Vietnam vets zoom up Madison Avenue, I felt so much respect and deference and pride. And it occurred to me that the soldiers are the voices I want to listen to today, the heroes I want to celebrate, and the testament to what it means to be brave, free, and proud. And for about twenty minutes today while I walked around and checked out the scenery, my heart was once again red, white, and blue.  With so much rhetoric and shit slinging, we need to keep in mind what makes this country truly great- and that's not who's in Washington, but who's in battle, who's defending us, and who is standing up for the better people we all want to be. (Yes, this is a rah rah post). Because today, it really is all about the vets and those currently fighting the good fight. Thanks to all who never lose sight of what it means to be an American- because they live it every day. We really need to remember that as we wage our own battles and fight the good fights.

Cause that's what's up this Veteran's Day in New York City. Yours, in American Pride.   XO

Good morning and happy Friday. So glad it's the weekend and looking forward to some movie time, husband time, and puppy time. Oh and girl's night tonight. That too.

So yesterday's fashion atrocity that was the release of Balmain's collaboration with H&M really exposed us to the ugly side of fashion. Why anyone would stampede and run like the wind for a tacky dress is beyond me. Are we really this desperate to look like the Kardashians and Gigi Hadid? Tacky. Vulgar. Finished.

But like all situations, there is always a yin and yang. And in this case, the beautiful side of fashion was shining bright as I peeked through my November Vogue, which incidentally featured a very awkward story on Saint Angelina Jolie, playing a very sad game of ring around the rosy with her brood. Odd.

But here's what- the story featuring Karlie Kloss and shot by Mikael Jansson is so bloody beautiful. I am obsessed with it and it brings me back in the best of ways to 90s Evangelista, when that bob completely killed it and every girl wanted it. As I grow out my hair, I wouldn't mind going back there either. Fabulous fabulous fabulous. Karlie killed it with full Linda love, and that Dylan Brosnan is gorgeous too, as is his fabulous hair. Check out this very obvious homage to 90s LInda and worship at it. THAT HAIR IS EVERYTHING. Balmain H&M who again?

And that's what's up this Linda inspired 90s moment of a Friday in the 212. Yours, in keeping the dream alive with a half full glass of fabulous fashion. Classic always wins.  XO

Good afternoon, Wednesday. Holy merde I'm busy. I've been the worst blogger ever and if I was one of those fancy pants bloggers with a huge Instagram footprint and blah blah blah I could dedicate myself to this full time. But alas, those expensive sunglasses won't buy themselves. Le sigh.

And speaking of expensive sunglasses, allow me to cut right to the chase. I've been a huge fan of Celine's frames forever- my good friend and I always joke about glasses that allow one to "shut it down". As in, don't look at me, don't f with me, don't even think about me. An outsized sunglass will do that for a girl. And in stressful times like these, I so love a good pair of shut 'er downs. 

So my new favorite pair of SIDs come from Loewe- I can't handle the amazing things JW Anderson is doing for this house. It's so good. The bags, the shoes, but most of all- these glasses. Holy moly. I want them. I could so shut it down with these. I proclaim the Filipa the best pair of sunglasses since Celine's Shadow pair. In love. Must have. Want want want. I mean, they're surely a bit wacko but I love that. And do they really hide me eyes for maximum don't mess with me? Not exactly. But they are just so great that I'll forgive the light lenses. And as such,  I would wear them inside to avoid gazes and be on my way.

So if you feel like spending almost 500 bucks on a pair of sunglasses, these are bomb. Big fan. Now back to my gazillion emails and life in the fast lane. Cause that's what's up this need a shut down kind of Wednesday in the 212. Yours, in big frames. XO

Link to buy here.  And they give great Insta too.

Bon matin, Tuesday. it's a lovely Fall day in the city and I'm firing on many cylinders, all filled with fumes and steam. I hope I make it through the week. Feeling a little tapped out. Thank goodness for 70s playlists on Spotify. 

So we all know a big election is coming and it's hard to imagine a more important stage for women than the White House- with Hillary showing some grace under fire at that witch hunt last week, she's got my vote. I can't think of a better ad for Hillary than those hearings. Well played, democrats. Republicans, get a life.

So anyway, with talk of the first female President, it's crazy that women had to win the right to vote, and the new movie "Suffragette" is in theaters to document the early days of the feminist movement in the late 19th and early 20th century. 

I've always loved the word "suffragette". Sure it's part of the name of a great Bowie song, but the word to me has always stood for something powerful- the need and right to get up and stand up for what you believe in. I've never been quiet on that front, by the way. I tend to speak up when I want something and really, I have absolutely no poker face so why keep quiet? To me, it's part of my DNA to speak up, but it's worth celebrating the women that allowed me to be where I am- to do and say and vote how I want.

And what better way to express oneself than with a graphic tee, created by Claire Vivier in collaboration with the film, who stars just some little nobodies like Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham Carter,  and Meryl Streep.

I'm a big fan of Claire Vivier's bags and French phrased tee shirts, but this one to me stands for something great. With every vote counting and so many women in the world still in crisis, I feel like this is a great statement- you can rock the plain version or the "Je Suis" one (an obvious nod to Je Suis Charlie) - both are fabulous and cool and besides supporting the right to vote, speak volumes about being a bad ass and having a suffragette soul. I'm a fan, and I'm taking that spirit to heart this week as I fight the good fight on some projects this week. And in a much bigger sense, we have so much more work to do to make sure women continue to make great strides now and in the future. 

Cause that's what's up this fighting the good fight kind of Tuesday in the 212. Yours, in standing up for what I believe in, with a little help from a tee shirt. Stand up, and make it count. XO