the world according to sherimaven

Hey all. I'm bummed about my lack of posts. It's been the craziest couple of weeks around here. Today I woke up from having dreamt about many delusional and weird things (a man that could see my soul, a dorm room broken necklace caper, that kind of thing) and found myself in some sort of weird stasis on the sofa.  I was feeling unable to move and the prospect of putting on mascara seemed extremely daunting, as did getting out of my pajamas. I think perhaps I could use a couple of days off. What do you think? That, or I'm morbidly depressed. I think it's the former, but this gloomy weather is not my friend, as is the lack of sunlight I see during the day. Oof. 

Anyhoo, it's been exciting to look at all the fashion coming down the runway- a huge amount of knit pieces to love, a sensational and weird/chic power presentation at Dries Van Noten, and a complete home run for me at one of my favorite houses- Rochas. That emerald green sheath up there? It makes me feel like a natural woman. I'm in LOVE with it. And those gloves all over the runway? Fabulous.

I must admit of late I've been favoring less girly things- pants, jackets, menswear, slouchier silhouettes towards a minimalist Celine wanna be vibe.  But damn if these clothes did not make me remember why I love being a woman- at one moment I may be going for something a bit more masculine, but then my rom com, dancing in the streets of Paris sensibilities enter my mind, and this Rochas collection is such a breath of gorgeous air. From ornamental dresses (this was not a collection for trousered types) to interesting lengths and gorgeous metallics, I felt the need to go get a gorgeous manicure/pedicure, spray on something sexy, and get a little girly. Here's the best part about all of it- the looks to me were ways for minimal types to get a little more femmed up. The shapes are spare, loose, yet somehow really feminine. I love it all. Because  I'm not one for exaggerated Jessica Rabbit type bullshit- these shapes are just so beyond that, so subtle and sophisticated and complex all at once- much like the kind of woman I aspire to be. 

And that black coat with pink skirt? Everything. This whole collection feels more like couture and less ready to wear, and I for one appreciates its grand yet minimal edginess. I can't help but see a bit of an old world, steamer trunk vibe to all of these pieces, but with a modern twist- leather makes it a bit tough and the silhouettes are so unique. I'm in love. The detail, the toughness of some of the trimmed pieces. I adore this feminine with confidence vibe. Well done, Alessandro Dell'Acqua. These pieces are transcendent and fabulous and on another level. It's a refreshing departure from all of the hyper wearable stuff on the runways- these are clothes for women who have a little something to say when it comes to their style, albeit in a hushed, scarlet lipped whisper. That's all I have for now. Behold the power of great fashion. Paris always makes a difference. Cause that's what's up this wish I was there kind of Wednesday in the 212. Yours, in pretty dresses and sweet scents- it's fun being a girl (more fun being a woman). XO

Gah, Monday. What you trying to do?   I'm up to my eyeballs in ideas, gold bangles, and oversized white button downs. I'll be back at you tomorrow...yours, in taking notes AND names. XO

(Great pic, right?)

Good afternoon, Friday. Weather like this is the waste of a good blowdry. Jeez.

And in the spirit of all things misty and drizzly and gloomy, let's celebrate Friday by giving a shout out to my favorite place I have ever been, Scotland. Not many of you know this about me, but it's clear in a past life I was most definitely Scottish. How else would I have fallen so in love with that country? That spirit? Those castles? I love all things green, am mad for plaids and fetchy for Fair Isles.   I've always been drawn to that place and felt such happiness in Glasgow (I know, not exactly a shiny, happy place) and almost pure unadulterated giddiness in the Highlands- I'm way more loch than lake and admire the salt of the earth quality of everyone I met in that gorgeous, mystical land. It's so damn romantic there and the clouds are low and the landscape is so very fertile and gorgeous you can't help but feel like Robin/Red Riding Hood. For a long time, I tried very hard to read every word Irvine Welsh wrote, but got so lost in Scottish syntax I could never find my way out. And then there was that private late night tour of Edinburgh Castle with a pill popping Sick Boy of a Scotsman in the midst of a hellish photo shoot where I discovered single malt, amongst other things.

To me, the pic of Stella Tennant  above (who I have also been (re)obsessing over of late)  epitomizes what I love about the place- quirky coolness, a kilt, and a dreamy translusence. It suits my mood today. I wouldn't mind being on the moors today, living out some sort of eccentric Wuthering Heights-like life. Instead, I'll have to be contented with the wild moors of Manhattan. Weather's about the same...ps check out the Fall 2014 runways- I'm not the only one having a thing for the Scots...plaids are everywhere, as is that delicious shade of emerald green- I can't take it from the J. Mendel dark green leather look below. Magic. I think Game of Thrones is really inspiring us all.

Cause that's what's up this misty mountain hop of a Friday in the 212. Yours, in tartan and green eyes and castles in the middle of the night. XO

Hellooooo Thursday. The sun is out and I am feeling so much better today- the weather really does take a toll. I'm happy that Spring feels almost on the way (pretty, please) and from the looks of things, it's going to be a happy time for shoppers- I took a quick gander today on my way back from a doctor's appointment and all the big stores are blooming with Spring merch. Here's what's in store.

On the very top of my list is this FABULOUS J. Crew trench- it does not look great in this photo but you'll have to take my word for it. Think crisp fabric and an oversized fit- somehow feels so modern and cool and will go with everything you have. Such a fresh take on a classic, it comes in a tangerine type color but my pick is the khaki all the way. You just can't go wrong- the winged detail is pretty fabulous and the fit is nice and A line. So cute with a spring sweater and some ankle length trousers, with either flats or heels. As much as I love a belted trench a la Burberry classic, they're not the best shape for everyone- the whole belt at the waist thing is challenging for some- this is a great shape that is comfortable and cool and a bit retro. In love. And as the lovely lady at the Crew told me when I went in today- all outerwear is on sale today only - at 25% off. Go forth and buy yourself a little bit o Spring. Maybe if we all make a warm weather purchase, the sun will stay and warm temps will be ours. Just not too warm for this wonderful little trench. PS it feels not unlike the Burberry one I love, below, but it's about a fifth of the price. Score.

Cause that's what's up this wishing and hoping for Spring and will take some rain if I can wear this little number. Yours, in cutely khakied fresh classics.  You gotta trust me on this one- it's fab. XO

Click on link to purchase.

Good afternoon, Tuesday. Back at it back at it and back at it.  It's snowy yet again but somehow getting used to it- young Khan is becoming a fearless little snow monkey and jumping on huge piles of snow to show off. Don't attempt to chase him off of said pile- our grown up weight does not support such endeavors. Best left to nine pound terriers...avalanche, anyone?

So I'm catching up on London Fashion Week photos and I gotta say- I do believe Tom Ford is really, reallllly back. Sure he didn't really go anywhere, but his focus of late has been on makeup, some three piece menswear situations for Bradley Cooper to wear to awards shows, and the errant odd evening gown that somehow always left me a little head scratchy. Tom Ford was and always will be one of the most fabulous designers to ever be in the game, and though I'm not so sure why he's showing in London and not New York, I must admit- what a fabulous collection. Not every piece was a winner, but that sexy, sleek, I'm Kate Moss and you're not thing is in full effect. His sense of cool and sexiness are just so on point- spare, minimal, never cliched, always rock and roll elegant, much like Ms. Moss herself. These are clothes for the wives of rock stars- think Anita, Marianne, Bianca back in the day. Yes, please.  (Oh, weird. Jay Z's Tom Ford just came on my Spotify...numbers don't like, check the scoreboard. Tom Ford. Nice).

Some of you may be too wee to remember, but when I first moved to New York in the 90s, Tom Ford for Gucci shot us all dead, in a good way. I will never forget the proliferation of silky button downs and velvet bell bottoms we all wore  in homage, in addition to many, many fuzzy coats and high heeled boots. When I was a young little babe running around the city, that was my wardrobe and that was that. Madonna rocked it at the VMAs (for those keeping score it was 1995), and somehow we all were wearing it too- our own versions of it, that is. What Tom Ford did for sexy dressing in the 90s set the tone for everything since- minimal, cool, sleek. Perfection. You can't stay home and watch "The Bachelor" with clothes like this, darling. One must go out. Way out. Some great examples above...pretty amazing right?

 So down the runway came a new crop of beauties, with fabulous sexy hair and a uniform suited for those of us who like to go from day to night with ease.  Instead of pants, there were tons of dresses. And velvet. Lots of velvet. And fur (please be fake). And animal prints- that animal print top and skirt is kind of everything, and I love the fishnet stockings and calf length boots. A nice change from all the ankle biters we all wear now. There's no doubt these pieces will be knocked off on high streets across the globe- just so good. That off the shoulder slouchy top and long skirt. And that cape on Stella Tennant??? Oh. Oh. and Oh. I love the mix of dresses, pants, hard and soft. Something for every woman here, and that's really the point.

Because here's the deal- Tom Ford knows what women want. Some of the pieces were misses for me (I'm not huge on red velvet or logos of any kind), but damn if he doesn't totally understand the clothes we desire, the things we put on over and over again, the knowledge that simple and sexy never goes out of style. With this collection, he came back to his classic canon of furry coats, sexy separates, and velvet -a little mod, a little dark, a lot modern and wearable. All hail the king, Tom Ford. I do believe he's back, and even though I'm not much for the nightlife of late, I'd dance all night if I could wear clothes like these. Love. 

Cause that's what's up this worshipping at the altar of Tom Ford kind of Tuesday in the 212. Lord, how I hope Kanye doesn't buy any of these looks for Kim. That would hurt.  Yours, in Stella Tennant (I love that she's still kickin' it on the catwalk) and bringing sexy back. XO

Good afternoon- it's been nice hanging at home today with Presidents Day being celebrated around the city while offices and the workers who inhabit them take a respite from the normal Monday blues.  It's been an amazing weekend- we celebrated our 11 year wedding anniversary on Saturday and it's beyond me that we still manage to make each other laugh until we are in tears and continue to enjoy the adventure and exploration of who we are and who we shall become, all under the backdrop of where we fell in love in the first place, New York City. It's beyond a blessing, even though all of this snow stuff is getting to be a bit of a bore. 

And as you can well imagine, gifting for such amazing events becomes a challenge the more we are together- David and I both are pretty thoughtful gift givers, and his gift to me this year was really something so very special- a portrait (painting) of my adorable little Khan dog.  There will be those of you that just read the term dog portrait and rolled your eyes into the back of your brain. There's others of you who want to order one for yourselves or those you love right now. It matters not to me, because what matters is that my husband knows me well enough and loves me well enough to know that our pet means the world, and that a portrait of him dressed as a turn of the century scamp is pretty much more than I could ever ask for. The artist who created it is the genius Luke Jervis, a twentysomething who lives in London and somehow managed to capture dear Khan's soul, all via email and photos. Magic. My husband commissioned a painting for me. What could be cooler than that?

But there are always the skeptics, and the best reaction of all to this gift belongs to my mom, who started crying and looking at me with eyes full of some sort of pity. As if it's sad for me somehow that I missed out on having real babies, and somehow had to settle on a fur one, and that I'd gone a bit mad to have a painting made with his face, that I would ever want such a thing. I'm not sure what kind of mom you have, but I'm somewhat used to my mom twisting around the good things in my life, by saying things like "who knew you were so maternal" when I first got Khan. Sigh. Jewish mothers. Yay.

But I'll rewind a bit to Sauturday night because we got to go to an amazing restaurant called Bohemian, a sort of speakeasyish what's the password type spot in the back of what appears to be a residential building downtown. It's a whole thing (secret phone number, knowing a person who knows a person) but man, what a thing it turned out to be. It's Japanese and looks and tastes like Tokyo and is so damn near perfect I want to go once a week. There's only about 7 tables, all low slung and midcentury- and much like Tokyo, the decibel level is so spot on- the jazz is playing softly, the sound of the cocktail shaker is a perfect accompaniment to the hushed din of the crowd. After a just right highball (discovered  Yamazaki whisky this summer while over in Japan and can't turn back) and a fabulous bottle of sake, we ate everything from sea urchin croquettes to fried burdock root to oysters to a whole Branzino cooked with the most delicious vegetables- so simple yet complex and every bite to die for. The biggest highlight by far was the foie gras sushi- the indulgence of such a dish was druggy, in all the right ways- I'm a glutton for the gluttony. From the lighting, the food, and the wait staff in denim aprons who were the perfect balance of there when you need you/not there when you don't, this was a lovely evening- and hopefully if you go you'll sit a while- we were there for about 3 hours and some change. Amazing time.  There's very few meals that have inspired such giddiness- this was definitely one of them. Oh and we also had a graffiti lesson that day with Sen One, one of the original OGs (pic of him and his pals, most of whom were casualties of the crack epidemic) from back in the day when New York looked like "The Warriors". If you have a moment, do go to the great graffiti show at the Museum of the City of New York called "The City as Canvas". It's great and shows you a New York that was rebellious,raw, and hyper creative. I'm not sure there are that many pirates around anymore, and I miss them. As one twentysomething with a good haircut and expensive glasses said to our teacher, "You knew a New York that I will never know".  He's not kidding.  Double sigh.

As I sat there and learned about tagging and throw ups and pieces, I realized I need to take some drawing classes and get back into that part of myself again. Nothing makes me happier than drawing or feels more natural. I'm not a genius, but it makes me feel good inside to pick up a Sharpie and make something. (I'm on it).

So what did I get for David you may ask? There was a Fitbit (yea I know, electronic gift) which has taught us how soundly and well he sleeps (lucky bastard), there were a couple of ties and a tie bar (11 years is the metal anniversary), and there was also a private Ninja lesson, because knowing some Ninja skills will most likely come in handy in this town- lord knows we have the wardrobe for such endeavors. I have not told my mom about the Ninja thing, ps. She would never, ever understand...

The moral of this story is this- I'm a lucky woman to be with a man who is still so very thoughtful and mindful when it comes to marking our years together. And I love that finding him the perfect thing is still a favorite for me.  We both love finding the perfect gifts for each other, and from dog paintings to artful fish preparation to visiting a Ninja in Yonkers (what you wanted Tribeca?), we complete each other in the best of ways. And sure I know this whole post is in danger of being in the hyper brag social media zone, but I'm not gloating, just reveling in the fact that I get to live here and do these things and be married to someone to live here with me and do it all by my side. Had I not moved to New York and met him, I may very well be sitting in Philadelphia, being judged by my mother, who would never understand a canine masterpiece or a private Ninja experience. I'm glad things worked out.

Cause that's what's up this President's Day in Brooklyn. Yours, in gratitude for still getting a kick out of so very much. The city truly is our canvas, an endless well of inspiration and love and life. Happy anniversary to my sweetie- thanks for always knowing just what I need, even when it's more about what I want. XO

Happy Friday, everyone. And Happy Valentine's Day. Even if you don't have a partner, there's plenty of people or animals or causes to love up on today- give your dog or cat a big kiss, pour some love into your workout, snuggle up with a good book or magazine or cheesy Bravo show. I know this day is not a favorite for some people, but I happen to really love it- I got married 11 years ago tomorrow and though we are anything but cliched and textbook, our love continues to grow and I truly am a lucky woman, and a better one for being married to David. Regardless of your situation, put some love into the world today, and every day. Valentine's Day is a chance for cynics to bitch about manufactured holidays, but any holiday that celebrates love is ok by me- maybe we just need to redefine things a little bit. Listen, even those of us with partners who live in this part of the country are having to recalibrate our plans- ain't nothing romantic about black snow mountains and puddles the size of polar bears that inhibit any good shoe wearing opportunities. 

Put out some positive vibes, and I guarantee you, that'll be the best gift you can give yourself. Happy Happy Valentine's Day to my honey, to my sweet little baby fur baby Khan, and to everyone out there needing to feel a little warm and fuzzed inside. Here's a few photos to get you started= even the grumpiest of peeps can enjoy a bit of a lovefest. Cause that's what's up this heart and soul kind of Friday in the 212. Yours, in love. XO

Oh, and ps...don't forget about the greatest love of all, ya know. Bonus points for that. Don't be a hater. Be a lover.

Good morning, Tuesday. I can't help but miss Miami today. I'm cold. I admit it. I could use a little sunshine, a little reggae, and a little more sunshine right about now. I'll get through it, but really this is quite the winter. Formidable.

So you know I've been digging on my little advice column of late- I'm here for all of you and your fashion maladies or otherwise, and I'm happy to have received another question from a very glam and gorgeous friend of mine, looking for that trickiest of pieces- the lightweight jacket. See below:

Dearest Maven-

Good afternoon, Monday. I've been looking at all the NYFW stuff and though I'm dazzled by all of the fun trends (loads of my favorite color green, cowboy accents, plaid) I'm more wowed by a consistent wearability I'm seeing running through the collections. Though fashion may seem frivolous and throwaway, today's designers are proving it's anything but. Fashion is a big business and designer after designer has been trotting out clothes made to actually wear (except for Alexander Wang's realllllly weird helmet hair and strangely pocketed take on utility. Did not work for me- and they schlepped all the way out to Brooklyn for that?), meaning these are pieces that will actually sell. It must be a busy week for buyers.

And to me, Theory's collection today just knocked it straight out of the wearability park. I was talking to an old friend of mine on Saturday night who has a very successful career- we were chatting about how wearing clothes that are comfortable really helps to put the mind and body at ease when dealing with tough situations in the office or beyond. Everybody's got their go to things that make them feel comfy, and to me Theory's refined basics are just what I need, what I want, and what I inevitably will work three jobs to have. My favorite look from the collection is the sweater with shirt underneath and trousers as shown below- a modern take on schoolgirl/boy dressing and so chic and effortless. To some, it may not look like much, but that's very much the point. It says I give a shit but I don't REALLY give a shit at the same time (this is a good thing)- I'm too busy being busy to try so bloody hard. Time and time again, I find myself reaching for clothes like this, that enable me to do all the talking and not distract from whatever task may be at hand. Oh and how 'bout that trench? Yes. Yes. And yes.

Plus, I find being relaxed and comfortable in one's own skin (and trousers) remarkably liberating, and super sexy.  I love the slit skirts, the menswear pieces, the simple styling. I'm all about it- and as I grow a bit older each and every day, I find that I'm becoming a serious minimalist, in addition to being a bit more of an optimist (shocking), and a diehard liberal (less shocking). I'm already wishing and hoping that I may own a few of these things, though the opening of COS stateside will probably help me channel this vibe for a fraction of the cost. I can hardly wait. (Glass half full, right there). After all, when you're happy and secure, why do you need so many bells and whistles? Keeping it simple is the next step in living a happy life. I'm sure of it. Alas, clothes we can all enjoy.

Cause that's what's up this wearable Monday in the 212. Yours, in just the basics. Better living through fashion. XO

Hey, now...late entry as I look through some more Fashion Week pics. As we all wait for the "big" shows from the heavyhitters like Ralph, Donna, Michael, Marc and the rest of the gang, I found myself completely gaga for these looks on the runway today from Tome. According to a quick search, Tome is a line from Ramon Martin and Ryan Lobo, and let me tell you, it's pretty amazing. How have I not heard of these guys?

There are so many gorgeous looks here- the simple silhouettes, the classic and sophisticated tailoring, and who on Earth does not love the grey and pink combo? I'm obsessed. It reminds me of early Isaac Mizrahi, and his wonderful use of color, and the simple shapes feel very much in line with a deference for what makes American designers so great- never overly fussed and elegant in a casual and comfortable kind of way. These are clothes that women can actually wear, which means they better get busy taking order- this collection is a big hit for me- from color to cut and back again.

 According to their Facebook page. "TOME sees Martin & Lobo's collective experience expressed in a range that is practical and straightforward - clear cut, essential dressing. Purity is the cornerstone of this ‘every woman’ brand. Form follows function and every piece in the collection is infinitely wearable".  These guys really excite me.  They won the Ecco Domani award back in 2011, and I can't imagine they're not about to completely blow up. One word- gorgeous.

Check out their site  as well as the full collection (I picked my favs, it was tough) on style.com and so happy they are on the scene- I look forward to seeing much more from them in the years to come- this is what New York and American style is all about- cut the bullshit and be stylish doing it. I just love clothes that make perfect sense. These looks are loud and clear and screaming "BUY ME". Cause that's what's up this late breaking news kind of Thursday in the very stylish 212. Yours, in clean lines. XO