the world according to sherimaven

Good morning, Tuesday. Yea, the weather outside is frightful, as is my week long cold.  My eyes and nose are driving me absolutely insane, so hopefully I'll call it a snow day later and go home and get some rest.

Yesterday was all about sneakers, but today, TODAY is all about a sandal. Though it's not nearly sandal weather in my neck of the woods, a gal can't help but dream of exposed toes and gleaming gams. I'm being haunted by these Proenza Schouler gladiator sandals for Spring- have seen them out and about in the stores and online as well, and I just can't quit them.  At Zoe in Brooklyn (scary how nice that store is), they had them in both black and white (below) and my heart went all kinds of crazy. They are amazing.

Maybe it's my freelance, rebellious punk rock attitude of late that has me in the mood for something a bit tough. Maybe it's the fact that the heel on these looks very walkable, or maybe it's the fact that I've never been a grommet/studlike accent I didn't like. I want these in a very real way. As I sit here dreaming about my bed and some Bravo television, I'll make a little room in my brain for these little ladies. I like that they look like they can kick an ass but still look refined and sexy. Gorgeous. 

Oh and if you're looking to get all Russell Crowe on someone and worried that heel height may get in the way of your plundering, they also come in a flat version, which are pretty transcendent in their own right (flat sandals everywhere for Spring by the way). I'd hit these for real, and would most likely fight a lion to procure them. 

Cause that's what's up this well heeled Tuesday in the 212. Yours, in boots for now but sandals later. Let the games begin. XO

Good morning, friends and fam. It was a fun weekend of friends and good food and a couple of old fashioneds. I couldn't ask for more. I thought it would be fun this week to take a question from said friend or family and answer it with some style smarts. Before I do that, I wanted to say one thing- the whole Lena Dunham Vogue magazine controversy is ludicrous. As someone who has worked on many a photoshoot, the notion that someone would not be retouched, particularly a celebrity, is ridiculous. I know she's real, and she's got a normal body. That's wonderful and should be celebrated. But this is Vogue, and she is indeed, a famous woman. Would people examine within an inch of its pixels a photo of Heidi Klum on the cover? I think not, and there's really the problem right there. There is no way you can be on the  cover of Vogue (and in the feature story) and remain unretouched. Would you want to be on the cover of the biggest fashion magazine in the world and not be retouched? I wouldn't. Fashion is fashion and that's that. If you want unretouched, do as Lena herself has said, and watch her imperfections on TV, each week on "Girls". PS- I am never for outrageous retouching that looks unreal so hats off to Vogue for doing an excellent job- if I was Lena I'd be quite pleased with those photos. She looks great- like a slightly better version of herself- what on Earth is wrong with that? Anyway...on with the advice and such.

In what can only be described as a fashion coincidence, a question came in from a lovely and stylish friend of mine on the subject of sneakers as I was feverishly searching for a black and white pair of New Balance 410s I had seen on Refinery 29. (Still looking for them in my size, in a sweat over them- must have, must HAVE). Said friend lives in Los Angeles and works in entertainment. She has a lovely and adorable son and she's in that zone of life where fashion is still quite important, as is dressing a bit more age appropriate (whatever that means to you). Here's the question in its entirety:

"As a 40 something “cool mom” (did I actually just write that?) who works in the entertainment biz as a writer/producer, I am considering buying a pair of high tops. But, a) am I too old?? and b) what pair to get so I don’t look tragically delusional? I will not pay full price for ASH—although super comfy and cute. I love the line it cuts with a pair of legging jeans. I really like the wedge, but, also like the flat ones too. So, to high-top, or not to hightop? And, to wedge, or not to wedge? That is the question!"

Good question, right? Well, I've got a few answers. As someone who lives in Brooklyn, I happen to see a lot of cool moms running around all day, and though their shoe uniform skews heavily towards a Rag and Bone bootie, I can easily imagine any of these simple glam types rocking a sneaker, and many do (Isabel Marant changed the game with her platform sneaker and many of us went full tilt with those).  As for sneakers, I'm not great in Converse (they are clown like on me in a big, unfortunate way but I love them), but French women swear by them, the low top variety usually. I, however am a huge fan of high tops- my all time favorite pair are Nikes and they are the all black Blazer, with a perforated body that allows for some supreme comfort, while looking really cool with all of my skinnier pants, and are shown below- I got them at Barneys back in the day and can't find them online anywhere in black, but you'll see more of the Blazer style further down in this post. 

In terms of to wedge vs. non wedge, many say the wedge is on deathwatch, but I disagree as they are still everywhere and Isabel Marant is still making them, and making me crazy because I really want the green ones for Spring. Is there a better color ever? Love.

But down to earth girls need more fiscally responsible ways to rock the trend, so I adore my Modern Vice wedged high tops. And though I have a few pairs of Isabel Marant bootie/sneaky type things, her prices are insane. They may a be a sensible option for your feet, but definitely not for your wallet. It's not really about wedge vs. non wedge when it comes to looking age appropriate ps- both work for me as they can be dressed down or up according to what milestone you may be reaching in the age department. So here are a few of my favorite looks for girls of all ages- best worn with skinnies or my favorite, leather leggings.  Oh and you'll notice most of my picks are darker in hue- high tops can make your feet look largish, so I like to go dark with them. Now let's do this. (Or in sneaker speak, just do it).

THE HIGH TOP:

The Superga 2224 COTDU- These are cute and simple and inexpensive. Great option and grown up. If you are one of the few people that still gets a bonus check, go for the more glam version by the Row (MK and Ashley have taken their considerable design chops to Superga of late). Otherwise, at $65, these are a great option for grown ups.

Nike Lace up or Nike Blazer Twist- Can't go wrong with a basic black high top. Nike makes some of the best- a little more urban and cool, they're each just over 100 bucks, and get the job done. Mine are like walking on air. I dig 'em in a real way, and for some reason, guys love when you wear these as well. Something very spunky about a girl in a boyish high top. At Bloomingdales.Love. 

Ash Virgin Buckled sneaker(on sale)- My friend, you meet seek out deals when procuring the look you want, and there are no shortage of the spendy Ash sneaker on sale. The classic high top on sale at Last Call for CHEAP. Enjoy.

THE HIGH TOP WEDGE: 

Modern Vice Siena- I found these bad ass kicks on DSW for under $100. I have a pair and love 'em. They're a bit of a weapon (the spikes), so be careful around the little ones. 

Sam Edelman Bennett Wedge Sneaker- I love these in the dark navy- great with dark jeans and black. Fantastic and on sale for $78 at Bloomingdales. Great shoe, great deal. Any questions? 

DV by Dolce Vita Kip Sneaker- I adore these because they are part platform, part sneaker/high top, and part boot. I can absolutely see wearing these with a skirt or dress in addition to pants- nice line and cool shoe/sneak combo for the sneaker shy. Also under $100 so pocketbook friendly too. Score.

BREAKING NEWS: THE SLIP ON AKA THE SNEAKER FOR RIGHT NOW

So here's where I'm chinking about in the armor because if you're going to buy one sneaker/comfort shoe besides a Birkenstock this Spring (you know I love the Birks), get thee to a slip on sneaker. Think old school checkered Vans vibe, but less Fast Times and more modern times. Every designer is making these from Prada to Givenchy to Saint Laurent - I adore the Vince version but they're spendy and the plaid Celines above move me beyond, but there are some great less expensive options, shown here. I can't think of a more easygoing shoe- perfect for airport travel and on the go lives. Already seeing these on chic feet all over town- sure to be a hit with cool women everywhere, and super great for the cool mom crew.

Via Spiga Galant Too- Adorbs and laser cut- they also come in a snake print and a fabric/burlap. At $150 they're not cheap, but they're also not a $700 Isabel Marant sneaker. 

Sam Edelman Becker- Easygoing and leopard print. I'm in. Great shoe on Shopbop now.

Vans metallic slip on- A great take on a classic, now with golden glamour appeal. So cute in the Spring with white, or rock them in the colder months with black leggings and you're good to go. Big fan. May have to get these myself. And at just under $60, an inexpensive way to rock the trend. 

So now that we've addressed the sneaker issue, if you have a question you'd like me to answer, please write to me at sherimaven@gmail.com. I'm happy to answer and this concludes our sneaker session. And that's what's up this chicks with kicks of a Monday in the 212. Thanks for the question, my friend. Keep 'em comin'. Yours, in answers. XO

Good morning, Friday. It's a particularly beautiful morning in New York- the type that makes you remember what an honor it is to live here- the way the sun shines on the FDR on days like today is well worth the price of admission. And now that I've been back just over two years now, it's difficult not to feel nostalgic for the New York that once was- and unless you've been cave dwelling, you know that New York (and everywhere) has indeed changed, a lot, and not always for the better. 

In my mind, there are very few neighborhoods (none in Manhattan really) that are impervious to the sea changes postmodern life hath wrought. We live in a post 9/11 city, a heavily wired age, and a post Sandy city. Queens will become the new Brooklyn one day, and Hell's Kitchen will become the new Meatpacking District. It is very hard to go anywhere in this town (and I call it a town because somehow, after all these years, it feels small to me) and not be able to get a kale smoothie or a pair of Isabel Marant sneakers. The Brooklyn lifestyle is now in the pop culture canon as something aspirational, where back in the day, it's where you lived if you were more working class, more salt of the earth, and less sea salt infused. Where has the old New York gone? Where can you still see it the way it used to be if you wanted to? Where can I still get a shoeshine or a regular coffee with Sweet and Low if I wanted it? Midtown, kids. Midtown- it's the last bastion. Here's why. 

There's something about midtown Manhattan that is just so special. If there's one line in a song that midtown can own (I'm talking midtown east, from 42nd-about 50th, from about 3rd Avenue to Fifth Avenue), it's that line from "Across the Universe" that says: "nothing's gonna change my world".  There are no Organic Avenues here. There are no boutiques selling fancy sneakers we can't afford. The coffee shops here are largely for coffee drinking, and not for endless days of free wifi and freelancing - nobody's virtual living room is in midtown. 

Because midtown is really a no man's land for coolness. It's never been cool, and hopefully it never will be. Because people come to this part of town for one thing and one thing only- they come here to work. There are no mixed used lofts here. It's not work/life here. It's simply work life. And since work is a very huge part of our New York identity (first question from any New Yorker is almost always  'what do you do'?), midtown really matters.

I've been freelancing in midtown for the past week and I can't help but feel wistful about it. I started my career in advertising in this very neighborhood. For many of us of a certain age, we schlepped from our apartments on the Upper East Side (my first one was at 72nd and 2nd) on a highly crowded 6 train to work in midtown. We'd take the train to Grand Central and get right to it. Back in the day, all the ad agencies were right here- Y&R, JWT, FCB, DDB- all here. In the good old days, long before I worked in advertising or was even born, agencies settled here because of the easy commute to points north of the city. You could live in Connecticut or Long Island and hop right on the train at Grand Central. But because this neighborhood was all about work, it never really got the spice of other gentrified spots in the city. And because I started my career here, I have major love for it.  At one time, working in midtown was an advertising rite of passage. 

The weird stores selling statuary and porcelain sculptures, the old shoe repair joints, the barber spots, the noodle shops, the places where you can get a new watch battery. The fact that you can still eat a cheap lunch here. The grit of old buildings, the smokers huddled outside of big office towers (I used to be one of them), the rush, the buzz of commuting. The myriad of lunch spots selling salads with too many ingredients, the sense that you may never find a cab, hard as you may try. (Uber has helped with that tremendously- they lurk around midtown, a big bonus to postmodern life).

The bridges around Grand Central. The fact that there's always steam coming out of somewhere.  The affectionate nature of calling Lexington Avenue "Lex", as in, "meet me at 43rd and Lex". The sloping side streets. GRAND CENTRAL. Oh, how I love Grand Central. The random clothing stores like Bolton's and Strawberry and shops like Jam Paper selling hot pink envelopes. And how very much happened to me, or for me, in midtown. The shit went down here. Many times.

Midtown was the setting for a large part of my young work life.  It was the site of my first real job, and then my second and third. It's where I interoffice dated (the only time) as I nursed a broken heart and bonded over beer and a mutual love for the Rolling Stones.  I watched with amusement as a former boss, on his first day, kicked the shit out of a copy machine that wouldn't cooperate. I ran to deposit checks at the former Fleet bank on 42nd Street because I was so broke and had to make rent. I bribed the workers at more than one Kinko's in midtown with bottles of alcoholic beverages because a presentation had to be printed overnight. I ate lovely oyster stew at The Oyster Bar in Grand Central with my dad, who came in to visit me from Philly one workday and take me to lunch because he was proud of his little girl. I debated whether a temp we had hired was homeless, as we noticed she wore the same clothes every day and traveled with far too many bags and was always in the office before us. I had a million interns in midtown- Dutch and Scottish and everything in between- I still speak to almost all of them. I had bosses who set me free and showed me the way- who hired me from ads I answered in the New York Times (Lord bless them).  I learned how to work smart and fast. I bought a new pair of jeans at some random shop in midtown for my first date with my now husband because I hated my outfit I was wearing to work that day. My eyes were wide open in midtown.  I learned a lot of what I know to be true in midtown. I learned to come with solutions and never problems in midtown. I smoked cigarettes in my office in midtown. I read the New York Post every day in midtown, usually with a hangover. I cut my teeth and sowed my oats in midtown. So how can I not love it here? It played a huge part in my life, and I only realized that this week, as I came to work here yet again, this time as a freelancer with a bit more confidence and experience, and a husband who I have much more in common with than a love for Keith Richards (he's more of a Beatles fan, but that's not here nor there).

And sure I've become one of those girls who hate to go above 14th Street (with the noted exception of the Upper East Side, another neighborhood I feel very poetic about), but I take great comfort in midtown, and the fact that things stayed very much the same. Sure big box has moved in (Zara, Sephora, Urban Outfitters, H&M and many more), but these are businesses that somehow suit this neighborhood- quick pop by places where you can buy something reasonable to wear when you hate your outfit and have a hot date after work.  And yea, there's an Equinox that makes an ok kale and cucumber, but for the most part, this place hasn't changed, and that's why I love it. I love that the optical shop and LaCrasia, that store that sells hats and gloves, are still in residence at Grand Central. I can't say enough about Grand Central by the way. My love for that structure knows no bounds. It's just so damn classic and iconic and full of energy and life. And so is midtown itself- its heaving old buildings holding so many workers all trying to make a living and live the dream while eating a sandwich from Au Bon Pain.  As you get older, you very well realize that everything changes, and I'm grateful that midtown stays the same. (This, by the way, is only a love letter to Midtown East. Midtown West can suck it. I hate Times Square. Always have, always will).

So much of who I am and my journey in this thing called life has had to do with the work I do. And so much of that work has been done in midtown, and for me, this neighborhood is worthy of an ode. I like that the more things change, the more things stay the same around here. I wouldn't have it any other way.  Big ups to midtown for never trying to be too cool or too chic. Don't go changin' now. There's still much work to do.

Cause that's what's up this up above 42nd Street East Side of a Friday in the best city in the world. Yours, in getting the job done, right here in midtown.  See ya at 43rd and Lex. XO 

Good afternoon, Thursday. Sometimes my line of work calls for me to search for stuff. Like, a lot of stuff. Visual stuff mostly. 

So as I sat here most of the afternoon looking for illustrators for inspiration, I somehow found myself thinking of Shirley Manson. I don't know why. I'm weird, I guess. 

I think I thought of her because last night I watched SNL's recap of the 90s, and her and her little band called Garbage were guests back in they day. Damn if she did not look just too chic in hot pink satin and black ankle boots- very minimalist and really, very right this minute now. She was, and most likely still is, a complete fashion badass. Nobody wore red better, really. The hair, the clothes. So gorg.  She managed to be both a minimalist and a rock and roller all at once. Respect. 

Shirley is one of those ladies that my husband refers to as a "chick" -  cooler than a girl but not quite so buttoned up to be a lady. You know the type.

But since I have much to accomplish before going to meet a pal for dinner, I must take my leave, but not before I break you off a little piece of Shirley- her fiery fierceness is what's up today. I never got over not being a redhead anymore- as I got older, my craving to be a redhead died a bit, but perhaps it's time to bring that all back. And though I will never go all fire engine like Shirley, I may dabble in the rouge arts once again. We'll see. For now, I'm going back to searching for images of the outer limits of space. Hope you enjoy Shirley girly.

Cause that's what's up this stupid girl kind of Thursday in the 212. Ooh, ps- I saw a girl in a leather beret today- here she is above. I love the image so wanted to share- I made it look much better than it looked in person, by the way. Who on Earth would wear a leather beret? The I Phone camera makes everything look like magic. Yours, in rock diva goodness. XO

Hi, Wednesday, you little humpty hump you. I'm listening to Biggie and wondering how we live life without him. Perfect accompaniment to today's work/life.  And if you don't know, now you know...

This past weekend found me catching up on some much needed movie watching on demand styles, and on a gloomy Saturday night, we watched "The Place Beyond the Pines", a dark horse of a movie released in theaters last year. It starred Bradley Cooper as a cop and Ryan Gosling as some sort of carni/marauder/tragic criminal with a heart. Light it was not. Oh and ps, I saw "American Hustle" the very next day, in the theater, and realized two days of Bradley Cooper in a row is simply too much. I like the guy but his whole manic character thing gets on my last and final...his looks however, are A-OK. 

And speaking of A OK looking, THE GOS. Oh my. 

Watching him in this movie was riveting- his bleached blonde hair,  rock tees, and mad motorcycle skills were on another level of awesome (not to mention his bod- oops I just did). I very much dig on the homemade looking tats, blasted out jeans, and stormy weather countenance of this character. And because of that, I dedicate this blog post to the one and only Gos man, and his cool as shit style in this film. if that makes me generic (and late to the party), I care not. I come to these things in my own time.  Oh, and yea. He's feeding a baby. Looking like that. And?

Ps, I'd rock this look, hard.  Sure, the Gos is pretty much every woman's dream and subject of endless memes and interwebs worship, but hotness aside, I'm digging on his look big time,  It's pretty cute for chicks too, non? I'd say this level of sexy style transcends gender, although I'm not gonna pretend to look as good in a tee shirt as gorgy Gos. But then again-  vintage rock/metal tees, red leather, tight jeans, peroxide blonde hair, and tattoos? Why not? Pass the Metallica tee. I'm all in.  I realize this look is not for everyone, but I'm inspired, and you're still reading, so you must be too. Girls will be all boyish sometimes.

Cause that's what's up this rough hewn, rock and roll motorcycle club of a Wednesday in the 212.  Yours, in peroxide and movie stars, oh and hip hop. (Just because I say so).  XO

Hey, Tuesday. I'm a busy lil bee so just wanted to inspire an outfit choice for you today or tomorrow or whenever...don't you just? After all of that Golden Globes dressed to the nines stuff, I take pleasure in this simple visual of dressed down done completely right. Wanted to share this simple, chic look- today all will be black and white (well, beige) with very little in between so let's get to it, shall we?

Cause that's what's up this just a well edited outfit of a Tuesday in the gloomy 212sy. Yours, in casual cool. XO

So here it is Monday and it's a gorgeous one in the big city. I'm feeling fully in the swing of 2014, let's hope that sticks around for a minute or two. I'm caught up in the hope a new year brings.

So let's talk Golden Globes, shall we?

 Obviously I'll be breaking you off a slice of my opinion on who wore what (the girls looked pretty above, non), but let's pause that for a moment to chat on something my husband noted last night, and I think it's so very true- aren't we tired of seeing the same people win the same awards year after bloody year? Sure they throw someone like Jennifer Lawrence into the mix, but really Hollywood needs some fresh meat. Some new directors. Something new. Yes we adore our Scorceses, our DiCaprios, our Helen Mirrens. And it's not just about finding younger people, mind you- it's just about adding people and talent we have not seen before. It feels a lot like advertising to be honest- everyone talks about a talent shortage, and I'm beginning to think it's hopping on over to Hollywood, too. Even Tina and Amy felt a little stale and phoned in to me. Meh. Also, Diane Keaton- don't sing. Please.

But besides the fact that I'm craving something groundbreaking from Tinseltown, the fashion last night had some standouts, but again- where are the young designers, the trailblazers, the enfants terribles? I'm amazed at how many women wore Dior and how almost every superstar wore something by a supserstar. They should fix that. It's boring.

But I'll tell you what wasn't boring- the use of big time color on the gowns this year. I'm not a huge red person- more because it doesn't look good on me than I don't like it. But wow did so many ladies look amazing in it. Gorgeous Lupita Nyong'o (a newcomer to awards season and a stunner) looked bananas good in red Ralph Lauren with a caped back.  Taylor Swift's Carolina Herrera dress with black bodice and red below the waist was unbelievably glamorous, Amy Adams (and her e'er present boobs) wore tonal red Valentino with the requisite deep v neckline (great necklace ps), and then, THEN, there was Emma Watson in that red Dior with pants underneath and no back and blue suede shoes who just stole the whole damn show for me. Modern, young, DIFFERENT. I loved it so very much- and love that she kept the hair and makeup simple with such a statement dress. And love that she was wearing pants underneath- all the better to sit through Diane Keaton's song to, or watch celebrity after celebrity come to the dais unprepared to win (what was up with that?). Also outstanding was Julia Louis Dreyfus's Narciso Rodriguez (she wears him a lot, and with good reason), with vintage Indian inspired jewels. Loved it. The simple hair and makeup again a standout against such a dress. But who got red wrong, you may ask? Edie Falco. Christmas is over, Nurse Jackie. Time to unwrap the gifts.

And then there were the ladies who went the metallic route, and with wonderful results. 

Michelle Dockery's De La Renta did not get a ton of air time but deserved it, my girl crush Robin Wright's Reem Acra (and much younger fiance) was a nice middle finger to Sean Penn (wardrobe malfunction or no wardrobe malfunction), and Naomi Watts' Armani was sexy as could be. Gorg beyond gorgy gorg. Oh and Mila Kunis's Gucci gown was just stunning. A friend who came over for the show felt it was a bit old for me, but I thought it divine. Let's not forget Kate Beckinsale in Zuhair Murad. Her gene pool just does not play fair. Unbelievable.

In a class by herself was Amber Heard, who although she has to endure Johnny Depp's hairplugs (I know, so sad), looked transcendent in navy Versace. She's amazingly beautiful and giving Angelina Jolie a run for her money with that outstretched leg pose. Work.

In terms of fashion risks of the evening, some paid off, and some really did not.

Zoe Saldana's Prabal Gurung was beyond hard to wear, but she's such a modely type of girl it totally worked on her. She is simply made for clothes and has real style.

On the other hand, Lena Dunham really needs to learn how to dress herself. It's almost like she does it on purpose. And I don't like it. Knowing how to dress yourself is the difference between a "girl" and a woman- sorry, Lena. Time to grow up. This Zac Posen is awful on you- from the color to the cut. ALL KINDS OF WRONG. 

Also in Prabal was Sandra Bullock, whose dress I pondered for a few and settled on the fact that it looked like a parachute- perhaps in an homage to her movie where she freefalls through outer space? Back to Earth, Sandra. This dress bombed for me. Hair and makeup fab, however.

Drew Barrymore looked divine in Monique Lhuillier, but not in the way you're thinking. Divine as in Divine the star of John Waters movies. If you were wondering where have all the flowers gone, here's your answer. They threw up on Drew's dress. Just bad.

Oh, and Julia Roberts in Dolce & Gabbana. I can't. Did she not have time to change after her desk job and come to the awards? I don't get it. Truly a fashion crime, especially with that face and hair. Why Julia Why? 

Jennifer Lawrence's Dior was no bueno for me as well. I didn't like the banding, I didn't like the jewelry, I don't like her hair. I do however, love her to pieces, so this is all confusing for me. Better luck next time, lady love. Break free of those (fashion) chains.

And over in the basic black category, two stunning ladies were anything but. I adored Elisabeth Moss's EVERYTHING in J. Mendel (hair, lip, dress) and Cate Blanchett was just beyond.com in Armani Prive, as was Juliana Margulies in gold accented Andre Gn. I also liked Amy Poehler's Stella McCartney- modern, well fitting, and strong. Also shout out to Alison Williams for bringing the class in Alexander McQueen. Very nice. Not terribly exciting, but she's a classic girl.

And sure the men looked good- that guy who won for best composer had the best hair of the night (tied with Jared Leto's samurai bun bien sur), and although as my husband said, "Usher is dressed like an usher", he indeed looked adorable. Though some of the men, including Leo and Matt Damon, were sporting some orange skin. Weird. Easy on the self tanner, boys. Orange does not go well with a tux. Yike.

I don't want to mention Paula Patton's dress because it absolutely terrified me (worst of the night for me), and the phoning in quality of the hosts (sorry Amy and Tina ya didn't bring it) had me very bored. And although there was some great fashion hits, the show itself was such a big miss. Everybody needs to get over themselves and either drink more champagne to make things interesting, or bring some newbies to the table we haven't seen before. Otherwise, Paula Patton's ruffled sleeve is going to eat all us, alive. 

Cause that's what's up this Golden Globed round up of a Monday in the beautiful 212. Yours, in glamour. XO

Good afternoon, Friday. It's a dreary one outside and now that freelance life has begun, my need for fuss-free beauty products is stronger than ever.

In a moment of weakness last month, I bought Alexa Chung's book "IT" because I am a sucker for a book with a pink cover and also I admire her style, even if she is pretentious. I can't help myself. And besides her gangly limbs and ability to make a Peter Pan collar or denim shorts look impossibly chic, the girl's got great hair. Like, always. Her secret? Apparently all you have to do is dry your bangs with a blow dryer so they're not all wonked out and then let the rest of your mane dry naturally. So I do. And I did. And it's great, as long ast there's not a ton of humidity in the air (yesterday was particularly good for this method).

And when the hair is dry, my new favorite go to product is Evo's Haze powder, which Alexa Chung does not mention in her book, but which I found in my travels. To me, it's better than hair powder and less gooey than a pomade or fixative. A little bit dissolves in your hand, and all you have to do is crunch up the locks with your fingers and it's game on for that nice wavy thing a la Alexa and is not too "producty" so not too much build up or overdoing it. I love this product- also great for a fresh blow dry when you want to look a little less Washington wife smooth and a little more rock and roll cool. And at just under $20 on Amazon, it's priced right for those embarking on a freelance career, and since a little goes a long way, it's a good investment. Complements a day in gym clothes working from home nicely- bonus points if you go mingle with the public a little and plug in at your local coffee spot. Freelancing has never looked so good. 

Cause that's what's up this product-ive Friday in the 718. Yours, in perfect bedhead goodness. XO

PS Can people stop saying "on trend" or "what's trending"? Please? I just needed to get that out.

Well if you’ve read this here blog long enough, you know it always comes back to fashion, so let’s have a little chitty chat about PreFall 2014. Ooh. I’m in love beyond belief.The look above is from Chloe whose standout collection just has what it takes (and what I want) in spades.

Last week, I wrote about how once taboo fashion items like Birkenstocks are becoming all the rage, and designers are taking cues from a more utilitarian place and bringing us clothes for Fall 2014 that feel way less about fuss and altogether more about function (though this shorter wider pant all over the runways presents some challenges after years of so many skinny pants- will be interesting to see if they sell).

At Max Mara, a capelike jacket is worn with voluminous shorts (somehow it’s wearable and really fabulous), and the parka gets the pared down treatment for a minimalist play on Fall dressing.

Over at Lanvin, my heart swooned as I looked at that fabulous belted coat with the feel of a Chanel piece but way more raw and right now.  And the deep green caftan with long necklace is pretty much how I would dress every day if I could- if there was a uniform to be had, it would be this dress. If I were to start a commune, we’d all be in Lanvin caftans, and that’s that. Plus I adore the slouched silhouette of the double-breasted jacket with gold buttons and elongated khaki pants.  How can you not love a modern and more relaxed take on a classic like the blue blazer and khakis? Sure, that’s more of a menswear thing but here it’s all woman, and very easygoing.  And that crimson wrap/cocoon coat? Yea, I’ll have that please. It’s the perfect piece to throw over everything- from day to night. This red coat should be part of every stylish woman’s uniform, and I expect it to be heavily knocked off in more high street retailers this Fall. Remember I told you. Also the ease of that belted sexy black trench or the one-shouldered cool of a well-feathered dress? Well, I’m all about it. 

And something we’ve all been noticing for the past few seasons is a new silhouette shaping up in fashion land- it’s a looser, cozier, less body con way of dressing that is going to please those amongst us who like to breath, move, and feel confident in a more chilled out shape of things.  I’m in love with Antonio Berardi’s shorter fur (please let it be fake) jacket and voluminous pants, the vest/coat which can take you anywhere and you can feel good putting multiple layers underneath like leather or a blazer or even denim, and the oversized chunky knit turtleneck and print pant is something I’d wear to any party I’d ever have to go to again. It’s so easygoing and cool and not at all precious. Love it.

Ooh, two posts in one day. I'll keep it brief.

Some of you out there in social media are gloating that you live somewhere that's balmy. Enjoying all the pics of the beach, sand in your toes, and midday sun soaked bike rides. Uh huh. Noted. Guess what? I care not.

Because polar vortex or no polar vortex, there's one thing I missed more than just about anything when I lived in Miami and was warm all the time- WINTER CLOTHES. AND SHOES. AND ACCESSORIES. I live for them. I can't help myself. So as you're all sitting there in your monokini and slathering on the sunscreen, I thought I'd regale you with some inspiration from up North. Just so you could see what you're missing.  We may be cold, but damn, look how hot we look.

Sorry- you know you have winter wardrobe envy- I don't know a girl alive who doesn't love a good scarf and boots and cozy sweater- I'm partial to the Fair Isle right now, as seen below. The cuteness is overwhelming. I remember when it hit 60 in Miami and I broke out the boots and never feeling quite right about it. Come to the dark side, fashion friends in warm climates. Winter never looked so good.  And you know this. (PS also loving a bright ski hat- nice way to perk things up).

Cause that's what's up this winter wardrobe brag of a Wednesday. Yours, in bundled upness.  Regale yourself with more visual chilly weather chicness below. XO