When is the last time you felt completely raw?
Rawness is an attribute of the “Jen” persona.
Being raw is scary. It's vulnerable. It's uncomfortable. It's also liberating.
It's about being honest with yourself and others about how you really feel without sugarcoating or hiding behind a facade. It's about being open to the messiness of life and accepting that imperfection is a part of the human experience.
When we allow ourselves to be raw, we open up a space for authenticity and genuine connection. And, when we permit others to do the same, that's where true relationships are built.
So let's embrace our rawness, even when it's uncomfortable, even when it's hard. Because when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we open up a whole world of possibilities and connections.
xx, Jen
Hey Jen,
Q: The weather has been wild. We’re having temp extremes not just from day-to-day, but hour-to-hour. Even the weather reporters can’t keep up. Then add in the hot flashes, and I feel like I need to change my outfit a million times a day to stay warm or to cool off. What’s the secret to dressing for this craziness?
A: Layers, my friend. Layers are the secret. And you can layer in a very stylish way without a bulky look and still stay warm when the temp drops (or the hot flash subsides).
Start with a cotton blouse or t-shirt. Like this one from the Gap that’s on sale now for $19.99.
Add your favorite blazer, cardigan or pullover sweater. I have this one from Veronica Beard. Yes, it’s spendy. But it’s an excellent investment. It fits like a glove, and the cut makes it super versatile. You’ll definitely get your ROI.
Slip on a pair of jeans or neutral pants—nothing too heavy. The Sloan pant from Banana Republic is a favorite. I’ve had mine for years—they are well-made, slimming, and never seem to go out of style.
As for shoes, I would wear sneakers. Boots may be too warm when the temp increases, and flats/loafers may not be warm enough in the cold. I just picked up a pair of these Vans Old Skool Stackform Sneakers when I was in Portland last week. I love that they have some height—it seems to provide a little more formality to them. Slip on some no-see socks, and you are good to go out in any kind of weather.
A lovely grey wool coat will protect you from the chill. They are a dime a dozen these days, so you don’t have to break the bank (because you already did with the blazer :-| ). Zara always has classic yet stylish coats—at bargain prices.
Wrap a scarf around your neck. It can double as a shawl if you remove your coat and blazer. This one from Fig Linen and Home is perf. It comes in several subdued colors, and it’s just the right weight to keep you warm but not roasting.
Top it all off with some big gold hoop earrings and a sling bag (which are all the rage), and you are good to go.
Here’s the look:
…of the week
Song…
Carry Me Home by Jorja Smith. I love her raw and vulnerable voice in this one. It guts me.
Podcast…
Need some help falling asleep? Jessica Porter is here to help. Jessica is a hypnotist and has a podcast called Sleep Magic. She sounds like Alison Janey. She sounds super cool. She sounds like a friend.
Instagram account…
MaryOliversDrunkCousin. All I can say is, “IYKYK.”
Term…
Sober Curious. It’s a movement that started back in 2018, and it’s beginning to take hold. It’s for those of us who want to cut back on our alcohol intake…including me. During the pandemic, it seems like cocktail hour started happening earlier…and ended later. Now, with health initiatives like Dry January, many are starting to explore their drinking habits and the benefits of cutting back…or not drinking at all. With the movement, we’ve seen a plethora of “mocktails” and alcohol-free alternatives flood the market. In the next several newsletters, I’ll be exploring the new libations on the market and will let you know what I think. Stay tuned…