Shireen Sandoval in the Spotlight
I met Shireen Sandoval more than 10 years ago at the infamous “Fashion Night Out” event at Bal Harbour Shops. It was one of my first assignments when I was a Miami Celebrity Fashion Examiner (yes, I still remember those days!) I was a little nervous because I didn’t know anybody at that time, and I had in my notes that she was one of the celebrity hosts. So, a picture of her was a must for my article. I remember being impressed by her flawless appearance as I approached her to ask if I could photograph her. But my nerves vanished as soon as she returned my smile and said, “Of course!”
We had a genuine conversation while taking the photos, and I felt authenticity and a genuine connection. She was friendly and amusing, like an old friend. Shireen Sandoval has a magnetic personality like that! A woman who knows who she is: authentic, confident but humble, and a full-time fashionista! She chooses to appreciate her blessings and focus on fighting for what is worth fighting for while always moving forward. We are honored to have her on the cover of this special edition of Women Empowerment and we hope you enjoy learning more about her in our “SPOTLIGHT.”
Let’s talk with this empowered woman who has become a successful journalist and is dominating the celebrity scene in our glamorous city like a movie star—the current co-host and Film Critic of Deco Drive TV Show for the WSVN channel and has become one of Miami’s top fashion icons.
Lights, camera, and SPOTLIGHT!
Lissette Rondon: It is a pleasure to have you on our cover! I love to see you on your “Deco Drive” Shows. I am also a consistent reader of your blog “Shireen’s Favorite Things”–each outfit is a fashion statement about Shireen Sandoval. Therefore, I believe it is essential to ask: How do you define yourself, and what does success mean to Shireen Sandoval?
Shireen Sandoval: I define myself through the love of family and close friends. Not just receiving love, but giving it, too. Making the special people in my life feel safe, nurtured, and understood is a gift. After all, how you make someone feel is a window into your true character. Success comes in many different forms. At this stage in my life, I think being present and, at the moment, gives me a sense of accomplishment.
LR: When it comes to fashion style, individuality and ingenuity thrive. Who are the individual personalities that shape your style? And what is the philosophy behind the items that become “Shireen’s Favorite Things”?
SS: At the moment, I’m obsessed with Mimi Plange, Charles de Vilmorin, and Naeem Khan. Shireen’s Favorite Things is a blog about life experiences expressed through fashion. Much like music, when you remember exactly where you were when you heard a favorite song, fashion has that power, too. It can bring back memories, create new ones, transport our imaginations, allow us to recreate ourselves, and boost self-confidence. Who needs therapy? Lol. New shoes can do wonders.
LR: You have an incredibly fulfilling career that has allowed you to travel the world interviewing many celebrities, and you cover all things celebrity here in Miami. How have you mastered the art of confidence-chemistry when interviewing celebrities?
SS: When interviewing someone famous, confidence is key, and a lot goes into that word. Here are some of my secrets: know everything about your subject, ask smart questions with open and honest energy, listen so your responses are organic, and most importantly, do not fangirl. You can respect someone’s work but be equal will give you better footing. When a subject respects you, you’ll get a much better interview.
LR: Do you have any anecdotes from your first interviews?
SS: When I was a cub entertainment reporter, I learned some lessons the hard way; usually, on the job. A grumpy actor, an over-the-top diva actress, a crazy agent, beyond-late celebrities. You can’t take it personally and respond with grace is a good way to counteract bizarre situations. Sometimes, Hollywood can be bizarre. Your number one job is to get solid, interesting, and unique information to elevate your show or publication.
Women Empowerment and More…
LR: Concerning “Women Empowerment”, at what point in your life did you learn to embrace your uniqueness, and what makes you feel empowered?
SS: I think I’ve always had a streak of individuality, but uniqueness in fashion (for me) came with time and accepting my quirks. I used to feel self-conscious being from the desert (New Mexico) but now, I realize it’s who I am and one of the reasons my “look” has so much bohemian flair. Being in touch with your true self is very empowering and so is a great pair of cowboy boots!
LR: On your blog you also write about your human vulnerabilities, allowing you to connect with a lot of women out there, not only because of your style but also because of your openness. What do you do when these women write back, seeking solidarity?
SS: When I write my blog, it’s a release of emotion. With that being said, I always hope my words inspire or help someone commiserate. When women send emails or private messages about their struggles, it humbles me. Collective experiences make us stronger. We’re all better together, aren’t we?
LR: What are your thoughts on women empowering women and #womenempowerment on social media?
SS: Despite television being very competitive, especially amongst women, I’ve always believed there’s enough room to work symbiotically. Supporting one another is important for all of us to succeed and I feel the same about social media. I love to see other women succeeding, doing their thing, making the most of their talents — it actually inspires me.
Her Fashion Evolution and Icons!
LR: How important is female friendship to you?
SS: There’s nothing like a great friendship. It’s the glue to good mental health. Supportive, happy, healthy friends can make all the difference in life. I’m lucky enough to have two best friends, we’ve known each other for decades and it’s such a blessing.
LR: What advice do you have for women who are struggling with their confidence these days?
SS: We live in a crazy world where a lot is coming at us, constantly. Whether it’s on television, streaming, or social media–it can be overwhelming. Sometimes, I detox from it all by reading, listening to music, writing, and exercising. Focusing on my mental and physical health gives me confidence.
LR: Returning to fashion, change is constant in both the fashion world and life. When you look back in time, what do you think about your past appearances? Where did your transformation begin?
SS: Oh, boy! Don’t even get me started on some of my old television hair-dos and outfits. Some were tragic. Thank goodness, times have changed, and I’ve changed with them. I think my real transformation came when I better understood myself as a person and what I wanted to project. I dress with class, sophistication, and comfort in mind. That doesn’t mean stuffy, it means timeless (with a hint of individuality).
LR: How has your approach to beauty and fashion evolved? And what has been the secret to making each trend your own?
SS: I gravitate toward effortless dresses, unusual accessories, and a great pair of shoes. I love adding elements of whimsy to my ensembles. The secret to any trend, for me, is knowing which ones to embrace and which ones to run away from.
LR: You are a source of fashion inspiration for many women and aspiring fashionistas. What has inspired you over the years? Who are your icons?
SS: As a journalist, the world around me always inspires. Especially, traveling and meeting new people, telling stories. When it comes to icons: Gloria Steinem, Fran Lebowitz, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and Coco Chanel.
Shireen Sandoval and Our ‘Fashionmografo’
LR: This is our favorite part. It was born on our YouTube Channel MFSTV, we call it the “Fashionmografo”, and it’s a mini-fast Q&A that is a little gossiper. I’ll ask 10 questions that you should answer with the first word that comes to your mind.
LR: How do you celebrate your achievements?
SS: Pink champagne! New shoes! Flowers!
LR: Book that you have read many times and will read it again?
SS: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.
LR: Someone who has been a great inspiration in your life?
SS: Diane Sawyer, Mary Hart, Dr. Lee Scanlon (who was my first communications/writing professor), and of course, my parents.
LR: Your favorite vacation, ever?
SS: Santa Fe, New Mexico (where I’m from). It’s always good to go home.
LR: How many shoes do you have?
SS: Hmm…not enough.
LR: What do you wear on the weekends?
SS: A sundress with funky wingtips or a flowy skirt paired with a vintage top and a pair of Old Gringo cowboy boots.
LR: What is your super special handbag?
SS: Definitely, my Birkin Bag.
LR: What is your signature scent?
SS: Santa Maria Novella’s Rosa Gardenia (it’s actually a new
obsession).
LR: Do you have a favorite Miami-based designer?
SS: I adore Tammy Apostol (TA Couture), Julian Chang, and Filomena Fernandez.
LR: On your days off, are you a cosmetic lover or a wash-and-go girl?
SS: I wear A LOT of television make-up during the week so on the weekend I keep it simple with a good wash, sunscreen, undereye cover-up, and lip oil.
More information about Shireen Sandoval:
Fashion blog: ShireenSandoval.Com
“There’s nothing like a great friendship. It’s the glue to good mental health. Supportive, happy, healthy friends can make all the difference in life.”
–Shireen Sandoval