Erika W. Smith

New York

Writer at Freelance

editor/writer, formerly @cosmopolitan @refinery29 @bust_magazine. she/her.

Articles

Let’s Talk About Mental Health and Facelifts

1 week ago | vogue.com | Erika W. Smith

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Your Everything Guide to Aura and Aura Readings

2 weeks ago | cosmopolitan.com | Erika W. Smith

If you haven't used the word "aura" to describe someone recently, then you've at least heard it used (and don’t worry if you haven't at all—we’ll define it in a sec). Though it's become trendy verbiage, it's actually a legit thing! There are actual people out there who can read your aura and tell you all about it. You can even get your aura photographed too! So, how does it all work? And what do your aura colors even really mean?
What Happens to the Stay-at-Home Girlfriend After a Breakup? (Spoiler: It's Tough...Financially)

1 month ago | cosmopolitan.com | Erika W. Smith

If you’re on TikTok, you’ve probably seen them on your FYP, wearing athleisure sets in chic neutrals while making the bed. Or preparing coffee for their boyfriends and a Bloom Nutrition drink for themselves.
Angel Number 2121's spiritual meaning revealed for your love life and career

2 months ago | cosmopolitan.com | Erika W. Smith

You go out with friends for lunch and spend exactly £21.21. You cue up the latest episode of your favorite TV show and you notice that it’s 21 minutes and 21 seconds long…weird, because the podcast you listened to earlier today was exactly that length, too. For some reason, your microwave has reset itself to military time, and which you realise when you notice the clock reads 21:21 instead of 9:21. What is going on? Is 2121 following you around? Well, yes. It’s an angel number. What’s an angel number?
Air signs astrology meaning and personality traits by zodiac sign

Mar 26, 2025 | cosmopolitan.com | Lisa Stardust |Erika W. Smith

In astrology, there are four elements (fire, water, earth, and air) that categorize and describe the 12 zodiac signs. Today, let’s talk air. The three air signs are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius (and just FYI, the water signs are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, and the fire signs are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius). What are the air signs in astrology? Air signs are the thinkers, communicators, and doers of the zodiac. They analyse, synthesise, and probe.
Traits of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces zodiac signs

Mar 25, 2025 | cosmopolitan.com | Lisa Stardust |Erika W. Smith

Ever stand under a waterfall? That’s what it’s like when a Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces is feeling an intense emotion. The 12 zodiac signs are grouped into four elements: fire, earth, air, and water. Today, we’re diving deep (get it?) into water signs. What are the water signs in astrology? The three water signs - again, that’s Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces - are known for being sensitive and sentimental.
50 Gifts for Aquarius That Will Definitely Make You the Favorite Friend

Feb 26, 2025 | yahoo.com | Erika W. Smith |Christen A. Johnson

Cosmopolitan and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change. The Only Aquarius Gift Guide You Need Khadija Horton/Getty"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." If you're here, it's because you have a favorite Aquarius in your life and you want to get them a really good gift, one that will embody all of their air sign greatness. Trust me, I get it. A gift for an Aquarius has to be good.
Click for the Cosmic Compatibility Between Selena and Benny, Olivia and Louis, and More Celeb Couples

Feb 6, 2025 | cosmopolitan.com | Erika W. Smith

Welcome to Shiposcopes, Cosmo’s new series where we call in an astrologer to break down the cosmic compatibility of your favorite celebrity couples (you’ll find it first in our print mag, so def subscribe).
Aries Man Personality Traits, Love Compatibility, and Dating Advice

Nov 13, 2024 | cosmopolitan.com | Erika W. Smith

There are just a few basics that need to be explored when you first start dating someone. Where is he from? What does he do for a living? Oh, and most definitely, when’s his birthday? This isn’t just for remembering when to send that “happy b-day :)” text! Knowing a potential partner's zodiac sign can really help in understanding his behaviour. Astrology helps us break down personality traits, pet peeves, and, yes, even dating patterns.
Everything You Need to Know About Aries and Sagittarius Compatibility

Nov 12, 2024 | cosmopolitan.com | Erika W. Smith

What’s hotter than a fire? Two fire signs in love! Aries and Sagittarius were basically made for each other, astrologically. They’re both bold, passionate, brave, adventurous, and spontaneous. Other zodiac signs simply can’t handle them—but they understand each other perfectly.