Sunday Chronicles: Sitting in Bathwater

Investment Piece, Sunday Chronicles, fashion blogger, sitting in Bathwater, self care, moving on,

While in a spin class this week, my teacher (Pixie in LA at SoulCycle–she’s amazing, and that’s just one of my faves, I have them all over the country!) mentioned something that her yoga teacher said–about how we love to sit in our own dirty Bathwater. And loves, both teachers are right. The analogy was meant as a gentle reminder that we have a tendency to wallow in our stories, the bad things that happen to us, our reasons for not moving on; we all love to sit in bathwater. And while there is something amazingly comforting about sitting in bathwater, there comes a time when you have to get out.

By no means do I mean to imply that there aren’t times when wallowing isn’t needed; sometimes things are hard, it takes time to process and heal certain things. This is not about rushing yourself. This is not about forcing yourself before you’re ready. This is about not allowing yourself to sit in something that no longer serves you; be it a cycle, a relationship or job, or your bathwater. Knowing when it’s time to rinse off and move on can be hard, but when it is time, nothing feels as good.

This bathwater analogy hit home for you? It did for me. I know I have cycles to break, things I cling to, and am pretty great at sitting in things that no longer serve me. And while that is comfortable, it only hurts me. The thing is that sitting in the bathwater is tempting, we can tell ourselves that it’s good for us, that it’s cleansing. It can be. Baths are a great way to relax and bathe. However, there can be a fine line between relaxing and wallowing, washing and stewing. We can get caught up in the wallowing and stewing, thinking it’s relaxing and bathing, that we miss the part where we’re supposed to get out. In this analogy or real life, there’s always a time to get out of the tub; be it to go to bed, or to move on to the next adventure in life.

So, knowing what we know about bathwater, this might be a great week to ask ourselves: what are we really doing in the bath? Are we sitting in dirty bathwater? Is it time to rinse off and get out? What can let go of this week?

Wishing us all a week of rinsing off and amazing shoes! XO RA

Bodysuit

Investment Piece, vintage, Levi's, bodysuit, Zara, high fashion, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, bodysuit, vintage, Levi's, Zara, high fashion, CA, TX
Investment Piece, bodysuit, fashion blogger, vintage, Levi's, Zara, high fashion, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, bodysuit, vintage Levi's, Zara, high fashion, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, vintage, Levi's, bodysuit, Zara, high fashion CA, TX
Investment Piece, bodysuit, fashion blogger, vintage, Levi's, Zara, high fashion, CA, TX

We tend to think of “throw on and go” for our dresses, jumpsuits, etc, but what about our bodysuits? It’s the same idea, yes? A bodysuit is a no-think option, can be a staple and a statement, and makes outfit planning so easy! Growing up, I was a dancer (and still occasionally throw on a leotard with everything, example A, B, and C), so I love the idea of a great bodysuit. And this layered option from Zara I’d just perfect. I love the illusion of two shirts, I love the stripe, the color, and the detail. It goes amazing with vintage Levi’s, but just as great with skirts and pants. And these shoes! I love the elastic, the block heel, the grey (in my world grey is a neutral!)

While this look is semi-casual, it works for date night, the movies, dinner, lunch, errands. And the details of the bodysuit mean that not much else is needed! I was able to throw my hair up in a bun, put on red lipstick, and call it a day! That’s what I love about bodysuits, they don’t make you work for it. And these shoes! Great with jeans, skirts, dresses, just neutral enough, and just enough personality to stand out. And loves, let’s talk vintage Levi’s. I know that they can be a scary thing. I love them. Nothing can quite match what they do for your back side, and if you have a super high waist like me, nothing fits just as perfect. They aren’t as tight as modern jeans, which makes them a nice alternative. I got these from LotStockandBarrel but I also love The Rebel Stylist and AAVintedge for amazing vintage denim!

I’d love to know, what are your feelings on bodysuits? Do you consider them “throw on and go” staples? What do you wear them with?

This bodysuit and shoes are from Zara. Shop my picks for great bodysuits below!

Happy Friday!

XO RA

And Wedding Season is coming! Don’t worry: Rent the Runway has you covered!

Neiman Marcus

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Neiman Marcus, high fashion, CA, TX

Loves, as you may know Neiman Marcus (the luxury department store) is for sale. While the sale won’t change the quality, name, or brand of the store, it does signify a change in our shopping experience. Truth be told, this news hit me harder than it should have. My childhood was shaped by Neiman Marcus. My family is from Dallas, and Neimans was a place to mark milestones. My grandma used to take us for tea, it was a place to shop for special occasions, and Neiman Marcus may have a hand in my love for expensive shoes. My mother has strong memories about attending fortnights at the store, two week long affairs, in the theme of a country, where the Dallas Neiman Marcus Flagship would go all out–decorate the escalators like dragons (China), give away free Guinness (Ireland), have lederhosen clad dancers (Germany). Neimans would fly in celebrities: Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne, Sophia Loren, and taught Dallas Society how to party. Neiman Marcus for decades played a huge part in discovering new designers, hosting fashion shows, and being the authority in luxury.

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Neiman Marcus, high fashion , TX, CA

Recently, I had the opprotunity to hear Tom Alexander speak-he was manager of all things Neiman Marcus at its height, and a noted historian. Just to hear him tell stories about the events, the celebs, the stories was simply amazing. He’s recently published a biography of Stanely Marcus (founder of the store), it is for sale at any Neimans and is worth a read. I was not only fascinated by the stories he had to tell, but Stanely’s son conducted the Q&A and we got a glimpse into Neiman Marcus’s plan for the future.

Neiman Marcus wrote the book on luxury; salespeople knew your name, size, taste, gave a personal touch, and the high end items! But loves, the way you and I shop is changing. Online shopping has not only changed how impersonal shopping has become, it has also changed our expectations in terms of availability, and delivery (and let’s be honest there’s not a person alive who doesn’t love coming home to a “present” on the doormat). So where does this leave luxury retailers? If we can get anything from anywhere delivered in 5-7 business days, is there still a place for Neiman Marcus and similar stores?

I was relieved to hear that Neimans believes the answer is yes. People love personalized service. I’m usually a woman who doesn’t need a ton of help to shop, but I do have to say that it is lovely to get a call or text from my girl at Neimans to let me know about promotions or things that just arrived that are my style –and many websites don’t offer that. Will this service have to become more “web friendly”? Sure. However, the belief that it’s still available, and the customer who still appreciates it, makes Neiman Marcus confident that they can provide the level of service that they are known for, and move into modern shopping.

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Neiman Marcus, high fashion, CA, TX

I love Neiman Marcus, unapologetically. In fact, I long for the day when the fortnights, celeb and designer fashion shows come back, and we return to an era when department stores mean luxury. What about you? Do you love Neimans like I do? Shop my picks from Neiman Marcus below, and I cannot recommend the books enough-history, celeb gossip, and shopping! And don’t forget the cookbooks, they remind me of meals with my grandma, and are great from everything from treats to dinner parties!

XO RA

Beauty and the Beast

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, beauty and the beast, shopping, CA, TX

Have you seen Disney’s new live-action “Beauty and the Beast”? I did on Sunday with my family, and I loved it! I’m a sucker for the Disney version of the classic story. I love how Belle, the Beauty, is a book warm, champions intelligence, cares deeply, and isn’t afraid to be different than the people she lives by. I love the singing furniture, the gruffness of the Beast, and that library! I love that we learn that not only should we look beyond the shallow appearances, that it is ok to go against your friends, that chauvinists don’t always win, and that love is magic. Fairy tales are some of the first stories we love as children, but I think they can be even more magical as we move into adult hood; not because we need to believe in Prince Charming, but I think we need reminders that magic is real and dragons can be slayed.

And as much as I love Fairy Tales, we know I love dressing to a theme! (It’s the Southern lady in me!) Above is the outfit I wore to the movies, and though I was mainly just comfy (it is a robe!), I was out shone by the young girls in their Belle dresses (which I was a-okay with!). But it got me thinking, should we dress like our fave fairy tales? Like Beauty and the Beast? Of course, we can always find merchandised and logo tees, but is there a way to elevate that?

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Beauty and the Beast, high fashion, CA, TX

As the popularity of this movie shows the answer is yes! There are all sorts of Beauty and the Beast offerings if we want to nod to a favorite fairy tale! From the elevated logo tee:
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Beauty and the Beast, high fashion, CA, TX
To Jewerly:
Investment PIece, fashion blogger, Beauty and the Beast, high fashion, CA, TX
To Sneakers:
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, beauty and the beast, high fashion, CA, TX
To Sparkle:
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Beauty and the Beast, high fashion, CA, TX
The Subtle:
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, beauty and the beast, high fashion, CA, TX
To Make Up:
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Beauty and the Beast, high fashion, CA, TX

My take? I love the subtle nods: a golden dress, a rose pin (a la Emma Watson at the premiere), a jacket. However, there are some pieces that I like unexpectedly: the sneakers, some tees, the heels! I’d love to know: would you dress to theme “Beauty and the Beast”? What’s your fave?

XO RA

Shop my picks below:

PJ Jumpsuit

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, pj dressing, jumpsuit, PJ Jumpsuit, Zara, Beehive, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, pj dressing, jumpsuit, Zara, Beehive, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, pj dressing, jumpsuit, Zara, Beehive, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, Zara, Beehive, pj dressing, jumpsuit, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, pj dressing, jumpsuit, Zara, Beehive, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, pj dressing, jumpsuit, Zara, Beehive, CA, TX

What’s the best of both worlds? PJ dressing (we know I love it! Need a refresh? Check here, here, and here) and combine it with a jumpsuit (another fave! More proof here, here, here, and here). This PJ Jumpsuit from a Texas fave, Beehive, is amazing. I love the piping detail, the cut out back, the high “waist”, wide leg, and deep v neck. Like most jumpsuits, it’s effortless and chic, but this has the added pop of being slightly PJ like, elevates it. The great thing about jumpsuits is that you simply dress it up and down with your accessories–there’s little to no effort on your part!

While I love this jumpsuit with everything from Adidas to heels, and even slippers; these “pop-of-color” sling backs (that embellishment!) felt sassy. These shoes would go great with jeans, pants, skirts, maxi dresses too (the color, sparkle, and silhouette do a lot of the heavy lifting for you with any pairing!). For me, this combo was simply perfect! Enough of a pop, just slightly casual, completely effortless. And the best part? It feels good! And you can’t beat that!

Need a referesher course on Beehive? Check them out here and don’t forget to follow them on Instagram, @beehiveboutique so you can be in the know for all the new arrivals!

The shoes are from Zara, and can be found here (and let’s not talk of how much I love the current shoe line there!)

Hope that this PJ Jumpsuit inspires you–I’d love to know: what’s your favorite current jumpsuit? Is it a PJ leaning one? How do you rock it?

Shop my picks below and Happy Monday!
XO RA

Sunday Chronicles: FOMO

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Sunday Chronicles, FOMO, CA, TX

We live in a world where FOMO (fear of missing out) is in the dictionary. I’m not 100% sure how I feel about it, but I know that it’s a real thing. We chatted Thursday about Festival Style, and I’m here at SXSW for the week. Between acting, fashion, LA, TX, festivals, film fests, parties, events, etc I always know of something going on, there are things I attend and have a great time at, things I skip, and times I get FOMO, worrying about all that I’m not doing. I get it. It seems like there is more and more to go to, and more and more to miss out on. But is it really missing out? And should we fear it?

I could go to an event every night, and there are times (like SXSW) when there are what seems like 12 events per night. There are times when I flat out can’t make every event, and times when I get sad about that. I don’t have answers about curing FOMO. I think it’s part of human nature to want to be in the know, to have fun, to want to be included (by our friends or society). In my 20s I tried to make every event, do all the things, be everywhere. I had some great times, but what happened most of the time was that I was tired. There are times when I still attempt to be at every little thing, and feel that pang when I don’t get an invite, or attend, what seems to be a great time. However, the older I get the more comfortable I am missing out–not that it’s great–but I know it isn’t the end of the world, and sometimes missing out leads to a great time. I’m by no means letting you know that I’ve cured FOMO, but I have developed some coping strategies.

One of the things about myself that I have learned to love as I have gotten older is that I’m an introvert. (If you know me in real life and are surprised: I’m outgoing, I love people, but I get my “recharge” from time alone). Needing time alone and purposely spending nights in sounds like a recipe for FOMO; however, my trick is to pick and choose wisely. I go to the events that I really want to. And I like my time alone, like watching movies, and reading. I recognize that my self care is an important part of my life; and trust that when I “miss out”, it’s not a loss as I’m enjoying what I’m doing. It’s about doing to do what really makes you happy that night, and being confident in that. Not to bury the lead here, but for me this really is the secret. I try to really spend my time in ways that I enjoy. This means I do different things each night. This can still mean I miss things, but if I’m enjoying myself at another event, or on my couch, is it really missing out? I still can over stretch myself, but I work hard not to; trust me, no one likes the me that goes and makes it to allll the events–she’s tired, has a people hangover, and isn’t fun.Respecting my need for balance, and choosing things I enjoy have really helped my FOMO.

However, with social media, it’s not hard to get FOMO at times. There are always pics and posts about the “greatest night ever” and it’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting to be a part of the action. I am very aware of the fact that what I’m about to say is “Mom” advice, but it works (go Mom!). Remember that we’re sharing our high lights on social media, and that “the best night ever” posts aren’t telling the whole story. No one posts about the long lines, crowds, spilled drinks, surge charges for Ride Shares, achey feet, and hangovers. So, yes, maybe people are out having fun with out you; but maybe people are also out not having fun without you. Not to sound like a broken record, but again, it’s only missing out if it’s something you really want to be doing. Even then, missing out for things like self care and other activities isn’t really missing out. Is it?

I don’t think FOMO is going anywhere, but I also know that the more I concentrate on filling my time with things I love to do, the less I worry about missing out. Maybe instead of worrying about FOMO, what if we embrace the ebb and flow? There are nights when you’re out and people are jealous of you balanced by the nights you’re home nursing FOMO. OR, let’s just say “forget about it” and spend time with people and activities that make us happy. This is where I admit that on Friday night I was in bed by 10–and I loved every minute of it.

What are your coping tips for FOMO? Do you get it, or do you have a cure for us?

Wishing us all a week of things that make us happy and amazing shoes! XO RA

Also–if you haven’t signed up for our newsletter please do (there’s a box on your left!) I have some exciting things happening and want you to be in the know!

Golden Monocrhome

Investment Piece, golden monochrome, fashion blogger, Stephen Spillman, Sugar High Love Stoned, high fashion, golden, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, golden monochrome, high fashion, Sugar High Love Stoned, Stephen Spillman, Ca, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, golden monochrome, high fashion, Sugar High LoveStoned, Stephen Spillman, high fashion, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, golden monochrome, Stephen Spillman, Sugarhigh LoveStoned, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, golden monochrome, Stephen Spilmman, Sugarhigh LoveStoned, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, golden monochrome, Stephen Spillman, Sugarhigh Love Stoned, CA, TX

Who says black is the only color available for monochrome dressing? Not me. I love this golden take on the trend–and I can tell you from experience that golden monochrome is something that we should all do. It’s classy and a pop all at the same time. I love this set from Sugar High Love Stoned. The skirt is so silky, and goes with shirts, button downs, and sweaters. The turtleneck is just fitted enough, and I haven’t found anything that it doesn’t go with, and I love the little sequin detail! But loves, together- this golden monochrome is just magical. I felt like a statue, but all in the good ways, it just me feel glowy (is that a great description or what!). A red lip was just about the only makeup I needed! And while I wore my fave A Detacher gold mules for the shot, I also love this outfit with nude or black shoes –and really love it with pops of color.

Gold is almost a neutral, so it will look great with everything; and yet, it does manage to stand out. It’s like the best of both worlds! And I’m in love with this brand, Sugarhigh LoveStoned. It has vintage vibes, cheeky tops, and is designed to be an inspired part of your well-curated waredrobe. Everything I have bought from them has had amazing personality, and been high quality. You can see one of my fave outfits, Cosmos, here.

Monochrome is a great way to look pulled together and high end. Beyond black and gold, I love camel Monocrhome, red monochrome, and white monochrome. Pants, skirt sets, suits–all of it looks amazing. And loves, don’t be afraid of the gold, it really can be magical!

I hope that your Friday and your weekend are both golden!

XO RA

Shop my picks below! All pictures taken by the amazing Stephen Spillman, make sure to follow him on Instagram @spillmanphoto

Festival Style

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, festival style, high fashion, CA, TX

Loves, it’s that time of year! It’s festival season, when there’s a good chance that you’re headed out to all day concerts. Of course you want to look amazing, all while staying comfortable. I have to admit, my big festival experience is SXSW (and some film festivals); and those are a bit different as you can often change for events. However, there’s still a need to look your best, be able to walk or be on your feet for long stretches, and stay warm or cool.

My keys for festival style:
– Stay causal, but not too casual. Jeans and a tank top are great, you just don’t want to look like you rolled out of bed!
-Nothing that needs to be dry cleaned! Weather, walking, and huge crowds aren’t always kind to clothes; make your life easier by chosing an outfit that can go in the wash!
-Don’t be afraid to wear sneakers!
-Don’t forget to bring a hat!

Some of my favorite combos:
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, festival style, high fashion, CA, TX

Shorts, a button up, sneakers, and a hat. This looks great with a tank underneath and a sweater over it!

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, festival style, CA, TX

Jeans, sweater, and boots. Again, use layering-shirt for the day, sweater at night!

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, festival style, CA, TX

Sundress or jumpsuit with wedges.

I’d love to know: what is your go to festival style??

XO RA

The above look is from my SXSW experience last year, shop my picks for festival style below!

PJs in Bed

Investment Piece, pjs, bed, pj dressing, high fashion, blogger, CA, TX

I am a fan of clothes that are so comfy that they feel like PJs. I am a fan of PJ dressing. I am a fan of wearing your real PJs in the real world. So PJ dressing in bed? Why not!

Investment Piece, pjs, bed, pj dressing, high fashion, Zara, Brother Vellies, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, pjs, bed, Zara, Brother Vellies, CA, TX

What I love about this set from Zara is that is completely versatile. I’ve worn the top with jeans and skirts (and I love that the off-the-shoulder silhouette keeps it from being too pj-like). The pants go with everything (and look great with heels, flats and sneakers). And let’s talk these shoes! They’re Brother Vellies, an ethical company who’s introducing African shoes to the fashion world. You can find more about the company and process here

Investment Piece, pjs, bed, pj dressing, Zara, high fashion, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, pjs, bed, pj dressing, Zara, CA, TX

I love pj dressing, I’ve shown off my take on the “trend” here, here, and here. On Instagram and in real life, you may have noticed that I’m not above wearing vintage slips, actual pjs and robes! So as much as I love this PJ-like set, I wanted to do something different for the shoot. The solution? Shoot it in bed. While most magazines, ads and pics will show you that PJ dressing workings in every setting, I like taking it back to basics. Vintage bed, vintage bedspread, art in the back ground. If your PJ dressing can look great here, imagine how great it will look at lunch, dinner, running errands, the movies and shopping!

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, PJ dressing, pjs, bed, Ca, TX, Zara
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, pjs, bed, pj dressing, Zara, Brother Vellies, Ca, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, pjs, bed, pj dressing, Zara, Brother Vellies, Ca, TX

The next time I wear this outfit, I may not have the luxury of staying in bed, but thankfully I will be as comfortable! I’d love to know: how do you do PJ dressing? In bed or in real life? Would you wear your Pjs in the world or do you stick to the “PJ like” offerings?

XO RA

You can buy this set at Zara, and I picked some great sets for you below!

Black Tie Fringe

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, CA, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, Ca, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, CA, TX

Oh Loves, this dress. If you follow me on Instagram (@racheladelicia) you know I was in Austin this past weekend and attended “Art on the Edge”–and wore this dress. The sheer. The Fringe. The layer. The sexiness. The long sleeves. The length. Seperate those all things that I love. Together? Perfect. Just perfect. I love the juxatipositons- the long sleeves and length to the sheer, it’s actually sheer quite low (but not too low). It shows off just enough abs, and the top fringe hides just enough.

I feel as if sometimes our black tie dresses are pigeoned holed–trotted out for this occasions and then put away. I am a fan of repurposing those black tie dresses, but loves, this one needs no such thing. It’s just special. Instead of thinking about how I could “casual” this dress, I’m looking for more events to wear it to!

This dress was found second hand on Vestaire Collective, but I’ve picked out some great dresses (fringed and non-fringed) for you! I hope you have magical places to go–because I know you deserve magical dresses! (A note-these shoes are Chanel mules, on Saturday I wore Stuart Weitzman Nudist, I’ve included both in the shopping links!)

XO RA

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