This is by no means meant to replace any medical advice from the CDC, and not a reason to stop staying home, BUT, this is my take on the DYI face mask now recommend for when we do our essential trips out. My take? Use a vintage scarf! It’s a great way to show your style, and if needed support your local vintage shop by buying scarves! There are so many fashion designers providing masks, from Reformation to Mother Denim to Chloe Dao, and so many, many more. If you have the means to donate to these causes great! If you can buy masks for yourself and others on sites like Etsy, great! This time is a little hard, and I don’t know about you, but there are days when I’ve felt overwhelmed and sad. However, using my fashion sense to give back this way is a little thing I’ve found that helps me feel better. Stay safe and healthy out there!
Xo RA
Category: care
Basic Invite
While this is a collab with Basic Invite, all opinions below are my own!xo RA
Loves, a lot has changed in the past few weeks. For now, the best way for us to be together is to be apart; however, there’s a way to touch each other through the distance. Mail. A handwritten note. A mailed announcement. A party (even a virtual one) invitation. My grandma was a big believer in the handwritten word, I got a letter or card EVERY day when I was in college, and when I think about it, it still touches me.
Right now, the best way I can think of for us to touch each each is a note. To share big news? One of my favorite ways is to use Basic Invite. From custom stationary to photo cards to wedding and graduation cards, Basic Invite is one of the few websites to allow unlimited color options, with instant online previews. There are over 180 colors to choose from, and the site is so easy to use you can ensure that you’ll get the perfect stationary for your needs! (And if you want it, Basic Invite allows you to order a printed sample before you complete your final order!)
There are so many occasions to celebrate and so many cards with which to send love, but I wanted to showcase the stunning Graduation collection. This is normally the time to send out your graduation announcements and start planning parties. Due to our ununusual times, I know that many of these celebrations are delayed, changing to virtual, or on-hold. However, I still believe it’s important to acknowledge the accomplishments of those you love, and this collection from Basic Invite is a great way to keep your loved ones informed!
Graduation Invitation Template
Announcing your big graduation? Inviting people to celebrate your accomplishments? Basic Invite has 100’s of templates to share your news and celebrate with your loved ones. Use your picture or use of their designs, and make the custom Graduation Invitation your hard work deserves.
Inviting people to a virtual or real-life party? Use one of Basic Invite’s party invitation templates to let your loved ones know when and where to celebrate you!
Don’t forget to send a thank you! Use Basic Invite to customize the perfect thank-you for all your graduation presents!
Of course, there are also 100s of Wedding, Baby, Event, Business Cards, and more stationary templates for all of your needs at Basic Invite.
More things I love? You can choose from 40 colors to match the envelope to your invitation, this also includes 3 foil color options (both flat and raised), making sure that your stationary stands out. Basic Invite also provides social media links for you to request your loved ones addresses, stores the addresses, and prints the addresses on the envelopes free of charge! All you have to do is send out the mail.
At times like these, even when we’re apart, it’s important to be together. My favorite way to stay in touch is the mail, and I hope that you love Basic Invite for all of your needs, Graduation, and beyond to send your love. Use code 15FF51 for 15%off!
Find Basic Invite on your favorite social media platforms:
@basicinvite on Facebook, Pintrest, Instagram, and Twitter.
Send your loved ones your Graduation Invites, Your Wedding Announcements, and all your love with Basic Invite! And don’t forget your discount with code 15FF51!
Xo RA
Closet Detox
Loves, we chat a lot about cleaning out your closet, especially at this time of year. And it makes sense–new year, new closet! I’m a big fan of the big closet clean out, I do it at least twice a year (with tune ups occasionally through out the year), and am planning on beginning mine this weekend. I’ve detailed my method here, here, and here. It hasn’t changed much: I pull everything out, go through it, seperate the clothes into keep and get rid of, and organize. It can be overwhelming–especially the get rid of part, I’m a shopper/clothes lover/can make outfits in my head of anything, I get it, it’s hard to let go’ but I find cleaning out my closet not only leaves me feeling accomplished, it gives me space for new things to love!
Rather than rehash what I tell you, I thought we’d go to the experts and get their takes on closet detoxing! So I’ve rounded up Vogue, Elle, and professional organizers, not only did I love what they had to say, I learned a thing or two!
HouseBeautiful: Closet Cleaning Secrets from a Pro!
What I loved about this method was the questionnaire about what to keep, and the suggestion to chose a charity close to your heart to donate clothes to!
WhoWhatWear: Closet Cleaning Methods
The winner here? Great tips on how to tell what you’re REALLY wearing, and therefore what to keep and what to let go!
Elle:Spring Cleaning Your Closet
Worth the read for tips to make your organization stick!
Loves, I plan on printing this flow chart out and using it repeatedly.
Are you cleaning out your closet? What method are you using?
XO RA
Wardrobe Essentials
There are tons of lists that will tell you what you NEED in your closet. A great pair of jeans, a little black dress, a blazer, etc. I completely agree –probably with all of them. There are essentials which everyone should have in their closets. But what about the essentials that have NOTHING to do with clothes? I believe there are some–and here are my top 3:
1. A great Drycleaner/Tailor/Shoe Repair
Yes, I know technically that’s three right there–but often these are housed at the same business, so I’m lumping them together. If your closet is something that you invest money into–or even if you just need your clothes to look amazing you’re going to need one of these three– if not all at some point.
A great drycleaner helps you take care of your clothes. They should have a great knowledge of fabrics and cleaning–and be vocal about sharing that with you. My drycleaner is not shy about letting me know what items might bleed, might pill, might need extra care. Listen to them and tell them your concerns–in the perfect situation they can help your clothes last for years.
A good tailor is an amazing find! Again communication is key–but a great tailor should be able to not only take care of hems, tears, etc, but should be able to take in, reconstruct, make any clothing more beautiful. I have more than one piece in my closet that started out as something else–dresses I’ve made into skirts, skirts into dresses–that were completely redone by a skilled tailor.
Shoe repair–and handbag repair goes right along. We know how I feel about shoes–the right person should help care, clean and keep your shoes looking like new!
2. A Steamer
I know, it’s not sexy. And as much as I love clothes–I hate laundry. And ironing. But, again, if your clothes are an investment, they need to be taken care of well. A steamer is great for fragile fabrics, is easier to use than an iron, takes less time, and can take up less space. There is no need to spend big money on one–I have a basic hand held and I love it! It allows me to be wrinkle free and freshen clothes in the minimum amount of time.
3. A Mending kit
I know–and I’m not saying that you need to spend your down time sewing. In fact, I don’t believe you need a traditional mending kit– but it’s the easiest name for odds and ends.
-Safety Pins. These babies are the duct tape of fashion, their uses are endless. In fact you could probably devote a single blog just to that.
-Shoe pads/Blister rub–to protect your feet and those amazing shoes.
-Extra buttons– I just keep the ones that come with my purchases.
-Shirt pads–the lovely little pads that fit into clothes to protect from sweat. Have I mentioned it’s already in the 90s in LA?
-a Good mirror with good lighting– you will never know what your outfit really looks like if you can’t see it.
These are the things I think we should all have. So what about you? I’d love to hear the things you consider “essentials” that aren’t clothes!
What Gets Cut
It’s the time of year. And a phenomenon. People are cleaning out, tidying up, organizing, and making more for the new. I get it, I do it, I applaud it.
I’ve written before about cleaning out your closet: see it all in one place here. And, of course, there are people who are better at getting rid of stuff than I am.
We know that I am fascinated by what we hang onto-the stories those pieces hold, but I’m equally fascinated by what gets cut from our closets. Does getting rid of something mean that you don’t love it? (Often, no). Does it mean that it doesn’t look amazing? (Again, often no). So, why do we cut what we cut?
I know we all have a method of deciding what to cut from our closets. Asking if the item sparks joy is a great place to start. I also ask if it fits who I am/who I want to be/various parts of me. Where I can wear it/what I can wear it with? If it’s holding a spot for something I really want? (For example hanging onto something that’s almost right, instead of saving up for what I actually want). There are times when I can talk myself into keeping something, and talk myself into giving away something. Certain pieces I wish I had held onto; there’s no fail proof way to cut things.
The above dress and skirt are things getting cut from my closet. Did I love them? Yes. Could I think of how to wear them? Yes. But, in these cases, I realized that I didn’t LOVE them as much as things on my Wishlist, so I cut them. (Protip: if you want to get rid of something but are scared about regretting it take your pic in it, and put it in your car for a month. I promise it’s like hanging on (the pic) and then by the time you actually get rid of it, you’re aok with the loss). My wish is that these pieces find new homes where they are loved.
Does that make cutting something easier? I don’t know. No matter what needs cutting, there are times when getting things out of our closet is not easy. And that fascinates me.
I would love to know: what’s your method for cleaning out and cutting things from your closet?
Below I’ve linked some of my favorite organizational items, as well as pieces similar to the ones above.
(Interested in items I’m cutting from my closet? Email me! Or should I sell them on Instagram? I would love to know your thoughts!)
XO RA
Note: this post does contain affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
Cleaning out supplies:
Red Floral Dress:
Yellow Skirt:
Getting to Know You
Loves! It’s the new year, new us, and I wanted to take a little opprotunity and properly introduce myself. Maybe you’ve been following since my blogging journey began, maybe you’re new here, either way I’m so happy you’ve found yourself in my little corner of the Internet. Thank you for listening to me ramble, share my theories on fashion, shopping, and life.
In the video we chat about my new fave series here on Investment Piece, sharing the stories from our closets. I would love for you to be a part of it! You can learn more about our project here! If you want to share your story with us, email me at racheladelicia@investmentpiece.com.
As promised, here’s a little bit of what I’m shopping right now:
And most importantly, I would love to get to know you! What kind of content best serves you? What do you love? Let’s share a laugh over some champagne and get to know each other!
I’m so grateful you’re here!
Xo RA
Fashion Week: What is it Good For?
Loves! NYFW has come and gone. LFW is in process. Paris, Milan, all the fashion weeks are happening, have happened, or will happen. But, the reality is, even though fashion week may be all over your social media, most of us won’t go to fashion week. Some of us won’t even buy the fashion presented there. So, fashion week, what is it good for?
I had some thoughts about it, so I made us a video. (Yes, I ramble and sometimes lose my train of thought. It’s a good time)
I would love to get your take on fashion week! Let me know EVERYTHING!
Xo RA
I’d love for you to join the conversation about fashion week. Have you gone? Are you going? Do you buy runway? Do you think it’s worthwhile?
Let’s chat!
Xo RA
Wardrobe Crisis
I write a lot about cleaning out your closet. Mainly, because it’s a process I rot to keep on top, but also because I think it’s important.
You’re not familiar with my “closet cleanout” methods and thoughts? Catch up here, here, here, and here. I’ve done attempts at minimalist closets (kinda) here.
This all comes down to some beliefs I have about our clothes, shopping, and the world. I think what we buy matters. I love clothes, I love the freedom style gives you, I want so many things. I also want the women and men and kids who make our clothes to make a living wage and work in safe conditions. There is a difference between well made clothes and fall apart clothes. But I don’t think you should have to spend a fortune on every piece, think wearing designer head to toe can be stale, and strive to get great clothes at a bargain. I can want all the new pieces, all the classic pieces, and believe that hanging onto to every piece is a habit we should break.
I don’t always know how to reconcile all these beliefs, my love of shopping, and what we’re offered. There are times when I want to go minimalist, and times when I would buy everything if I could. I don’t know what the answer is.
I’ve started this book more than once, and while it’s amazing, have struggled to get through it. Not because it’s not what I need to be reading, but because sometimes these issues are easier to ignore than to face. However, I think we have to talk about them. I love fashion and think what I spend money on matters (as do budgets). How do we let those things co-exist? What’s the best way to shop in a way where you get to express all your style and yet, shop responsibly?
I’m still figuring it out. And maybe, this is a group project. Let’s chat about it:
This afternoon I’ll be going live on Instagram (@racheladelicia) and FaceBook (RachelAdelicia) to chat all things wardrobe crisis. Like how I love Zara but worry about the people who make my clothes. How I think a closet full of clothes you won’t wear is useless, but am not ready to go minimal. If I think I’m in a wardrobe crisis, are you?
I’ll be saving and posting the conversation many places! I hope you’ll join!
XO RA
Sunday Chronicles: Self Care
This was first published back in Feb, but with Friday’s post, and my thoughts turning towards Self Love–it seemed like a great time to repost! Enjoy! XO RA
Loves! It’s the month of love, and treats, and showing people you care. I hope the first person on your list to pamper is yourself–not because self care is indulgent, but because there is no way to care for others if you are depleted. There’s a reason why the air stewards and stewardesses tell us to put on your own air mask first; if you’re not taking care of yourself, there is no way you can take care of others. And loves, this can be a hard time to take care of ourselves. I promised to never get policital (though I broke that promise here), and this is not meant to be a political post. However, it is irresponsible to ignore what’s happening. Many people are scared, disagree with the administration, with loved ones, are protesting, are mad at protesters’ and every day there seems to be something new happening and to be concerned about. How do we care for ourselves during this? On either side, how do we pursue what we think is important politically and stay sane? And personally, how do we take care of ourselves so that we can take care of our loved ones?
I have found this Medium article, this MTV one, this wired, this self care, and this article helpful in navigating self care, because unfortunately it’s not all wine and shoe shopping (those can be included though) and meditation (though that helps too). So what is self care? In my world, it means listening to your mind and body, giving yourself what you need, treating yourself like a loved one, and protecting yourself like a loved one. And loves, that’s a lot easier said than done. My list of tips below are by no means comprehensive, and if they don’t work for you, that’s ok. Self-care is by definition is inherently personal. However, these practices help me. I’d love to know how you practice!
Be OK Not Being OK
I’m a perfectionist. I have grand plans. I also have a hard time being vulnerable in front of people (and I know that’s weird for an actress, all I can say is that when I speak a writer’s words, I give myself permission). My point is, it can be hard to admit that you’re not ok. Or not 100%. That maybe you need a break–from social media to plans to vacations. No one is on or together all the time. So, it’s ok not to be ok, to take time to take care of yourself. Stay in with a movie, or a bath, or a book. To take a day off and rest. To get out of town and think about things. To not be strong all the time. The overall, encompassing thought of most self-care manuals or advice is to give yourself what you need, and for me the first step (and often most important) is recongnizing that I need something.
Turn Off
Get off social media, get outside, do yoga, meditate, unplug your phone; however it is that you turn off. For me, it’s getting offline and reading. My yoga, Pilates, and spinning practices are also my forms of meditation. (I’m working on building a meditation practice). All of this means that I give myself permission not to be involved every single minute. I don’t need to read every article, work all the time, or say yes to it all. I try to give myself an hour a day where I’m unreachable and doing something for me, yes this is more often than not my workout, but I find that when I give to myself, I can give to others.
Telling My Loved Ones What I Need
This is also hard if we’re conditioned to people please or we want to say yes. It can also be scary to be vulnerable, to admit that we’re depressed or we need help. However, from being honest about needing to stay in to asking for help, as scary as it can, I find that when I’m honest with my loved ones things go so much better. We’re all in this together so no matter what you need, be it time alone, a listening ear, a hug, there’s a great chance people understand, and want to help you.
Of course, if you find yourself not being able to care for yourself, professional help might be for you. And loves, I’m a fan of therapy, we all need support sometimes, let’s not make that a stigma. Find a therapist in your area here.
Take care of you. I’m off today taking care of me. Meet you back here tomorrow?
Wishing us all a week of radical self-love and amazing shoes! XO RA
Vintage Jewelry: Care and Cleaning
Loves, we’ve spent a month chatting about vintage jewelry. Brands I love (Monet), stores I love (Platt Boutique) and ways to wear vintage pieces Belts as necklaces). But now that we’ve been treated and have our vintage jewelry, how do we care for it? How do we clean it? Loves, I wouldn’t leave you hanging! Get my best tips for care and cleaning your vintage jewelry below!
Care
Put it how you will: “Offense is the best Defense”, “A Pound of Prevention is worth an ounce of cure”, or “A penny saved is a penny earned”; the best way to care for your jewelry (vintage or modern) is to store it properly. What does this mean? Everyone has a different system, my grandma wrapped her necklaces seperately in tissue, I have a friend who collects vintage ring boxes; the point is your jewelry should be stored in a dry place where it can’t get tangled or scratched.
Don’t sleep in your jewelry. Simple and seemingly straight forward, during sleep your jewelry can get twisted, hit, or dirty, and is best off your body. Loves, I admit that I have a bad habit of sleeping my necklaces, but I’m trying to get better at this!
If you’re wearing perfume or hairspray apply it, and make sure it dries, before putting on your jewelry. Oils in these products can damage or discolor your jewelry, and we don’t want that!
Inspect your jewelry regularly. If a stone is loose, or anything is broken, take it to a jeweler.
Cleaning
Loves, here’s the thing. Depending on the stone and medal of your piece, the cleaning instructions can vary. Gold and platinum can usually be rinsed with soapy water. Silver needs to be polished. No chemicals at all should be used on pearls, in fact, only wipe them with a soft cloth. If you have costume jewelry with foil back, be aware that water will ruin the piece. Also, various stones require various cleaners, or can have senstiivities to various cleansers. There are many basic jewelry cleaners on the market, and if you follow the instructions they can be great. My advice? Take any jewelry that you’re not sure how to clean to a jeweler. Not only should they be able to let you know the best way to care for your piece, many jewelry stores offer free cleaning. In fact, some of the best jewelry care advice I have gotten is for any repair or care concern to seek out the jewelry store with the best reputation in your area–even if it’s Tiffany’s. The professionals there will not risk the store’s name and can be trusted to give you the best advice they can. And of course, you don’t have to see out a Tiffany’s, several smaller jewelers (like my friends Platt) are fantastic with amazing reputations! A great resource when looking for a jeweler to trust is the American Gem Society (you can find their listing of jewelers here).
I’d love to know: how do you store your jewelry? What are some of your cleaning tips?
XO RA
