I know that *technically* it’s been fall for a bit now. HOWEVER- yesterday was the first day it never got to 80 degrees or above. It rained all day and was cool and gloomy, and I wore a sweater as I needed it, not for fashion. Candles were lit, soup was had for dinner. I put on socks because my feet were cold.
For weeks, I’ve been looking forward to cooler temps, layering my outfits, boots, knits, and all of the fall fashion. And yet, it didn’t feel real- or as exciting- till I got my taste of fall yesterday! Funny thing? I spent the day in yesterday (other a than a short fall walk) just being excited about fall. I’m sure that somewhere there is a lesson about getting out and enjoying, but there’s also something to be said for anticipation.
One of my fave ways to ease my way into fall is by wearing a coat as a dress for early morning errands. (Here light coats are best, but whatever weight is best for your fall weather!) Pair with a chic pair of shoes- and run around in the fall morning air. Coffee, crisp air, chic coat- it’s the little things that get me excited!
How do you welcome fall? And what gets you excited? This weekend I plan on decorating, doing some fall cleaning- and getting out there in. my coats and sweaters. However you welcome fall I hope it’s fantastic!
XO RA
I have linked some similar options for your fall mornings below!
Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While that may not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
I will say this again- and though the true calendar will tell you it won’t be fall for a bit (and that’s not even counting the temps!)- why does this weekend (Labor Day) feel like the end of summer? Even if you are no longer tied to the school year calendar. Even if you live in a place where it will still be hot in October. Is it (summer) over (now)? Or does it just feel like it?
My mom (and how I was raised. Me? I’m a rebel) will tell you that this is your last weekend to wear white (unless winter white, which is a whole other ball of wax!). I have written about this before (see White After Labor Day). And yet, while there are times in the next few weeks where I will wear white. Linen. And be oh so hot (temp wise), it does feel as if this weekend is the ending of something. When a story ends- even if it’s just a season- what do we do?
Because I am (over)sensitive, this about the time in an ending (even of just a season) that I think bout how things could have, should have, would have been- worn or done. This ending is a bit hard as I do feel as if I kind of wasted this summer. There was so much- I wish I had done and worn and all the things- and it feels kind of incomplete. Where I live, there is a great chance I could wear almost anything in the next few months (yes, it will be that hot–though I am wishing for fall), but all of the sudden I am nostalgic for all the linens and whites and swimsuits I didn’t wear (and all of the swims I didn’t take!). But. If it is over? I am glad I wore this: linen shorts. Linen jacket. Whites. Scarves. Sunnies. Fantastic wedges. It feels like a great goodbye (if it is over) or a great start. Or perhaps a chance to do it right?
Do you think that summer is over this weekend? Are there things you wish you wore? Things you’re glad you did wear? Things you plan to be a rebel with and still wear?
I would love to hear all about them!
XO RA
Scheduling notes: there will be a post up (new! improved! on Sunday!) We will be off on Monday- and I would love to have you shop along with me via so many apps (linked in bio) and social media (Rachel Adelicia or Investment Piece should get you to me. Please reach out if you can’t find me!)
However: this outfit is absolutely linked for you below- including this linen shirt jacket (with tie waist) that’s on sale for under $40!!)
One of my first posts in this series was about wedding dresses (and how we hang onto them and why) while wearing my great-great-grandma’s wedding dress (you can read about it here). So, in a way, it seems a bit full circle that I’m now writing about being a wedding guest (and what I wore and why) for a recent family wedding.
Let’s be honest: weddings are a great ritual, a great party, a great time and a stressful event for many. Recently my cousin got married (and I’m not sharing pics as it’s not my news but let me say that she was STUNNING and that the event- from top to bottom- by a lake, with gold Dinos as decorations, with family dancing- was just perfect), and like anyone else, I worried about what to wear to the wedding.
I was not a part of the bridal party, but I am who I am, and knowing that Id see family that I don’t often to visit with, when my invitation said “cocktail”, I knew that I wanted to look special (and not upstage the bride). So, below, from lunch with cousins to wedding to the morning after brunch (of which I was a hostess), I break down what I wore and why. Weddings are big stories- for all of us. I hope my choices help you in similar situations, or just inspire you to get dressed up!
Cousins Lunch
The day before the wedding, I had lunch with come cousins I hadn’t been able to catch up with in years! A casual affair, yes, but I wanted to look my best! My choice? A silk shirt with corduroy pants. Easy, seasonal, and yet chic- this combo would work with any color combo (I happened to choose purple and white for my college colors and CFB season!) and while I choose a chic flat, from boots to heels almost any shoe will do!
What I love: it’s easy and yet elegant. Super on point with textures, and easy to customize with colors and shoes!
What I would do differently: I did feel a bit undone. A belt would help, or adding more jewelry!
Wedding
You may have read about this dress here. It’s new (to me, vintage Hanea Mori) and when I got it, I knew that I had to wear it to the wedding. I felt as if it were perfect- fallish colors, midi length, long sleeved, and cocktail. But not overpowering – it wasn’t a gown, it’s a cocktail dress- and with the right gold shoes and jewelry, I felt like I nailed it!
What I love: everything. Everything about this dress. The fit. The color. Invite me to all your events so I can wear it again! I also felt like it wasn’t so over the top that I upstaged anyone (the last thing I would want to do!) but yet felt so good in it (and got a ton of compliments!).
What I would change: Not. A. Thing.
Morning After Brunch
For the morning after brunch, I knew that I needed something casual (yet chic), and I wanted to make a nod to the happy couple! As the table decorations at the reception were decorated with gold painted Dinos I felt as if a Dino shirt would be incredibly appropriate! Paired with a “nice” pair of jeans (and un-pictured amazing shoes!), it was a hit!
What I loved: Such an inside joke and felt like a cute outfit, even when I was “working”
What I would change: I loved the outfit but as we had to clean before and after the brunch I wish I had brought non-high waisted comfy pants and something I didn’t care about getting dirty for that!
I was very lucky as I didn’t have to travel for this wedding, meaning that if I put something on and it didn’t work I had my entire closet at my disposal. I know that’s not always the case, so a few of my wedding guest dressing tips:
-Plan in advance and take a backup. You just never know!
-Comfort and chic-ness are key. Yes, you want to impress everyone you haven’t seen in ages, but you want to move and dance, etc, with ease. There is a balance to be found!
-Look your best but adhere to the “rules”. Usually this means no white dresses, no overdressing, no upstaging the bridge, etc
-Have fun! Weddings are for the couple- and for families! Enjoy it all, from the event to what you wear!
What have you worn to recent weddings and what concerns about wedding dressing do you have? I would love to help you out with them and hear all about it!
We are so sorry for the lack of post on Wednesday! The server had a downtime and we were not alerted in advance- it feels as if everything this summer is a bit off. What’s not a bit off? A trend that comes back. One of my very first posts asked the essential question: Are Socks with Peep Toes Something We’re Doing? Hint- my answer was yes. And on Fall trend lists this question -for all heels, etc- is being asked again. My answer hasn’t changed. So- let’s revisit a bit of tips and inspo- and sock shopping!! XO RA
There are times when I think of trends for us to try, that aren’t exactly trends. Socks with Peep toes? Not only was it one of my very first posts (look below, I’m so grateful you stayed with the site while we grew. We’re still growing!); I keep seeing this look everywhere!
And I get it! It’s a way to: show off a great pair of socks, hide a bad pedicure, wear heels in the winter, and make a statement.
I loved this “trend” years ago, and I still do! See:
What is it about socks with peep toes (or any heels) that’s such a pull? I love that it’s slightly cheeky, slightly edgy and slightly classic. It’s just the combo that seems both fashion forward and almost geeky (can we admit that fashion can be geeky?) all at the same time. A trend? Not really. Something you should try? Absolutely!
Below is my orginal post and thoughts on the matter:
Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?
They are something we’re doing.Look at any magazine, any campaign right now and there they are–peep toe shoes worn with socks. Do we like it? Is this what we want? I will be honest–I was hesitant, but I LOVE these Chanel boots that look like socks:
So I thought: How bad can it be?
And here’s the answer: Surprisingly enough, not that bad.
I found it’s really comfortable. I think it looks best when the colors match– but it can be fun. So if you like it–why not? And if you can’t–I get that too.
Some style tips: feel free to ease into the trend by wearing the same color sock as shoe (it will read like a boot).
Play with sheer as they can give a hose like feel which can be a bit more comfortable as well!
Patterns, bows, all can be done as an ankle sock till you feel more comfortable.
This trend is so customizable and oh so chic- I hope that if you haven’t before that you play with it and make it your own!
I’ve updated some shopping options for you! And would love to know: would you rock this trend to try?
XO RA
Notes: This Post Does Contian Some Affilate links, while that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
What’s the saying? Everything comes back around? It all comes back? What you give you get? Or as in clothes and trends and all the like- old becomes new. As in, everything comes back in style- or you can make anything modern. Which, yes, does make cleaning out your closet a most difficult task. In this specific instance, this 1930s nightgown (sheer and lace and all the trends) becomes a modern dress (the sheer trend is going nowhere), especially when paired with modern sandals (fruit core, anyone?)
I am such a fan of vintage, and feel that oh so many of the things you can buy vintage look and feel and can be styled in such a modern way-and yet I know there is a temptation when buying vintage to dress is almost like a costume, or in the style of its own period. So. How do you make something old new?
When thinking about old to new, or how to wear vintage as modern, one of the most important things to remember is that as the saying(s) go- everything comes back. Sheer is in? Sheer is to be found in so many decades and their styles past. I find that so many vintage (old) styles can be so modern – or another way to say that trends can always be found looking back- and it’s all in the styling.
My first rule of any and all shopping from old to new is to buy things only that you love- and that you know you can style in oh so many ways. The going from old to new, or styling vintage as modern will simply follow.
This “old” (aka vintage) nightgown is a great example. First, it’s so gorgeous all on its own. And while it might take some thinking, is able to be styled in oh so many ways (and not just sandals to heels, there are layers and all sorts of details you can play with here). While this was originally a nightgown, now it’s not so modern to wear something this elaborate to bed- but as a dress? Right on trend. And for this summer, and to be incredibly modern, I can’t help but pairing with my favorite summer sandals- these fruit 3d pieces are just so chic. And the bee!
While shopping old, I don’t seek out trends that are modern (though that is a strategy! and a way to find chic pieces at that). I look for pieces that I love- and then I simply wear them all as if they were new. It can take a bit of practice, or training yourself to pick pieces that you truly love (one of the measures of timelessness) and letting any modern styling follow. But once you see that all old becomes new, it’s so easy- and chic.
Are there any old pieces you have and love that could be modern? Or any modern pieces you would love to see if you could shop vintage? If I can help with this let me know– it’s one of my favorite fashion exercises!
Here’s to all the old and all the new and everything that can be both! XO RA
I have linked these exact sandals and some 1930 nightgowns that would be great as oh so many things for you below!
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!
It’s high summer. I want to tell you how glamorous and chic it is- how I have been spending time by the water, how fantastic the fashion is, and how the sweat is so light and gives the healthiest glow.
Maybe it’s my combo of stress and day job burnout and high heat. But. Instead of a chic summer, this summer has been a bit more ….awkward….
Awkward summer in that…..I melt almost the minute I leave the house. The sweat isn’t glowy (it’s just sweaty) and I worry about what to wear. Even this chic (and new fave from Rodebjer – an eccentric but classic line that’s a mix of NYC and Europe) can be a bit hot (and not in the “this is gorgeous way”).
Awkward summer in that….I haven’t seemed to get into a rhythm. From sickness to family to work to not feeling a ton like myself, this summer has just been off. Yes, I am getting back to myself. But, when you don’t feel 100% yourself it can come through in oh so many ways. I mean- just look at some of those poses and face expressions. Cringe!
Awkward summer in that….due to a lot of reasons I haven’t been by the water at all. Fantastic clothes? Yes! Though I admit tahat I don’t wear them everyday (and see below for changing that!)
So, how do we get out of the awkwardness? Time. Acceptance. And personally? Leaning into clothes. As I briefly mentioned above, and before, clothes (stories, getting dressed, fantastic things) are some of the things that draw me back to myself. Though I hate to be cliche, I have to admit that getting dressed- I mean really getting dressed (not always in a party dress) but in an outfit that I love helps me be less awkward. Hopefully the more I dress and the more I get myself back (and the more I hang out in the ac), the less awkward I get. Awkward summer? Perhaps not for long!
**** I have to put a big caveat that I don’t think this dress is awkward. Rodebjer is a fave brand, and this dress is a new comfort. It makes me feel chic and glamorous – event when it’s sweaty outside. The gold is a bit outside my usual comfort zone, but I love the combo with the blue and the sheer! It was on super sale- and I found one for you.
How do you get over the awkward part of summer- whether due to heat or anything? And what do you wear?
XO RA
I have linked some similar feeling dresses and this exact one below to pull you out of awkward with me!
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!
One of the best things about having a ton of elevated basics in your wardrobe? Even “throwing” on a top and denim skirt can result in a chic (and oh-so-fun) outfit.
***SideNote: I really believe in a white button down as a classic, a must, and an elevated basic. Though what would seem like a simple outfit staple there are so many variations on the button down, and oh so many ways to style it that it can feel fresh and exciting with everything. I have quite a few white button downs in various styles (a post perhaps!), but I recommend stocking up on ones you love and wearing them with EVERYTHING
Non side note: This denim skirt is so refreshing. It hits so many notes:
denim. Patterns. Sheer. Classics. Edgy.
And there are so many ways to denim: a la a classic white shirt. Denim on denim. With sandals. With boots. Yet- this skirt alone is enough to make anything feel special.
Part of what I love about this elevated circle denim skirt is that (beyond the patterns and the cheek) is that it’s a play on denim. Denim is: a classic in its own right, a go to, and thought of as casual but truly one of the most versatile fabrics.
A denim skirt and a button down? Classic. Go to. Perfect for any season. A twist? A statement? A way to make this outfit formula your own? Circle it. Write it down and make it your go to!
Who knows? Thoughts on white button downs and all their variations, as well as thoughts on statement pieces as classic pieces to come. In the meantime, I will be wearing this circle denim skirt with most everything!
White button downs and this exact skirt linked for your own circling below! 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!
I hate that it’s correct, but sometimes time is the best thing- no matter what you’re battling. As I have mentioned, recently I have been battling something. Not being 100%, not being truly ill, feeling bad in so many ways ( and a lot overtired). But. Time heals. And as they say- soon you will feel better. (Maybe the trick is giving yourself time to feel better!) However- I am here to tell you it’s possible…..within the past week I have gone from throwing a “jacket” over a night gown….
To wearing my PJ top with pants and feeling better (and lighter with a hair cut!)…
To actually feeling the best I have in months. Maybe it’s the Barbie Brat theme?
There’s a lot unsaid and in the air— but I am actually on the upswing and excited to get dressed and get back to me. There is a quote (I have seen it on social media recently) and (I am paraphrasing) but that “I’ve done nothing all summer but wait for myself to return to me”. That’s a bit what it’s been feeling like. But. I think I may be coming back. Is it the hair? The return of energy? I don’t know! Honestly, it’s probably a lot…..yet. I am feeling more and more like me. And getting more and more on top of things. Here’s to feeling better for us all (soon!) and the amazing stories (aka fashion) that will come from that.
And if you’re at a point where your fashion (or story) is where you are throwing something over a nightgown- solidarity!
Also- I am embracing the journey to feeling better I am linking all the outfits on this page for you below. When you need to get back to yourself what do you do? I am open for any and all stories and tips and community!
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!
I think I am rounding out the bug I have had as I want to dress up again! Yet- because I am still not 100% I am looking at hostess dresses. And caftans. And all things lounge that look like a party dress. And as a reminder:
This is the time of year when we’re looking for looks that are festive but yet, super comfy. Or at least I am. I love me a good party dress, I can’t resist a party dress, but at this time of year, I’m usually a bit overwhelmed and a bit behind, so while I want to be in a party dress I still need to be comfy.
My secret weapon for this? A hostess dress. Part fancy robe, part party dress that lets you go from
This:
to this:
OR in simple terms a hostess dress is:
The idea of a hostess outfit as somewhere between loungewear and partywear has been around since the 1920s. In 1925, Vogue decided pajamas were de rigueur, especially should you be able to acquire an Elsa Schiaparelli housecoat-and-pajama-pants set. In the ’60s, caftans and palazzo pants became the hostess outfit du jour. Since then, the idea of dressing up for company tends to mean something fancy and not all that comfortable. (read more on these thoughts here)
or you could put a hostess dress like:
an informal dress or robe to entertain at home.
Incredibly popular in the 1940s-60s, you can read more about hostess gowns here and here. But yes, hostess gowns are part robe/part party dress, sometimes more sheer, sometimes more embroidered, but for me- the perfect combination of chic and comfy.
This is a hostess dress.
As is my new favorite (purple with a but of a cape):
There are so many hostess dresses out there (I’ve linked some of my vintage favorites for you below, and my go-to sites are Esty and the Gem app) but for me, what ties them together is the mix of lounge wear and party wear. Hostess dress were the first dresses (or pant suits!) to toe the line between pajamas and ball gowns. And as much as I love party dresses, I also love lounge and fancy pjs, so I think that hostess dresses are heaven. (I also love the idea that in days gone past, people would just throw these on to have neighbors over for drinks or even just to chat with their husband!)
Since Covid, I’ve discovered a passion from caftans- which are a direct descendant from hostess dresses, which explains part of my love of hostess dresses. As they range from more formal to incredibly informal, there is a hostess gown (especially as wearing vintage makes it even more special!) for every holiday party or at home drink you have on your calendar!
Have you ever worn a hostess dress? Do you love them as much as I do? I hope that you find a part robe/ball gown aka hostess dress that lets you tell all of the most amazing holiday fashion stories this season. And I also hope that said hostess dress keeps you comfy as you look amazingly chic. Again, I’m linking my current favorites below (including a green exact copy of this purple one!), if you need help finding your perfect hostess dress please let me know!
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!
I am a fan of high style that’s easy. And by that I don’t always mean casual or simple– but easy. High reward for low effort in other words. For example- this denim set.
(Reminder- I am a FAN of denim, of sets, of fun details, and of a summer uniform. Somehow this set is all three while being a bit elevated)
This set is a bit oversized- off played by slits, an off the shoulder neckline, and with styling an oversized belt. Easy in that you just throw it on, even with styling (and we all know that the great thing about sets is that you can mix and match them as needed!) Denim is thought of as a casual fabric, but I would argue this set, and those like it, are high style. The matching, darker washes. The details from slits to pockets to necklines. Yes, you can wear it in your day to day from errands to lunches. But being a bit “more”, this set could also be perfect for dinners and some parties.
Yet- it stays easy. Even with more styling, making it a bit fancier. The ease of pulling on and going– and looking great- how can you beat that? Especially in the summer heat!
What are you wearing in these high summer days? What’s easy for you? And how are you styling it?
I am in love with this denim set- but it sold out! So I am linking similar sets and dresses — that I think would be so chic and easy!
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!
