Fashion Stories: Fashion As Rebellion

A woman in a tee that says Hands Off, a black blazer and jeans

I am a firm, FIRM, believer that fashion is just another way with which we tell our stories. Fashion as a story telling fabric is the basis of what we do here. SO. Fashion as a way to speak out- for anything that you believe in. OR in general show rebellion? Yes. I’m here for it.

I know the most obvious way to tell our rebellious or political or out there stories are graphic tees. And from tees to sweatshirts I have a ton of graphic shirts. Graphic shirts with anything are a go-to formula for me. From shirts that are simply “Wonder Woman” to the more forceful graphic like above (and yes, that’s tame in my collection!) a graphic is an easy way to let people know your stance. But fashion is so much more subtle and lets us tell our stories in so many ways!

Investment Piece: Mini Skirting It
(This may not be the best example!)
But often when I think of fashion as rebellion I think of mini skirts in the 1960s. And how then men went from suits to longer hair and flares. Burning Bras. Tye Dye. NOTE: I am not old enough to have lived through that. I was not in the 1960s. Though- I was a teenager when Elmo and Grunge (ya know, flannels and ripped jeans and dark eye make up and combat boots) were all popular. Perhaps every generation has its own fashion that is a form of rebellion.

To truly understand how to dress to rebel (and not just dressing in what people you know what like), let’s understand what rebellion is:
According to the dictionary rebellion is:
an act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler

There are times when what we wear absouletly is in service of actively over throwing the government. Then there are times that what we wear is simply to let our displeasure known. To make a fuss. To give support. And to let people know where we stand.

I have never actively worked to throw over the government. But I have worn shirts and ears in supports of causes I love. In thinking about our stories, and how rebellion could be one- I’ve thought a lot about what we wear. From hem lines to high heels to shirts that give to causes.

Some reading that I’ve found helpful on these thoughts:
The Clothes that Shook The World
Rebellion, Gender, Fashion
You Say You want a (Fashion) Revolution?
and from sheer to faux fur, mob wife to mesh flats, 2024 has its own trends already (and we all know more to come). Wearing things like faux fur and being BIG can be rebellion (or at least a pendulum swing). Or dressing well- instead of wearing pjs to the grocery store (I am guilty of both!). All Black. Pops of Color. Pink. Bows. Prints. Mixing Prints. Black Nails. Anklets. All of these have been told to me to be a bit rebellious. I don’t know that rebellion always has to go against the status quo- but it does have to be unexpected.

Investment Piece: Product of a Strong Female

Interestingly enough, too young to have been around when mini skirts were a STATEMENT, I never burned a bra (too young), and while I was here for Nirvana and some Elmo in high school — it feels as if I have sort of missed so many fashion rebellion moments. Even sheer is no longer new (though it might be a bit more daring at times). SO. How do we rebel with our fashion now?

Is it by being more daring?
By wearing graphic tees in support of our causes?
Wearing the unexpected?

I don’t know! But I’m open to it all and will be telling my own story in the above ways.

As there is no clear way to tell you how to rebel in your fashion below I’ve linked fashion that supports causes that are dear to me– no pressure to you! Below are shirts that give to Gun Control, Women Homelessness, Reproductive Rights. But I know there is more out there. And you could always go anti trend. Or let me know how you’re dressing in an anti establishment way!!

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!

a woman in a white tee with black letters saying we should all be feminists and red pants and black heels

Other People’s Clothes

a woman in a green and white wrap dress, hair in a scarf and green loafers

I got into vintage in high school- I loved looking just a bit different than everyone else. The vintage love/obsession grew in my 20s/30s/plus as I realized that the quality, the style and the price I could afford were always unmatched. Shopping vintage lets me get amazing style and brands- that I may or may not have been able to afford “new”, and let me learn about so many FANTASTIC designers that I otherwise would have never knew existed. Vintage has added to my life (via friends and retailers) and closet (in too many items to count) in ways I could never replace.

I’m also a fan of wearing special pieces handed down from my family. From my grandma’s purse to my aunt’s dresses, to dresses from my BFF’s mom. When I wear something from someone I love I feel as if I’m carrying just a bit of them with me .

a close ip of Gucci mules with bamboo heel and a leather satchel

Resale? Huge fan! For quite a number of the same reasons above- I get to get items from seasons past, the quality, and the brand I love at a price I can often afford. This sometimes means that a lot of things I have aren’t new, but new to me. It also is how there are a ton of logos and brands in my closet.

And yet- I’m aware that this means that I’m wearing other people’s clothes. That has never bothered me. I’m not shy about buying most anything resale or vintage, from shoes on up. As long as I know it’s been cleaned, I often don’t worry at all about it. The thing is- I know that there are some people who do care. ALOT. About the fact that they are wearing other people’s clothes. Questions I get from the people who worry about other people’s clothes range from worrying about the cleanliness to not wanting to have old things.

Neither of those worries have ever been big concerns of mine. I tend to shop from reputable dealers/resellers, and in reality even putting your new clothes through the wash before you wear them is never a bad idea. In fact, I often love that I’m taking a piece from someone and giving it a new life- my own spin on it so to say.

These thoughts are brought to you by a social media post questioning how old is vintage (20+ years) and wondering if others ever really wore other people’s clothes. I was surprised by the people who thought differently than I do- and comforted by all the people who love vintage and resale like me!

Note- there is no right answer, we all have things we’re comfortable with!

But my question is – do you buy vintage and resell, aka other people’s clothes? And what are your thoughts on it?

I would love to know!
XO RA

Wait…The Champagne!

a woman in black Bermuda shorts, a graphic tee saying Wait the Champagne, a black Coach bag and snake skin sandals
a woman in black Bermuda shorts with a graphic tee that says Wait..the Champagne, a black coach bag and snake skin sandals
a woman in black Bermuda shorts with a graphic tee that says Wait..the Champagne, a black coach bag and snake skin sandals
a woman in black Bermuda shorts with a graphic tee that says Wait..the Champagne, a black coach bag and snake skin sandals

Sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of Champagne to make it through-especially on a Monday. And While that may not always meant that you pop a bottle at no-one, it often does mean that a fantastic graphic tee (I can never resist one with a cheeky and oh-so-true thought!). U usually wear this shirt on Fridays (it feels very much like a weekend gateway message!), but on a Monday? How could I resist? That is – how do you resist a simple yet chic outfit that lets you let your personality shine?

a woman in black Bermuda shorts with a graphic tee that says Wait..the Champagne, a black coach bag and snake skin sandals

These shorts? (Though I love that they are long enough to not make me question if they are too short for my age) are so chic (and will go with everything. Black, classic, pleats, and a linen blend that allows for a bit of wrinkle but doesn’t collapse. A classic bag with a bit of an edge- that gold chain! (I don’t know that I am for the bag charm trend but this bag is perfect for one- and who knows! I have an older Dino keychain/charm that I could be persuaded to take with me all the places!). Snake skin sandals that act as a neutral? Love it!

So. How are you amusing yourself at the beginning of yet another week? And how are you communicating that in your outfit? I highly recommend a graphic tee and classic pairings. Who knows? Maybe someone will even pass you a glass to celebrate getting through the day!

Exact details linked below. Attitude comes separate! (and I hope this Monday is as good as it gets!) 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!

Shop all details, including my jewelry here

a woman in black Bermuda shorts with a graphic tee that says Wait..the Champagne, a black coach bag and snake skin sandals

Best of Both!

a woman in a black crop top with a black and gold max skirt, gold sandals in. a garden
a woman in a black crop top with a black and gold max skirt, gold sandals in. a garden
a woman in a black crop top with a black and gold max skirt, gold sandals in. a garden

We all know that I love a great contradiction- they tend to make life and outfits a but more interesting. Yet. As much as I do, I also sometimes catch myself being a bit “rigid” in my outfit thinking. It’s not that I am not open to experiment or try things on; but that I will pigeon hole items. For example, thinking of pairing vintage with vintage, labeling things “trendy”, not believing certain cuts will go together or look good on me. And that’s going in with this huge love of contradictions and the unexpected.

This is where I could give you a long story and chat all about how to overcome that in-the-box thinking, and tips for playing around with your outfits. How to be brave in your choices. But really? The big secret is to try things on. (And yes, stay open minded and all the things) But–so often it simply comes down to trying things out. Or on. While that doesn’t seem big or revolutionary, I do have some tips on how to make trying things on a bit more comfortable. So that when you get dressed and try something “new” you get the best of both worlds.

Speaking of best of both worlds? This outfit is a vintage skirt and a cropped bikini top. I do love swimwear as streetwear, and vintage is the foundation of my closet – this combination was a bit of a reach for me. I was inspired by the 60s and Palm Springs, and yet I worried that this would be a bit much- or because of the cuts be unflattering. In getting dressed, and styling this skirt I kept coming back to this pairing, something about it making me think it would be a fun twist. Finally, I had to give in and try it out/on- and I am so glad that I did, as it really is the best of both (vintage and swim and 60s and Palm Springs!)

a woman in a black crop top with a black and gold max skirt, gold sandals in. a garden
a woman in a black crop top with a black and gold max skirt, gold sandals in. a garden
a woman in a black crop top with a black and gold max skirt, gold sandals in. a garden

So, how do you get from trying things on to the best of both? (Again, besides trying it on).
-Spend some time in your closet. And spend time in media (that’s everything from movies to social media to books, etc) that inspires you. Naturally you’ll come up with ideas and pairings, be open to matching things in your closet, and find you can make your own inspirational outfits.

This is the part where you then try it on.

And then my big tip?
-Give yourself time to be in your try on. If it’s an outfit that is a big leap for you (like a crop top for example), give yourself a time limit. Run an errand- but make it short so you can change if needed.But spend some time, move around, let people see you.
For example, in the outfit above I ran to the grocery store. It may not sound exciting- but it is a good runway! I am so glad I did- as this best of both worlds outfit has become a go-to!

What are some of your best of both outfits? How do you experiment with your closet to get there? I would love to hear all about it!
While this skirt is vintage, I did find you similar and linked them 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!

Go Big and Go Pockets

a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats
a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats
a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats
a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats

As a woman who will absolutely gush about pockets if you compliment my outfit, I cannot tell you how excited these pockets made me. In fact, they are modeled after a pannier*, and the shape, the ease, the functionally of them made me fall in love quickly!

(Side note: I am aware that this dress pulls a bit, even did so on the model- I think it’s just the fit! And worth it for the pockets!)

The benefit of huge pockets? You can store all your secrets and magic (or just keys and lipstick). But here, these pockets allow you to play with portions- cultivating your look to your own liking. You can absolutely pair this dress with a sweater, top, or even a belt, to further exaggerate the pockets. Or you could wear it alone, letting the pockets speak for themselves! Besides being functional and helpful pockets- these are also fun!

**A Pannier is a bit of skirt looped around the waist. They were incredibly popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, usually as an undergarment to make your skirt wider. In fact, some of the fashionable panniers were as wide as a full grown man (what a spectacle!)! Obviously, “modern” panniers are not that big, but playing with volume and proportion are always part of fashion that’s a bit fun. You can read a bit of pannier history here, and you can see modern versions in the popular barrel leg jean as well as this dress!

a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats
a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats

I couldn’t resist pairing these pockets with a scarf (tied in the idea of a cape). For a pop of color. For some fun. And to be slightly off shoulder and play with proportions even more. Flats (and these are absolutely my new go-tos!) for more play–and I was good to go! In this outfit, I loved the various elements – but I would by lying if I didn’t tell you I love the pockets the most!

Are you a fellow pocket lover? Do you go out of your way to get clothes with pockets? And how do you feel about proportion play?

I’ve linked similar options for you as well as this exact dress for your shopping pleasure below!
Happy Shopping! 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!

And you can shop my favorite shoes here

a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats

Fashion Stories: TV Fashion: The Americans

Most of this is a repost. When I first started this blog, I knew that I wanted to talk (and show!) stunning fashion, outfits- and tell stories. As we know, for me stories and fashion are a part of the same thing. It’s taken me a while to really refine my vision and how I talk about our fashion stories, but the ideas have always been there. At first, I wanted to talk about fashion on TV and Movies (because, as an actress it made sense to me). This was one of my first attempts. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot (again) about costumes and costume designers. I talk a lot about how what we wear tells our stories, and one of the most visible ways (and ironically, one place where we learn how to dress for what we’re trying to express) of fashion story telling are costumes. They let us know so much about a character- who they are, what they like, what they’re dealing with, who they want to be. Costumes are such an important part of any show or movie you’re watching. I promise. So, I’m looking again at what I was thinking about the Americans- and how the story of being a spy is one I’m drawn to. I’ve added a link to an interview with the Costume Design Team from this show- and I’m also currently shopping items like these!
Xo RA

image

In case you haven’t been watching, “The Americans” is simply one of the best shows on TV right now (seriously, go binge). It follows two Russian spies, living in the US in the early 80s–and I love everything about it. So much goes into making a great, timeless, compelling show–the story, the actors, the production–but also, the fashion. When I completely fall for a show, like I have with “The Americans”, I find myself wanting to live in their world, and while that isn’t always possible, dressing like them can be.

THE AMERICANS -- (Premieres Early 2013) Pictured: Keri Russell as Elizabeth Jennings -- Photo CR: Jeff Neira/FX
THE AMERICANS — (Premieres Early 2013) Pictured: Keri Russell as Elizabeth Jennings — Photo CR: Jeff Neira/FX

Let’s be clear, I’m not calling for a return to all 80s fashion (let’s just say no to big shoulder pads), but when fashion is great, done well, and timeless, elements of any period can be added to your wardrobe. It’s a case of “classic fashion never goes out of style”. The fashion on “The Americans” is not only great and classic–a lot of it would look modern today!

A Great Coat and Boots
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It’s on every “must have” or “invest” list–a great coat and a great trench. When it’s paired with boots it’s a classic outfit–and all over Instagram as we speak. Spring is a great time to buy a coat on sale, and trenches are always a good investment. I’m a fan of high boots, they never go out of style.
Some of my picks:
Trenches: Ralph Lauren, Burberry, and Zara
Boots: Stuart Weitzman, Frye, and Steve Madden

Wrap Dresses

Subject: The Americans On 2013-04-08, at 3:50 PM, Yeo, Debra wrote: Kerri Russell as Elizabeth Jennings and Matthew Rhys as Philip Jennings in The Americans on FX. CRAIG BLANKENHORN/FX  The Americans.jpg
Subject: The Americans On 2013-04-08, at 3:50 PM, Yeo, Debra wrote: Kerri Russell as Elizabeth Jennings and Matthew Rhys as Philip Jennings in The Americans on FX. CRAIG BLANKENHORN/FX The Americans.jpg

DVF made it ionic, the shape makes it completely flattering. A wrap dress is great in every decade and in every way–short, long, dress up, casual, there’s just something about this silhouette that looks great on everyone. It’s a classic you need and here are some of my picks:
Wrap Dresses: DVF (on sale!), DVF, and Ann Klein

Great Jeans and a Top
image
Ironically enough, high waisted jeans and tie blouses are back in style–but I think any jean rise that looks great on you and any simple blouse is a classic hit. There’s something both effortless and pulled together about the combo. Some of my faves:
Jeans:JCrew, , and MOTHER
Tops: Equipment, Anna Quan, and Zara

Read about the costume process here.

Would you wear any of these costumes? Be a spy?

I’m game!
Xo RA

Under Construction

Also! Happy Valentine’s Day! From Date Night to Self Love to Galentine’s: I hope that you are surrounded by all the love in all the ways you need it!

a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs

I want to pretend like it’s all wine and roses here- but truly we are under construction. As in literally my house is under construction.
No kitchen.
The walls may be done today- yes- while you read this! We are so far from where we have been and with this unexpected renovation, and upgrade. Both great and awful- it’s a lot. Like A LOT.
Every time I think I have things under control and a plan there is a wrench.
Maybe a metaphor for life?
Or maybe the question- that I am currently grappling with-is : how do we live while we are under construction?

And yet- I can’t help but yet again to turn to Fashion. This time it’s a vintage gold and silk scarf-

Did I mention that there are oh so many ways to wear this?

And a black silk skirt?

And a gold lip ring?

a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs

I was originally was gonna edit the pictures- yes, sometimes I edit out background and etc. I do not edit me- even when I hate how I look. I do choose a pic that may be my best angles. But it’s all me.
And Frankly? Me? Perhaps I am under construction too. From habits to a life to who I really want to be? Perhaps that is (it is) under construction. And when a construction is in your face? maybe you go with it!

But also. We are under construction. I keep writing and telling about it. But. yeah. I can’t deny that my environment – aka a construction zone- is influencing me
(this is me letting you know from outfits to my habits I am looking at all of me. What’s under construction and what is aok? It is awkward and hard but also a bit rewarding. And this outfit? I think we can only go up!)
a woman in a lame and black silk scarf, black silk scarf, gold lip ring on stairs

So this skirt is seasons old. The scarf? Tied as a top? Vintage. And yet? I found you options! It’s almost like we are constantly under construction. Options that feel as if they are new? Are vintage? What if we thought about our construction as an on going project instead of a destination? (Again, just me wanting things to be true)

And yet. With dust. And painting. And construction. Here I am. Maybe that is the true fashion.
(note: options for you are linked below)!

Here’s to us all being fab and construction finishing! 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!

Getting there in Sequins

a woman in a sequined leopard dress in front of a grey washer dryer in an unfinished room

We are getting there- this week my house may get walls, painting may start- and we should be on our way to not having so much chaos. There are days when it is completely overwhelming and I feel as if I will never get my life together. Literally, a sentence I said aloud today was “One day I will have clean hair again”. (Note: a bun hides a lot!)

Then there are days when I am able to enjoy this time- even relish the excitement and the new.

On the days like the first, it can be hard to think straight- much less get dressed. And yes- there are days I am simply in sweats. However, to the surprise of no one, I find when I make myself get dressed days like the second come easier.

This look? Perhaps a bit over the top- but I love it. Leopard is a neutral, but having it in sequins makes so much of a statement. And! I have to let you know- I am not great at laundry, but that may change as this new washer/dryer is my new favorite thing. EVER. It works so well- and everything from my bedding to gym clothes come out so clean! (Did I also mention that as we were without a washer/dryer I haven’t done laundry since mid-December? Only 4 more loads to go!)

My goal this week? Have great days, laugh- and wear things that make me happy. Like sequins. This dress is vintage Lillie Rubin but I have found you modern options! And I am linking the washer/dryer as I can’t tell you how they have changed my life, and how amazing they work!

To enjoying it all! XO RA

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!

Shop appliances and sequins here

Hart to Hart

Investment Piece: Hart to Hart
Investment Piece: Hart to Hart
Investment Piece: Hart to Hart

During the lockdowns here my schedules have changed. Some for the good, some for the bad. For a while, I couldn’t help but stay up late watching old sitcoms. From “Murder She Wrote” to “Golden Girls”, I’ve loved them! But one of my favorites (and it was new to me!) has been “Hart to Hart”!

Investment Piece: Hart to Hart

“Hart to Hart” follows a millionaire couple, Jonathan and Jennifer Hart, who globe trot, find themselves in trouble, and solve crimes. It’s both fun and sexy, and just a little funny (I’m just saying if there was a crime or something everywhere I went, I might think it was me!).

I’m loving the show (though I’ve moved to recording it so I don’t stay up too late!), and it’s beginning to influence my fashion. We all make fun of 1980s fashion, and some of it deserves that. However, some is chic and I can’t help but loving the way Jennifer Hart is making me dress!

Investment Piece: hart to hart
Investment Piece: Hart to Hart
Investment Piece: Hart to Hart

What’s “Hart to Hart” style? (At least to me). Clutches. Nude pumps. Put together looks from suits to dresses to even her pjs. It’s the best and most elegant of the 80s. Yes, there are some shoulder pads and Ruffles, but done well I like those things.

This dress? It’s a Dianne Freis (also some of the best of 80s, we’ve chatted about her here) It’s simple and a statement all in one (that color, the Ruffles, the movement! It does have shoulder pads but they go with the fit!). With nude pumps and a vintage clutch? I feel like I’m dashing off to solve a mystery with my husband!

Or just eating outside (every year has its adventures!). I feel glam and yet its easy. Maybe that’s the best part of “Hart to Hart” fashion!

(A sizing note. This is not my only Dianne Freis, with her signature stretchy waist you can wear a ton of sizes. I have an XS, a M, and a S. They’re forgiving and chic-the best of both worlds!)

I’ve linked you similar items below so we can be 80s fatales together!
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!

Investment Piece: Hart to Hart

Almost Missed This..

Here it is- Again February. Again in the 80s. And again, I’ve been putting off wearing these pants (and more!) as it needs to be perfect! What is with that? Why is a great outfit something I put off? NO idea of there are answers here – but is a prod to not put off great outfits in the pursuit of perfect outfits!

a woman in a grey sweater tank with black wool split waist pants and black heels
a woman in a grey sweater tank with black wool split waist pants and black heels
a woman in a grey sweater tank with black wool split waist pants and black heels
a woman in a grey sweater tank with black wool split waist pants and black heels
a woman in a grey sweater tank with black wool split waist pants and black heels

I fell in love with these wool blend split waist (yep- that hint of grey isn’t a mistake! The waist on these pants has a high and a low portion– and I just love it!) and have had them for a while. Every time I reached for them, I stopped myself– not because I didn’t want to wear them but because I worried that I didn’t have the “perfect” top to go with them. I wanted to highlight this special and cool waist band! Shirts I looked at: sheer, corset, rouched, seamed, cropped–I felt like it had to be the perfect, most perfect thing to wear.

**Sidenote: perhaps my deep need to have things be perfect explains why I’m so drawn to party dresses! Just something I’m thinking about!

Back to these pants!

Searching for “perfect” kept me from wearing and styling these pants. That I love! Then, this week (while, yes, it’s still February) the weather turned. Hot. It was in the 80s yesterday! And as stylish as these pants are– they are wool and something tells me sweating in them in the extreme heat will not be stylish. My time was now or never- so I grabbed a tank (sweater tank to be exact) and styled them. And you know what? It’s perfect. I love the ribbing matching the stripe on the sides. I love that it’s a bit winter and a bit spring.

And to think: I almost missed this. (I also thought about the double entendre that it was possible to “almost miss” the waistband!)

What are we missing out on by holding onto a way “things should be”? Or what are we missing by waiting for perfect? I don’t know– but I know we probably don’t want to miss them. Advice on how to stop letting perfectionism get in our way is not something I should be giving–I am still working on it myself. But. I know that I almost missed this great outfit (and almost missed sharing it with you!) because I was trying to make it perfect- instead of trusting that it would be. That’s not how I want to live my life. And I also want to wear these pants!

So- what if we just go for all those things? I’m in if you are!

(In the spirit of just that I’ve linked shopping options for you 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!

a woman in a grey sweater tank with black wool split waist pants and black heels