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Ready to Bloom

Investment Piece: Ready to Bloom

Has anyone else felt like this winter has lasted forever? I love sweaters and coats and boots and all of the great fashion that winter has to offer. Yet. There has been a hankering I’ve been having for florals, short skirts, and all of the great fashion that spring has to offer. And finally, after weeks of cold weather (though according to my great-grandma’s logic everyone is due one more cold snap before Easter), it is finally feeling warm. Like spring. Maybe, we’re all ready to bloom.

Investment Piece: Ready to Bloom

Since we’re all ready to bloom, I can promise that someone somewhere is going to make the :”Florals for Spring? Groundbreaking” joke. It’s coming. However, what if blooming applied to more than florals. A trend I’m letting bloom this spring? Bright colors, specifically neon. Is neon something you would think of when you think of me? No. Yet, I’m loving it.

Neon feels fresh and new. Blooming as a statement? I’ll make it. This neon yellow stands out, yet doesn’t feel like a highlighter. (I like to think the grey softens it.) And while yellow is usually not my go-to color, neon yellow has such a pop to it that I can’t help but feel like spring in it.

(There are also some neon pinks and greens and blues I love)

My tips for wearing neon?
– Don’t be afraid of it. Yes, neon pieces will look great with more subdued colors, take the risk of leaning into neon.
-color blocking neon is a great way to do the trend without feeling like it’s too much
-I love neon in short lengths, but there are some great maxi options as well
– HAVE fun

What makes you feel like blooming? Willing to give neon a try?

I’ve linked some pieces I love for you below. I hope they make you feel ready to bloom.
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 options: here

Investment Piece: Ready to Bloom

Transitions

Investment Piece: Transitions

When I shot this look, and when I wrote this post, it was freezing. Literally freezing. And it was less than a week ago. Yes, we may be heading towards spring. It may be warm, or even hot, where you are this weekend. But this is about transitions. And how we deal with them.

Investment Piece: Transitions

The thing about seasonal transitions, and change, is that it happens in stages. Sometimes slow, sometimes fast. Sometimes it goes back and forth. As much as we may be looking forward to spring, and all that fashion, spring is allowed to take its time. I don’t know if I’ve mentioned this, but patience isn’t my strongest virtue. And we know I think change can be hard (see here)
There are a few things that I know about transitions to be true:
-Even though transitions can be hard to deal with as we don’t know what to wear, or exactly where to step, they are the places where we can grow the most.
-During transitions we have to trust the work we’re doing, and what we’re building is coming along. Even when, especially when we can’t see it. When we plant a seed outside, we don’t dig it up every day to see what’s taking so long. We trust and let it grow. Same applies to transitions.
-Transisional dressing is both fun and frustrating. Layers, layers, layers. And maybe don’t be afraid to work inside?

Investment Piece: Transitions

This skirt is vintage, but it feel like the animal print silk ones on offer this season(s). Right now? It looks great with sweaters and under coats. When it’s warm? Graphic tees and tanks. Shoes optional or heels or sandals. Treat it like a neutral and let it transition with you. It’s the best use of transitions that I can think of.

I love this type of skirt so much that I’ve linked my favorites for you below. Transition in them. It may make things easier!
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: Transitions

When You Can’t Get What You Want

I had an experience lately, which was familiar, and yet still disappointing. A vintage piece on my Wishlist sold out before I was able to buy it. This happens to us all. So, what do we do when we can’t get what we want?

Let’s Chat:

If you’re interested in having me help you find pieces you couldn’t get email me at racheladelicia@investmentpiece.com

Here’s to us all getting what we want and need!
Xo RA

70s Rockstar (An Ode to Print Mixing)

Investment Piece: 70s Rockstar (An Ode To Print Mixing)

Snakeskin Boots. Polka Dot Maxi Dress. Vintage coat with fur lining. I’ve worn this outfit a few times, and everytime I feel like a 70s Rockstar in it. Yes, in general, it makes me want to lounge on a velvet couch, but it’s a little more rockstar than that. And a bit 70s.

Really, to me, both Rockstar and 70s involve being a bit big and a bit extra, and not being shy about it. 70s fashion at its best? Shapes, patterns, colors, and platforms that aren’t afraid to let you know that they are there. Same with Rockstars. (Actually I have met quite a few shy performers–but get them on stage? Watch out!) This outfit? While each piece is enough, and big, on its own, together they aren’t shy.

I like to think it’s the boldness that makes the outfit work.

Being big, extra, and unapologetic? It’s the best recipe for print mixing that I know of. Yes, you can mix like patterns and colors. That outfit will look great. (I did it here and love this outfit just as much as the rockstar one!) But, to really mix prints, you have to be a little daring. Polka dots and snakeskin aren’t really in the same print family. However, it works. Is it because the boots err on the side of neutral? Maybe. But loves, these boots are a bit extra in all the right ways. Does the coat balance it out? It adds texture and is a statement on its own. The magic here I think is that while no print matches, they flow. Each are bold and rockstar in their own way, but manage to share the spotlight with each other.

Print mixing can be a very specific thing. A bit rockstar. There are no hard and fast rules, so all I can offer in terms of advise is : go big. Let’s be 70s Rockstars together.

I’ve linked similar pieces below for you print mixing pleasure!
XO

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!

Love the dot on dot? Shop that look here.

70s Rockstar more your thing? Shop that look here

Business Thoughts (#beltbag)

Investment Piece: Business Thoughts (#beltbag)

Some Business Thoughts:

*** If belt bags are a thing (I can’t bring myself to call these fanny packs, and today’s belt bags are ever so chic!), why shouldn’t we use them as belts? Clearly the point is to have them around your waist (or thereabouts. Side benefit? You get your hands free to do all the things!) So, why not use the belt part of your bag to keep pants up or keep your blazer (or top) closed?

I tried it. And I loved it. It was like pockets with added purpose. I don’t think that’s a thing, but we can make it one??

**** I can’t quit a blazer with nothing on underneath. There was this Heather Locklear show a few years back where her character wore looks like that, and I just loved them. It’s boss lady means super feminine. Appropriate for office wear? Maybe not. Or at least make sure your blazer buttons high enough (yes, Mom, if this one weren’t leather I would have used a pin here. I can’t bring myself to pin leather. You do you). But for a night out, or one those days where you can risk a bit more? A blazer as a top is perfect. And yes! It’s a great look for more black tie looks as well (there’s also something I love about women in tailored tuxes, but that’s another post).

(Super side note: no matter what your business, a great blazer is a must. They can lend structure and class to any outfit, and are often the perfect outer wear. This is an item I think you should buy at the highest quality level you can, and don’t forget that your local tailor can work wonders!)

*** Other Thoughts: I’ve found a lucky someone these exact shoes for $78 (linked below), I love them. A pleated skirt is always a good idea. But blazers and belt bags as belts: we may be onto something!

I’ve linked shopping options below, and as usual would love to hear your business 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!

Shop this look here.

#croppedjacket

Investment Piece: #croppedjacket

There was a recent time when I got a little obessed with a great cropped jacket. Yes, it was from Instagram and yes, it was vintage. But it seemed perfect: classy with quilting yet edgy with the crop. So, I began looking for my own. I hit the usual spots: etsy and eBay. Yet, I couldn’t find what I was looking for. Until, I looked at Jcrew.

Say what you will about modern versions of things that we love vintage; sometimes, the modern is just as great, if not greater than the vintage. This little (literally) number hits on the mark: I love the classic look, but the pattern is fun, and the crop is just perfect (not too high not too low). And loves, the lining makes this jacket so comfy. I wear it often as a top, and for some reason I can’t wait to wear this jacket over a slip dress and combat (ish) boots.

I love how vaguely 1970s this outfit ended up being. A great flare is a must, I think, for your denim collection. They elongate your legs, and just feel a little more dressy than skinny jeans (to me). My new favorite jacket, and a great pair of wedges.

Investment Piece: #cropppedjacket

I know, I know. This picture is slightly ridiculous, but it shows off the shoes. And it makes me laugh. Win/win?

And loves–there’s nothing wrong with a little 70s vibe. I promise.

If you’re like me and you. Can’t wait to find your own perfect cropped jacket, I’ve linked ones for you 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!

Get similar Jcrew jackets here.

Jeans and Jackets (some amazing vintage!):

chic hand warmer

Investment Piece: chic hand warmer

There have been hints of spring. Maybe it’s not FREEZING outside. But my hands are still cold. And what to do when your hands are cold? Use a chic hand warmer to warm them up!

The thing about a mink muff–they’re chic, different, the best purse, and a way to stay warm. I also recommend gloves, but with a muff you can still use your phone. There are pluses and minuses to everything. My choice?

A chic black suit.
–There’s just something I just love about a suit for women. Or a blazer without anything underneath.
Sexy. Chic. Business. The ultimate power suit.
(This blazer is vintage Thierry Mugler and it fits so exquisitely, the pictures don’t do it justice.)
Then I paired it with AMAZING shoes (old Celine, thank you very much) and a muff?
Are you killing at the office? Off to the opera? Happy hour? All of the above?
You’re in charge.

The pieces can be mixed and matched and worn with anything. Especially this muff. It’s the winter accessory I love reaching for at this time of winter, when it’s cold but beginning to warm up. The muff keeps my hands warm, holds my wallet and my phone, and is such an elegant piece! I use the term “elevate” a lot, but what I truly love about this chic hand warmer is how it makes everything seem a little more special.

Do you love a good muff? Would you rock this chic hand warmer?

I’ve linked some muffs and similar pieces for your own suit below. Happy shopping–I can’t wait to hear the stories you’ll tell with your chic hand warmer!

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!

Spring Trends to buy Vintage

With every season there are the new offerings, and the temptation to buy all new things. I love the cycle–but staying on trend doesn’t mean that you have to buy all new. What if I told you that there was a way to stay on trend AND shop resale/vintage? Shopping vintage was one of the first ways I was able to buy brands I loved at prices I could afford. And shopping vintage opened up a whole new world for me.

There are several reasons to love vintage: price, quality, style. I’m a huge fan of mixing old and new. And there are times when old is new–what’s the saying everything comes back around? This season there are some amazing trends to play with, and some of these spring trends are best bought vintage. From logos to costume jewelry, buying vintage can get you what you want (seriously, some of the vintage logos are EXACTLY like to the new offerings), and save a bit (to buy more of course!).

These are the items that are on trend but you should be buying vintage this spring:

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!

Logos
From bags to clothing, designer logos are in–and vintage. Buying these pieces vintage not only allows you to get pieces at a fraction of the cost of new, some of the vintage offerings are identical to what went down the runways. Here are some of my picks:

Shoulder Pads
Love them or hate them, a strong shoulder is “in” for Spring. I went through a period where I HATED this look, but I have to admit, I now kinda love it. My styling tip? Less is more and use the shape to make your waist look tiny. Also, stick to colora and patterns that you love, a strong silhouette is not the time to try a pattern you’re on the fence about! Here are some of my picks:

Top Handle Bags
Ladylike and a great investment, this a trend that you should ONLY buy vintage. Why? You can get quality bags that are stunning for less than $35. Here are some of my picks:

Lace
Vintage lace is often hand made versus machine made, making it higher quality. There are so many ways to get vintage lace (dealers sometimes sell it by the yard), but there are so many dresses, tops, and skirts out there at amazing prices, this spring trend is too good to pass up! Here are my picks:

Costume Jewelry
From pearls to gold chains, vintage costume jewelry is a higher quality and better made than much of modern jewelry today. Even faux pieces were often gold plated, and could pass for real! Here are some of my picks:

I’d love to know: what are your go-to vintage buys? And do you buy new trends vintage? What about these spring trends?

Xo RA

School Girl Twist

Investment Piece: School Girl Twist

Not all cliches are worth avoiding. And not everything in your “get rid of pile” should be given away. Weird advice? But very true.

School Girl, or prep, done right is fun and a little cheeky, as well as classic. (Tory Burch has made a career of this fact.) Pairing a great sweater with a plaid skirt? It doesn’t have to be cliche. And amazing and fun shoes aren’t the only way to do it–though I think amazing shoes always help. Classic combos are classic for a reason. Cliches become fun when you make them your own.

For me, with a school girl or preppy look, it’s in the details. Like necklines and colors. Hair and make-up. And of course, amazing shoes. Perfect for work, or after work.

Investment Piece: School Girl Twist

I stand by the statement that not everything in your “to-go” pile needs to go. This vintage skirt was my moms. And clearly, the moths loved it too. And while that may be a deal breaker for some, I don’t mind when my vintage is a little beat up. This skirt is still a stunner-deep plaid, soft wool, and just the right length. Give away the things that no longer serve you, but don’t be afraid to keep pieces that fit perfectly (you and your life), even if they’re a little flawed.

These are the questions I have. How do you school girl twist? Or take a fashion cliche and make it your own? Also, what do you keep that’s a little worn?
I’d really love to know!

Similar items to my own school girl twist are linked below. Happy shopping!

Xo RA

Note: this post does contain affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you. Thank you for your support!

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#Adolfo

Investment Piece: #adolfo

One of the best fashion investments you can make? A vintage #Adolfo suit.
One of the best conversation starters? A vintage #Adolfo suit.
One of the things you should be buying today? You guessed it : a vintage #Adolfo suit.

Part Chanel-like chic, but much more affordable, Adolfo is one of those vintage brands that screams timeless but feels modern. And the great part about a suit? You can wear it seperate, it looks great with even just a white tee, and it elevates everything.
A little bit about Adolfo:
Adolfo began his career as a milliner and apprenticed at Balenciaga before moving to New York in 1948 to apprentice at Bergdorf Goodman. After receiving several awards for his hat designs, he opened his own millinery house in 1962 with a loan from Bill Blass. He began designing clothing for his models to wear while showing his hats and by the mid 1960s his celebrity clients ranged from the Duchess of Windsor, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Betsy Bloomingdale to Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Nancy Reagan, who wore a red Adolfo dress, currently in the Smithsonian, to her husband’s second inaugural ball. In the 1960s Adolfo’s designs were playful and even flamboyant, though by the 1980s he was best known for his ladylike, Chanel-inspired cardigan suits.

Adolfo is collected by many a vintage fan. My favorite places to find it are eBay and etsy. I personally love how versatile the pieces are, and how “grown up” the suits make me feel. I’ve found some #Adolfo suits for you below. They’re perfect with any sort of top, for your big work day, date night, or anytime you want to feel like a lady.

Happy shopping!
Xo RA

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!