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FBF: First Neutrals

Investment Piece: FBF First Neutrals

Investment Piece:FBF first neutrals

As promised (or threatened) today marks part of our blog birthday celebration with FBF posts of some of my first shoots. Here: my first neutrals. This goes back to the days when I wasn’t 100% sure what I was doing (let’s not chat about if I do now), and it was just me and my iPhone and a tripod. I had one of those remote controls you can get for your phone, I had no experience with photos or spacing, or websites for that matter.

When I look back at some of these looks I can’t help but be struck by how far I’ve come–even in just the photography. There are shoots I love, and pics I adore from this time in the blog; and others that I can’t believe I posted. I can’t help but be so happy about where I am now; yet I can’t help but miss parts of my life (the building is my old apartment in LA), and we can all be surprised that I still wear some of these outfits.

As it turns out, first neutrals last. The faux leather skirt with a light sweater was one of my go-to’s about 3 years ago. The combo made me feel pulled together and lady like. And I still rock this look. What I love about head to toe neutrals? It reads classy, it can feel expensive (even when it’s not. the skirt is Zara). This look is perfect for work or cocktails. And lets me feel like an “adult”. (An underrated but sometimes important part of getting dressed in the morning).

These pics of my first neutral are some that I still love. Yes, I look at them now and think of how I could take them better. I sometimes think of reshooting all my first looks (but I have so much new fashion to share). But it’s nice that I can look back at my first neutrals, at this blog, and this community that we’re building and love them. Happy birthday to us all!

And yes, this FBF gave me the logo image that I still use:

Investment Piece: FBF First Neutrals

While this first neutrals look is 3 years old, I’ve linked similar items below. Stay tuned for more blog birthday celebration- FBF’s and giveaways! Have I told you lately that I’m grateful for you?

XO RA

Thank you for celebrating the blog birthday with me!

Note: This post does contain some affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

Jumpsuit + Feathers

Investment Piece: Jumpsuit + Feathers

Forget what anyone else has told you. The most ambitious crossover? Feather shoes. Or more specifically, for today, jumpsuits + feather shoes.

Here’s the thing: clear heels and feathers, you might think “lady of the night”. They’re so fun. BUT, can be tricky to style. (Though me being me, I say just wear them with what you love.) My solution? Pair them with a tux inspired jumpsuit. One could argue with a neckline like this, it’s not exactly conservative, but it balances the fun shoe.

I love that none of the colors “match” but they go together. I love that tuxes are thought of as buttoned up, feathers as fun, and jumpsuits as throw on and go; and together it’s a showstopper.

Because, if you’re going to have feathers, have Jumpsuit + Feathers!

Investment Piece: Jumpsuit + Feathers

Feather shoes may seem like a lot, but I love the sense of play that they bring to anything. You don’t have to dress them up (or pair them with a jumpsuit). I love these with little white dresses and skirts (they’re a thing) and jeans with a t-shirt.

And loves, these aren’t just any feather shoes. They’re Brother Vellies. That means that they’re ethically made, support women and kids, support trade in Africa, and you know–they’re gorgeous.

A little about Brother Vellies and these feather shoes:

Brother Vellies was founded by Aurora James with the goal of introducing the rest of the world to her favorite traditional African footwear, while also creating and sustaining artisanal jobs within Africa. Handmade in South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya and Morocco, Brother Vellies creates boots, shoes and sandals in styles that maintain the spirit and durability of their ancestral counterparts.

You can buy the feather numbers here and so many more amazing styles at Brother Vellies. I just love them!

Investment Piece: Jumpsuit + Feathers

I love tux jumpsuits. And jumpsuits. See here and here. What I love about this tux jumpsuit is that it’s a classic (and you could wear something under or over the top) and a bit sexy. It looks great with flats, sneakers, or heels.

I made a friend take these pics on this street in Beverly Hills because sometimes I can’t resist being a basic blogger. Wearing the feather shoes with a tux jumpsuit is because I can’t resist outfits that shake things up.

You know I love a great juxatipositon.

I’ve linked similar items below. Wishing you a day where you get to embrace all the things you can’t resist!
XO RA

A great place to rent jumpsuit and feathers:

Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While this does not affect the price to you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

Investment Piece: Jumpsuits + Feathers

#purple

Investment Piece: #purple

Loves, I honestly try to come up with great post titles, and show off my quirky sense of humor in the process. Sometimes, that’s just hard. This time? I got nothing. This is #purple. That’s it. Maybe simple is the new quirky? Let’s just go with that.

It’s no secret that I have a thing for purple. It’s a great color-regal, classy with a twist, and representative of my college team. I wear it often (including all Friday’s during football season). See here, here, here, here, and here. Yes, there are more purple outfits if you didn’t get enough. Just search “purple” on the menu. I guess the good news is that I’m consistent?

Point being, purple is a great color. You should wear it.

Another great thing to wear? A wrap dress. They are easy yet elegant, always in style, and can be dressed up or down. DVF made the case for the wrap dress to be a staple, and I’m one of those crazy people who believes we shouldn’t argue with DVF. You can see some of my other favorite wrap dresses here, here, and here. Yes, that last wrap dress was from when the blog was just a baby (and I didn’t really know what I was doing). Proof that things change, but great style lasts?

I love this purple wrap dress with these stirrup tights. Yes, I have stirrup yoga leggings that I wear with everything, but these are just hose. That look great with a variety of skirts, dresses, heels, and flats. This dress is just a tad bit sheer, so I love that the flats relax the look a little. This would look great at work or a night out, but I have to admit, I love throwing this dress on after Pilates, over my leggings. It makes me feel pulled together as I go about my day, and I always get compliments. Yes, my styling was inspired by my fitness class. Maybe that’s the quirky part?

I’ve linked some of my favorite wrap dresses and purple looks below!
Happy Shopping!
XO RA

If you love vintage DVF wrap dresses like I do, TheRealReal is a great place to find one!

Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While this does not affect the price to you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support.

Investment Piece: #purple

Play Ball

Investment Piece: Play Ball

Spring? It’s sprung. And it’s time for those traditional words that symbolize the season for so many:

PLAY BALL.

Am I a baseball gal? Not really, unless I’m at the game. I am a sports gal, and I have to say that going to a live game is one of the biggest joys! The crowds, the game, the despair, the hope, the coming together, and your team winning. Sports are amazing in so many ways.

Even baseball.
(This is probably not the time for my rant about how golf isn’t a sport. Maybe a plaid for that?)

(This may be a time for my rant on female “fashion” options when it comes to sports. I’m a woman. I love sports. I love fashion. However, that doesn’t mean that I need sequins to show my passion for my team. Not that I don’t love sequins. See Hillflint (Not an affiliate link, I just love them. Find great pieces to rep your college and professional teams!)

I have linked similar and new items below for your fresh start.

Here’s to play ball!
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: Play Ball

Spring Sales

The days are longer, it’s beginning to warm up, and we have a new season to shop for–Happy Spring!!

We chatted last week about the spring trends that we’re being offered (refresh here). And yes, florals (in a sense) are on the list. Today? We’re offered our first spring sales. While it is a chance to stock up on winter items for next year, it’s also a chance to get ahead on this season.

And if you’re in a place where winter is throwing its last fit? Shop online. Drink wine. We’re with you in spirit. I’m also a firm believer in the “If you wear it, Spring will come” theory. You might as well test it out!

The best spring sales of the week!

ShopBop
Get an extra 25% certain sales styles. There are some cold weather options, but there is so much for Spring on Sale! Get my picks:

Net-a-Porter
THIS IS NOT A DRILL! Get 10% off sitewide with code STYLE10 . This means that EVERYTHING is on sale and you don’t want to miss out! From sale items to new items, you can get whatever your heart desires. Here are a few of my desires:

Loft
We’re on the last day of a 2 day Spring Sale here! Get an extra 40% Orr all sale styles! A great chance to get all the things on your spring list!
My picks:

and there are so many more sales out there!

Till 3/23 at My Theresa, MyTheresa, get an extra 30% off all sale, no code needed.
At Target (Target), get 20% off of the Kitchen Selection and 25% off of furniture till 3/24.
Bloomingdales?(Bloomingdales.com), Loyalists take $25 off when you spend $125-$249.99, $50 off when you spend $250-$499.99, $125 off when you spend $500-$999.99, $300 off when you spend $1000-$1999.99, and $600 off when you spend $2000 or more. Plus you can earn triple points!

I’d love to know: where are you Spring Sale shopping?

XO RA

Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While I may earn commission from them, it does not affect the price for you. Thank you for your support!

Chanel Means Never Having to say “I’m Sorry”

Investment Piece: Chanel means never having to say "I'm Sorry"

That’s the saying, right? “Chanel means never having to say “I’m sorry”.

Or is it: Flowers say I’m sorry, Chanel says I’ve learned my lesson?

Maybe the moral is just Chanel is always a good plan.

Let’s level with each other, Chanel is one of those iconic high end designers that says so much in the name. It’s often a goal or a standard for the fashion set, and Chanel is often used to convey high fashion and society all at the same time.

I’m not always one for cliches. But the thing about cliches? Sometimes they are true. And Chanel? There’s something special about it: the bags, the clothes, the shoes. I’ve even broken one of my “rules” for Chanel, I’ve worn an outfit that’s Chanel head to toe, and it still feels fresh and modern. That’s the beauty of Chanel, the vintage pieces (this skirt) feel timeless and while it’s high end classics, the pieces feel on trend (socks and heels)!

And I lied -the t-shirt isn’t from Chanel. It’s from Target. So it’s not head to toe Chanel. But, you get it.

Investment Piece: Chanel Means Never Having to say "I'm Sorry"

Investment Piece, fashion, blogger, high fashion,

Maybe the real meaning behind “Chanel means never having to say “I’m Sorry”, is that you shouldn’t say sorry for wanting Chanel.

Confession? I’ve only ever bought Chanel in vintage or resell shops. It’s still Chanel though, and it’s still magical. These boots? Runway that I lusted after, I’ve always loved the idea of socks with heels (see one of my first posts and an update here), and knew that I had to have these Chanel boots. Alas, when they were released, I couldn’t afford them. What they don’t tell you is that part of fashion is patience, and I stalked and found these sock boots on eBay. Good things sometimes come to those who seek them out.

This skirt? Vintage, and let’s not go into how magical vintage Chanel suits are; we’ll be here all day. But they are. And while they are some of the fashion that appreciates with age, you can find affordable Chanel (vintage and newer) on resell sites, this skirt is from Vestiaire Collective. I love that it’s classic, timeless, and still feels modern. I’ve worn it with Blazers, sweatshirts, t-shirts, and button ups. There is no wrong way to wear Chanel.

But, is there a thing as too much Chanel? As I’ve said before, I usually avoid wearing head to toe designer. It can feel stale. I think it’s so modern to mix-low and high, old and new, etc. Here? I couldn’t resist. I love wearing these sock boots with skirts. I love this skirt. Is it too much? Could you argue that a little break up would be more fresh?

Sure. But, Chanel means never having to say “I”m sorry”. And I won’t say I’m sorry for this outfit.

What do you think?

I’ve linked so much vintage Chanel that may be in your price range. (Including these Chanel boots in black-under $500!) It’s well worth the investment and can make any day magical. I recommend it. And don’t say sorry!

XO RA

Another one of my favorite resale sites:

Note: this post does contain affiliate links. While I may earn commission from them, it does not affect price for you. Thank you for your support!

Investment Piece: Chanel means never having to say I'm sorry

A Little Sparkle

Investment Piece: A Little Sparkle

There’s a saying: “She leaves a little sparkle where ever she goes”. We tend to think about it around the holidays, when there’s a little bit of sparkle everywhere. Remember this past season when glitter shoes/boots were so “in”?

Well, who says that a little sparkle only applies to the holiday season? Who says that all black can’t shine? What if any old day, even a Monday, called for a little sparkle?

In my world, a little sparkle isn’t a “thing to save for a rainy day”, but something to embrace whenever you want. I think a little sparkle makes this outfit perfect (though those flares are pretty special too).

Investment Piece: A Little Sparkle

Glitter or rhinestone or whatever you care to call sparkle shoes can be a bit overwhelming. Do you make them the center of your outfit? Blend them in? I know there can be a concern that sparkle shoes are just a bit too much. My take? All of the above. I love making any statement shoe the cornerstone of an outfit, and sparkle will do. How to avoid going over the top? Pick a sparkle that’s right for you, not every glitter has to be big. These kitten heels? The perfect amount of sparkle that could go with anything; and yet, the kitten heel here gives the sparkle an air of subtlety. Win/Win?

We know I have a thing for all black. I don’t think that all black is boring, or has to be the same old same old. These crop flare jeans are quickly becoming my go-to for when I need a pick me up, or my outfit does. The black keeps them classic, but the flare is fun, and perfect for a party. Speaking of perfect, the jean’ so “name” is the Cha-Cha. It’s the little things that make me happy. Paired with a slightly sheer shirt, this look is spot on for date nights, or any night out. However, with a top that’s a little more solid, this look (sparkle shoes included) is perfect for work, or a night out.

Maybe the moral, even for a Monday, is: You can’t go wrong with all black. And every outfit can use a pair of sparkle shoes.

A little Sparkle might not solve all the problems of the world, but it helps. Right?

I’ve linked similar shoes and these jeans below!
Happy sparkles!
XO RA

Note: This post does contain some affiliate links. While I may earn commission from them, this does not affect the price for you. Thank you for your support!
Investment Piece: A Little Sparkle

Kimono Week: #Golden

Investment Piece: #golden

Are you a little sad that kimono week is coming to a close? I am. Though I do have these amazing pictures of all the kimonos I was lucky enough to style to remind me of the fun we’ve had.

And ending kimono week? It’s on a #golden note. This was the kimono was most excited about! Not that I didn’t love cheetah, and we all know that the #nakedtux is one of the most stunning things I’ve styled. But this #golden kimono? I love it’s juxtapositions.

It’s a kimono, but structured. Technically, it’s a man’s jacket–it screams smoking jacket to me! But since when can’t we women play in men’s clothes? The #golden material is a standout, but the jacket is very subtle. You could dress the jacket up by wearing it over a silk skirt or dress. Or, you could dress it down with jeans and boots.

Me? Have I mentioned that I love the smoking jacket look? There’s just something sophisticated and relaxed about it. You could wear it to lounge, or to any business casual meeting. Here I couldn’t resist pairing this #golden number with stirrup pants and mules. I like to think it is the perfect combination of structure and ease; and hopefully, would look at home in any leather bound library. (Sometimes my visions are very specific)

Investment Piece: #golden
Investment Piece: Rita Ghanime, MAde with Love Kimonos
Investment Piece; #golden

And yes, in certain lights this #golden looks almost green. It even looks almost snakeskin like. All these juxatipositons, I love them!

The sleeves, the slits, the changing color, there’s not a lot that I don’t love about this #golden kimono. And most of all? I love that it’s feminine and masculine all at the same time. I think a piece like this would be great on any woman or man. Which means that maybe the most important question to consider about this #golden kimono is: do you have to share?

I’ve heard that the secret to happy marriages is your own bathroom and closet; should we add kimono to the list?

Again, check out RGKimono to get your own kimono (and there are so many to chose from!). Use code “Rachel” to take 10% off!

I hope that you’ve enjoyed kimono week as much as I have!!

I’ve linked more shopping for your pleasure below, if you’re lounging or working or out on the town I hope that you have a great weekend!

XO RA

Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While I may earn commission from them, it does not affect price to you. Thank you for your support!

Investment Piece: #golden

Kimono Week: Shopping RGKimono

Investment Piece: Kimono Shopping

All week we’ve been chatting about Rita Ghanime’s Made with Love Kimonos. (Lucky you, we still have one more day of kimono week!) By now, you know about Rita’s process, her intentions, and seen how I styled some of the styles Rita has to offer. You may be asking yourself: how do I get my hands on one of these amazing kimonos? Even luckier you, I have your back!

The easiest way to get your hands on a Made With Love kimono (in everything from sequins to silk to velvet) is to visit RGKIMONO. Luckiest news? Use code “Rachel” to get 10% off of your order!

Investment Piece: #cheetah

But, let’s say that online kimonos aren’t your thing. I respect that, I love online shopping but get that sometimes you want to feel/see/experience a piece in person. And these kimonos are worth the face to face. How would you shop Rita that way? Again, lucky you, I have you covered.

If you’re in the LA area, Rita often has events and pop-ups so that you can get your hands on a great kimono. The best way to keep up with events and all things Rita? RGKimono Events.
I met Rita at a pop up, and fell in love with her #nakedtux there, so I highly recommend this method of shopping.

And let’s say when you looked online, or at a pop-up, you fell in love with Rita’s kimonos, but the exact one you want wasn’t there. Great news! You can order a special or custom kimono through Rita!

As Rita will tell you:
Le ‘Kimono’: A Mode de Vie…
Kimonos robes are simple in structure yet ever-so-elegant in the way the fabric drapes over a body. The Kimono is the quintessential piece in the modern bohemian’s wardrobe for home lounging, day-tripping and night-crawling.

“I approach the creation of each Kimono as an extension of my own personal spiritual practice that connects to the intentions of the specific Kimono recipient . I weave intention and love into every stitch. Fashion is my artistic expression, but the connection to each person I create something for, is what truly moves me. “- Rita Ghanime

*It is important to note that all items are made to measure and custom created for each client. Fabrics shown are limited thus availability pending confirmation. Fabric sourcing for new textiles is constant and requests for specific direction is welcome. Please see the ‘Fabric Lookbook section for more selections.

Investment Piece: Kimono Week: Shopping RGKimono

There’s no wrong way to shop RGKimono. I hope that you fall in love with these stunning creations like I did! Don’t forget-the code “Rachel” gets you 10% off!

Happy Shopping!
XO RA

Kimono Week: #NakedTux

Investment Piece: #NakedTux

Another day, another kimono. At least that’s the story here on kimono week! I know that I’m not supposed to play favorites, but this #nakedtux may be my favorite. Rita approached me about shooting this sequin number (yes, it changes color when you rub the sequins) and playing up the naked aspect. Usually the thought of a shoot like this would have me dieting for weeks and being a tad bit nervous. However, with a jacket this gorgeous (and it comes in other colors!) I couldn’t resist.

Also: just because it’s a #nakedtux doesn’t mean you have to be naked!

Investment Piece:#nakedtux
Investment Piece: #nakedtux

Another #nakedtux confession? This was one of those shoots where it as difficult to choose the pics, they were all that good!

Rita designed these sequined kimonos with luxury in mind. The sequins are reversible, the length is super chic, and they are perfect for both nights out or nights in! It’s lined in satin and gives an update to a
“traditional” tux jacket. What I love? The #nakedtux is sophisticated, yet subtle. It’s so easy with pieces like this one to let it be the center point of your outfit, and why wouldn’t you? Sequins would look great with a tank and jeans, over a dress, with pants, open, or pinned shut to wear as a top. It’s possible to take the #nakedtux and make it very clothed, this would even looks amazing over a turtleneck. I can’t think of a way to wear this number that wouldn’t look amazing.

But maybe you want to take the #nakedtux seriously and wear it naked? Or hint at being naked? #nakedtux has you covered. Over how you little you dare at home, the #nakedtux would make any proper lay in seem like a red carpet event. And, for sake of argument, let’s say you have a red carpet event. I love the #nakedtux over silk pants like these crops, and left open (double sided tape makes sure that you don’t share more than you intend to), finish the look with heels and a choker- and the look, while naked, is stunning.

You can get your own #nakedtux at RGKimono. And that’s not the best part! Use the code “Rachel” for 10% off of your purchase with Rita!

I’ve linked the rest of the outfit details below. How would you rock the #nakedtux?
XO RA

Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While I may earn commission from them, it does not affect the price for you. Thank you for your support!
Investment Piece: #nakedtux