Summer Sequins

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I love summer, I love sequins, and any combination of the two is a win in my book. It’s simple skirt isn’t so simple. It’s white. It’s gold. Move the sequins and it’s a combo. And it’s perfect for late summer bbqs. It only needs a white tank–and yes, you could dress it up. And while I love these ADetacher shoes, this would go just as great with flats. It’s summer sequin perfection!

Happy Monday! XO RA

Details:
Skirt: Topshop, old, similar here
Top: Garment Modern
Shoes: ADetacher

Suit Up

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As you know, suits are big for fall. (Need a refresher on fall trends? Got you covered here) I love suits and am in to suit up for fall–they are easy, classic, fun and I love the possibilities! From simple to extravagant, day to night, there’s a suit out there for everyone. This HM variety is perfect for nights out, but I love that it’s subtle enough to wear doing the day. What about you? Are you ready to suit up?

XO RA

Details:
Suit: HM, old
Shop similar at Tibi
Shoes: Paul Andrew and on sale!

Stairway to Vintage

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I was lucky enough to visit my alma mater last week–and even luckier that the new library has these amazing steps! Even more perfect: this vintage stunner on the steps. (And loves, this dress has pockets!) I just love it–the scenery, the fact that this dress needs nothing other than an occasion, and the fact that I got to shoot this where I used to study hard! Hope that little things like this are bringing you joy!

XO RA

Details:
Dress: Vintage
Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

Vintage Garden Party

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We know that I’m a lover of all things vintage and all things party. So the perfect 1960s hostess outfit that’s perfect for a summer garden party? YES PLEASE! I don’t think these pictures do the colors justice–gold, pink, orange–it’s like a desert of summer. The set is by Amen Wardy and not only do I love the skirt and little jacket together, I love that I can wear them separately! It’s Friday! Let’s party!

XO RA

Details:
Skirt and Jacket: Vintage
Top: old, similar Alexander Wang

Fall Trends

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If you google “fall trends” to get a glimpse into what is coming, or what you should plan on buying, it can be compleletly overwhelming. There are lists on everything from nail colors to trends (big and small) and every list has more trends than the last. The good news? I’ve spent my last few days going through the lists and below present to you the big trends. Yes, there are minor trends, but these are the most prominent ones!

Here are my take-aways: This season there is an influx of color and texture. The words opulent and fun come to mind. It’s a chance to really have fun with dressing up, but there are plenty of classics thrown in as well. Many of these trends are carry-overs or building upon things already in our closet. What does this mean? You may already have some of these pieces; which really means that if you have your eye on a big investment piece this is a great season to save up and get it!

Another note: trends and what we’re offered on the runways are merely suggestions. Yes, over the next few months you may see me in these; and I will talk about transitioning your summer wardrobe. However, by no means are these the only things to wear. If a trend is not for you there is nothing wrong with that, simply don’t wear it. There are so many fantastic things to wear and points of view out there: this is just a another way to find things for you!

But without further ado: Fall Trends 2016

Metallics
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From dresses to shirts to shoes, it’s a very metallic season. I love this: I think gold can be used as a neutral and metallics can brighten up classics.
What I’m thinking of buying: Gold Boots a la Stuart Weitzman and I may have to break down and get these Gucci stunners.

Statement Fur
Colors, stoles, coats–this is a fun version! Did I mention I inherited a mink this year? I’m excited to wear it!
What I may buy: a colored faux fur stole, because why not!

Velvet
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Velvet usually pokes its head out during the fall and winter, but this season it’s everywhere. What I loved was not only the usual dresses and skirts, but the shirts and pants in the rich fabric. It’s a great way to elevate some basics. And I may have to find an occasion to wear this Valentino stunner again!
What I’m looking to buy: Velvet turtlenecks!

Ruffles and Volume
Ruffles, over sized sleeves, interesting shapes. I’m all in. We have seen some of this structure starting to creep in, but look for more of it this fall. I’m a fan of oversized sleeves, and think ruffles are fun and feminine. A great way to add movement and fun to an outfit.
What I may buy: dresses with extra long sleeves

Fall Florals
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I called this last season, but this fall we’re all on board! And I still love the moody flowers.

Off the Shoulder
This silhouette is carried over from spring and summer, and why not? It’s flattering,fun, and wearing a turtleneck underneath can easily warm you up!

Speaking of turtlenecks:

Layering with Turtlenecks
Under dresses, shirts, jackets. You may have seen this begin to pop in ads (a big look right now is a t-shirt under a slip dress) and expect it to become more prominent. I love it–we have the pieces, it lets us update and transition our wardrobes seamlessly.

PantsSuits
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Have I mentioned I love PantsSuits? That I think they’re classic. That they give you endless options? That this season we’re offered both classic and trendy versions? More work wear and some evening wear? That I can make a case for everyone having one? This is a big YES from me
What I’m looking to buy: More PantsSuits.

Colors
Look for Pinks, Yellows, Plaids, Greys

Minor Trends
While these didn’t make every list, they are out there and I’d be remiss to not mention them. Chokers, Patent Leather, Caplets, One Shoulder tops and Dresses, and David Bowie Boots will be presented to you as well!

And one I’m hoping for (and may have to bring back myself)
Gloves
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I’ve always loved a good glove. And how can you not love these??!?

I’d love to know: What are your thoughts? What are you buying?

Happy Thursday! XO RA

#Awesome

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As we inch towards fall, and I begin to shop for fall, I can’t help but start to wear my new things now. Yes, this cheeky jacket will look great over jeans,sweaters, dresses, skirts, and with boots in the fall. But it makes me smile now. So I can’t help but wear it as a dress! Great with heels for a more sophisticated look. Sneakers for a coffee run. Compliments both times! It would also be great over shorts–but if we’re going somewhere, let’s go all the way. It fit perfectly as a dress, and I love that the back message makes it stand out, while maintaining some classic vibes. It’s just Awesome! (Sorry, too easy!)

Happy Wednesday! XO RA

Details:
Jacket: Zara
Sneakers: Addias
Booties: Jerome Rousseau, old, similar here

Sale Round Up

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We are in the midst of what I call the summer transition. It’s the middle of summer, the days seem never-ending, and it’s hot. However, fall is fast approaching. Most schools start in a month, give or take, and the kids need new clothes. You need new clothes. And to make room for new clothes? Sales! We’re going to see end of season sales everywhere–which is very good news for us!

First up: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which is a great one. Fall items are included in this sale, which makes it a great time to buy for now and buy for later. What should you concentrate on? Boots and cashmere. While there are amazing deals throughout the store, these two items will be a great investment for the fall and you’ll save so much money!

Some of my picks: Over the Knee Boots, Amazingly priced Stuart Weitzman, Golden Booties, and Classic Cashmere

What to Look Forward to: Slowly most major department stores and boutiques will begin to have sales where things are anywhere from 20-70% off. The best way to stay in the loop? Sign up for there emails. Annoying, yes, but worth it. We will also begin posting the sales we know of on our Facebook Page (Investment Piece)

Look Out For: JCrew, Gap, Bananna Republic, and Madewell are beginning to have weekly deals on either summer wear or new arrivals.

Also Zara is on the last legs of its end of season sale!

I’d love to know: what are you buying?

Happy Shopping! XO RA

Power Red

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There’s a belief that your outfit can influence your mood. I am a firm believer and don’t know how you can have a bad day when you’re wearing red-especially power red. I love the hemline of this dress, and while I normally wear it with heels and a bit more formally, I love that a belt and flats make it a bit more casual. And yes, it transitions to fall. There’s a lot of power in that, right?

Happy Monday! XO RA

Details:
Dress: old, similar here
Shoes: old, similar here
Belt: old, similar here

Ballet

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One of my perhaps not-so-secret loves is ballet. So when I get to combine my love of fashion with that? Heaven! These pants make me happy, classic cut with personality. They look great with just about any top–and I’m looking forward to wearing them with a sweater in the fall! These shoes-my new fave. And this bag, sleek yet completely roomy for a clutch (as in all my things fit in it!)!

This is a way to Friday!
XO RA

Details:
Pants: Rochas
Top: HM, old, similar here
Shoes: ADetacher
Bag: ClareV

2 in 1

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I’m a fan of anything that can be worn in more than one way. And believe it or not, I promise that even your “fancy” dresses are multifaceted. Like this gorgeous Asian inspired dress. Alone? Stunning. Dressed up or down? Perfect. Worn as a duster over destroyed jeans? Yes, please. It’s a statement piece with more than one thing to say, and I love hearing it all!
So next time you want to switch things up I highly recommend a dress over jeans, or a sweater over the dress–I promise your clothes have so much to tell you.
Happy Wednesday!
XO RA

Details:
Dress: Vintage, RecessLA
Jeans: Levis
Shoes: heels, Brian Atwood, old, similar here, flats: Jcrew, old, similar style: here