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!
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!
Have I mentioned it’s kimono week here on Investment Piece? Have I mentioned that I don’t always go with a theme, but that I love this one?
And the big news? Have I mentioned that I am just in LOVE with Rita Ghanime and her Made With Love Kimonos?
It’s Kimono Week on Investment Piece! First up: #Cheetah!
Also: maybe this title is a bit too long? But I had to get all the things that I love in there. I want you to know all about them all!
So here’s the thing, I will often recommend designers and brands to you, I know that. My promise is never to recommend something I don’t (or wouldn’t) wear myself, or a designer I don’t believe in. It goes against everything I am working to build here at Investment Piece. Why I love Rita? I met her at a pop-up in LA. (If you’re looking for one of the best barre based workouts, try LA Barre Belle) Rita had her kimonos for sale, and between the styling, the colors, the textures, and the pictures Rita brought with her, I knew that these kimonos were something that I was into.
With Rita, there is more than one type of kimono: short, long, jacket, wrap. There are sleeves of all kinds. There are all sorts of textures: velvet, silk, sequins. And all sorts of patterns: cheetah, solid color, stripe, these sequins that change color. But the most amazing thing about these kimonos? The woman who makes them, and the love and intention she puts into every single one.
Yes, these kimonos are all hand made. Yes, love and intention are put into each and every one. However, I may not be the best person to tell you all about it. Let Rita Ghanime from Made with Love Kimonos tell you.
Sewing Intentions into Garments: The Essence behind ‘Made w/ Love’
An important element of my daily practice includes Kundalini yoga- a form of meditation that integrates mantras, and chanting, and breath-work with movements to raise our vibrations and consciousness. I personally design and sew each custom order myself. I approach this work as an extension of my spiritual practice as I weave intention and love with each stitch.
For Women, my intentions are to empower and raise her inner-awareness of the Goddess within to unfold like a flower when she slips the robe on for the very first time. I want her to feel the energy and love sewn into this piece. To empower her with Grace and elegance that will help her navigate and flow through her life with mindfulness.
For Men, I believe they have a hard time nurturing themselves, and view it as something more feminine or frivolous. The gift of gifting yourself with something luxurious and beautiful is part of this nurturing. Part of my intention that I sew into their Kimono is that the man feels nurtured by himself and doesn’t need to look externally for this love- rather that he cultivates it within himself.
ABOUT RITA
Most know Lebanese-Canadian (Montreal native) Rita Ghanime as a Los Angeles based fashion designer, stylist and trend innovator. But she is so much more than what she does or what her many titles depict. She is a mother, and in turn- a student of her son’s many teachings (he is 8).She is a closet-poet, free-spirit, playful, untamed lover of living truthfully and fully. She loves her California-yoga-smoothie drinking-Runyon Canyon hiking, daily dancing in her pajamas to The Doors and electronic music-loving-lifestyle- which has been the most direct path to mindfulness, clear communication and self-love and joy. Her cup is always half full, and her heart, ever-expanding and open.
“I am not in the fashion life-cycle industry simply to create beautiful things and make a profit. I need purpose, consciousness and philanthropy to be a big part of it otherwise it is not fulfilling on a soul-level. Fast-fashion is going to change. It has to. Consumers are much more aware than the large corporate giants give them credit for. Domestic production and supporting local artists is already causing a shift in the fashion algorhythm and things can no longer continue the way they are… This is how indie designers and artists are able to hold space. People are waking up and the indie artist community is emerging stronger than ever and their support is heart-felt and sincere.
Creating for Love
Rita is constantly playing with fashion. Her process is organic- she usually begins by designing something for herself… and wears her it for pleasure. A few photos on social media later- friends become clients and request her to make the same thing for them. This is also how her former unisex kids clothing brand, ‘Jules’ unisex kids was launched. She started making clothes for her son, Julien (drop-crotch pants and infinity scarves, etc). Soon after, other stylish parents were asking her for clothes for their kids.
Her intuitive sense of style is what keeps her inspired and maintains a fresh outlook on not only fashion, but life. Having styled everything and everyone from ‘indie’ bands and DJs, musicians, models and actors to Fortune 500 executives to uniforms for Hollywood’s hottest nightlife spots and even boutique hotels in Zurich (Switzerland).
Rita has more than one pre-made kimono for you to buy today; and if there is something specific you have in mind Rita is more than willing to work with you.
Check her out at RGKimono
It’s Kimono Week on Investment Piece! First up: #Cheetah!
I don’t know that I do themes. One of the things that I love about fashion is that you don’t have to stick to a theme- you get to take what we’re given and make it your own. But, this week? There’s a theme (though I like to think I make it my own). It’s kimono week! I’m no stranger to the kimono (see here), but I recently got an opprotunity to fall in love with Rita Ghanime, the owner and designer at RGKimono “Made with Love”. (I promise, promise there’s so much more on her to come). The great news? There’s more than one kimono, there’s more than one way to wear it, and there’s a whole week for us to explore all of it!
Have I mentioned that there are so many various types of kimonos? My fave for today? This cheetah print, that reads more wrap dress than traditional kimono. Could you wear it open over anything: jeans, pants, your swim suit, a slip dress? Of course. It would look amazing.
However, I love this on its own. The cheetah print is subtle, yet on trend (Has anyone ever told you that leopard is a neutral? Cheetah is ALMOMST the same thing. It counts. I promise.) It’s the perfect wrap dress for just about anything. Dress it up (these stirrup tights maybe some of my new favorites) with heels. Dress this cheetah down with flats, sandals, or go bare foot. Take this cheetah out to dinner, or lounge by the pool or go the grocery store. Is there a wrong way to cheetah? Or kimono?
I don’t think so.
Have I mentioned that there’s so much more to come about these kimonos, and Rita, and Made with Love? There is, and I’ve never lied to you. About that theme — this week you’re going to see more than one kimono. There will be more than one way to wear it, and I hope that some are new to you. What I love most about all of these kimonos, and this brand is general? Nothing is traditional. I have nothing against tradition, or traditional kimonos, you’ve seen more than one on my #ootds. However, I love that these kimonos (which really are made with love) are anything you need them to be: tops, jackets, dresses, etc), and you can wear them however you need. We have so much to cover, maybe theme weeks are a good thing?
If you’d like your own Made With Love Kimono you can check Rita out here. I’ve linked some similar pieces below (tights, shoes, and some cheetah!)
How do you Cheetah?
XO RA
Notes: This post does contain some affiliate links. I may earn commission off of them, but that does not affect the price for you. I appreciate your support!
When did flash back Friday become such a thing? Does anyone know? Or do we not care?
I get a kick of looking back at times, especially to my first posts here on Investment Piece. There were so many ideas, so much naviety, and an iPhone and my fashion. That was it. I had no clue what I was doing; I just knew that I wanted to share my perspective on styling with you! There were series and craft ideas and recipes, it took me a minute to find my niche. The best part? The pictures have gotten SO MUCH better**, and I like to think that I’ve stayed true to my style.
**I have to shout out to my “team” of photographers whose work you see reguarly on site. There are some pictures I take myself (with a big girl camera). Some my mom takes, some my friends take. Then I work with Megan Weaver, Katy Shayne, Kathryn Reily, and Spillman Stephen. And am always excited to collab with someone new!
Ironically, I don’t get embarrassed when I flash back to these first posts. (Not to imply I’m not thrilled that I’ve gotten better!) I loved these outfits, still wear them, and was so excited to go out and make something. I had this tripod for my old iPhone and a little remote control, and it was so fun! From early mornings to locations, I worked hard on planning outfits and shots. And there’s a few I’d love to go back and redo!
Then, while going back through my first posts, it hit me that you’ve helped make this my life. My first posts were in March 2015. These past 3 years have made me grow, brought me to different places, I’ve gotten some amazing shoes and lost some amazing shoes. Having you along for the journey brings me so much joy, and means so much to me. Maybe this is just our little corner of the Internet, but I love the community we’re building here.
I have our “official” birthday celebration scheduled for next month. There will be all sorts of giveaways, events, and posts for you to be a part of–I hope you stay around and enjoy it!
From my very first post
What do you love to flash back to?
Happy Friday!! Thank you for indulging me by looking back at these first posts!
Just like that joke that never gets old, every Spring we get offered trends that we can opt to embrace (to any extent) or reject (to any extent). There are times when the spring trends can feel very recycled and very cliche-florals anyone? Yet sometimes, even if the trend is “done”, it can feel new and exciting. The following is by no means a final list of Spring 2018 Trends (notables I left off: Americana, High End Denim, Fringe, and Florals) but these are the spring trends that I’ve loved (and already seen in stores). I’d love to know: What Spring Trends do you love?
Sheer/Transparent/Tulle
From sheer clothes to transparent shoes to tulle layers, there’s something sheer in the spring air.
I’ve always loved a little sheer in my fashion (see here) but this season what I’m really falling for is not just the sheer silks and chiffons, but the transparent plastic that’s a spring trend.
For example these boots I’m lusting after:
You can also find PVC and plastic in parkas, bags, tops, and pants. Sheer for days for Spring 2018.
Saturated Colors and Pastels
Sometimes Spring trends run to different ends of the spectrum.
Pink was big all last year, so it should come as no surprise that this season more colors are getting in on the trends. From lavender to soft blues and greens, there’s a pastel for every whim. My favorite part? These aren’t Easter Egg Pastels, but pastels that are so sophisticated you won’t care how soft the colors on.
But if you need more pop?
Saturated Color is also on trend for Spring 2018. From deep hues to almost neon, there’s a bright color for you (again in the most sophisticated cuts and shapes).
On Trend: There’s a color for your mood?
Mixing Prints
On the Spring Runways this was especially true for plaids. But plaids and stripes. Stripes and Florals. Dots and Graphics. If it mixes, it’s chic to wear it. (My tip: simply match a background color or play with size of patterns if you’re a bit uncomfortable with this spring trend).
Turns out I was ahead of the curve:
And I love this look of mixed plaids:
Shine
As someone who loves to wear “day” sequins I love this spring trend. From sequins to satin to sateen, the runways were full of shine. Why can’t your spring be?
See anything you like? My favorite part about Spring Trends is that there’s always a way to wear what you have and still be on trend; and yet, trends are away an excuse to go shopping. Where do you fall this season?
I’ve linked some of my favorite items that are are trend for Spring 2018. And of course will update you about what I buy!
Loves! The sun came out this week, which has breathed new life into my spirit, and into my fashion! There’s something a little more fun about putting together outfits when you aren’t freezing. (Next fall when I’m dying to style sweaters you are more than welcome to remind me of this statement.)
But we’re right on the cusp of a new season: winter is slowly starting to thaw and spring is slowly starting to bloom. What does that mean for our fashion? Sales! (Kids get spring break, we get sales breaks. Maybe it evens out?)
This is a great time of year to stock up for next winter (hard to think about, but smart shopping). And a great time of year to stock up for spring (with strategic sale shopping). What to buy? Where to shop? Lucky for you, I got you covered! Shop my picks below from some of the biggest sales/smartest picks from this sales break!
JCrew
The new spring collection at Jcrew is dreamy, and the winter sale is to die for; and there’s more! Take 30% off your order, meaning you can shop ahead and for now and you can’t beat that!
Nordstrom Rack
A Collection of basics that are perfect for transition weather! And all at sales break prices!
Saks Fifth Avenue
For “Sales Break” (yes, we’re just rolling with it), Saks has some basics, and some party dresses to carry you through your spring commitments (or to save for next season!).
A Little Bit of Everything
From here and there, a round up of great sweaters, dresses, skirts, etc that are perfect for spring, but you can pull out next fall!
What are you shopping for this sales break? I hope you find it, and that it’s just as fulfilling as a Spring Break!
XO RA
Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While that does not affect price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
As a fashion lover there are times when I feel as if I’m faced with a dilemma. Wear things that are amazing and fashionable, but maybe not the best for the planet or the people that make the fashion. Or support companies that give back, and give up fashion. Loves, I don’t like to settle. I have this weird belief that we should get want we want, and that doing good and being fashionable don’t have to be mutually exclusive. There are amazing companies out there who give back’ and lucky for us some of them make stunning fashion. Fashion Gives Back, and we’re the winners!
Yes, I care about giving back. But loves, in all honesty, the thing that draws me in is always the fashion. (I can’t help it!) And SiiZU doesn’t disappoint in the fashion! Think of it like a sustainable Zara: they have great basics, but they’re made with care from quality fabrics. And the styles are one you’ll wear over and over again.
(Right now, I’m in love with this black trench):
And if the clothes weren’t dreamy enough, SiiZU’s philosophy is enough to make you fall in love. Their promise? The clothes are high quality, made with eco-friendly materials (there are no toxins, everything is organic), the prices are affordable, there is little waste, every purchase gives back to the American Forest, and there is no middle man. Did I mention the clothes are gorgeous?
SiiZU’s selection of silks, wools, cashmere, tencel, and linens (and of course, cotton), are sourced from the best eco-friendly factories and sources. When things come from a great place, you can feel good about them–and that’s before you feel how amazing these fabrics feel against your skin. (SiiZU also ensures that all of the factories they use are safe, and the workers are paid a living wage. It’s something to feel even better about!)
And the cherry on top? SiiZU donates 10%of every purchase to the American Forest, a program which plants trees to offset our carbon footprint, and replace the trees that are lost to manufacturing.
I love that when shopping SiiZU, I don’t have to choose between doing good and feeling good. Take a look at SiiZU and fall in love, too!
We all know how the story goes. And maybe we don’t love fairy tales (but I do), you can’t argue that they stick! Or as Albert Einstein said “fairy tales make us intelligent and let us know that dragons can be slayed”. I paraphrased. I also may have combined some quotes, but the meaning is the same. Fairy tales speak to us, and I know I (personally) can’t help but go back to them over and over again. Who doesn’t want to be the fairest of them all?
We know that I love a great graphic tee. And now, you know that I love fairy tales. So, I couldn’t resist the combination of the two. A graphic tee that tells a classic story? Maybe that’s the fairest of them all.
But wanna know a secret? Sleeping Beauty is my favorite.
I tell you that many things are a neutral. Including leopard, actual neutrals, and other patterns. Now, I’m about to tell you that polka dots are a neutral. Am I lying? OR (hear me out) am I bringing your awareness to the next level?
Personally, I think it’s the second option. Polka Dots are a neutral.
Don’t believe me? Think about it, most polka dots are in shades of neutral, and are a bit subtle. (This statement may not apply to sequin, neon polka dots, but every theory has an outlier.) So, why not pair them with anything? Here, they go great with this graphic tee (and yes, see above for a fairy tale). The secret? Just match some of the base colors. Or don’t, and see what happens.
But, let’s think about it–is there something that wouldn’t go with a great polka dot?
I couldn’t think of anything. Graphic tee, blouses, stripes–they all go with a polka dot. And I love the combination. After all, the more neutral we have, the more options we have, right?
I’ve linked similar items below. And for you- how do you feel about fairy tales? And being the fairest of them all? Polka dots as a neutral?
It’s lot, right? Or is it?
🙂
XO RA
Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While this does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support.
One of the most often used phrases in fashion? Just make it your own!
But, how do you make it your own? What does that even mean?
Cause we’re all smart. We get that the “idea” is to take the fashion that we’re offered 4 or so times a year and make our own style out of that. But, again, how?
Does that simply mean wear what you like, what makes you feel good, what fits your life? What if there’s more to it than that?
What if in the “how to to make it your own” conversation, it was a little about choosing what looks great on you and makes you feel good, and we also have the freedom to change things into what we really want.
How to make it your own:
We know that I love kimonos (and all things PJ dressing and the like). But, who says I have to wear a kimono just like everyone else?
Step 1 to make it my own:
Wear it backwards. (Actually, this works with so many pieces). Here, I love how the collar comes up high and it looks like a mock turtleneck. And because it’s backwards, the back is now open! And how great is that?!? A little structured, a little sexy, a little making it my own.
Step 2 to make it my own:
I slit the sides. You know, because a bare back wasn’t enough. How? I simply cut along the seam on the side (on this kimono there was an extra wide inset, so I simply removed it. Depending on what you’re cutting (as I am a fan of making things your own) the seam will vary. Cut as you see fit). I just thought that this short little jacket would look great with a little movement on the sides. I think I’m right.
And I love it balanced with the flares.
And it still looks great forwards (and as a robe!)
The moral? Making something your own is something you should try. And if you have to alter something to make it your own, I’m a fan. There’s nothing wrong with that! The best news about making something your own? It will work in all the ways you want it to, and isn’t that the point?
This kimono is vintage (the jeans are not), and I’ve linked similar pieces below. Go out and make them your own!
Being a CEO and running my own company has been one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done. And one of the hardest. I am in love with the fact that I get to pursue and share my passions, be myself, set my own hours and boundaries, and get paid for it. There are times when it might be easier to work for someone else (Ask anyone who know who works for themselves about how they have to chase their checks); however, being the boss is something that I just love!
The other good news? The type of CEO I am doesn’t mean that I have to wear a suit to work. There are times when “work” is writing on the couch in sweats. Maybe there’s wine, but that’s not the point. Point: I don’t have a strict workwear dress code.
The bad news?
I love suits. And pencils skirts. And vintage suitcases. And heels that scream “CEO”. And there are times when I wish that I had a reason to dress up for work. I work hard for my money, so I should get to dress like it, right?
The best news? I do. I still rock suits, and I love pairing anything and everything with pencil skirts.
Here? I love a great graphic tee. I love art. This shirt, by Monogram Studios (my new favorite graphic tee company), combines not only both but is elevated to CEO status with this Balmain pencil skirt. (I got the skirt designer resale). It’s the perfect combo (with the heels!) for a day at work, or an evening out. Chilly? Grab a jacket. Have things to carry? I recommend a vintage briefcase (this one is Gucci and I got it on Etsy).
Could I dress like this all day every day? Probably not. Maybe that’s why I’m so attracted to suits? But, as the CEO who works hard for her money, I get to make the dress code rules. I’m thrilled that I get to wear things like this, and then change into sweats!
What do you wear to work? I’d love to talk all things workwear with you!
XO RA
I’ve linked similar items below!
Note: This post contains affiliate links. While I may earn commission from them, it does not affect the price for you. Thank you for the support!
