Investment Piece – Page 110 – Everyday Editorial

#bombshell

Investment Piece: #bombshell

If there is a day to feel like a bombshell this is it. And if you want to dress like a bombshell, this is totally the day. You are a bombshell, and I hope you feel like one. I hope that you believe that you are, and I hope that you are a bombshell for you.

This skirt (which I simply couldn’t resist), made me feel like a bombshell. Is it because a bombshell is on it? We’ll never know. I can’t stop wearing it with this leotard that I’ve had since I was 15. The stirrup tights? I LOVE them. They take me back to my dance days, and I like to think that they just add something to every outfit that I pair them with. (Yes, you will see them again). I did the whole look around this feeling of bombshell- big, curly hair. Winged eyeliner (I need tape to do it, if you can wing it {yes, that was a mom joke} you are a better bombshell than I). These kitten heels are tiny but mighty (even I am surprised at how bombshell they make me feel).

It’s no secret that Valentine’s Day is not my favorite day. BUT. I hope that today you’re wearing something that makes you feel like the bombshell you are. I hope that you’re feeling how amazing you are. I hope that you do something that makes you feel loved (by you). And if someone else is involved in that, I hope that it’s just icing on the cake.

Go out there and rule the day you bombshell!

I’ve linked this skirt (ON SALE) as well as other similar items below. I love you and I’m so glad you stopped by my little corner of the Internet today!

XO RA

This post does contain affiliate links. I may earn comission off of these links, but this does not affect the price for you. Thank you for your support, bombshells!

Investment Piece : #bombshell

#comfortfood

Investment Piece: #comfortfood, another cape

Or another cape.

Have you ever had a great idea? Were so excited to tell everyone, and then realized that you had had the idea before. And then you get all worried that people don’t want to hear the idea, you know, because it’s been done before?

That’s where we are. Heres the thing. I can’t quit capes. They’re chic, comfy, and classic. They add a little something to an outfit. How do I know? Let’s see : here, here, here, here, here, here, and maybe a half point for here. I have a thing for capes. I wish that I could say it won’t happen again, but it probably will.

Then I could go on about wearing all black, as it’s one of the best things you can do, but you might be busy looking at all those capes. And here I gave you another cape. What can I say? I like comfort food?

Investment Piece: #comfortfood, another cape

If we can’t chat capes and we won’t talk wearing all black, what are we going to chat about?

What about fashion formulas? Or, as I like to call them, comfort foods? Real talk? We all have a fashion combo that we go back to, when we’re running late, when we don’t know what else to wear, when we need a boost. There’s nothing wrong with it. In fact, I present a theory: fashion comfort food is sometimes the best.

The outfits that we wear over and over again (for me perhaps it’s capes), they’re great. Really, they are. Even if it’s just jeans and a t-shirt (one of the best comfort foods I know of). And if it’s a combo that you keep going back to, what does that mean? Is it simply the comfort? Is it that that comfort food gets you compliments?

And most importantly: does it matter? There are outfit combos, fashion comfort foods, that just work. That make you feel good. I get that as a fashion blogger it’s my job to maybe push your fashion boundaries, to introduce you to new and exciting outfits. Today, I’m advocating for the comfort food. I’m saying that sometimes an outfit you know and love is perfect. That the cape, or whatever your comfort food is, works. Embrace that. It’s Monday. Let’s let one thing be easy.

I’ve linked similar items to this amazing vintage, velvet cape and these go-to black pants. Pro tip? You need a great black turtleneck and some amazing heels. For comfort food.

XO RA

Another great place to get a great cape (or any sort of comfort food):

Investment Piece: #comfortfood, another cape

Valentine’s Gift Guide

Investment Piece: Valentine's Gift Guide

I have a confession to make, and this may not be the post to do it. But, I’m a rebel, so here we go. Truth?

I’m not the biggest fan of Valentine’s Day.

Do I love love? Yes. I think you should give affection and love and all those things to everyone you love regularly (and that includes you). What I don’t like? That Valentine’s seems to be a little forced. Really want to wow me? Show up with flowers on a random day and take to a nice dinner. Want to win me over make those flowers Gucci shoes. (I jest. Kind of).

However, there is something about a holiday and about presents and I would not be doing my job if I didn’t help you shop for it. Maybe I’m on the fence about Valentine’s Day, but I believe in shopping. And presents.

So without further ado, I’ve made some picks for the special someone in your life (and yes, you qualify). I’ve included all ranges of ideas from that purse someone wants to just a little something to say “You make me smile”. There’s a chance that this day is a little forced, but if there is someone in your life that means something to you, I’m all about you telling them. And hopefully these gifts help!

For Her

There is no “typical” woman and there is no “typical” thing a woman wants. Some want romantic, some practical, but all want you to pay attention to us. So, if someone’s been hinting about something, or you know that someone LOVES a certain type of thing, that’s a great place to start. Still need ideas?
Here are mine:

Flowers, fine jewelry, and reservations work too!

For Him
Real talk? The men in your life are harder to shop for on Valentine’s. Society doesn’t push chocolates, sleepwear, or flowers for them. (Though if you’re a man and that’s what you want, you go!) So what do you get the man you love? Again, I’m a fan of you paying attention to them and going in that direction. But if you’re stuck, I’ve consulted some of the men in my life.

Here’s what they suggested for Valentine’s gifts:

I would also try a card and reservations.

No matter how you feel about Valentine’s Day, I hope that you do something that makes you feel adored. And I hope that if you’re gifting you get something that makes you smile (even if it’s from you).

This rebel girl just adores you and you make my day!
XO RA

#Bootleg

Investment Piece: #BootLeg

There’s so much to say, and I have all the answers you may have. (About this bootleg outfit, life? You’re on your own, though I do have a theory that a great cocktail and new shoes are usually the answer.)

Let’s chat #bootleg? What is it? Commonly, faux designer goods, or the stuff that “fell off the truck”. So, why is there this huge, popular movement for bootleg Gucci?

Is it ok if the answer is just that it’s cool?

Bootleg Gucci was a huge thing in the 1980s. On Etsy and in some vintage stores, you’ll find racks of “maybe not 1000000% percent authentic” Gucci that’s still amazing. (And, quite frankly looks 1000000% authentic.) With the reemergence of Gucci being a powerhouse and one of the most lust worthy brands out there, these bootleg items (mainly vintage) are having a reemergence too.

Most of the bootlegs? T-shirts, sweatshirts, some jeans and jackets. Again, mainly vintage. Do I have mixed feelings about the bootleg? Yes. I’m not a super big fan of knock-offs (that’s a post for another day). BUT I’m a fan of Gucci, this sweatshirt is amazing, and it’s cool. Does it count that it’s vintage? I’m not 100% sure. It’s cool. Maybe that’s the bootleg answer.

Investment Piece: #bootleg

Let’s also chat about vinyl pants. I’m usually not the one to tell you that you need to follow every trend.

Apparently this is the post where I tell you the opposite of everything I usually say.

Because, loves, here’s the deal: I loved the images of everyone in their vinyl leather and knew that I wanted to try it. (It’s fun, it’s flirty, it’s cool.)

Note: I wouldn’t get bootleg vinyl, this is one of those times that the better quality will look better. Does that mean you have to pay premium? No. I got these on super sale and there are so many affordable options out there.

I thought that this vinyl would be one of those things that I wore a couple of times and then I got rid of. They are so versitaile, they’ve become one of my fave pieces. From this athleisure look, to “fancy” outfits, vinyl is apparently the answer.

Investment Piece: #bootleg

About that bootleg: sometimes it’s the only thing that will do. About that trend: sometimes it’s a classic.

About the answers: maybe they aren’t set in stone.

What do you think?
I’ve linked some of my favorite pieces below. I did get this bootleg from Garment Modern and I know that they have more. (You can always check out their Instagram @garment_modern)

XO RA

I also found a great (SUPER AFFORDBALE) bootleg for you on Etsy.

And about my sweatshirt being bootleg? I wore it into the Gucci store on Rodeo and they loved it. Maybe cool does trump all.

Another place for affordable fashion:

Investment Piece: #bootleg

Fashion Gives Back: Warby Parker

Investment Piece: Fashion Gives Back: Warby Parker

Fashion isn’t just the clothes (and shoes) that we put on our body. Another form of fashion? Our eye wear! I can’t tell you, as someone who is blind without her glasses/contacts, how much confidence the right pair of glasses can give you! It makes me so incredibly happy any time someone compliments my glasses, or asks me where I got them. But Loves, let’s be honest, glasses (and contacts) can be really expensive (and over here we save our money for shoes). And yet, glasses can really effect how you look! Enter Warby Parker! Part of why I love this company is that they were founded on the concept that looking great shouldn’t break your bank, and on top of that: they give back!

Investment Piece: fashion Gives Back: Warby Parker

I love that this company is dedicated to helping you find the right glasses for you. I’m more in love with the fact that Warby Parker is dedicated to helping those can’t afford eye care see. Another great aspect of Warby Parker? They let you try on at home! Just pick out 5 pairs of glases, you get free shipping, and you keep and pay for what you like. How’s that for service?
Investment Piece: Fashion Gives Back: Warby Parker
And Loves–these aren’t your Momma’s glasses! Warby Parker has stylish frames, great fit, and trends for everyone!

And have we mentioned that they give back? For every amazing pair of glasses you get, you’re making sure that someone who needs assistance is getting glasses, too!

Get to shopping! XO RA

Shop Warby Parker:

Freedom

Investment Piece: Freedom

Freedom.

It’s a big concept. It means different things to different people. Maybe you think of freedom as the open road. Or as your right to vote. Or the way that people are able to be themselves and live the way that they choose. Freedom is important. We should celebrate it (and yes, I know we do every July 4). Those things that make you feel free? Those things that make you feel more like yourself? Those things that feel good? More of that.

Investment Piece: Freedom

This wig? A party favor from a dear friend’s birthday party. Was it expected? No. Do I love it? Yes. The color, the cut, that it’s not me–but shows my sassy side. Am I brave enough to wear it out? We’ll see.

The great thing about this outfit? It’s all athletic leisure. These are yoga pants from Carbon38. I’m just in love: they make my backside look amazing, are comfy enough to sleep with, and yet, polished enough to be dress pants. This is a Soul Cycle tank, it’s great with your workout pants or with a pencil skirt. I love the play on athleisure. I love that this is a workout outfits, but looks very polished. I love that it combines things that I love, and that it feels like Freedom.

I hope that this weekend finds you feeling free and looking amazing!
XO RA

Shop my picks:

And get yourself a treat:

Investment Piece: Freedom

Basic UnBasic

Investment Piece: Basic UnBasic

I have a love-hate relationship with trends. I have a love-hate relationship with basics. I have a love-hate relationship with being extra. Maybe I’m obessed with juxatipositons because I have so many of my own?

That feels like a subject for my therapist. I don’t provide therapy here, unless you count fashion (hint: I do), and one of the solutions that I can tell you works is Basic Unbasic (s). Sound weird?

I promise you, it’s not. It’s simple the practice of taking something “basic” (for argument, jeans and a jacket), and making it “UnBasic” (really just your own). And loves, it’s better than therapy.

Investment Piece: Basic UnBasic

I have a love-love relationship with details, so the ankle slits on these jeans make my heart swell with happiness. They’re perfect for showing off shoes, your ankles, or just being UnBasic.

This jacket? A take on the teddy bear style that’s so popular (but with an UnBasic stripe). It’s comfy, cozy, and has pockets. Great over everything, but I couldn’t resist pairing this jacket with a corset belt (seen here), and pulling the shoulders down to show just a little skin. (It’s aok to be UnBasic.) And these slides are one of my fave basics’ I just love how they’re comfy, classic and show the ankles.

Alone, these are great basic pieces. They’re enough, fashionable, and will get you compliments. However, I’m one of those people that can’t just stay basic (at times). I love taking these basics and making them UnBasic. Give them a little lift if you will. This makes them perfect for any day to night events you have, or even if you just want to be a little extra.

My need to be a little UnBasic all the time? My therapist and I will discuss it and I promise to one day just wear a basic outfit.

Investment Piece: Basic UnBasic

My fingers may have been crossed. What can I say? I’m basic UnBasic.

I’ve linked similar outfit pieces, and some of my favorite basics that can be made UnBasic below.
Let’s be extra together!

XO RA

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

Investment Piece: Basic UnBasic

Trend to Try: Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?

There are times when I think of trends for us to try, that aren’t exactly trends. Socks with Peep toes? Not only was it one of my very first posts (look below, I’m so grateful you stayed with the site while we grew. We’re still growing!); I keep seeing this look everywhere!

And I get it! It’s a way to: show off a great pair of socks, hide a bad pedicure, wear heels in the winter, and make a statement.

I loved this “trend” years ago, and I still do! See:

Investment Piece, fashion, blogger, Red//Pink, Gucci, Brian Atwood, Jcew, Ca, TX

Stuart Weitxman, Pan and the Dream, tulle, socks, fashion, blogger, vintage, high fashion, InvestmentPiece

What is it about socks with peep toes (or any heels) that’s such a pull? I love that it’s slightly cheeky, slightly edgy and slightly classic. It’s just the combo that seems both fashion forward and almost geeky (can we admit that fashion can be geeky?) all at the same time. A trend? Not really. Something you should try? Absolutely!

Below is my orginal post and thoughts on the matter:

Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?
Investment Piece: Trend to Try: Socks with Peep Toes

They are something we’re doing.Look at any magazine, any campaign right now and there they are–peep toe shoes worn with socks. Do we like it? Is this what we want? I will be honest–I was hesitant, but I LOVE these Chanel boots that look like socks:

So I thought: How bad can it be?

And here’s the answer: Surprisingly enough, not that bad.

I found it’s really comfortable. I think it looks best when the colors match– but it can be fun. So if you like it–why not? And if you can’t–I get that too.

Happy Wednesday! xo RA

Details: First look Skirt Zara, Sweater JCrew, Shoes Chanel

Second Look :dress Zara, Shoes Sophia Webster

Third: Dress Zara, Shoes LK Bennett

Fourth Sweater JCrew, Skirt Zara Leather, Shoes Kelsi Dagger

I’ve updated some shopping options for you! And would love to know: would you rock this trend to try?

Current Shopping:

Notes: This Post Does Contian Some Affilate links, while that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

Sequins Can Cheer You Up!

Investment Piece: Sequins Can Cheer You Up!

Seasonal depression is a real thing. This is the time of year when it feels like winter will never end. It’s cold, work seems endless, and you may feel like there’s nothing to look forward to.

Good news for you! I have a scientific answer for you!

Sequins can cheer you up!

It’s a fact! It’s proven! And it’s a way to break the seasonal depression!
Investment Piece: Sequins Can Cheer You Up!

I know I’ve read that what you wear can affect your mood. Do I remember where? Nope. But would I lie to you? Nope. And way beyond science, I have my personal belief- your fashion can e a magical thing. What we wear can affect our mood, walk, day, and seasonal depression. So can sequins cheer you up?

Obviously.

Here’s the great thing about sequins. You can use them in more than one way to cheer you up. Option A: Just wear them. Wear a sequin skirt or top or shoes just because. Wear a sequin dress, and see wear your day takes you. Option B: Plan something to look forward to and wear sequins to it. (There’s more science about how having something to look forward to increases your happiness. I think it’s the same with sequins. And shoes.)

I think that the moral of the story is that no matter how gray it is outside, no matter how cold it is: when you have sequins on (or have something to wear sequins to), your mood lifts. Maybe it’s the anticipation or the juxatipositon, but sequins can cheer you up.

Why should we stop them?

Investment Piece: sequins can cheer you up

This sequin dress that cheered me up? Vintage and from one of my loves Recess LA. I love the color, the detail, and those sequins! I liked pairing with flats: unexpected and these flats cheer me up. Randomly? I’m dying to wear this dress open over a white tank and jeans; and between us, we’ll probably see that look at some point (my Insta is @racheladelicia).

Did this dress change my life? Nope. But it makes me happy, and cheers me on days when I need it. So I have no doubt that sequins can cheer you up!

While this dress is vintage, and these shoes are from a season or so ago, I’ve linked similar items below. Yes, it may be freezing, but let’s cheer up!

What other scientific knowledge do you have to cheer us up?
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: Sequins Can Cheer You Up!

How to Stay Star Struck

I write about a lot of stars.
I wear a lot of stars.
When I was born, my birth announcement was a star.

Maybe there’s just something about stars that attract. The question? What do you do after that? How do you stay Star Struck? (Cause Stars can be hard to hold on to)

My take: combine stars with a classic piece (i.e. A blazer).
Wear stars like a neutral.
Let the stars be the focus.

Let the stars be simple and complex at the same time. And when people ask if you’re a star, just smile.

This method isn’t always fool proof, but I can promise that with practice, it will let you stay star struck. And that’s just you, think of the people around you!

Need more star inspiration? Try How to Star Gaze, Seeing Stars, #Star, #seeingstars, Shooting Stars, and one of my star favorites Star Power. (That’s not all, just put the word star into that lovely search bar on your left. It seems I have no problem staying star struck).

The moral? Maybe we should all stay a bit star struck, wear stars like a neutral, and shine a little bright. (Corny? Maybe, I can’t help it, the theme is stars!)

This blazer is from my love AAVintedge (and more specifically, my other “mom” there, Lori. I just love it. Lucky for you? I’ve linked my favorite star pieces (as well as jeans, and similar shoes and bags) for you below. Wanna be star struck together?

XO RA

Note: This post does contain affiliate links, and while that doesn’t affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!