I have LOVED sharing my dating horror stories with you the past few years. And don’t worry- there are still plenty of stories that I plan on sharing after the new year! But. I’ve been thinking. I know I’m not the only one with horror stories about dating and exes. Every month I get DMs and emails commiserating, telling me stories, laughing along! SO. I want to open up this space for anyone who wants to share. How will it work? You can write your own Ex Files (or send me the gist and I can write it up for you!), and then in our Ex Files segment I will share it!
-We can alter and protect every and any one as needed!
Interested? Have an idea about it? Reach out! I would love to hear your thoughts- and if you want- your ex files!!
In the meantime, I’m wishing us all a week of good exes and amazing shoes! XO RA
IF you’re in the States, this week officially kicks off the winter holiday season- from Thanksgiving (and if you count sales as a holiday!) I’m taking some time to indulge in pies, stretchy pants and time with people I love! I can’t tell you how grateful I am for you- and our community here. Tune in for a special offer/ask on Sunday- and if you’re looking to shop with me please follow me on IG/ShopStyle and LTK apps! Then on Monday it’s your regularly scheduled outfits!
(My cart has so many things to show you at so many shops! And I’ll probably have a family moment or two! )
Wishing you love and all the pie/wine you need! XO RA
This week starts the holiday crazy. Travel. Food. Time with family and loved ones. Events from dinners to cocktails to parties. And while there are various outfits needed for all of those holiday plans. I usually know exactly what to wear- but I have to say that Thanksgiving usually gives me pause.
There is no tried and true and set Thanksgiving plan (or outfit). That’s part of the fun of this holiday- it can be anything from a casual affair on the couch to a formal event with suits and ties. My family? A little of both. We will do a big lunch, not too formal, but maybe a little dressy? And then we change to spend the afternoon watching football and movies. This year I’m still deciding what to wear.
Without knowing your specific plans or your family, I also don’t know what to recommend for your holiday week. So, what I’ve done is round up a few outfits that I love for the week- from more casual to formal inspiration. Hopefully, one of these looks sends us confidently in the holiday outfit of our dreams!
A bit of both worlds? Silks and plaids, but these wool pants are so comfy it doesn’t feel like dressing up! Of course you could pair with any shoes you love, but I like the flats here!
This dress is perfect for Thanksgiving! Just a bit formal, and while it’s floral it feels like fall with the dark colors. Pair with heels and it’s a great “more fancy” option!
I feel like any version of this outfit is a winner! Midi skirt. Sweater. Or truly any top. Heels, boots, flats. There are so many ways to style these classics and is many ways to make this fit a casual or more formal event!
Another no fail formula? Dress with boots. Dress up. Dress down. Eat all the pie!
Very casual option that still feels put together? Sweats. Match them (or pair with a sweater or button down). Perfect for Friendsgiving, post eating naps and the casual holidays!
A realistic option? A chic apron. Put it over anything and let your loved ones tell you how amazing everything tastes!
What are your plans? And do you know what you’ll be wearing? I’m looking over these- and may end up in more than one similar outfit! I, of course, will be posting pics and telling you all about it!
I would love to hear all about yours too!
XO RA
This week (especially if you’re in the US) truly marks the beginning of the holiday season. Thanksgiving. A TON of sales. Black Friday. Christmas Tree lightings (everywhere!). It’s both the most joyful time of the year- and a stressful time of the year.
Because with the holidays- and the joy and the celebrating, comes to-do lists and hectic travel and high expectations. It can also bring grief (especially if you’ve lost something or someone this year, as well as unmet expectations can cause grief- and that’s a hard grief to admit). The holidays can also bring activities and over scheduled calendar. So, with all the things that the holidays bring, how can we take time?
For ourselves, to truly be with family, to really sit and enjoy?
I’m not sure I have ALL of the answers (and I hate it when that happens!) but I can let you know what I’m doing in the coming weeks to make sure that I take the time- for everything I need!
– To-do lists. Yes, I’m a stickler for lists, as they help stay on task (and there’s a great feeling that comes from marking things off!). From chores to shopping to presents- I’ll be making lists and checking them off!
-Scheduling. Writing in Ink my workouts, time alone, time with family, etc. My workouts keep me a bit sane, I’m prioritizing those, but as an introvert I also know that I need time alone- so I’m scheduling that too! Parties and dinners and holiday schedules also go on my calendar, but I also like planning my shopping, etc. It not only helps me stay organized but lets me know when I’m behind- or conversely lets me know when I’m on time and can relax me!
-Turning off my phone. Not all the time, and not for the total of every event. But there are times when I think I’m just “taking pictures” or “answering a quick work email” and then I find myself lost on social media, scrolling- all of the bad habits that we all have. For multiple reasons I can’t just turn off my phone indefinitely, but I try (for at least part of every event) to really put my phone done and be present. Perhaps that’s not turning it off- but in these times it counts!
-Letting Go. This one is really hard for me. Even in the best of times, we can’t get it all done, make all parties (etc) or be perfect. A lot of this season, I think, is letting go. As those high expectations and worry about fitting it all in can take away from all the joy and the magic of the season. While letting go is something I struggle with, it’s never something I regret. So- I try extra hard at this time of year to let go at this time of year so I can make time for the things that actually matter.
How do you take time at the holiday season? For you, for your loved ones, for all that we have to do? I would love to hear all your tips!
Wishing us all a week of extra time (and pie) and amazing shoes! XO RA
Yes, there has never been a party dress that I didn’t love (and want to buy). And most of the time I plan shoots (down to every detail). Yet. While I love editorial fashion and shoots, fashion is part of my daily life. And a lot of that is finding pieces I love- and wearing them to and from the gym.
Take these boots (stunning! Make me feel like Wonder Woman! also, from season ago but I have found them for you!)- a bit much but I did wear them to the grocery store after Pilates. Paired, of course, with this over sized pinstripe blazer (note: I wanted to cross the blazer and tie it with a belt, but it’s so thick that the belt I Brough didn’t fit over it!). The leggings, etc? What I wore to Pilates (though I did pair them for a black tank top for that!).
Ironically? Weirdly? I didn’t plan this shoot. And while I did plan this outfit, it didn’t end up like I expected. Another outfit and shoot was planned- but I’ll be honest I had a day where I was freezing and not feeling 100% and just not up to changing my outfit a million times (which lets you know I was really out of sorts!). However, I needed to feel special (and warm!) so after my Pilates class I threw on this blazer, and because I can’t let any piece just be, I threw on these boots. This mural? I pass by it all the time- have even thought of shooting here- but on a whim stopped to take some pictures.
My hair is filthy here. Nothing was to plan.It was completely spontaneous. Yet, it’s a great look at how I actually dress day to day, my thought process- and the spontaneous shoot was as fun and I love the looks. Maybe spontaneous looks good?
Some spontaneous thoughts:
-I am so glad it’s finally cold enough to wear blazers like this! I still want to cross it and belt it- but now I know to get a bigger belt!
-Anything over leggings is great- and I’m such a fan of any outfit that feels great, even if the building blocks are “simple”
-Great shoes are truly a great investment. I got stopped by so many people at the grocery store who asked about these! That always makes my day!
-Even the best plans go awry, and while we can’t always plan on it- spontaneous sometimes being the winner.
What are some of your best spontaneous outfits or work events? I would love to hear about them! I’ve linked this exact blazer and I did find some of these exact shoes for you!
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!
Tis the time if year. Not quite Christmas (or any of the other holidays that get celebrated at this time of year!), but if you’re in the USA it’s almost Thanksgiving. We mostly skip over the holiday now, our all loss, but the coming week is the first of family holidays, friend holidays, and the chance to impress any and all of these hosts.
And Thanksgiving is a great holiday just to celebrate. Alone. With family. With friends. Or a combo. And:
It may be the time where you’re visiting friends. Or meeting new family (from in-laws to extended to staying extended with said family for the first time!). Or simply staying with people instead of celebrating at home. And if so to any of the above, you need a hostess gift. Wine. Flowers. The dish you’re asked to bring (?). All of these are a must! However, I’m raised to always bring a small gift for the host, therefore making hostess gifts some of the most important gifts of the holiday season.
So, what makes a great hostess gift? Something thoughtful! Something useful! Something that can be used throughout the year! So following are some of my favorite hostess gifts (and ideas for them!)
Note: This post will contain affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
First and foremost, I love this wine holder. A Bit much, but it doubles as a center piece, can be used throughout the year, and if anyone is hosting a bigger party this wine holder is a great way to tie a table together (and ensure that every gets a pour!)
You can get the wine holder here:
Another idea I love to gift to the hostess? Cocktail napkins. Specifically embroidered cocktail napkins. Absolutely you can be on the holiday theme, but there are also novelty, sassy, and classic napkins, fit for any of your host (from new in laws to siblings to best friends!)
Here are some of my favorites:
Another great (although perhaps somewhat cliche) idea? Candles! There are so many scents, and holder designs- from trees and pines to peppermint to snow globe candle holders (a real thing!). Here are some of my faves that I think your hosts will love for years to come!
Another combo that I think might be a great hostess gift? Gift soaps (like the ones our moms and grandmas used to set out!) and dishtowels (akin to the cocktail napkins!) These can be little, big, personalized, or on a theme that means something to the host. They are easy to gift no matter how well you know the host. Here are some of my faves:
Some other ideas that might make a great impression for a hostess gift? Something for their pet (cat or dog or etc- remember pets are household members too!), wine glasses, coffee mugs, aprons, place settings, and anything that might have meaning to your host. Of course- if you’re simply going for a meal wine and flowers (and your contribution to the meal!) are easy. But, if you need more ideas, I hope that this list helps you find a hostess gift that fits that sweet spot between meaningful and useful gift that lets your host see you in the best light!
Need help shopping? Please reach out!
Happy gifting! XO RA
Ever have an outfit that you’re just trying out but all of the sudden feels as if it’s a sign of good things to come? Or an outfit that makes you feel as if you’re moving forward? Perhaps became it’s a bit fashion forward- or at least out of your comfort zone- or perhaps because it’s layered in ways you wouldn’t have thought of?
I think of myself as fashionable and on top of trends and fashion movements, and willing to try new things. Ironically, I’ve layered this exact mini dress over these exact pants before (and I liked that outfit too) but there was something about this outfit- maybe that it is a mini dress over cropped pants. (A great way to wear a mini if you’re worried about minis or if you’re cold or if you’re into a bit of modern dressing!) Or perhaps the shoes- these are AWAKE Mode (you can buy them here – not an affiliate link!) and I just love the asymmetrical design! (Also, they are one of my fave UK/fashion forward brands!) Or perhaps all my modern musing is due to the fact that it feels as if it’s a time to move forward.
I know, I know. Fall is not thought of the time of forward movement. And fall leads to winter- and we think of winter as a time to go inward. Yet- someone I know recently said that fall/winter are times of growth and forward movement- it’s just that it’s the roots that are growing, it is inward growth but that’s still movement. As you know, I recently redid my closet- and am still in the process of a deep cleaning/redoing of the house. Which is movement. And while the past few years have felt heavy- both personally and collectively (and this is not me discarding all the awful that’s out there) it finally feels that maybe we are going forward together.
Or maybe that’s just hope. Or a fantastic outfit. But there’s a bit of hope lately. And I’m hoping it stays.
On a fashion note- I feel as if there is often a fear about fashion forward. That it might be too “out there” or too “much”. When to me- fashion forward is just anything thought of in a different way. Aka – wear a mini over something. Mismatched as matched. And when those things feel AMAZING maybe we wear them more?
Really, perhaps the best modern musing is thinking about what we want to be or do- now or in the future- and creating it for ourselves. What do we want to be, do, and wear? I believe in us enough to get there- and I might wear these shoes!
I’ve linked similar items below. Here’s to all of our futures- what are you musing about?
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!
Too much is often used as an insult. But the thing is? I know I’m too much. Fashion wise? I have never met a party dress that I didn’t love, statement pieces are my go-tos, I treat metallics and animal prints like neutrals. And in life? I feel deeply- which means I can be over the top loving and get over the top mad. Middles? I don’t do well. All of this I’m working on.
(I’ve also written about causal styling being a bit out of my comfort zone here.)
In life I’m working on being more steady and being a better communicator with my loved ones. Fashion? That’s where it gets tricky. The thing with my fashion is- I like being too much. Fashion forward, over dressed, party dresses, suits- I genuinely LOVE wearing them. And I wear them a lot (when I’m not in gym clothes). I don’t think of my fashion as too much- just as who I am. Yet. As I age. (The caveat I have to say for ego is- I’m not THAT old!) I’m beginning to appreciate simple outfits. The great pair of trousers, the fantastic top. Perhaps or perhaps not paired with shoes that could be statements. Things you can throw on without thought but would be fantastic.
And what I’m coming to believe is that perhaps (with the right pieces or right person) even simple might be too much- and maybe that’s perfect!
When people tell you that you’re too much, they usually want you to be less (and the opposite of that is one of my favorite sayings:”If I’m too much then go find less!”). Of course, there are times to temper our emotions, our reactions, and perhaps ball gowns aren’t called for on the treadmill or the grocery store- there are times when diluting yourself serves no one. Mainly you. I often and firmly state that part of why I think fashion is important is that it’s a way to tell our stories and our stories are important. There may be NOTHING that can move me from this point of view. Sometimes our stories (and outfits and feelings and etc) are BIG. But if they’re ours- who cares?
I think what I am trying to say is that being less of yourself isn’t a way to be – or to dress. The things that bring you big feelings or great outfits or anything that makes you feel alive- I don’t believe in dimming that. Especially when even simple can be big!
Being one to love the “too much”, how I loved this outfit surprised me. Trousers are IN- and you can find them at every price point, but I find the best ones are a bit wide, but fitted at the waist. (Fun fact I used to hate pleated pants, but I guess that a lot changes when you’re not 18!) This body suit is years, years, old- but I love the v neck and the strappy ties. Paired with a mule that’s both statement and work go-to? A lot of simple- it’s black, classic, on trend but NOT over the top. And it’s too much- unexpected details, fitted well, and could go from work to cocktails. I also felt great in it; and when you’re someone who feels at home in party dresses, a simple outfit feeling great is quite the compliment.
Can you be too much (or all that you are) in outfits that aren’t too much? Or- are simple outfits just as impactful as statement outfits? When I was younger, I thought that the answer to both of these questions was no. However, my opinion on these issues, as well as how to style simple but impactful outfits, is changing as I get not as young. What is your stance on being too much? Or how that connects to your outfits?
I’ve linked these exact trousers and similar bodysuits and shoes for your not too much but just enough outfits below!
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!
While I have a thing for party looks and leather and all the things- this is usually how you’ll find me from day to day. I’m in a workout onesie?** And then I put some sort of layer- in this case an incredibly chic, versatile tweed cape. It’s so incredibly ladylike. It’s incredibly seasonal. It’s incredibly tweed.
*** Catsuit? Bodysuit? I can still be unsure of the correct term but know that they are chic and comfy. And take you from a workout to being the chicest layering piece (truly, from jackets to skirts to shirts, there’s a TON of outfits that this piece has been the base of!)
I can’t say enough about this cape- the ways to style it are endless. You’ve seen the arms snapped and it tied. There’s also open. There’s wearing the tie as a scarf! Arms open. Full tied. You could pair with a bigger belt. Over almost anything- from leggings and sweats to dresses, skirts and pants. The versatility of styling not only allows you to have endless outfits, but allows you to adjust to temps (I’ve worn this in both 50s and 70s- and yes, that was one day!).
This tweed cape is special to me for oh so many reasons. The tweed- it’s made from dead stock Chanel tweed. The styling options. The classic look, the ladylike feel. But this tweed is the most special to me as it’s my first (but not last) piece from one of my new favorite brands Landed in Zurich. I have gotten to know the designer, Julia, over IG- and to own one of these pieces is such an honor.
What drew me to Landed in Zurich was not only the fashion-forward designs (who doesn’t love fringe and cutouts that feel fresh and more?) but the commitment to sustainability, and the amazing dead stock fabrics that Julia manages to find. In her own words:
“Contrary to fast fashion and mass production Landed in Zurich brings an artisan approach and personal attitude to fashion. In constant search of new ideas I create signature details and techniques that make my garments unique. A Landed in Zurich dress is never just a dress, a blouse is never just a blouse. Each garment has a new idea, distinctive touch and often involves hours of hand work in order to produce an item which makes its wearer stand out of the crowd. I only use luxury deadstock materials from the biggest and most famous fashion houses. It’s my commitment to sustainability. In a world, where textiles are being produced and over produced on a large scale, I find it extremely important to create something totally new from already manufactured fabrics. Glass, real crystal beads and semi-precious stones are used for embroideries.”
I love this tweed cape so much, and know that it will become my go-to for the next few months. I also have a signature fringe top that I can’t wait to show you. But I truly LOVE this company and Julia- and I know you will too!
Some notes- the conversion rate is good! And shipping was fast! There’s some tweed items up on her site- as well as some fringe dresses and tops that are just to die for!
I chose to pair this look with some of my Chanel mules (I do love a theme) but this look would look great with boots or kicks or even flip flops! I’ve linked some of my favorite bodysuits for you below as well!
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!
I know you know I know who I had to dress up for as the finale to my fashion Halloween. It’s not really a surprise- but I did chose the Peaches and Cream doll, as she was my favorite growing up! So, at the least I hope that this version of America’s Favorite Doll is a bit different from all the others you’ve seen at parties, or will see Trick-O-Treating this week.
One of the best things about America’s Favorite Doll is that she can be (and is!) everything. Astronaut. Doctor. Vet. Ballerina. Mermaid. Or just her. Perhaps that’s the magic, or the fun, of being her for Halloween. Yes, you could go the route of all of the dolls in the movie from this summer (and I’ve linked amazing options for that below, that will most likely get there in time if you order NOW!), but how fun is it- and a bit more personal to chose your favorite version of the doll, or the doll version of your favorite occupation.
This Peaches and Cream was one of my most favorite things to come out of 1984 (when I was clearly VERY, VERY young!); my sister and I each had more than one (from birthday parties, etc) but she was always a favorite. I tried to recreate the look with a vintage peach dress- complete with floral details- I put a white corset top over, nude heels, and a long blonde wig to make the look complete.
Yes, I’m now sad that I didn’t splurge for the better wigs. And yes, I keep referring to Barbie as America’s favorite doll because as a proud member of SAG-AFRTA I’m still on strike (the movie doesn’t need free promotion from me!). I know that there’s been a lot of chatter and misconceptions about the union’s stance on Halloween Costumes- and let me be clear- no one is coming after your kids costumes, or most people’s costumes- it’s just while we are asking for a fair contract for the labor that we do, the union asks us not to do work for the studios. Which includes promotions. Especially free promotions. I get that it’s all a fine line, and it hits on emotions. All I can relate it to is that when I was a kid and DESPERATELY wanted a Coke T-shirt (to be like a cool kid), my mom wouldn’t buy me one unless Coke was paying me to be a billboard. Kid me hated that- adult me- especially adult me in the industry gets it. And besides- we can still be America’s Favorite Doll without promoting for free, full of all the details we love!
Tomorrow night is one of my favorite nights of the year. I love seeing costumes, wearing costumes- even though usually I’m at home giving out candy and watching Hocus Pocus on repeat! It’s a night where maybe the best of us comes out: strangers come over and we welcome them with love. I hope that your Halloween is AMAZING and fashionable and I would love to hear what you’re dressing up as!
Again, options for America’s favorite doll are linked below. With or Without Prime, they should be able to get to you on time!
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!
