Investment Piece – Page 28 – Everyday Editorial

Red -y Fall Transitions

a woman in a blue striped midi skirt, grey strappy top and red lace up heels

We could chat about a lot with this outfit. And here’s where I will admit there are shoots where I wear something simply for the outfit to be photographed- and shoots where I wear an outfit I wear and I shoot it. This is the latter. I love a great skirt. Always have, probably always will. Fun fact? I don’t think I wore jeans till I was 6 or 7 (and that’s only because I realized all the kids in 1st grade were wearing them and I was a-okay being a trendsetter but didn’t want to be left out!) as I always wanted to wear skirts or dresses. Point being a great skirt is such a fantastic piece to build outfit(S!) around- or even a closet.

Pair a great skirt with a tee, a blouse, a sweater, a going out top, a blazer- the options are endless! What I love about this particular skirt (minus the pockets) is that it’s perfect to transition from summer to fall. It’s a linen blend, but it reads wool. And the blue, black, grey and very light red stripe mean that it goes with so many things- and not just black- that could read both summer and fall. A bit nubbly, a bit weighted, it moves fantastically, but truly can stand alone. Here (because it’s still over 100!!) I had to pair it with an elevated tank; aka a “going out top” I’ve had for a good 10 years. Strappy, low cut, and really a bodysuit- but the pleats and folds make it feel expensive.

a woman in red lace up heels and a blue striped midi skirt
a woman in a blue striped midi skirt and grey strappy top with red lace up heels

Beyond outfit formulas and transitional pieces- red is on trend for fall. This is one of those trends that just makes me laugh. Mainly? I love red. One of my favorite colors. I’m also a HUGE fan of pops of red in outfits- and especially love a great red shoe (read about my early and faithful love for Dorothy or Red Date Shoes here). So red as a trend? Great! But, when was red ever “out”? Aka for me red not being a thing was never a thing- if you know what I mean. These fantastic red shoes? Years old, worn regularly, a favorite. (Though, yes, I will be using this “trend” to add to my red section in my closet. I mean- it’s in the name of fashion!)

What I could say about this – there is always a trend that’s not a trend but a staple to you. Use it to your advantage to transition seasons. Love red like me? Now is the time to get out your red, add it to your accents, say you’re ready for fall. Of if red- or any other fall trend- is something that you’ve always liked but never knew how to wear it? Might I suggest you start small? The term “pop of” may be overused, but anything that you’re a bit unsure of never looks wrong as a shoe, or bag, or belt, or scarf, or umbrella, coat, etc- start with an accessory and see how you feel. Then go all out in an outfit- or not. You always get to choose!

But I do love a great pop of color- especially when it’s red. I love a statement shoe. And when an outfit that is very much me on a Monday feels perfectly on trend and red-y to transition to the new season- it makes the outfit feel a little more special.

What are your thoughts on red? How do you wear it? What fall trends are you looking forward to and what are you wearing during these transitional weeks from summer to fall? I want to hear about it all!

This top (as mentioned) is old, as are the shoes from seasons and seasons ago. The skirt? Vintage and a gift from a lovely neighbor. However, I’ve linked similar pieces for you below – don’t be afraid to take what you love and mix and match and make your own for years to come (trends or not!)
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!

a woman in a blue striped midi skirt, grey strappy top, and red lace up heels

Sunday Chronicles: Grandparents Day

Investment Piece: Grandparents Day — My parental (Grandma) and maternal (Mimi) grandmothers

I know that some of these “holidays” aren’t really big deals. See “red wine day” (not that I didn’t celebrate), “French fry day”, “pancake day”, etc, etc, etc. However, as someone who was lucky enough to be close to her grandparents, and miss them now that they’re gone, Grandparents Day for me is actually something I’m into this year.

My maternal grandmother, my Mimi, was a bit like my nanny growing up. She drove us to school and picked us up (making sure she was first in the pick-up line), made dinner, used to pay me $1 to eat a taco at dinner (instead of just queso. I also got paid $1 not to tell my mom we watched soap operas with her!). Mimi taught me about mixing patterns, red lipstick, the wonders of Vaseline as a night cream, and her infamous pecan pie recipe.

My paternal grandmother, my Grandma, taught me to quilt, make hand pies, made the best toast (I know, completely random. She also made so many amazing things- but I often miss her toast!). Grandma taught me to indulge my artistic side, laugh when you can, and indulge while keeping to your schedule.

My Papa (paternal grandfather, not pictured!) was a bear of a man (to others) but to me was the person who would tell me to give his neck some love. He worked/owned a construction company but my most vivid memories of him are watching sports (silently) on his lap/chest with his miniature poodle (Cheerie, who wore bows and had her nails painted). Papa taught me about juxatipositons, home repair, and boundaries with compromise.

I know that families are complex and relationships are hardly ever linear. No matter you’re feelings on holidays like Grandparents Day, I hope that you’ve been lucky enough to have the love of a great grandparent. And if not, that in your adult life you’ve made a chosen family that provides you with that kind of love. I adore you, and would even wait in line to pick you up.

Wishing us all a week of strong love and amazing shoes!
Xo RA

Color Me Wild

Posting this today as the new season line from Hanifa drops. I’ve gotten so much joy out of this dress. And once again, after being ill, I’m navigating the outside world and what I’m comfortable with. (Things change and stay the same). And yet- I’m still wearing this dress. And loud noises (even under underpasses) can still sound like storms.

Investment Piece: Color Me Wild

Leopard is a neutral (yes, I think so).
We’ve established that time and time again, and it’s something I do really believe. However, what if we took something we know to be true (leopard is a neutral) and we played with it? Turned it on its head? For just a brief moment, made it untrue?
This is aka when I saw this leopard print dress in this stunning shade of blue, I knew I had to have it. While it’s not completely wild, it’s not a true neutral. It’s showsstopping (the sleeves and slits help with that) and yet it’s a tad bit subtle. Color with wildness and reason.
The balance felt right to me, and also? Is fun. Fashion is a lot of things, and one of those things is fun. Color. Print. The wild? How could you not have fun playing with that?

Investment Piece: Color Me Wild

It’s time to get back out there (within reason).
Another thing that I’ve been thinking about a lot lately. There are so many things that I’ve missed over this past year- some I’m ready to dive back into, some I’m not so ready. Perhaps that’s where the wild comes in. If I can look at leopard in a new way (color), could I look at the wild (outside, however you want to label it) in a new way?

These shots were taken under an underpass. Everytime a car passed over it sounded like thunder I was convinced it was going to storm all shoot. But. I loved how I got to see something I pass almost everyday in a new way. Yes, there’s a path (to cross the street), and some rocky landscaping, but when I pass by it every day I barely see it. Exploring it, shooting it, climbing it- I was able to see it in a whole new light.

And if an underpass can be a whole new world, what else am I overlooking? What wild out there could be made new?

Investment Piece: Color Me Wild

What could you look at anew – from patterns to places? What are you currently comfortable with, and what do you long to be comfortable with? Are you coloring yourself wild or are you playing it safe?

These are questions I’m asking myself and exploring. There are times when I’m coloring wild and times when I’m way more neutral. I’m learning to give myself grace, and have fun, either way.

What about you?

This dress is Hanifa, I have this sweater dress from them, and I have to let you know how much I adore this brand. Almost everything from their new collection is on my Wishlist. I’ve also liked similar dresses for you below. Color wild!
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: Color Me Wild

Labor Day Style

a woman in a white maxi skit, brown lace sandals and a white flower crop tip
a woman in a white maxi skirt, brown lace up sandals and a white flower crop top

It’s a “holiday” weekend. And the “unofficial” end of summer (though it will be HOT and summer for a bit more). Many of you are out on the water- or on family trips or not working today- or any of the multitude of ways a holiday and an ending could be spent.
And yet-

There should be no surprise I’m in white. According to (old) advice starting tomorrow only winter white will do. Was that advice written before it was 100 into October? Probably. Do you need to stick to it? That’s up to you! But wearing white (while risking all the spills and stains) seemed the thing to do.

It should also come as no surprise that this top is a swimsuit top. I’ve linked it in black and found one(in Medium-I’m in a small here but I feel like I could have used a medium. It’s all flexible and what you’re comfy in!) For the “last” (by no means last) day of summer a swimsuit felt like the thing to wear.

Accessories? Straw. With a hint of leather. Lace up.

Be by the water. Enjoy the heat but don’t get overwhelmed by it. Dress to the day, but don’t let this holiday determine anything for you. There’s a lot for today- but I mainly hope that you’ve shopped the sales that spoke to you, that you wore what made you happy, and that the “rules” that we’re supposed to be bound by made you laugh!

I’ve linked similar and exact shopping options below (it’s Labor Day but wear when you want- you’re in charge!). I would love to know what you’re wearing and shopping and the rules you plan on breaking going forward!
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 the support!

And shop the whole outfit here

Whatever you’re wearing – from swim to color- I hope you’re having a great “holiday”!

a woman n a white maxi skirt with a white flower crop top and brown lace up sandals and a straw tote with leather pocket

It’s a Sale, Sale World

a woman under a bridge in a white button up and rose gold pants

I’ll be really honest, being sick recently has taken way more out of me, and it’s taken me much longer than I anticipated to feel better. For the Labor Day Holiday I have (had?) a great white set to show you- but do to my recovery, we’re going to have to wait till Monday! (But it will be up on Monday I promise- I’m VERY excited about it!). In the meantime, it may feel like EVERYTHING is on sale. And in some ways, it is! Between the 3 day weekend and the “end of summer” there are so many amazing sales on currently!

As much as I love sales, I know that sale weekends when it seems like it’s ALL on sale and you HAVE to buy now can be a lot to process. BUT I have a method (and a new way to see to share my sale picks with you!). First, even when I get excited about sales I *try* to make sure the things on sale are
-Things I really want (I go back and reference my wishlists all the time!)
-Things I can wear in more than one season, or classic enough to be used next year
-Things that are worth the investment.

Obviously some of these are personal and a judgment call- what I have wanted that FINALLY went on sale may be different from your sale wish list- but I think the principle applies. Especially when it’s a sale world out there! Below instead of listing a Ton of things from sales, I’m highlighting my favorites from various sales that I think hit all the notes. As usual, you can shop along with me all holiday weekend on the LTK APP and the Collective Voice app (I’m @racheladelicia on both!).

Let’s get into sales!

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!

Kate Spade
Right now you can get an extra 40% off sale at Kate Spade with code LBDAY40. I’m such a fan of polka dots, feathers (that are perfect for the coming holidays) and joyful dressing that I can’t resist these:

Denim
So much denim is on sale right now- from Mother (I love their high waists) to Frame (sailor) to cross over waists (Loft!) All these styles can be worn now- and through fall!

JCREW
Everything is 40% off right now with code SHOPNOW. I would invest in cult fave chinos and easy jackets that are completely on trend for fall!

The Exercise Dress
The Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress is my go -to- not only for the gym but for errands, brunch and more! And so many of them are on sale!

What are you shopping for in all the sales this weekend? I hope you find it and it’s the best deal ever! I can’t wait to show you what I’m buying- and that great white outfit on Monday!

XO RA

Ruffles and Stripes

Investment Piece: Ruffles and Stripes

I’m not one for things that are too sweet; that includes desserts and fashion. Bows don’t do much for me, embellishments have to be just right, and I usually am picky about ruffles. However, some times things come along that are the perfect combination of sweet, classic, and fun, and I can’t resist them. Like this dress! I love the ombré blue stripes. I love the ruffles that aren’t too sweet. I adore the neckline and how low the arm hole is, I even love the bows (or knots) on the shoulder. Perfect for a bbq, wear it with heals for a night out, this dress screams fun and summer. This is the type of sweet I can’t resist.

This dress is from years and years ago- but the thing about a perfect not too sweet dress is that it’s something that you can go back to again and again. There hasn’t been a summer since I’ve gotten this dress that I haven’t worn it repeatedly. With my classic Dr Scholl’s (my cousin was the first to turn me onto how comfy these classic sandals are, and now they are my go-to recommendation for summer sandals!) or with heels, or with flip flops or anything in-between. This dress screams summer to me, and it’s been a part of so many of my summers. Even with its sweetness, it’s just right for me.

Ruffles and stripes are such a classic combo, but I love how this dress feels fresh! I couldn’t help pair the white and blue with a pop of red, but it would look just as great with tonal accersories. And if you’re a little shy on top, I think this dress layered with a white tee or tank top would be on point! Don’t forget your straw bag (this one is my mom’s from the 1970s, moral of that story is don’t give anything away), add a hat, and you’re set for the last few weeks of summer!

Shop my picks below! XO RA

As this dress is a few years old, I couldn’t find the exact dress, I’ve linked both striped dresses and tiered dresses that I love and that remind me of this dress. And of course, my favorite Dr Scholl’s Originals!

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!

Sunday Chronicles: The Things We Didn’t Get To

a woman in a light blue and red strapless dress in the middle of the road

Each season I attempt to make a “bucket list” of things I want to do, as well as a wishlist of all the things I want to buy (and wear and shoot). Even with the best of intentions, I’ve never had a year where I’ve been able to do everything on my list(s). Maybe it’s me and I aim too high- or as I like to think, the time and the days just get away some times.

Especially this year, my lists have a lot left on them. Between my aunt’s death, then being sick, it feels as if the past month or so has been a time of regrouping/resting rather than making progress. And months like that happen. But as the seasons prepare to change (though I’m under no illusion that it will magically get cooler after Labor Day. You could count on one hand the number of days we’ve had this summer under 100 degrees!) how do we reconcile the things we didn’t get to?

Perhaps that sounds a bit dramatic. As I previously stated, it’s not like Labor Day is an official “switch”. There is still time to be in the water and buy amazing summer(ish) styles (maybe even on sale!). Yet, the fact is there are things I won’t get to, things to let go of- some of which are simply as my attention has moved onto other things. And some things I’m genuinely sad to have not gotten to or bought. Seasonal transitions can be a lot of things, but one of them is a bit melancholy. There is a bit of sadness in all the things we didn’t get to, or saying goodbye to great times.

(Fun fact: I can be a bit sentimental so maybe I do get a bit attached!)

The other thing about a new season coming? The things we didn’t get to give way to the things we want to do now. Often how I make peace with what I missed out on is getting excited about all the things I want to do in the coming season. Or all the things I want to wear, sometimes they’re the same thing. Another way I handle the thigns I didn’t get to? Shopping end of season sales (because so much can be worn in more than one season!) and starting my experience list for the next year. Many times it just means that I realize what I want to prioritize (aka next summer I am determined to spend more time in the water!) or what doesn’t really matter (maybe I don’t need every swimsuit). That combined with the excitement of new boots (or new ways to wear the boots I have!) and the things I didn’t get to don’t sting as much. There are always things I’m sad I missed out on, but these methods help me.

What do you do with all the things you didn’t get to this season? How do you deal with it?

Wishing us all a week of crossed off to-dos and amazing shoes! XO RA

Lounge Luxe

Investment Piece: Lounge Luxe

Like me, you may be in a bit of a quandary lately. Wanting to “get dressed”. Yet, it’s a million degrees outside, and even “cool” clothes seem so hot. On top of that, I work from home- meaning that in reality I could wear pjs/sweats/nothing all day and get away with it.

Working from home is both a blessing and a curse.

There are all sorts of suggestions on how to deal with this time we’re in and dressing for. You may just wear your pjs. Or workout clothes. Get dressed. Go all out with a fancy top and be comfy on bottom.
While there’s no right or wrong way to dress right now, what I’m finding works best for me (on a day to day basis) is lounge. Luxe.

This is a vintage terry dress (gown? Swimsuit cover up?). It’s a statement. And like wearing your robe all day. (Yes, even at home I sometimes wear heels but it’s also great with flat sandals or barefeet. Even when I’m sick- things like that make me feel more in control!). Like many things, it’s a choose your own adventure: it can be a full on outfit, or it can be something to lounge in. Perfect for a summer soriee (socially distanced) or perfect laying on the bed after a shower (I can not be the only one who does that for hours).

Most importantly, it makes me feel “dressed” when I need to be. Because lately there are days when I do need my outfits to make me feel good. To let me know that we’re all strong and capable and all the things. And sometimes I need those feelings on days when it’s hard to get dressed. The solution? Lounge luxe. Both worlds, what you need it to be, and fancy feeling.

With outfits like this I’ve been able to lay on my couch and feel good about it. Win/win/lounge?

This dress is vintage, and my only terry cloth dress–I highly recommend them for comfort and style and have linked some vintage ones similar for you below. What are you wearing daily? Is it giving you what you need? I want to hear all the stories about it!

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!

PS. Thank you to everyone who reached out- I am feeling better and am hoping to be in new and “real” outfits next week! In the meantime- I’m lounging!

Investment Piece: Lounge Luxe

Surprise Ending

Investment Piece: Surprise Ending

Loves, we know how I feel about juxatipositons. I LOVE them!! So is it any surprise that I love a good surprise ending?
The kind you don’t see coming.
With all sorts of twists and turns.
The kind that makes you gasp.

Who said that surprise endings couldn’t happen in fashion?

This shirt dress (similar here) is one of my all time go-to’s. It’s as classic and as daring as you like it, the dress not only buttons down the front, but the back and the sides as well. So, it’s fitting that it’s the back drop for a surprise ending.

Investment Piece: Surprise Ending

It’s hot. (That’s not the surprise ending) And I don’t know about you, but I’m thinking of everything I can do to not only stay cool, but look like I’m pulled together while staying cool. The surprise ending? Vintage swim under my shirt dress. All the structure and poise of a dress, all the coolness that wearing your swimsuit in public allows.

Bonus in this surprise ending? You get to wear your swimsuit in public. I’m always a fan of that.
(See here, here, and here for starters)

Of course, dresses on their own are a great way to combat the end of summer heat wave, but I’m a sucker for the drama. I love glimpses of things that maybe don’t belong, the unexpected, and the juxatipositons. Like vintage swim under your dress; I love that they’re almost like shorts (but not quite) and maintain an air of class (even though they’re swim suits). And, with these on, you’re always prepared to get in the water (if the need so arises).

Surprise endings? A way to keep the heat from beating us? Or just a way to switch things up?
Maybe it’s all 3?

I’ve linked similar items below. I’d love to know: what surprise ending will you share?
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: Surrpise Ending

Sunday Chronicles: Sick Again

a postive Covid Test on a counter top

Well. This was not how I planned things to go. While I’ve been under the weather for about a week, I had been testing negative for C19; and had thought I was starting to feel better. Then. I ret
ested on Saturday (best practices for newer variants is to test on day 6/7 of symptoms/exposure as positive tests are lagging. Also FlowFlex at home tests are supposed to be the most sensitive. )

I’ll be vulnerable- this is my second dance with Ms. Rona. I had Omicron over a year ago. My case was mild, but I had been dealing with long lasting effects. I’m a bit scared to be sick again, especially when it felt like I was finally getting back to myself. Another vulnerable moment? Covid is on my Aunt’s death certificate. This is scary to me.

I am doing things a bit different this time with C19. Right away I got an RX for Paxlovid (not available before). Last time, I was so determined to “get back” that I perhaps did too much. I worked through it, I worked out, I pushed. This time? I’m going to take it a bit easy. Not rush to overdo or get back, but truly let myself rest and heal.

This treatment plan also affects us. Between my aunt’s death and my being sick, I’m a bit behind in shooting. And outfits. And getting dressed. I’ really hoping to rest u, feel better by next weekend and be able to shoot (and get dressed) by next weekend- giving us new content starting next week! This week? It’ll be a replay of some of my fave late summer outfits- from swimsuits to dresses. Shopping options will be updated, and new thoughts may appear. (of course both on the LTK and ShopStyle apps I’ll be posting my sale and fall shopping picks, so follow me there- @racheladelicia). I hope that it’s not too disappointing, and that you’ll check out some of past faves here!

In the meantime, I’ll be resting up, and making sure that I get you new and amazing content- and me well- ASAP.

I have no idea what the secret to life is- or if there is one. However, I think the most fervent question that life asks us is :”Am I my brother’s keeper?” And I think the answer is yes. We’re here to take care of each other and walk each other home. Take care of you and yours and your neighbors out there! And feel free to do it in amazing shoes!
XO RA