Investment Piece – Page 42 – Everyday Editorial

Fashion Halloween: Dorothy

a woman with pumpkin in pigtails, red ruby shoes, a blue striped dress, white undershirt
a woman in pumpkins in ruby red slippers in a blue striped dress with a white shirt
a woman in a blue and white striped dress with ruby red slippers and a cat and a gold round
a woman with pumpkins in ruby red slippers and blue socks and blue and white dress
a woman in pumpkins in a blue and white dress with a white undershirt, red ruby slippers, blue socks
a cat with a basket and ruby red slippers
close up of feet in ruby red slippers and blue socks a gold rug, a broom, and a white wall

Honestly, my plans for my big Fashion Halloween were delayed (get ready for next year!) and then I realized I could easily be Dorothy (from The Wizard of Oz). Fun fact? This was my favorite movie when I was 4-5 ( in fact, my grandparents were the first people to record it on their VCR for me and because of timing it took me years to know that a part of the film was in black and white- yes, I’m not that old but that old! If you know, you know- and I may lie about my age!) But. Dorothy has always been a fave. And ruby red slippers (or as I’ve always called them “date shoes” have always been a closet staple). So, when I realized I could easily do the Dorothy outfit- from hair (from pigtails to curls to braids) to dress (any light blue or gingham, or apron with a white undershirt- as long as it’s short sleeved, in this case a vintage Laura Ashley dress pinned over a white short sleeve shirt) and paired with a basket and a Toto(I tried to get my cat involved! This was our our best bet and she was interested but the pics were not our best! In short, animals are always a crap shoot but worth a try and as someone who loves to be near me this Cat and Toto is always a risk!) and of course- the Ruby Red Slippers. More a Fashion Story, but I was so obsessed with Wizard of Ozthat I thought that all red shoes were magic as a kid, and therefore that all women should own a pair of red shoes to wear on dates (aka date shoes), so I’ve kept more than one pair of red heels on hand -but who could resist a sparkly pair? And then to pair those with socks (slippers with blue socks and red sparkly shoes)?!? Magic.

It was my mom who suggest the broom- both a nod to Dorothy killing the Wicked Witch and Halloween in general. And yet- both that and the “yellow brick road” (aka gold towel) were so perfect.
Last minute. High fashion. Perfect Halloween (I was also Dorothy in high school with friends and this one might be the best!)

Tonight for Halloween, I’ll be in Skeleton Pjs (seen here handing out candy.You may have already worn a costume, or had one planned for tonight, but if you’re in need of ideas I’m hoping this easy look is something you can get together (or keep in your mind till next year!)
I hope that whatever you’re doing and whatever you’re wearing that it’s fashion and fun and a bit of frolic!

Happy Halloween! Hope it’s fashion!
XO RA

Pink Power

a woman in a hot pink dress, hot pink tights and hot pink boots
woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots and gloves
a woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots and gloves

Every October I do at least one post in a pink outfit. It started as a way to chat about breast cancer for Breast Cancer Awareness Month (please go get your mammogram. I’m also talking to myself- as that’s on my to-do list. And it’s easy to out off. But we can’t wear amazing things if we’re not here! Wanna be accountability buddies and make our appointments?) I’ve had so much fun each year coming up with pink outfits and “celebrating” (I know that’s not the word but I can’t really put my finger on what is) the month. Yet, ironically, if you were to ask me, I’d tell you that I’m not really a pink person.

But the thing about pink is- it can grow on you. And, like anything else, once I’ve found my shade of pink, it’s became one of my favorites. Hot pink is the pink for me- from gowns to suits, it has snuck throughout my closet so it’s almost a neutral. Perhaps, when I would say that I’m not a pink person I meant the stereotypical pink- over sweet, a bit timid, a bit young. The thing that I’m learning is that pink is power. Wearing it makes me feel powerful, the hot pink is a symbol of my power, and when you get to have fun like this how could you not want to indulge in your own pink power?

a woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots, and gloves
And yes, this year’s pink outfit is a play on the Zendaya Valentino campaign and the hot pink looks that are everywhere. I’ve had this pink dress for years (it was one of my first hot pink purchases!). The boots were also from season’s past, every so often I think about culling them from my closet, but they bring me so much joy that I could never part with them. And it turns out my instinct was right (and maybe gives strength to the argument that everything comes back and you shouldn’t get rid of things!). The tights and gloves were simple purchases, and super easy to find! Putting my own take on the look of the moment was so incredibly fun- and once again the pink was powerful!

a woman in a hot pink dress and tights and boots and gloves
a woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots, and gloves
a woman in a hot pink dress with tights, boots, and gloves

One of the things that changed my stance about pink, and power, besides how great it looks, was that I realized that my power- the things that make me special from my sarcasm to how I cry easily to my ability to make leopard work with anything- is my own. My power can be soft, it can be chic, and can be pink. What do you wear when you need to feel powerful? What’s your stance on pink?
And when is your mammogram?

I’ve linked similar shoes and dresses for your shopping pleasure below! Both the tights and gloves were found on Amazon if you want those 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!

Fashion Halloween: What you Already Have

There have been many Fashion Halloweens when I chat about “easy” costumes, Halloween shirts, and little accessories that you can use to get in the spooky spirit! And I stand by those!

a woman in a black shirt that says bad witch with white pants
This shirt is my go-to (yes, I’ll be wearing it more than one time this week!) and stand by these tips for last minute costumes read here. And yes, if costumes aren’t your thing, a headband with any ears or horns is great. Or an elaborate makeup look. Or a shirt that says “bad witch” on it (this fave of mine is from seasons past but I know you can find it on eBay! If you need help with that LMK!)

And yet.

With Halloween being on the edge of the winter holidays- where, in theory, there will be all sorts of parties and events and date nights (or if nothing else excuses for you to buy dresses for events you don’t have to go to!)- and I couldn’t help but think of simple, but effective, costumes that you could put together with pieces you may already have! OR with pieces that you want to buy but need another place to wear!

Below I’ve taken 2 “high” fashion dresses and let you know easy ways that you could make them into Halloween costumes. Not only would you be very Fashion Halloween, these are dresses you may already own. Or, if you want to invest in these dresses they are great for any holiday party, dinner, date night- and not just in the holiday season! Fashion as your halloween costume? Maybe that is the scariest (aka most fun!) thing of all!

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 Cat
a woman in a leopard dress

I’m a firm believer that leopard is a neutral, and any leopard piece you buy is an investment! So a leopard dress? A must. From date night to parties, this dress (or similar ones) will have you always on trend, always able to accessorize, and always not boring! And for Fashion Halloween? Super simple! Just add cat ears (or mask if that’s your jam)- and you’re a cat. A costume you already have or an excuse to get a new dress? Either way, it’s chic!

I’ve linked this exact dress, choices under $100 and cat ears I love:

Witch
a woman in black lace dress

A black lace dress- is a bit witchy, a classic, a must for any holiday or date night or big event- and super easy to turn into a Halloween costume. Simply add a witch hat (or devils’ horns). Simple, stunning. And a great reason to wear a stunner you already have or invest in a new one! You’ll wear it all the time (I wore this for Valentine’s last year!). This number is vintage but I’ve linked similar for you below!

What are you being for Halloween? Or to parties? And if you don’t have something in mind, might I recommend one of these easy Fashion Halloween looks?

Also- if you need a costume and have no idea what to wear, email me! This is something I love and I would love to help!

XO RA

Sunday Chronicles: Ghost Tour

a woman with cat eye makeup and skeleton earrings

A few weeks ago I mentioned that this year, and specifically this holiday season I wanted to be present and enjoy the season and the holiday we’re in- aka Halloween. You can read more about my thoughts here. Keeping true to my word, and wanting to enjoy Halloween and not skip to Christmas season, when a family friend suggested that we book a Ghost Tour and stay in a (allegedly) haunted hotel- I said yes. Even though I sometimes (often times) have to watch anything scary through my fingers or blanket or my sweatshirt.

Because it’s not like they would let us die, right?

a skeleton in a phone booth and the image of a woman in the glass

We didn’t die. (Spoiler alert! And if you’re curious or local we stayed at the Menger and went on a Sisters Grimm tour. Highly recommend both!) What we did do is have a lot of fun, learn quite a bit of history, and get into the spirit of the season.

a man dressed as a rough rider from 1890 in the lobby of a hotel

Our tour guide was not only charming- he dressed in costume, which you know I love- he was incredibly knowledgeable about every space we went into, every street we went on, and local history. While there were ghost tales that were a bit creepy, most of them were truly fascinating! And even had me looking for clues!

a window with bars on it. You may be able to see a ghost in it!

For Example, in the above picture you may be able to see the ghost of a woman in the window. I didn’t- though I did see something over a bed in the hotel I think that was just my over-active imagination!

The tour was so fun and the hotel was fantastic (not to mention the jewelry store in the hotel where I happed to find MANY things that were so gorgeous, the only scary thing was how I could afford them all!) Most of all, this ghost tour was such a joy in that we got to walk (and ride) part of a city that I hadn’t seen before, I got to learn a lot (like ask me about certain killings in San Antonio), and it was the perfect way to get into the Spooky spirit that isn’t just watching scary movies (aka Hocus Pocus) on my couch!

I also got to dress to theme, which we know I love!

a woman in a black leather dress in a bathroom mirror

I can’t believe that Halloween is basically a week away (I have so many cute outfits to wear! And I want to watch so many movies!) How are you getting in the spirit of Halloween? Are you jumping ahead to the Winter Holidays? I would love to hear all about it!

Wishing us all a week of friendly ghosts and amazing shoes!
XO RA

Am I Too Old?

a blonde woman in a black crop top and black pants in front of stone

When I first came up with the above outfit, my main concern was that it would be flattering. We all have body worries-and my concerns about the outfit were centered on those. I didn’t know it at the time, but those were the simpler days.

As I get older, not only do I worry about things being flattering, I worry about being too old for them. And I hate that I think that, I hate that I ask myself if I’m too old for things. I want to be able to tell you that no matter what you wear- from crop tops to cutouts to mini skirts to sleeveless and strapless tops- I want to tell you that as long as you feel confident in it, and love it, that there are no age limits (or any body limits!).

A part of me believes that.

And a large part of me worries about trying too hard. About dressing so young I make myself look older. About being one of those women who cling to youth with such a grip that they look foolish. It’s not that I think this about other women, or outfits I see from editorial shoots to Instagram. But it’s something I worry about for me.

Do you think that we get too old to wear certain things? What do you think that age is and what do you think those things are?

a close up of a woman in a black crop top

A dear friend had a great perspective on the “am I too old for this” question when I recently send her a picture of a different crop top. She pointed out that while I and someone younger than me might both be drawn to the top, that we would style it in different ways, and that as I am the age that I am, my styling would be age appropriate. And she’s right. Even my own personal style has changed from my 20s to now. Even when I love crop tops, etc, I do try to balance the outfit, and style it in ways that make me feel confident.

So. Why do I worry about being too old for things? And what does that really mean?

Even on Instagram (etc) I can show you pictures of stunning women, older than me, wearing all the things I worry about making me look old- and I love the outfits and think they look amazing. Is it really just a personal doubt that I have? And if so, how do I get over it?

I’m not 1000% sure. My plan is to continue to pick pieces and outfits that I love, and that I feel confident in, style them the way I like- and hope for the best. With any stage of life, I know that there will be things that I chose to stay away from, that my style will evolve with me, and that there will be things I don’t feel confident in (for whatever reason). And when it comes to me putting aways styles I used to wear, or chasing things I wouldn’t have in the past I hope that I’m choosing based on what I love- and not my fears (especially my fears about being old).

I’m also hoping that if I do wear things that make me look too old or that I’m trying to hard that one of my dear friends will (gently) tell me. Feel free to consider yourself a dear friend!

I would love to know if you occasionally have these “am I too old” fears- and if there are any ways your style is changing because of them?

XO RA

Fashion Halloween: Skeleton

a woman in skeleton pjs with pumpkins
a woman in a skeleton pj set with pumpkins
a woman in skeleton pjs and pumpkins
a woman in skeleton pjs surrounded by pumpkins

Every Halloween I tend to wear a certain shirt to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters (a thing I LOVE to do!) and you can see my usual go-to trick-or-treat outfit here. Maybe part of fashion halloween that I should chat about is that I have my costumes, and then I have what I answer the door to trick-or-treaters in (and why shouldn’t both be fashion?).
And yet, this year, I’m thinking of not only combining Fashion Halloween and giving out candy, but comfortable costumes and a night of frolic.
AKA on one of my costume shopping trips I found this pj set that’s not only perfect for a party but perfect for a comfy Halloween night- and yet is still fashion. You could elevate this look with make-up (not my skill set), or even heels (my wheel house for sure!), Where I found this set (Target!) also had matching sets for the whole family so if you need a couple or family costume, this is an easy or high fashion way to match!

I’ve never thought or considered being a skeleton for Halloween. And yet, with matching accessories, these pjs feel just as great as any ball gown costume that I can think of (and most likely more comfy!). A bonus is that they are the best costume to stay at home in- be that watching scary movies (or Hocus Pocus for the 300th time!) or handing out candy to your local goblins! (aka wear to hand out Halloween candy but make it fashion!). You don’t need makeup (though if you can do that teach me how!) or anything else- but this simple set. I’ve linked it and the slippers below!

What do you love about Halloween night? Handing out candy? The costumes? Let me know! And if you already have a plan for your Halloween (fashion or not)- because we know this isn’t the only costume I’m wearing this year (see for my picks so far!), but I am dying (down to a skeleton) to hear about yours!
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 skeleton peeps with a skeleton next to her — me and my skeleton peeps!

Suit but make it Fashion

a woman in a plaid suit and grey corset with platforms

a woman in a plaid suit, grey corset, brown gloves, and bucket bag

Is it weird that I love a suit- even when I have never needed to wear a suit in any of my adult pursuits? As in, I’ve always loved a suit and every time that any of the “fashion” says suits are back I get excited. Because, besides being a work wear staple, a suit is a symbol of power, a suit is also a fashion staple. A suit can be so many things (and the pieces of a suit can be so many more!). And when you choose to make a suit fashion- like let’s say pairing it with a corset (fashion of course) and platforms (so in!), gloves (let’s bring them back, shall we?) and a great bag (this one is vintage but I’ve found you similar!).

Suits are one of the staples that I can routinely go back to, over and over again- no matter the style, that make me feel good. Suits make me feel adult, professional, and a bit more in control. And when I can put my own twist on them (see above), I can’t help but wonder why I don’t wear suits every day!

a woman in a plaid suit, grey corset and brown platformsI
a plaid blazer, navy bucket bag and brown gloves on a bench
a woman in a grey corset and plaid pants and brown platfroms

A corset top seems like a lot, right? Yet, it can elevate a lot of outfits- even a suit which I think is one of those outfits that doesn’t need elevating. Is there a limit to elevating? Perhaps not!

One of my favorite looks this fall is strapless tops with pants (and a blazer thrown in) so doing that with a suit makes my day. How I did it? Paired a much loved vintage corset top with a suit from last season (That feels oh so now) and platforms, vintage gloves, and a vintage Bottega that feels brand new.

I know that to me, suits are these fun and fascinating pieces, but if you have to wear them everyday they may not be. So. If you have to wear suits all the time how do you make them fashion? What tips might you need to make them more fun? If you don’t have to wear a suit, what’s stopping you and what would make you wear one? How can we make suits fashion?

I want to hear about it all!
XO RA

I’ve linked similar and exact pieces below!

This post does contain affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I might earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

a woman in a grey corset and plaid suit

Fall Wishlist

a woman in jeans, jean jacket and a plaid blazer with suede boots

While I make wishlists for every season (and also constantly make them), for some reason fall wishlists are hard for me. Perhaps it’s because even though it’s fall, it doesn’t even really feel like fall- aka it’s hard to want sweaters and jackets when it’s still 90 degrees out. Perhaps it’s also that so much of my fall wishlist feels like updates, not new styles. Yes, I love corduroy and plaids and velvets, and I have a lot of them in my closet, so many of the pieces I love now feel like I’m just updating, not making a new wishlist. (And especially this year when, between us, I’m behind on cleaning out my closet and feel like it’s impeding my shopping!). Or perhaps, it’s that during fall time seems to speed up. One day it’s Labor Day, then it’s Halloween, and then we’re right in the middle of the holidays.

And yet, with all of that- there are still things I want this fall, outfits and styles I’m excited to play with, and styles that feel so fresh and exciting to me. Yes, there are sweaters and jackets to update. Yes, I love a great corduroy suit (or pieces) and will ease velvet in my wardrobe as the temps cool. Below I’m linking both ideas for outfits and individual pieces I want.

What does your fall wishlist look like? Are there specific pieces you want or are you recreating fall ideas? I would love to know all about it!

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!

Strapless Sets
Quite a few places are pairing a strapless bustier top with pants. And I love it. It’s a bit retro, a bit fresh and yet completely appropriate for work! Here are some of my favorite sets:

a woman in a leather midi skirt and sheer blosue

Leather
Leather isn’t new, but there is a lot I want to play with. From midi skirts to trench coats to leggings to colored leather. I’m so interested in mixing and matching with sweaters, tights, boots, heels- all of it!
Shop leather midi skirts here and leather leggings here. I’m on the hunt for a great leather trench coat and will keep you posted!

Other ideas I’m playing with: Monochrome looks (especially playing with different textures in the same color), corduroy (a la a suit!), statement boots, and capes (because I can never resist them! As usual, I will see you updated on all I buy and all my outfits. What are you wearing for fall? What have you bought so far?

XO RA

The Thing About Timing

a woman in a pleated print skirt and black sweater on a sidewalk
a woman in a printed pleated skirt, sweater and boots on a sidewalk

Have you ever heard that it’s possible to meet the right one at the wrong time? I know many people will tell you this when you’re out dating- and it may be true (my verdict is out on that). In the shopping world? While timing is an issue-it’s not like you’d wear a bathing suit in a snow storm- I more lean to the adage that’s what’s meant for you will find you (though it is also true that nothing haunts you like the vintage you didn’t buy!).

Perhaps a more accurate way to state my philosophy (for fashion), is that the right item can be fit into any timing (within reason). Take for example this skit:

a woman in a pleated printed skirt and sweater and boots

From a new to me brand, ME+EM, a UK brand dedicated to bringing luxury and classic workwear and beyond, this skirt was meant for spring/summer. The brand suggested paying the matching scarf as a top (Which I could never make work for me, though I did make a crop top work!) and pairing both of those with a blazer for work, and without the blazer for play. And I wanted to show versions of that. Yet, I got this skirt on sale, right at the end of summer- when there was so much to chat about and do!

My intent was to show you all the ways this skirt (and scarf) could be worn- and I did wear it with a crop top and sandals, with a blazer, with heels. But, the timing called for a sweater and boots (if it’s not sweater weather, maybe we can conjure it!); so instead of fighting the timing, I went with it. It was supposed to be spring-ish skirt, but because it’s right, and because it’s timeless, it fit the timing, even if it wasn’t intended.

Who said that timing was an issue? Maybe they weren’t wrong, but perhaps they weren’t right.

a woman in a pleated printed skirt and sweater and boots

How does timing affect what you wear? And if it’s the right thing for you- from shoes to skirts to dresses- how do you wear it throughout the seasons. I know that there are things that don’t translate seasons, but I am a believer that timeless pieces, and the right pieces for you, will always fit. (And as a styling note, the more timeless pieces you have the more timing isn’t a thing you need to worry about!)

I would love to hear about all your timings! And I’ve linked this exact skirt and scarf for you below- to wear in whatever time you see fit!
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 striped skirt and sweater and boots

End of an Era: Online Vintage Shopping Tips

One of my favorite ways to shop is vintage. It’s helped me collect things, it’s shaped my style, and it’s made me a better shopper. However, I know that it’s intimidating to shop vintage (especially online!). So, I’ve rounded up a few of my best tips for shopping vintage below!

A few years ago, the last episodes of “Mad Men” began to air. Can we chat for a minute about how this show affected our culture? Not just for the viewers (and yes, I’m obsessed) but in how it affected fashion. Styles always come back around –evidenced in the resurgence of the 70s on the runway–but this show made vintage, and vintage inspired dressing cool. I’ll admit–I’ve always loved vintage, there’s something about clothing that has a story that speaks to me. However, let’s be honest–it can be hard to shop for–both online and in person. The good news is there are a ton of amazing vintage shops out there–and if you find one by all means go in and look (don’t forget to try on!). With the advent of Etsy, some online shopping for vintage has gotten much easier–and the finds can be amazing. Here are some of my favorite Etsy finds as well as tips to online vintage buying!

1. Know your measurements, not your size.

Clothes were cut and sized differently in different eras, not to mention that certain body types go in and out of fashion (a whole blog on its own). Make sure that you measure correctly (or get someone to help you!)–and go by those. Also, depending on the fit of the dress, give yourself an inch of wiggle room–there’s nothing worse than ordering a dress and having it be too tight to breathe.

2. Research Shop Policies

Some shops take returns and exchanges, others won’t–most that I’ve found are happy to dialog with you about everything. Ask questions, send them your measurements–make friends. Knowing upfront some of your options if things don’t work out can make the purchasing process easier. Communication can be key here. Even if you read the policies, reach out with any questions or concerns you have. Most vintage shop owners I know are more than happy to help, to work with you, and to provide more information!

3. Have a budget and understand what you’re paying for

Some vintage is really expensive–when you factor in the rarity quality. Some is really affordable, either way make sure you know what flaws the item has–and what other costs such as alternations and shipping with cost you.

4. Buy things you will wear

This is probably a rule for life, but when I get deep in vintage holes I can lose myself in just beautiful pieces. Realistically however, there may not be a place to wear that pristine 1900 wedding dress–I know, shocking! If you are just a collector, amazing-buy at will. If you’re looking to add to your closet realistically assess whether or not you could wear it without feeling like you’re in a costume (unless you want a costume). Yes, this means that you may pass on some things, but what you’ll buy will be great when you wear it!

Some of my favorite vintage shops (where you can shop online)?
Bloomers and Frocks
RecessLA
The Kit Vintage
Timeless Vixen
Garment Modern</>
Miriti
Of course Etsy
And one of my current faves is the GEM shopping app (should be available on any of your devices!). There you can simply search for any vintage item and have a ton of options!

And FYI vintage is a great place to shop for Halloween costumes!
Need more help shopping vintage? Please reach out- it’s one of my favorite things!

All clothing vintage

First picture photo credit Kate Richards

I’d love to know: how do you shop for vintage online?

Xo RA