Ex Files: The Friend

Investment Piece: The Friend

It’s that time of the month when I attempt to be Carrie Bradshaw, aka my own personal dating horror stories. If this speaks to you (or you just love the drama!) you can search ex files over in the search box for more, or may I suggest The BreakUp Text, Dudes and Nudes, The One Who Got Married. This month is a doozy- and sadly I didn’t break up with the dude over this (in my defense I was 23), but without further ado may I present The One Who Lied About a Party. Got Dating Horror Stories? I would love to hear them! Maybe we can even chat about you being featured! Xoxo RA

The Friend

First and foremost, let me say that I do think that men and women can just be friends. Truly, I do. And yet- I think we’ve all had friendships in which feelings were developed, by one or the other friend, sometimes both! On top of that, I think that sometimes we can flirt with our friends. As long as no boundaries are crossed, and everyone is ok with it- I get it.

But what about the friends who don’t respect boundaries? The ones who seem to get mad at you when you don’t reciprocate the feelings that they’ve developed? Can you keep the friendship going?

For years, I was friends with Mark. We found the same things funny, loved sports, and really rooted for each other in our romantic endeavors. He was the one that I could go over any text from any guy with, then joke about whatever game was on. We wanted VASTLY different things out of our romantic partners, so I never thought feelings would develop for either of us.

Yet. There were times that Mark and I would flirt. Very innocently, and the few times he crossed the line I felt comfortable talking to him about it and we would be ok. Then, I went through a breakup, and like many things in times of transition, I changed my schedule. I got out more, I wasn’t available as much. That seemed to make Mark mad. It felt like every text I got was a bit angry, had a biting remark about my schedule, and he seemed mad at me that my breakup plan didn’t involve him.

I told Mark that while I cared deeply about his friendship, that I only ever wanted to be his friend. I didn’t want to hurt him, but I also didn’t want him to be mad at me for that. Mark seemed to take it well and things were ok between us.

For a month or so.

Then he began making highly sexual comments and jokes. I would tell him that it made me uncomfortable and he would tell me to learn to take a joke. Which of course, was a red flag for me. When this happened for the 5th time, I simply blocked him. I just didn’t want to hassle with someone violating my boundaries over and over. And while I miss his friendship, so much of that had been turned into anger and someone who didn’t seem to respect me- so there isn’t much to miss.

How would you handle a situation like that? Have you been able to save a friendship that’s been through that?

Xo RA

Fall Party

Investment Piece: Fall Party
Investment Piece: Fall Party
Investment Piece: Fall Party
Investment Piece: Fall Party

Have I ever met a party dress I didn’t like?
I honestly can’t recall.
Which probably says a lot more about me than it does about party dresses. And yet, I can tell you all the details, nuances, reasons why I love all the party dresses I have (and have missed out on).
This one? It’s every so slightly vintage inspired- that tent shape, that neck bow, that low back. It’s so comfy (I mean, it’s the perfect dress to eat or drink ANYTHING in) but oh-so-chic. With just-so-slight kitten heels, it lets me feel like it’s the 1960s while being completely modern. This combo has become my new go-to for fall parties (even the virtual ones),

Pro-tip- with dresses (or tops) that show off my back, I like to wear my hair up. I feel as if it shows off the statement of the dress!

Investment Piece: Fall Party
Investment Piece: Fall Party
Investment Piece: Fall Party

This dress is Staud. Over the pandemic they’ve become one of my favorite brands, I love the vintage feel of these clothes, with modern touches. And every single piece I have from Staud has been so comfy and flattering.

No matter if you’re going to parties or staying in, they have never let me down. This exact dress is sold out, but below I’ve linked some of my current favorite Staud dresses, and these EXACT shoes (they’re Kate Spade and they’re on sale!)

Investment Piece: Fall Party

A quick note about fall parties. I know so many of us (me included) are not yet comfortable with big crowds (a pandemic will do that to you). Has the fact that I’m not going to parties stopped me from buying party dresses? Not at all. But it has changed the way I’m wearing them (aka at home or with a mask). Please wear and go where you feel safe- and know that the right party dress will always feel great at home!

My shopping picks are linked below. What fall party are you headed to this weekend?
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: Fall Party

Sunday Chronicles: My Wishlist

Investment Piece: Let's Get In Formation

As I mentioned here, this year holiday shopping is starting early due to supply chain issues. I don’t know that I’ve perfected how to handle gifts guides here on the blog. Gifts, I think, are best when they’re personal, when they mean something, when they’re a way to let the reciever know that they’re seen and love. Generic lists have just never done it for me.

So, my big idea is that I would profile me and people in my life in the hope that something on one of our wish lists would inspire you, help you think of things that may be perfect for people with similar intesrests, or give you great things to buy. I wanted to start with me, but it’s been so much more difficult than I thought it would be!

It’s not that I don’t want things (I want things ALL the time). And it’s not that I don’t know who I am or what I like (I manage to find things I like all the time and can spot things that are “me” from anywhere. I have a running list of bookmarked items on my phone that serves as part of my wishlist). However, the process of making a list (that constantly changes) with all of my interests (that can often be contradictory) to give to others has been a bit overwhelming, and I’m not sure that I have “it” yet. In fact, every year I struggle with telling my family and friends what I want (I am the reason I advocate for gift cards).

But, if you’re here, you either like what I like or know someone who does-so I thought I would tell you a bit about my current wishlist, what I’m shopping for, and what I’m loving right now (and yes, if you shop for you, that’s a gift too!)

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 love fashion (obviously) and while I can be a bit all over the place I love Classic pieces and a bit of sass. We all know that I can’t say no to any party dress or standout pieces. I’m thinking of this gold set for NYE and love the cutouts in a dress!

Speaking of classics, I also am loving the new revamp of Banana Republic- chic work and safari inspired looks. Here are some of my favorites:

Lately, I have been loving workout jumpsuits (unitards? bodysuits?). And I currently love all of these:

I also LOVE Mother jeans (they have a high rise cut that flatters me!) Mother released 2 new fits this week and I’m already in love with them!

Another item I keep looking at? A sweater dress (I just love how comfy and classic they are!) These are some I’m currently loving:

As we know, I love vintage. But vintage can be difficult to shop for other people (if you’re shopping for a vintage lover make sure you have their wishlist, measurements, and know return policies). That’s why I often just let people know about the vintage bags I love (and ask for gift cards for any other vintage!). This Coach bag is just so yummy!

Of course, there are books I want, and very randomly I want the Schitt’s Creek Monopoly game (I’m usually not a fan of board games). It’s the time of year to began thinking about what you want, and what you want to get others; I hope that this glimpse into what I’m currently wanting helped you find something for someone you love (or you!)

What’s on your wishlist this year?
Wishing us all a week of getting our wants and amazing shoes!
xo RA

Modern Preppie

Investment Piece: Modern Preppie
Investment Piece: Modern Preppie
Investment Piece: Modern Preppie

What clique were you in while you were in high school?
I know it’s kinda a trick question because every high school was a tad bit different, but I think there are certain cliques we can all recognize: the jocks, the populars, theater kids, the nerds, the preppies, goth, and if you’re in the south, the kickers (like Cowboys).
While it sounds cliche, I was a bit of a floater- I was a theater kid but also was on dance team, and was a in the smart crowd. Rubbed elbows with the popular kids but wasn’t really one of them. And while I would have never told you that I was preppie- and in some ways I still don’t consider myself preppie- I can’t help but LOVE (like just adore) some preppie style.

To me, preppie style means certain things. Sweater Vests. Big Collars (though apparently those could also be bow girl?). I think of preppie as a clean cut, laced up, school-spirit like style.

I always associate Tory Burch and Kate Spade as preppy, but I know that they can have twists to them, which is maybe where the modern comes in?

What does preppie (or preppy? I realize I’m not sure how we spell it!) mean to you? And are you like me and when you hear “preppie” you always think of the Zach MORRIS character in Saved by the Bell?

Investment Piece: Modern Preppie
Investment Piece: Modern Preppy
Investment Piece: Modern preppie

This was my take on modern preppy. I love, love, love a good sweater vest. Paired with tailored cropped pants and a block heel. There’s just enough sass- nothing under the vest, and the snakeskin on the shoes. But it’s clean cut. Almost school girl. But not. Maybe modern preppy is a bit like hot librarian?

I would really love to know your thoughts on modern preppie- what it is, how you style it, if you love sweater vests like I do! Below I’ve linked the pieces to recreate this exact outfit AND some of my favorites from the fall collection at Tory Burch. Happy Shopping!
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!

This outfit:

Tory Burch Fall:

Investment Piece: Modern preppie

Fashion Halloween: A Look Back

I LOVE Halloween. And I LOVE costumes! Maybe it’s the actress in me, but especially with fashion Halloween, I love thinking about a character, getting an outfit together, and getting to be someone for a night!

Full confession: by Halloween night I’m usually in this:

Investment Piece: I put a spell on you

On the couch watching “Hocus Pocus”. But I still love playing dress up throughout the month.  Last year, I did 2 looks for Fashion Halloween:

Investment Piece: Fashion Halloween

A Mrs. Maisel from the first season

Investment Piece: Fashion Halloweend

And a Moira Rose. Yes, both involved pjs (it felt very appro for 2020). This year, as much as I love Halloween, I am not quite sure what to be. Of course, it would be so easy to be a witch or a queen (things I’ve avoided because it seems so obvious). I have a few flapper dresses (and authentic 1920 pieces), so it’s tempting to do a 1920s “roaring” theme- but I wear those clothes all the time so it feels odd to now call them a costume.  Since my favorite movie of the season is “Hocus Pocus”, it might be fun to dress as the Sanderson Sisters (but that involves getting 2 more friends in on it).

 

In sum, I’m a bit at a loss for what to be this year – I love coming up with glam costumes that not only seem high fashion but are great ideas for Halloween. I would love to get some input- anything you’ve been dying for me to try? What comes to mind when I say Fashion Halloween? Any ideas?

Do you know what you’re being for Halloween yet?
Xo RA

Long Weekend Sales

In the States it’s National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and while there are many ways to celebrate the Native People of our land (and I support them all), but here on the blog we’re celebrating the best way we know how- with sales. It’s an interesting time for sales, it’s the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, especially with supply chain and Mail concerns this year, if you’re online shopping for gifts, sooner is best! By no means will these be the last sales (I think this weekend sales are only the beginning, expect sales now through the holiday season), but there are so many FANTASTIC sales this weekend, it’s a bit difficult not to be excited by them (and want to buy everything)! Here I’ve rounded up some of my faves, as usual you can shop more sales and the like by following me in the Shop.LTK and ShopStyle apps (@racheladelicia).

I would love to know- what are you shopping for?

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
Investment Piece: Long Weekend Sales
I love Kate Spade’s cheerful and colorful take on preppie basics and modern classics. Everything is 30% for the holiday with code HOOTHOOT. You can shop my picks here

DL1961
Investment Piece: Long Weekend Sales
The sculpt jeans at DL1961 are some of my faves (and your backside will love them too!) They are all 20% off this weekend (as are chic jackets and cropped sweatshirts!) You can shop my picks here

Club Monaco
Investment Piece: Long Weekend Sales
From cashmere to chic mini skirts, I love the classics at Club Monaco and this weekend they’re all 25% off with code WELCOMEFALL. Shop my picks here

Coats and Jackets
Investment Piece: Long Weekend Sales
Looking to freshen up your jacket game? From teddys to shackets, all these picks are 30% off at Carbon38 with code COZYUP. Shop my picks here

Paige
Investment Piece: Long Weekend Sales
So much more than jeans. From Blazers to knit dresses to on trend leather, everything is 25% off with code PAIGEFAMILY2021. Shop my picks here

I hope that I included something you like (for you or as a gift!). Happy shopping!
Xo RA

Sunday Chronicles: Shop Pink

Investment Piece, Floral, Pink, fashion, blogger, Ca, TX, Gucci

It’s October, and at least in the States that means that one of the things we’re “celebrating” is Breast Cancer Awareness. (I know, celebrating isn’t the right word. Honoring? Acknowledging? Giving towards?) Maybe, like my family, you’ve been personally affected by breast cancer. Maybe it’s something you’re scared of, or maybe you just like the idea of part of your shopping dollars going to a good cause.

No matter the reason, I have great news! There are so many brands and stores giving you the chance to use your shopping to give to breast cancer charities. (I call it shopping Pink because of the use of the color pink in all the breast cancer charities, but call it what you like!) I know that shopping may not be the best way to give, but I think this is a great way if you’re going to be buying something that you already wanted, or planned on, or want to give, or to do in someone’s name. Any giving back is a great way in my view.

There are so many places to use your shopping to shop Pink, but I’m profiling just a few (really one here). As more opprotunities and things I love come with a chance to shop pink I of course will keep you in the loop!

Sarah Flint
As you may know, I’m a Sarah Flint ambassador, and I could not be more proud to partner with a company. Besides being woman owned, besides design details that cater to what I really need in shoes (arch support, steel enforced heel, a bit more room in the toe boxes), I love the community that comes with this company. The founder, Sarah, listens, uplifts, and genuinely cares about the women who buy her shoes. And this month there are 3 (very chic) ways to shop pink!

Investment Piece: Shop Pink

The first way to shop pink at Sarah Flint is this chic pink pair of the infamous Natalie flats! Light pink snake-embossed nappa leather, a pointed toe with an asymmetrical bow, that’s handcrafted in Italy, these shoes are so feminine and chic (long after October!). This month 20% of all net proceeds of this shoe will be donated to Touch, the Black Breast Cancer Alliance, which collaboratively works towards eradicating Black Breast Cancer. You can shop this special Natalie here

Investment Piece: Shop Pink
Another way to Shop Pink at Sarah Flint? This limited edition Chateaux Garden Scarf (which comes in 2 sizes!). It’s 100% silk with hand-rolled edges, made in Italy, and it’s the most gorgeous pattern, of course featuring the color pink. This month 20% of net proceeds of this scarf will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc, whose mission is to provide early detection, education, and support services. You can buy this scarf here.

The last way to shop pink this month at Sarah Flint? Use my code SARAHFLINT_BAINVESTMENTPIECE while shopping any full price shoe and $50 will be given to one of the Breast Cancer charities listed above. While I’m a heel lover, I can truly say that my Sarah Flints are some of the most comfortable shoes I have (it’s the arch support!)

Investment Piece: Not Your Grandma's Sweater

Another one of my favorite shops is donating to Breast Cancer this month: Cult Gaia. Cut outs. Interesting shapes. On trend shoes and bags. I’ve pulled some of my faves for you to shop-these are perfect for upcoming holiday parties (or gifts even to you! I’m considering the gold set for New Years!):
Note: this is an affiliate link. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

I truly hope that breast cancer has not affected any one you love. And if your form of giving back involves shopping I cannot recommend the above products enough!

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

Foundations

Investment Piece: Foundations
Investment Piece: Foundations
Investment Piece: Foundations

I will admit that I love the fancy details. The shoes. Bags. Details on basics. I have a tendency to fall in love with them, spurlge on them, and point them out again and again. Yet, as much as I love those details, I know that the foundations are where you should spend your money first.

Is it cliche if I let you know that the foundations are the true investment pieces of your wardrobe?
And yes, that includes Blazers and pants, shoes, a great day bag.

You could even include lingerie on that list.

As much as I love party dresses and special pops to any outfit, if pressed, I would have to tell you that the foundations are where to spurlge first. Recently, I fell into love with a new foundation- and while it’s a base that I’ve been building almost every single outfit on- it’s completely unexpected.

Investment Piece: Foundations

This piece is a bodysuit (or catsuit? Jumpsuit? I’m not sure what we’re supposed to call them!) via Ernest Leoty (not an affiliate link!) They call themselves the couture of activewear, and I have to agree. While I wear things like this all the time to work out (yes, I’m either in party dresses or workout leggings) and wear leotards with a LOT (I am who I am), I would have never thought that I would dare to wear a bodysuit like this as my outfit. But-it holds me in all the right places, I feel good in it, and the compliments were unending in this!

Investment Piece: Foundations
Investment Piece: Foundations

Of course, I’m not just wearing this bodysuit (though I totally would!). From capes (I have a thing for them and they go perfect with this time of year! I also did an IG Reel on capes @racheladelicia) to this amazing wrap coat. I love that it’s sleeveless, tailored, I want to wear it as a dress and over everything. But it especially goes great with this foundation.

And when it got hot, I felt comfy wearing the jacket open as the foundation was so good! My fave shoes and a great bag didn’t hurt either.

While I never thought this bodysuit would be my fall go-to foundation, I’ve made outfits over it almost everyday this week. What’s a foundation that surprised you? Would you wear a bodysuit (alone or with something)? I would love to hear about it! Below, I’ve linked this exact coat and similar bodysuits for your shopping pleasure- if you style them I would love to see 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!

Shop this look here

Investment Piece: Foundations

Now and Then: Halloween Shirts

Investment Piece: I put a spell on you

We all know that I love Halloween Costumes, and that each year planning my costume is a joy for me. Yet, I would be lying if I didn’t admit to the fact that one of my favorite things to wear during spooky season is this shirt that says “Bad Witch”. It’s both cheeky and a great shirt to wear as a “costume” when I’m answering the door for trick or treaters or just on an October day.

Until recently, I never thought about buying Halloween shirts vintage (and we know I love vintage), but then I remembered all the great Halloween shirts from my childhood. There were every thing form spooky movies on a tee to general Halloween themes. And of course, for new shirts you can get spooky shirts both scary movie themed or general.

(I’ll be honest, I haven’t been able to resist the Hocus Pocus Shirts at Target! I’ve also linked them below!)

Anything that you can find both new or vintage- and is chic either way, I can’t resist. Below I’ve linked both new and vintage Halloween shirts for your October pleasure! I recommend wearing them with jeans or leggings or a skirt, from your errands to parties to staying home to enjoy the season in! From answering the door to trick-or-treaters to spending the holiday in your own low-key way, I love all of these shirts and would wear any of them all Halloween season long!
Xo RA

Note: this post does contain affiliate links. While this does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

Modern Knit

Investment Piece: Modern Knit
Investment Piece: Modern Knit
Investment Piece: Modern Knit

Every season I get determined to find the perfect knit (sweater) dress. Fitted but not too fitted, warm-but because I don’t live in a super cold climate- not too cold. I’ve had several knit dresses (and have loved them all), but there’s something about this knit dress. And the kicker? It’s not modern.

Investment Piece: Modern Knit

This modern knit is really from the 60s (I got it from TakeMeBackBaby, you might remember the other stunner I have from there this polka dot dress!). Wearing it I feel not only modern, but sexy, in control, chic, and put together. It’s both sexy librarian and date night appropriate. A dress that can do all of that? A modern knit dress indeed.

Investment Piece: Modern Knit
Investment Piece: Modern Knit
Investment Piece: Modern Knit

I know, I know, a knit (Sweater) dress and boots are so cliche, but I love to think that anything that can shake that up is worth while. Maybe it’s a necklace? (This one I vintage Monet) Or maybe it’s the unexpected- kitten heels with snake skin boots, or a knit dress that’s a bit fitted or with pockets! Either way, there is something about taking a tried and true formula and making it new, or modern knit as it were.

What’s your go-to formula for knit dresses? And how do they make you feel? Knit dresses are such a basic for me, and yet I can’t resist making them new year after year. For you, what makes something modern? What are you looking for in a knit dress? There are so many modern takes on the sweater dress, and yet, clearly the knit dress is something you can also buy vintage- and have look modern!

What are your tips for knit looks? Tell me everything!
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!

You can shop similar items to this entire look here

Investment Piece: modern Knit