Being Cool

Investment Piece: Being Cool
Investment Piece: Being Cool
Investment Piece: Being Cool

What’s your definition of being cool?

I feel like so much of my life has been spent trying to be cool. From following trends (we moved my freshman year of high school and I read that knee socks were in, I wore them to my first day with this inspired outfit. I was the ONLY one at my school remotely dressed like that. Which was one way to make an impression) to trying not to care too much, or at least show it (when the truth is usually that if I care, I care a lot). But what is cool? An outfit? An attitude? A combination?

Investment Piece: Being cool

This graphic tee (Which I like to think is cool) is all about the iconic picture of Faye Dunaway the morning after winning her Oscar. For years, I’ve thought this was the epitome of cool. The caftan. The pool. The uncaring. (I’m sure there’s a whole another essay/book about why not caring is seen as cool and why we should change that, this isn’t that essay, but I do love this shirt. And I would read it if you know of it!)

I’ve wanted to be an actress like Faye since I was a little girl (maybe that’s when my definition of cool started). Yes, I would like to think that I’m cool- and mysterious- but the older I get the more I think that being cool isn’t something that you can try your way into. I’m a bit sensitive, awkward, passionate, and I like to think that all makes me cool. I am no longer aiming for being completely on trend (I wear what I love and what makes me feel powerful) and instead of going for a “non-caring” attitude, I aim more for effortless.

Maybe that’s what Faye had. Effortless-ness. She just was herself and everything flowed from there. Or at least, that’s my hope- that being effortless (or cool) comes from just being myself.

Investment Piece: Being Cool
Investment Piece: Being Cool

In a completely cheeky way I will also tell you that wearing shorts helps you stay cool- but thinking twice about that, it doesn’t sound as cool as it did in my head. One of the traps of coolness?

(This is where I’m praying my sarcasm lands and is cool!)

I’ve linked these exact shorts and top for you! The shoes are vintage Gucci but I’ve found similar!
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: Being Cool

Sunday Chronicles: Cocktails and Caftans

Investment Piece: Cocktails and Caftans

I sometimes struggle about what content to place where. This blog is such a joy to me- I love telling stories here, I love hearing yours, and I love the community we’re still building. Yet, I know that I have to post on allll the socials (yes, sometimes it is overwhelming) and times I don’t know if I’m supposed to share the same content on all channels, or keep each to their own!

*** if you have thoughts or wishes about this I’m all ears. It’s a weird thing to balance- I want to make everyone feel heard and provide great content to everyone. If there are things you want to see or thoughts you’d love to share, please reach out!

All that to say: as you may now, during lockdown I started a video series on Instagram called Cocktails and Caftans. It started because I not only love caftans (chic and comfy! I’m in!) but wanted to learn a new skill (and make a martini) while at home. Over the year, it’s grown – and changed.

You may have seen some of the caftans and cocktails here.

Recently, I moved the series from Saturday to Sunday (yep, this afternoon over on IG username @racheladelicia you can see me in a caftan with a cocktail!). And then next week something AMAZING is happening on Cocktails and Caftans and I couldn’t be more thrilled!
Next week C&C will be LIVE for the first time ever! At 3pm EST (2pm CST) I’ll be live and I’ll be with Andie J. Christopher discussing her new book Hot Under His Collar.

Andie is an online friend (I met her after reading her first book Not the Kind of Girl You Marry_ a sweet read that’s a must if you love “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days”) and I can’t wait to hear all about her process and her new book. We’ll be popping champagne (pop what you like), I’ll be in a caftan (wear what you like), AND I’ll be giving away a signed copy of Hot Under His Collar!

I really hope you can make it next Sunday (and watch this Sunday!)! The user name is @racheladelica and there will be bubble and books and fashion- what more could you need!

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

Self Love

Investment Piece: Self Love
Investment Piece: Self Love
Investment Piece: Self Love
Investment Piece: Self Love
Investment Piece: Self Love
Investment Piece: Self LoveInvestment Piece: Self Love

This week was a doozy. And there were days when I was so behind I wanted to hide and cry- planned outfits didn’t work, shoots got rained out, many personal and professional things. I had no clue what to shoot or say today. Then I stumbled across this- I still have this outfit. I still wear this outfit. And it made me happy. I don’t think that self-love protects you from anything bad ever happening. But I do think it can get you through (also great jeans!). So this is up as a little reminder to us all!

I share a lot here with you. I’ve written a lot about self love, in various forms; mainly as it’s something that I’ve struggled with, and because I think it’s something that we can all related to. I love fashion, I think it’s freeing, I think fashion let’s you be who you want. However, as women, we live in a society who profits when we don’t love ourselves. We get messages about how we need to be perfect (and how we’re not) and how if we buy xyz product we could finally find self love. Social Media doesn’t help–though sometimes it does. I have to say, as someone who struggles with her body image it’s encouraging to see that everyone has rolls when they twist (because everyone does), and to see that everyone struggles. My personal journey to self love has been hard, and evolving. I’m still struggling to love myself on some days–when I mess up, or am tired, or fall into old patterns.

I made a decision a few years ago that I would be the love of my life, and treat myself as such, and it was the best decision ever. It’s still been difficult. There are still days when I can pick myself apart. There are still days when I’m not very nice to myself. I’m working on it. I’m working on loving me–all of me: my laugh, my lines, my quirks, and my flaws. I’m actively trying to be my own best friend, and the love of my life. I’m hoping that it makes me a better friend, and if there’s ever a lucky someone, a better lover.

This is the most intimate shoot I’ve ever done (the wine was not a prop!). No makeup. At all. A little sunscreen (loves, skin care is important). Nothing in my hair. I love my editorial shoots (it’s what I adore), I love my juxatipositons (I love sharing them with you), but it felt like it was time to really share myself with you. No screens, no distractions, no blurred lines. This is me. And I love me. And I love this community. And I love you for following along.

This is the part where I’m supposed to talk fashion. You need a graphic tee, you know this. I’ve always been a fan of flares and these flare jeans are not only stunning but I get asked where I get them every time I wear them. I’ve linked them and tee options below! But loves, let’s wear amazing fashion and let’s love ourselves. Let’s practice some radical self love this weekend, because that is not exclusive from fashion. In fact, I dare you to make your fashion a celebration of your self love.

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: Self Love

Now and Then: Keds

Investment Piece: Keds

As fascinating as I find it that you can find trends that are “on point” now in your vintage shopping, I’m equally fascinated by styles that never really went away.

Take Keds. Yes, Keds. Those white (traditionally) sneakers that we all wore and loved?

My mom brought them up the other day- she was remembering a pair that she got in elementary school, with flowers on them, and how much she loved them. Mom wore Keds all throughout her school years, and on her dance team in high school. I also wore Keds throughout school, and on my dance team in high school. (My favorite pair we had painted with firecrackers and replaced the laces with ribbon. I was in 5th grade and OBSESSED. I think we still have them in the attic somewhere!)

Now? The little girls I play with down the street love their glitter Keds that they wear as Princess shoes. Somethings don’t change.

Investment Piece: Keds

When something stands the test of time like that, what can we say about it? Being so fascinated by how so many generations love Keds, I couldn’t help but look up Keds now. Would they be the shoes that I loved as a kid? Different for the kids now?

Looking around Keds, I fell in love with these shoes all over again. Yes, so many are the same as I remember: simple, white tennis shoes, perfect for any outfit. And there were new shoes that were exiting- larger soles, colors, patterns, collabs. They are both now and then. Such a big part of my childhood, and shoes as an adult I want to wear with everything.

Investment Piece: Keds

Did you wear Keds growing up? Do you wear them as an adult? Tell me all about it!

I’ve linked new and chic Keds below (I’m thinking I’m getting the rainbow sole ones!)
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!

Swim Set

Investment Piece: Swim Set

We all know that there is nothing- nothing- I love more than wearing my swimsuits as outer wear fashion.

Need a little refresher? See here, here, here for start.

So imagine my intrigue and joy when I found a swim set that was a fashion set- as in a complete top and skirt that’s super chic- fashion/swim/outerwear/waterwear all in one? Turns out heaven is real.

Investment Piece: Swim Set
Investment Piece: Swim Set
Investment Piece: Swim Set

Some notes: this is a vintage set (I did find you some similar however!). Yes, that is not my real bust, this suit has a bra (bullet no less!) built in, and while I don’t fill it, I can’t bear to cut it out. Also- it’s kind of fun having it in? I’ve also tied the straps around my neck rather than use the clasp to make it fit a bit better. One of the best things that I can ever impart to you, vintage or modern, is both to embrace your clothes and make them fit you the way you like best!

My shoes in this shoot are my beloved Sarah Flints. I’m an ambassador for the company which means that you can use code BAInvestmentPiece to get $50 off your first pair at Sarah Flint. That is not a commission link, but they are the most comfortable heels I own (and Sarah offers so much more than heels!)

Investment Piece: swim set

While my immediate plans for this swim set are as a set- I love the skirt as a skirt aspect, it’s such a fun summer outfit; I love that it doubles as swimsuit. Going to brunch and getting straight into the water (as an option)? Here for it. A swimsuit that is this flattering? Double here for it. Outfits that can do all of that? Again, heaven.

And I can’t beat these colors. Or pattern. What I may be saying is that I may be wearing this for the rest of the summer, from events and lunches to errands, to the water. What a swim set!

I did find you similar vintage swim sets below! 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!

Investment Piece: Swim Set

In a Blue Dress

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

The thing about blue dresses versus red dresses is that they’re a little bit unexpected. They’re a bit understated. But while they may not have the reputation of a red dress, they can still pack a punch.

What’s that saying about a blue dress? And the people who were them?

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress
Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

I’m not sure that I’m a devil, but I can tell you that I love being in this blue dress. Simple enough- it’s cotton (machine washable), goes great with sneakers, and makes errands fun. But it’s also elegant enough- I love the neck detail, it goes great with heels, and makes any summer event special.

I’ve even worn it on a special night out with sneakers. The possibilities in a blue dress are endless.

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress
Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

Maybe the color of our dresses doesn’t matter. My closet is full of black, and yet I can tell you how each piece is special, needed, and different from the others. Yet, I do truly believe in color, and try to pepper it in as much as I can. But, I would be lying to you if I didn’t admit that there are colors that I’m drawn to- red is one of them (that’s why I keep bringing it up!), but I love a good blue. And this is a good blue.

You deserve clothes and colors that make you happy. That let you be everything. And make you feel special.
Maybe it’s a blue dress for you, too?

I’ve linked this exact dress (and similar ones!) below for you!
Xo RA

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

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

It’s that time of the year again- the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

This sale can seem like a lot (so many things), lasts for a month, and is either your favorite (old and new seasons dicounted and deals that can rejuvenate your waredrobe) or your least favorite (Everyone talks about it ALOT). No matter where you fall on this spectrum I have a little something for you.

Nordstrom’s is doing the sale a bit differently this year: previews started yesterday, early access for Card Members begins July 12, and the sale ends August 8th. If this is not your thing- great news! This is the one and only dedicated post we’re doing for the sale. Love this sale and want to shop it constantly? Got you covered there as well! Follow me in the LiketoKnowit and ShopStyle Apps (I’ll be constantly updating my looks and picks, crossing my fingers we all get what we want!).

While you may not be able to join the sale till after July 12, this preview gives us a chance to really think about the sale, stragetize, and shop (or pre-shop!). How I recommend planning out your Nordstrom Anniversary Sale shopping?
-Think about what you need. No need to go overboard and clean out your closet, but take a look at what you’re wearing. What you’re going to wear. What you want to wear. What holes do you need to fill? What do you need to replace? Make yourself a list to give yourself a starting point. Then:
-Take your time going over the preview. Look at all the categories. Look at all the things. There is so much going into this sale, especially in the preview, it’s not the time to limit yourself at all. Maybe you find things you didn’t know you need, maybe what you needed looks different than what you thought. Get an idea of what you love, need, and wouldn’t hate.
-Bookmark everything you like. Even kind of like. Bookmarking will help locate your items ASAP when you’re able to shop (and you can do that in the shopping apps or even in your internet browser).
-Buy as soon as you can. My motto for this sale is that it’s better to return than miss out and regret. Things will sell out, and while some will be restocked, some won’t. There are fantastic deals to be had, and you don’t want to end up paying hundreds more later on!

With that all being said: how do you feel about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale? What are you looking for?

Friday we’ll have non-sale content up, but below I’ve linked some of the things I’m loving in the preview!
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!

Happy July 4th!

Happy July 4th!

If you’re in the States, I hope that you have had this holiday weekend off and that it’s been full of celebrations and fun! If you’re overseas, I hope that you’ve had a great weekend and are enjoying a summer weekend full of love and fun!

Here at Investment Piece we’re taking today and tomorrow off for the holiday. There are a TON of sales, and if you want to shop with me follow me in the LiketoKnowit and ShopStyle Apps (available in your App Store! I’m @racheladelicia and @investmentpiece!). We’ll be back on Wednesday with summer styles for you!

Xo RA

July 4th Sales

Investment Piece: Summer Mood

Admist the holiday (that I hope is full of relaxation, loved ones, and fun!) there are a ton of sales happening this weekend. Everything you can think of and everything you need, as well as some things you didn’t know you need, are on sale. The best way to shop with me is by following me in the @LiketoKnowIt and @ShopStyle apps as I’ll be updating shopping picks all weekend, but below I’ve rounded up some of my favorite sales!

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!

Carbon38
Get an extra 40% off sale at Carbon38 with code VAULT40

ShopBop Sale
Favorites from the ShopBop sale

Spanx
Get an extra 30% off sale at Spanx- no code needed, discount reflected in price!

Rebecca Taylor
Get up to 75% off romantic must haves

Cult Gaia
Sophisticated and stunning and 25% off with code MidSummer at Cult Gaia

What are you buying this weekend?
XO RA

Fashion Stories: Comfort

Can I tell you a secret? There are times, as we move out of the pandemic, when I think that I’ve forgotten how to wear clothes. Not making outfits- but the muscle memory of how clothes fit, how they stretch out over a day,and move with us. It’s been a little uncomfortable. But instead of freaking out about it, I’ve being trying to embrace this in between as a time when we get to explore- see what style we love, what feels good, and what stories we want to tell. Let’s chat about it!

I would love to know: what are you wearing? What are you comfortable in? Has it changed? How are you dealing with this in between we’re dealing with?

Xo RA