Investment Piece – Page 71 – Everyday Editorial

Swimming Pools

During our time in isolation, some of what I’m thinking about is getting in the water– if nothing else I’m determined to get an inflatable pool for the back yard so I can be in a pool. This was one of my favorite posts- a vintage suit, an empty pool. Life is a lot right now, I keep wanting to chat about fashion essentials, however, I can’t seem to get the words right, or explain to you how I want to dress up and celebrate but end up in sweats without sounding depressing. And I’m not sure what we need right now- I bounce between fantasy and reality dressing (and books!). While I figure that out (and if you have anything you’d love to see on me or on the blog PLEASE LMK), in the meantime let’s enjoy this. Let’s think about what we want to wear and do this summer, and maybe the essentials will come.

Stay safe and healthy out there!

Xo RA

Investment Piece: Swimming Pools

Besides being an ocean baby, I’m a sucker for a great swimming pool! Even when it’s empty! I loved shooting this (and this view–I can’t wait till the pool is finished!)– the idea of a vintage suit in a new pool, it’s all the juxtatiposition I love! Suits like this one are simply amazing, though high coverage, they suck in, push up, and make you look fantastic! I paired it with a jacket of my grandma’s and a vintage hat (and pearls). Who says the pool can’t be lady like?

Though every piece is vintage, this would be an easy look to recreate using modern pieces. A great one piece, a hat, and a jacket–Summer is calling! And it would be perfect pool side or ocean side!

I linked some of my shopping picks below!

I hope you’ve loved swim week as much as I have! XO RA

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

Ex Files: Pandemic BreakUps

Investment Piece: Ex Files

My loves, I have been loving our recent video chats for Sunday Chronicles, chatting about all the things that we’re going through during this Pandemic. But. I couldn’t bring myself to do one this week. This week felt heavy, sad, and anxious, and I felt like I had nothing else to say. I’m sure that will change 🙂 But as I began to think about this time of isolation and what we’re all going through, I couldn’t help but think of ex-files and how awful it must be right now to break up with someone. What would be worse? A zoom break-up or having to still live with someone you’re no longer dating?

I’m lucky that I am not in either of those situations, but I’ve been amazed (in all meanings of that word) of people who are. The stories range from relatable to down right horror. Here are some that stand out for me:

Getting Dumped During a Pandemic

7 People on their Pandemic Break-ups

Zoom Breakups and Live in Exes

And Social Distancing BreakUps

I can only imagine how hard it is, when I deal with breakups there’s no cure like a girls night (out or in), and right now that’s not really a possibility. How are you dealing with relationships right now? Dating and friends? Personally, there are days when I can’t bring myself to deal with anyone, and I’m grateful for friends who know that my silences aren’t signs of issues.

I would love to hear your stories. I hope that you’re staying safe and healthy. And that this week is a good week for us all.

Wishing us isolation with people who care about us and amazing shoes!
XO RA

Is my Attitude a Problem?

Investment Piece: Wonder
Loves, I’m not going to lie. This week was hard. Like I spent 3 days in the same workout gear hard. We’re all dealing and doing the best we can, I’m no exception. I find that I can have 2 great days, I’m cheerful and productive, super excited about all the online classes and friend chats, all those things. Then I will have 2 days when everything is overwhelming, my anxiety is high, I’m sad and depressed, and I tend to eat a lot of crackers and lay on the couch. We know that I believe in the power of fashion, and it’s power to change our feelings (see recent evidence here) but this week I couldn’t bring myself to use any of that power I know fashion has. Outfits, posts, a lot was put on the back burner while I just dealt with life. Late on Thursday, I finally brought myself to shower. And get dressed, and it did help. As I was thinking about what to share with you, I kept going back to that, and what makes me feel good to wear. I love a good party dress, but maybe what the world (and me!) needs right now is attitude. A good attitude, a can do attitude, an I’m going to be ok attitude. Reminding myself of that felt good. So, I hope that you forgive me for a repost, but I hope we can all take the tongue in cheek, feel good, express yourself fashion from this post, and wear things this weekend that make us feel great, like ourselves, and that make us smile.

XO RA

Investment Piece: Is my Attitude a Problem?

One of the things that I love the most about fashion is that it can speak for you. It can tell people who you are. Want to be a high end art student today? Great! Biker chic? Got it. Princess/spy/CEO? There’s an outfit for that. Me? I love that I can be all the things on any given day. And that on any given day, my fashion can let you know my attitude. Which begs the question:

Is my attitude a problem?

Investment Piece: Is my attitude a problem?

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, Levi's, sass, vintage, LA, CA

I’ve always had an attitude. My mother could write those articles you see on social media about “raising a strong willed child”. (Note: Strong Willed is the PC term for attitude) There’s the time when I was almost 3 and took my sister out of her crib to watch Sesame Street with me while my mom was in the shower. When my mom (understandably) freaked out, I told her to calm down.

Then there’s the “attitude problem” I have of not being able to keep my opinions quiet. (Even my facial expressions betray me.) I think you’re an asshole? You probably know. I am not happy with something? There’s a great chance you understand why. And here’s what I love about fashion: I can use it to have an attitude FOR me.

I’m not your baby.
Whatever
Asshole
Bad Bitch
Hands Off

I have shirt that say it all. One of my favorite looks is a graphic tee with anything (jeans/pants/skirts/amazing shoes); and when that graphic tee can express a bit of attitude, it’s just a bonus! Is my attitude a problem?

I don’t think so!

Investment Piece: Is my attitude a problem?
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, A Tractor, high fashion, Ca, TX

However, loves, graphic tees are not the only way to let someone know that you have an attitude. Anything you wear can be full of attitude. (I think this is the part where I tell you that you just have to feel it to share it). BUT, if fashion can let you be anything you want, it can convey any attitude you want. Sweet, sassy, hand off. And instead of worrying if our attitude is a problem, why don’t we revel in the freedom that having any attitude brings us?

I’d love to know: what attitude are you giving today? How are you using fashion to do it? Is my attitude a problem?

XO RA

I’ve linked some of my favorite graphic tees/jeans/etc below. Give ’em hell today!

I also use my glasses to let my attitude shine. Just saying.

Investment Piece: Is my attitude a problem

Business on Top

Investment Piece: Business on Top

There is no denying that these are weird times. I’m used to working from home, and I’m still at loss on some days about my schedule, etc. What I am good at? Business on top, lounging on bottom. It’s a skill learned from many a day with online meetings, but no need to go anywhere. And it’s a skill that’s come in more and more handy.

My favorite version of this look is a fancy top with leggings, though you can also wear a blazer with your leggings. Or a sweatshirt with a skirt, if you’re reversing the formula :). The off the shoulder look is simple, chic, and gets the job done. These types of shirts are fun and make me feel like I’m at an event.

I trust that no one has to sell you on leggings. Crop. Long. With pockets, without. I’m partial to black or leopard, but at the risk of making this a “leggings are pants” post, any leggings will do!

For zoom meetings, Netflix binges, or just the feeling that you’re getting dressed “for real”. Business on Top. I approve it!

I’ve linked similar shopping items below- believe it or not, these pics are from 3 years ago. Business on top has always been a WFH method for me!

I hope that you’re staying healthy and safe!
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: Business on Top

Sunday Chronicles : Schedule

What’s your schedule like during the W? Are you getting things done? How? Let’s chat about it!

Wishing us all a week of safety and amazing shoes!

Xo RA

Caftan Summer

Investment Piece: Caftan Summer

This post is part FBF, part caftans are a must for this time we’re in, and part as I’m living in my caftans more and more I couldn’t help but reshare one of my favorites. Things are different, there’s no way are out that, and I have no information about how long it will last. I do know that caftans make all activities, even just staying on the couch, seem more glamorous. This post all stands true, but I’m linking HM’s new caftan collection here:
(Yes, these are affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!)
I love the colors and shapes!

Investment Piece: Caftan Summer

Historical garment. Lady of leisure. Hostess dress. Swim cover up. Hippies.
All associated with a caftan, all true of a caftan, and just the beginning of a caftan. Chic yet comfy and cool, I love a great caftan. In fact, this has been a caftan summer. Over my swimsuit with flats. With heels for nights out. I always get compliments. Always stand out. Always feel great.

Caftans let you make an entrance, and let you relax. How many outfits you have that let you do that?

This caftan is handmade, ModMelrose via AAVintedge, and one of my favorites. It feels both modern and very 70s chic, all at the same time. This caftan? Perfect for the summer-I stay cool, it’s light. Yet, it’s red and paired with these suede platforms, perfect for fall, too!

Maybe I’m biased, but you may need to spend the last few weeks of summer in a caftan.

Investment Piece: Caftan Summer

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

The question remains, how do you caftan summer? Casual? Formal? Modern? Vintage?
I, of course, have opinions and options for you!

Love the ModMelrose? AAVintedge has so many options for you! The best way is via Instagram (@aavintedge).
Something a little more modern, but with a vintage feel? Try These:

From the beach to drinks, there are more options:

And, naturally, I have shoe options. I’ve been going on and on about platforms for weeks. I love mine. You need some. I love these:

I would love to hear about your caftan summer! Whatcha doing? Where you going? What caftan are you summering in?
Xo RA

Investment Piece: Caftan Summer

Laundry

Investment Piece: Laundry Mat

In the best of times, I’m not great at laundry. I let it pile up,and I’ve been known to try to overload the machines (I blame this on years of apt living with quarter machines. But it’s also me). And now, with our social distancing in place, I’m thinking about how I can use this time to get a little more skilled at laundry days. I love my clothes, shouldn’t I want to take care of them?

Investment Piece, high fashion, unexpected Pink, breast cancer, high fashion, blogger, CA, TX

Laundry Basics

I’ll admit, laundry is my least favorite chore. It feels like it’s never done. And while, again, I love my clothes, piling them into a machine has never been my strong suit. As it’s not something I’m great at, I asked around. My mom, my friends who are great at it, a friend’s maid, the people at a laundry mat. These are tips that I was given, and in my experience, work!

1. Smaller loads. Yes, I want to get it over with, but I want my clothes cleaned properly so? Smaller is better.
2. Make sure to read the tag! (More on this below!)
3. Sort. Colors and whites. (Pro Tip: Seperate hampers let you do this when you get underessed, saving you time!)
4. Turn knits and tees inside out. Tie sashes. Use mesh bags for delicates and socks. In other words, set your cleaning up for success!
5. Dry your clothes to the instructions on the tag.

Need more help? These articles helped me, from understanding the tag to what to do about your workout clothes:
12 Laundry Mistakes You’e Probably Making
How to Read Laundry Tag Symbols
Your top Laundry Questions Answered
How to do Your Laundry
Do Your Laundry Like A Boss
Your Best Laundry

Investment Piece: Laundry Mat

DryCleaning
Ironically, I’m good at DryCleaning. (Or I used to be good at taking the right clothes to the dry cleaner). Now, I’m waiting till things change to take my dry cleaning clothes in. My dry cleaner is open, but priority is given to essential workers, and their uniforms. And my big projects for my tailor there are BIG alterations that would take more than one fitting. Not a good fit for social distancing. The following two products are ones that I’ve used reguarly (even before this time!) and love. Yes, while dry cleaning might be best, these at home products are amazing!

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

1. Retro Wash takes stains out of everything and revitalizes vintage clothings. Use the directions on the bag, but essentially you dissolve the powder in hot water, then soak your clothes in the mixture for 3 days. (Tips: use plates to keep the clothes submerged. Or, if you can, keep the clothes in the sun to keep the water warm!) I’ve used this to get out blood, yellow lace has become white, and more. After the stain is gone, you just rinse and wash! Easy!

2. Dryel or Woolite at home DryCleaning. I love these systems. They refresh and can remove stains from my dry clean only items. Yes, I feel like my clothes still need to be dry cleaned every once in a while, and there are items I only trust to my dry cleaner. BUT. For the time we’re in, and what may need a refresh, these products are an amazing option and easy to use!

I’d love to know: what are your laundry tips?
Xoxo RA

Happy Easter! Happy Passover!

Investment Piece: Happy Holidays

The holidays look a bit different this year. This is usually the space where I would wish you a spring holiday, no matter what you celebrate, full of love, togetherness, and peace. Love and peace are still available, but for our future togetherness we have to be apart right now. It’s hard. There are days that I’m full of fear and anxiety, I miss family and loved ones, I miss going places. I get scared for so much. You may be feeling that way too. I have no idea what’s to come, but I do believe that we are promised that we don’t ever have to be alone. In the new normal of FaceTime and Zoom, I wish you comfort and togetherness. I hope when you’re feeling alone you remember how we love and need you. I wish that our collective fears will be calmed. And, as spring and these holidays are a message of renewal, I wish you new beginnings.

To us coming out of our apartness to better normals and sweeter togetherness.
Xox RA

Backyard Parties

Investment Piece: Backyard Parties

My loves, none of us can ignore the fact that things are different. And yes, you’ve heard me say more than once that I’m coping with fashion. I won’t bore you with that talk again 🙂 I also won’t speculate about how things will change, or when they will change, or what the timeline for change will be. None of us know.

What I do know? In the midst of this uncertainty and change, there are still celebrations. And love. And reasons for party dresses. Maybe it’s nothing like how we planned (I have great shoes for this look,but it turns out you don’t need heels for backyard parties. And it’s just as fun to be barefoot!) but we can still party. Even in our backyard.

I’ve never been one to turn down a party dress. It’s just not in my nature. And while this dress (a vintage Diane Freis, it’s so comfy and looks like a party by itself! Read more about Diane Freis here and see my other Diane Freis here) is going to look great in the outside world at parties, it goes great at a backyard party, too!

What do you need for a backyard party? Maybe some champagne (or a cocktail of your choice!), maybe a reason (though parties without a reason are just as fun!), and maybe a dress. I’m a fan of a party dress. But, if you must, you can always party in what you have on (no matter what it is). Al you really need for a backyard party is a good attitude, in fact that’s what most parties are made of, the champagne and dresses are just bonuses!

Things have changed, and we might be caught up in it all. But we’ve made it this far. Wanna have a backyard party with me? I’ll throw this on, you get ready, and though we’re apart we can all go in our backyards and toast ourselves. In my book, that’s worthy of a great party dress!

I’ve linked similar ones to this vintage number for your shopping pleasure below!
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: BackYard Parties

Face masks

This is by no means meant to replace any medical advice from the CDC, and not a reason to stop staying home, BUT, this is my take on the DYI face mask now recommend for when we do our essential trips out. My take? Use a vintage scarf! It’s a great way to show your style, and if needed support your local vintage shop by buying scarves! There are so many fashion designers providing masks, from Reformation to Mother Denim to Chloe Dao, and so many, many more. If you have the means to donate to these causes great! If you can buy masks for yourself and others on sites like Etsy, great! This time is a little hard, and I don’t know about you, but there are days when I’ve felt overwhelmed and sad. However, using my fashion sense to give back this way is a little thing I’ve found that helps me feel better. Stay safe and healthy out there!
Xo RA