Investment Piece – Page 81 – Everyday Editorial

Sunday Chronicles: Cleaning Our Closets

Yet another season has started, and I completed another closet clean out. Every single one feels like the first. There are things I can part with, things I can’t, and things I’m slowly moving towards letting go of–a lot like the rest of my life. Each time I clean out, I think back to things like this. So, I’m re-sharing for all of us who may need it!

I clean out my closet. A lot. I feel like we talk about it. A lot.

And I’m not sure what that says about me. I’m fascinated by what we have in our closets. Closets are such a personal thing. The stories that they hold, the things that we keep–part of why I started my series about fashion stories (see here, here, and here). It’s no secret that my closet is vast, I collect vintage (and other things), view fashion as art, and am a firm believer that we should hang on to the things that bring us joy (even if they aren’t every-day wear).

However, every time I clean out my closet I have this fantasy of going minimalist. I’m convinced I’m going to get rid of SO MUCH. There are clean out theories I subscribe to, that I’ve given you, and I agree that things not being used don’t really have a place in our homes.

Then, I go through my clothes. My babies. And there are things I just can’t part with.

I came across this on Instagram recently:

Investment Piece: Sunday Chronicles

(I would love to get credit for this. It clearly isn’t me. Yet–I loved it scrolling in the wee hours when I hadn’t quite woken up yet, but was somehow online. Yes. All of that. I haven’t been able to locate it in my likes or my feed–if you know this genius, please let me know and I will credit them!)

I love this take on the practice of cleaning our closets. There are some things that I WHOLE heartedly agree with: don’t settle for OK, hold out for the best, get rid of things that don’t showcase your best self, etc.

But. There are things that I’m not fully committed to. I think holding onto anything that brings you joy is valid. I think we do have items that are not wholly our every day lives in our closets, but I think that lets us explore things.

This little message really stuck with me. So I made us a video about it:

(Also, YouTube and I may be in a fight for that image being the saved one)

I’d love to know your thoughts on all this. If we want to clean out our closets, why can’t we get rid of stuff?

Wishing us all a week of only the best and amazing shoes! Xo RA

Not Your Grandma’s Sweater

Investment Piece: Not Your Grandma's Sweater

The irony? This is my Grandma’s sweater.

In some ways I may have been wanting to prove that great things last. I love wearing pieces of my Grandma, she was such an influence on me, and wearing her things makes me feel close to her still, even though she’s passed on. Though, I have to admit, this is not the way she wore this sweater.

(In other news, wearing our cardigans backwards is a thing we’re doing this year. I promise. And as you can see, it’s chic. But if you need another voice on that, you can check out The Cut.)

This sweater is perfect for wearing backwards, with the ties. Add jeans and classic mules?
Not your grandma’s sweater, or your grandma’s sweater, make the perfect fall outfit.

Investment Piece: Not Your Grandma's Sweaters

I’m a fan of “uniform” outfits that are anything but uniform. Call it with a twist, call it making things my own, but things like my Grandma’s Sweater? I love to make them look like they are not my Grandma’s sweater. It’s not that I go out of my way to make things feel “out there”, but I want things to look like me. And why can’t I be both classic and out there?

This look is one that I hope feels fresh, but comfortable for the season. It’s easy to put together with things you most likely have in your own closet; but I’ve also linked similar items for your shopping pleasure!

Wear your Grandma’s sweater. Or not!
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!

Investment Piece: Not Your Grandma's Sweater

Sweater Weather

Investment Piece: Sweater Weather

Here’s my current fantasy. It’s cold outside. Not cool, not in the 80s, but cold. Like in the 60s (I’m completely aware that I’m betraying my southern and California roots). But that kind of cold, I’d even take the 50s. And it’s raining. All day rain, not short showers or a brief afternoon shower. The kind of rain that is steady all day, and just strong enough to make everyone want to cancel any and all plans.

So. It’s cold and rainy. And we’re staying in. There’s stew, like butternut squash, on the stove. And wine. (Even more than one bottle if it’s warranted) And we have no where to go. What do we do?

We stay cozy in our sweaters (in this case a dress), and be chicly comfy. How’s that for a sweater weather fantasy?

Investment Piece: sweater Weather

Some fashion notes:

This sweater dress is from the 90s. I rescued it from a bag for Good Will that my mom had set out. (I also rescued some custom suits my grandma had and I’m so grateful I did!) I usually like things fitted (not always tight, but well fitting); however, I love that this dress is oversized. It feels comfy. And cozy. Great with heels for a bit of fall cocktails. Great with boots (any boots), for a bit of fall weather. Details, like a great vintage pin, can elevate the look, or pull it all together.

Hint: this pin is made to drape over your shoulder and you may need help fastening one like it!

Also, someone asked me if this was my take on VSCO girl style?? I’m not sure what that means. But yes, I can say the speed with which the 90s fashion is back on trend is shocking. And that not all of that is bad, like anything, I think you can make anything your own. So??

I’ve linked similar items below for your shopping pleasure. In the meantime, if fall weather is a “if you build it, it will come” thing, I’m trying to do my part. What about you?

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: Sweater Weather

Sunday Chronicles: Fall Bucket List

Investment Piece: Fall Bucket List

Some things that I’ve been thinking about since the calendar flipped over to October:

-we’re down to the last 90 days of 2019. Which just seems crazy! What is it that I want to accomplish in the last quarter? What will put me in the best position for 2020?

– Is basic or non-basic to say that I’m not really a PSL gal? Pumpkin? Yes, if we’re talking breads or muffins, or the real things. I’m just not one for flavoring my coffee with it. Or my popcorn. Or every thing else in my life. Why can’t we embrace fall flavors without going nutty about it?

The first question I’m still contemplating. The second I’m over, and will let every one else get PSL while I drink wine. (Imagine the winky face emoji right here)

But it is the time that I start thinking about my fall bucket list. I make one for every season, and while some are specific and some are rather general, I love going into a season with a sense of what I want to do. I’ve found time and time again that if I don’t make time in my life, I don’t have the time, so I’m a big fan of scheduling big things, and then trying to be spontaneous with little things.

And with that, these are things that I’m dying to experience this season:

– A Girls’ trip. Well, more than one. There are a few amazing women who are like family to me, and it’s been way too long since I’ve had some quality time with them.

-A seasonal outing. These seem so cliche, but apple picking or pumpkin patching are calling my name. I think it’s due to the fact that I don’t live in places where there is a ton of traditional fall weather and these activities feel like fall.

– A bonfire. Romantic and seasonal, all at the same time.

– Closet Cleanout and a deep clean (this is already mostly done!)

– A review of my career goals with strategies. So often I feel like we let the year wind down, I want to go out strong, and ring in the new year ahead.

-Gratitude. Every season, in its way, is a season of want. I really want to reconnect with my sense of gratitude, because really we are so so rich. Journaling, therapy, gratitude lists, bring it all on.

What am I missing? What else must I do this season? What are you doing this season?

Wishing us all a week of fall weather and amazing shoes! XO RA

That 70s Vibe

Investment Piece: That 70s Vibe

For all purposes, I wasn’t alive during the 1970s. I missed extreme bell bottoms and disco fever. Those Facebook articles that come along now and again that say “What You Know if You’re a 70’s Baby”? Not a clue about it.

What I can say about the 1970s? I love the fashion. No, not that. Not the loud and extreme and over the top, costume like fashion. But the 70s vibe that in this season’s trends? That I love. From pussycat bows to boot cut pants to platforms. To this skirt, that’s not quite 70s, but gave me that vibe.

Maybe it’s the color combo (and I’ll be honest, yellows aren’t usually what I gravitate to), or the pattern, but there was something about this skirt that I couldn’t resist. It felt so modern and yet so retro, and everytime I throw it on I can’t help but feel like I’m giving off that vibe.

Investment Piece: That 70s Vibe

This skirt is from the Richard Allan X HM collab. All pieces in the collection were outstanding-slightly 70s, full of patterns and colors, and easy to mix and match. There are plenty of ways to step away from the 70s vibe. Pair it with tee-shirts, sneakers, a simple heel, or a sweater. However, I couldn’t help but embrace that 70s vibe. Pairing it with boots, a leotard, and head scarf? Easy (and can hide all sorts of bad hair days), chic (I could write for days how we all need leotards), and classic.

Maybe the point is that something we thought was extreme can really be something we want to embrace. Like that 70s vibe?

This skirt has sold out, but this print is on dresses and scarves, I’ve also linked other items from the collab!
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 the look here

Investment Piece: That 70s Vibe

October Armarium Picks

This post is part of my collaboration with Armarium, though all opinions are my own. Renting is one of my favorite ways to be on top of trends, get every style you love, and be eco-friendly. There are so many stunning designers and looks avaible this month! Use code RADELICA for 15% off your first rental.

October is one of the best fashion months, in my humble opinion. It’s getting cooler (hopefully), and fashion opens up in a way that it doesn’t in any other month-mainly because of Halloween. Maybe it’s my acting background, or maybe it’s my firm belief that fashion is a means to tell a story, but my fashion imagination comes alive in October. Layers, pieces that could be used for costumes, outfits for any and all social engagements. I like to think that all of my rental picks for this month could be used for any of these reasons, so let’s get to renting!

Xo RA

Investment Piece: October Armarium picks
Witches costume? Perfect for a cocktail party? What if the answer is yes to it all!
Rent this look here

Investment Piece; October Armarium Picks
I want to wear this everywhere. And just wait till you see the back!
Rent it here

Investment Piece: October Armarium Picks
I love how classic this dress is, I think it’s perfect for meetings and parties, and could even be worn open over jeans.
Rent it here

Investment Piece: October Armarium Picks
I love this dress, and this month the Glinda the Good Witch vibes I get from it seem just right.
Rent it here.

Investment Piece: October Armarium Picks
This is just one of the stunning pant suits or pants that you can find on Armarium. From costumes to simple dinners, I love a great pantsuit. Or a great pair of pants.
Rent this number here.

Investment Piece: October Armarium Picks
This dress would be irrestible with boots, and that makes it a fall must in my books!
Rent it here

Rent what I love, rent something you love at Armarium. Use code RADELICIA for 15% off your first rental. Hope that you find all your October needs there!
Xo RA

Go. ALL. Day

Investment Piece: Go. ALL. Day

I grew up in a time when almost every single magazine, fashion or not, talked about going “From Day to Night”. Having outfits, make-up, shoes, etc that could either go or day, or be easily switched up, were the cornerstone of any adult life, or so I thought. And really, it’s not a bad idea. Maybe there’s something to an outfit that can be used for any life situation. Often I let you know all the ways that something can be worn, I’m a fan of pieces being multi-functional. Is this any different? Probably not.

Loves, today I have great news for you. In terms of going all day, I think I might have found the answer. There’s a dress that can do it all– I know because I’ve tried. From work (paired with a blazer) to drinks (with heels) to events (I wore this dress to a concert with sneakers) to everything I between (I’ve run countless errands with this dress and flip flops. Maybe you don’t have to do it all in one day, but if you do this dress can do it with you!

(If you want to skip right to the good part you can shop the dress here)
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!

Work
Investment Piece: Go. All. Day
Investment Piece: Go All Day

I’m the first to admit that I haven’t had a traditional office job in years. Office dress codes are not something that I’m up to date on, and I’m also more than willing to admit that my fashion sense doesn’t err on the conservative side. So, thank you to my mom (an accountant) for pointing out that a blazer over this dress would make it office appropriate in any scenario.

Drinks
Investment Piece: Go All Day

I think almost anything can be worn to drinks, all you need is the right pair of shoes. This dress is so easy to dress up, it’s simple and classy but looks great. The shoes here are just a bonus!

Play
Investment Piece: Go All Day

Concerts. Errands. Movies. With jackets. Flip flops. I’ve yet to find an event or place that this dress doesn’t go.

And now the great news! It’s Target. Yes, target. It’s under $40. It wears well, washes well, and looks great ironed or natural. I’ve gotten compliments each and every where I’ve worn it. I think the only question is:

What are you going to do all day?
Xo RA

You can shop this look here

The Ex Files: The One Who Got Married

Loves, dating horror stories are everywhere; this is my monthly attempt to be just a bit more like Carrie Bradshaw, expel some of my dating demons, and hopefully make you laugh (and feel better about your own dating life). Names and some unimportant facts have been changed to protect people; but the moral of the story is that if you want people to write warmly about you, you should probably behave better. Want more ex files? Try here, here, and here. You can also search Ex Files on the right (and check out my recent Instagrams, sign up for our newsletter, buy some SkinPrint!)

But without further ado, The One Who Got Married:

Investment Piece: The Ex Files, The one who got married

I found this charming story in one of those Facebook threads about horrible Tinder dates, and I had the realization that I, too, have a story about some one getting married. (A. Yes, I’m as horrified about that as you are B. Those “dating horror” story articles always make me happy as it makes me feel less alone C. WHO GETS MARRIED WHILE DATING SOMEONE ELSE?)

When I was in my early 20s, struggling in LA, I happened to meet a charming Irish drummer. I could barely understand anything he said due to his thick accent, but he was cute and sweet, and did I mention he was a drummer? I was in my 20s, it was enough. We didn’t have anything hot and heavy, or remotely serious. We went out for drinks twice, I went to see his band once. That was it, but he was sweet and called me at least a few times a week. On one such phone call, he asked me to go to Vegas with him for the weekend. I was working 3 jobs at the time, and couldn’t make it. He went, he had a good time, he called me the week after, I thought nothing of it.

However, he did begin to pull back after his Vegas trip. We made plans that fell through, he scaled back calling, we both lost a little interest. I didn’t really care; I was working 3 jobs and busy, and while I liked him, I didn’t LIKE him. But when he called me and asked me to come to his show the following weekend, I was in. (He was cute and he was a drummer). The day of the show, he called me to let me know that he had something to tell me. As it turns out, when he was in Vegas he got married, and his wife was going to be at the show. He said it was a “green card marriage”, but that his wife was taking it seriously, so I shouldn’t act like we were seeing each other at the show. I let him know that I wasn’t comfortable dating a married man, and we never spoke again.

This became a funny story, not something that I was upset about, because WHO GETS MARRIED and then thinks it won’t affect his dating life? As he and I never spoke again, I was left with many questions: Did his marriage last? Did she know he was dating? Did he really expect me to be ok with it? What would have happened if I went to Vegas-would he have asked me to marry him? Is he still drumming? We may never know.

The main lesson? Don’t get married while you’re dating someone else. It’s just weird.

Has this ever happened to you? I’d love to know!

XO RA

Vintage NightGown

Investment Piece: Vintage NightGown

I’ve always been a friend of wearing your pjs out and about. (See here, here, and here for starters.) My new take on this beloved trend. Vintage NightGown.

Emphasis on the gown.

Vintage nightgowns are a special breed. Most were made to be seen, and sold as sets. From silk numbers that scream elegance to cotton ones that beg to be worn out, vintage nightgowns are simply the dresses our grandmas wore to bed. Now we should wear them out!

(Note: a modern nightgown/dress company that I feel like is very similar is Sleeper)

This is a cotton number, pockets, cap sleeve, lace detail. It hints at the nightgown part, but reads as a charming dress. Perfect with heels, but I’m loving it juxtaposed with sneakers, specifically high tops. Cut the sweetness and be comfy.

Investment Piece: Vintage NightGown

Wearing this vintage nightgown, I feel a little mysterious. I got stopped on the street and given so many compliments, it felt like I was keeping a secret. (You know, like I was really in a nightgown and not this dress people thought it was) Perfect for running errands, perfect for nights out, and events. Who knows what I’m hiding in it?

Also, PJ dressing gives me a weird confidence. Like I’m at the grocery store in my pajamas, nothing can phase me confidence. That feeling is highly recommended.

My favorite place to buy vintage nightgowns? Etsy. You can find designer numbers (like Dior! We know I have a thing for Dior) to numbers that look like evening gowns. Wear them however you like, but don’t be afraid to wear them out!

I’ve linked similar items to these pictured below. I can’t wait to hear about your vintage nightgowns!
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 the look here!

Fall-ing

Investment Piece: Fall-Ing

Happy first day of fall! I know, I know, there’s a great chance that today still feels like summer. But it’s fall. Underneath the heat there’s a layer of new, a fresh start, and cooler weather. I trust that it’s coming. I wanted to dress for it.

Beyond the trends, the textures, and the sweaters, my favorite thing about fall dressing is layering. And while we stand in the space where summer and fall collide, I couldn’t help but layer the two. Yes, I put a bikini over a turtle neck. And I liked it. Just the right amount of edge, a way to get another swimsuit in, and felt right for this moment. I got the idea from an Instagram ad, and when I saw the idea, I knew I had to try it. I love wearing swimsuits as street wear, and anything that has a hint of Juxatipositon. Bikini over a turtleneck? Checks all boxes.

This combo was more comfortable than I thought it would be, this turtleneck is tissue thin, and quite versitaile! After this shoot I changed into both a skirt, and later cut offs. Layered bikini worked with it all.

The leather leggings? They are a must for the coming seasons. Chic, able to go with anything. We might not be at the point where you can wear them all day (though, you could crank your AC!), but that time is coming. And I like to be prepared.

Perfect outfit for today. Perfect for what’s coming. Perfect layering for transitions.

How are you welcoming the new season today? What are you wearing? Would you dare to layer your bikini? I want to hear all about it. And I dare you to try this layering combo!
Xo RA

Below are similar items for your fall layering needs!
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!

Shop this look here