If you’re like me you’re looking forward to a few things this holiday: pie and what to wear! Let’s chat both! Continue reading 3 Criteria for Thanksgiving Outfits
Tag: outfits
Trend to Try: Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?
We are so sorry for the lack of post on Wednesday! The server had a downtime and we were not alerted in advance- it feels as if everything this summer is a bit off. What’s not a bit off? A trend that comes back. One of my very first posts asked the essential question: Are Socks with Peep Toes Something We’re Doing? Hint- my answer was yes. And on Fall trend lists this question -for all heels, etc- is being asked again. My answer hasn’t changed. So- let’s revisit a bit of tips and inspo- and sock shopping!! XO RA
There are times when I think of trends for us to try, that aren’t exactly trends. Socks with Peep toes? Not only was it one of my very first posts (look below, I’m so grateful you stayed with the site while we grew. We’re still growing!); I keep seeing this look everywhere!
And I get it! It’s a way to: show off a great pair of socks, hide a bad pedicure, wear heels in the winter, and make a statement.
I loved this “trend” years ago, and I still do! See:
What is it about socks with peep toes (or any heels) that’s such a pull? I love that it’s slightly cheeky, slightly edgy and slightly classic. It’s just the combo that seems both fashion forward and almost geeky (can we admit that fashion can be geeky?) all at the same time. A trend? Not really. Something you should try? Absolutely!
Below is my orginal post and thoughts on the matter:
Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?
They are something we’re doing.Look at any magazine, any campaign right now and there they are–peep toe shoes worn with socks. Do we like it? Is this what we want? I will be honest–I was hesitant, but I LOVE these Chanel boots that look like socks:
So I thought: How bad can it be?
And here’s the answer: Surprisingly enough, not that bad.
I found it’s really comfortable. I think it looks best when the colors match– but it can be fun. So if you like it–why not? And if you can’t–I get that too.
Some style tips: feel free to ease into the trend by wearing the same color sock as shoe (it will read like a boot).
Play with sheer as they can give a hose like feel which can be a bit more comfortable as well!
Patterns, bows, all can be done as an ankle sock till you feel more comfortable.
This trend is so customizable and oh so chic- I hope that if you haven’t before that you play with it and make it your own!
I’ve updated some shopping options for you! And would love to know: would you rock this trend to try?
XO RA
Notes: This Post Does Contian Some Affilate links, while that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
Fashion Stories: TV Fashion: The Americans
Most of this is a repost. When I first started this blog, I knew that I wanted to talk (and show!) stunning fashion, outfits- and tell stories. As we know, for me stories and fashion are a part of the same thing. It’s taken me a while to really refine my vision and how I talk about our fashion stories, but the ideas have always been there. At first, I wanted to talk about fashion on TV and Movies (because, as an actress it made sense to me). This was one of my first attempts. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot (again) about costumes and costume designers. I talk a lot about how what we wear tells our stories, and one of the most visible ways (and ironically, one place where we learn how to dress for what we’re trying to express) of fashion story telling are costumes. They let us know so much about a character- who they are, what they like, what they’re dealing with, who they want to be. Costumes are such an important part of any show or movie you’re watching. I promise. So, I’m looking again at what I was thinking about the Americans- and how the story of being a spy is one I’m drawn to. I’ve added a link to an interview with the Costume Design Team from this show- and I’m also currently shopping items like these!
Xo RA
In case you haven’t been watching, “The Americans” is simply one of the best shows on TV right now (seriously, go binge). It follows two Russian spies, living in the US in the early 80s–and I love everything about it. So much goes into making a great, timeless, compelling show–the story, the actors, the production–but also, the fashion. When I completely fall for a show, like I have with “The Americans”, I find myself wanting to live in their world, and while that isn’t always possible, dressing like them can be.
Let’s be clear, I’m not calling for a return to all 80s fashion (let’s just say no to big shoulder pads), but when fashion is great, done well, and timeless, elements of any period can be added to your wardrobe. It’s a case of “classic fashion never goes out of style”. The fashion on “The Americans” is not only great and classic–a lot of it would look modern today!
A Great Coat and Boots
It’s on every “must have” or “invest” list–a great coat and a great trench. When it’s paired with boots it’s a classic outfit–and all over Instagram as we speak. Spring is a great time to buy a coat on sale, and trenches are always a good investment. I’m a fan of high boots, they never go out of style.
Some of my picks:
Trenches: Ralph Lauren, Burberry, and Zara
Boots: Stuart Weitzman, Frye, and Steve Madden
Wrap Dresses
DVF made it ionic, the shape makes it completely flattering. A wrap dress is great in every decade and in every way–short, long, dress up, casual, there’s just something about this silhouette that looks great on everyone. It’s a classic you need and here are some of my picks:
Wrap Dresses: DVF (on sale!), DVF, and Ann Klein
Great Jeans and a Top
Ironically enough, high waisted jeans and tie blouses are back in style–but I think any jean rise that looks great on you and any simple blouse is a classic hit. There’s something both effortless and pulled together about the combo. Some of my faves:
Jeans:JCrew, , and MOTHER
Tops: Equipment, Anna Quan, and Zara
Read about the costume process here.
Would you wear any of these costumes? Be a spy?
I’m game!
Xo RA
Mom’s Style
I’ve been posting this on my mom’s birthday for a few years now- it’s become tradition. While my mom’s birthday is on Thursday this year it’s a big week of her birthday, my birthday, family in, Mother’s Day and prepping for some fun shoots, a deep house clean and a big work trip. My mom and I are close, and yet different. However, as I get older I realize I’m more like her than I think, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Especially now, as some of us are apart from our families, I think about how the women in my life shaped me. I spent the past few years isolating with my mom- it wasn’t always easy, but I’m so grateful we did! Even though we spent the better part of the years not getting dressed up- I still learned about style from her over this past year. And yes, we’re getting dressed today! Hope whatever your relationship with moms are, this season lands easy. Xo RA
Loves! It’s my Momma’s birthday! (on Tuesday!) If you haven’t caught on, my mom and I are close, and I can’t begin to describe how much I love her, and how appreciative I am for all she does for me. Mom is a CPA and teaches accounting, she’s our CFO, and while that’s completely different from her creative daughter who thinks shoes are a necessity (I mean I need shoes, I occasionally want to eat); Mom’s style has influenced me and helped me become the fashionista I am today. So, what did I learn from Mom’s style? Glad you asked!
Stay True to Your Style
No matter the trend or what “you’re supposed” to do, sticking to what you love and what works for you is something to be admired–and makes you look stunning! Mom is a big fan of navy. She is known for her love of navy suits, shoes, and bags. There are years when navy is “in” and years when we’ve had to search for navy for Mom. That doesn’t matter to Mom, even when the styles she loves aren’t in she sticks to them. There’s a classic-ness in that, a commitment. That’s not to say Mom doesn’t try new things, but I’ve learned that you don’t need to be a slave to trends, that sticking to things you love is something to be commended, and when you find something that fits you–hang onto it!
Proper Undergarments Matter
Mom and I have had a lot of events recently and at everyone Mom has mentioned that she thinks I might need a slip. (Side note: I have slips, I’m not great at wearing them) Here’s the thing though: Mom may have a point. Lining, slips, proper garments: our clothes fit better when we make sure these things are taken care of. Proper fit is important (Mom is big on that too) and to ensure that the fit flows, proper undergarments help. (And let’s be honest, no one likes the look of lines!)
Invest in Your Suit
Something Mom and I agree about whole heartedly? Your suit, be it an actual suit, jeans or yoga pants, is something to invest in. Mom, being an accountant, is a fan of actual suits and made it a point to invest in good ones each year. Now that she’s in a place where she’s good on suits, Mom is having fun filling her closet with tanks, tops and blouses (both classic and trendy) to wear with her suits. However, she’s always adamant that her suits are high quality, she checks seams and linings, that it’s where she spends her money. And loves, I agree–what you wear the most should be where you invest your money.
Don’t be Afraid to Accessorize
Mom is a more conservative dresser than I am, yes. However, Mom is not too conservative for a great accessory! I can’t remember a time when Mom didn’t leave the house without a scarf, jewelry, pins, or gloves. We do a high tea occasionally, and Mom is always on point with her hats (and gloves!). The lesson? You can always be playful, and the details are always a place to have fun!
While Mom and I may have different opinions about certain fashions, but my Mom has some amazing style, and I’m so grateful she taught me all she knows!
Have some champagne to celebrate!
XO RA
Rock a Caftan
This week has been a little off. We were without power on and off for a few days. Then my neighbor had a gas link — and somehow it made me sick! On top of a very busy to-do list, it was a bit jarring. To say the least. But. it’s the weekend which really kicks off the season (as it were). The Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo. Even on the couch I will be rocking this caftan (and maybe drinking something minty or spicy). In the meantime, let’s revisit this pieces!
Caftans are the quintessntail summer chic. They’re elegant and yet they hide everything. (I’ve always had a thing for caftans including this one from my love AAVintedge). Caftans can be worn dressed up or down, at the pool or on a casual day, there’s no right or wrong way to Rock a Caftan (part of their appeal).
My fave way to Rock a Caftan? Find one you love that makes you feel special. This one from NewCropShop is simply to die for! Those sleeves! That embroidery (all done by hand!) It’s perfect for an event (even a wedding) or just a day that needs a pop.
You can order one at New Crop Shop, shop my picks below, and let me know all the ways you Rock a Caftan!
XO RA
All above pics taken by Kyn Photography
Loves, I have to admit this post was hard to write! Not because I don’t love this caftan, or love to Rock a Caftan, but because my heart is in TX. At times like these it can feel so overwhelming and we can feel so helpless that we do nothing. I understand that. I think the solution, and how we combat that is to do a little. As one of my fave people says “Do a little with great love”. There are so many organizations that you can choose to give to, I won’t tell you which is best. I’m linking Red Cross and this article from Texas Monthly that outlines where you can give. I know various stores are giving part of their proceeds this week to relief efforts, and I will link them as I get details. Let’s go out there, Rock our Caftans, love each other, and do some good.
And loves! Remember our great Skin Print EyeDeal giveaway? Due to the craziness of this week I’m extending the deadline! Go get you some amazing eye cream!
Fall Blues
It’s officially fall and I’ve spent most of the week fighting off the latest variant (still). It’s been one of those weeks where work, scheduling, most everything has been rearranged and moved aside in an effort to recuperate and feel like myself again. Things that help? Outfits like this. Shoes that wrap. Skylines and slits. Stay tuned for updated looks and new things coming. Here’s to entering the new week feeling like our best selves! Xo RA
Fall Blues are a thing.
The colder weather, the shorter days, the change in the air–it can leave you feeling a little down. Or the fact that the colder weather and change in the air aren’t coming quite as quick as you would like. The only cure I know of? Deep breaths, leaning into the change, and getting excited about sweaters and boots. All valid things.
The good news? Loves, these are the kind of Fall Blues that involve sad feelings, deep breaths, or even loving sweaters. These Fall Blues are the kind that make you want to dance, that go with any kind of weather, and doesn’t require a love of boots (though you should still probably be excited about boots). This is blue silk and crepe. This is a bell sleeve, a wrap top, and a slit that goes there. This is the kind of October Blue that can make you happy now and later. And loves, that’s an October Blue I can get behind.
In pieces this Cult Gaia ensemble is amazing. The top would go great with jeans, trousers, a different skirt. The skirt? I’ve already worn it with a great graphic tee (I’ve already worn it with my Tom Petty tee), a white button down, or one of those beloved sweaters. And the silk is some of the softest I’ve felt in a while. I love the drama that the lace up shoes bring, and who can go wrong with a vintage Bottega Venetta clutch? The real trick here for Fall blues? Besides blue, it’s simply trusting that one color can carry an outfit. I’m a huge fan of monochromatic looks, and while the sleeves and the slit help, I think that any one color look can make an impact!
I got this limited edition Cult Gaia years ago, and while it’s no longer available, the feeling of the look is so easy! Any skirt and top can mimic this feel (and I’ve linked my faves below), you simply need to embrace a monochromatic look, have some fun, and find yourself a rooftop!
If you’re still suffering from Fall Blues, I can recommend apple cider and wine. If that doesn’t work, you’re on your own!
Shop my picks below, they do contain affiliate links (I get commission though there is no added cost to you!
Happy October Blues!
XO RA
And if you love this exact top you can shop my closet on Dora Maar where you can find that and so many other goodies!
When it’s not love….
I originally posted this last September, but I’ve had a few instances recently where I’ve bought things (then returned them) because I just didn’t love it. I’m gearing up to do another closet clean-out and it has me thinking: what if it’s not love? Should we buy every trend or keep everything just because it’s trendy or a basic? Shouldn’t we aspire to a closet of things we love, and feel free to let go of everything we don’t? There’s a saying that you shouldn’t settle in love, well, loves, as a person who loves her closet I’m beginning to think we shouldn’t settle in fashion. When it’s not love, let’s let it go. Get my original thoughts below!
What to do when you HATE the trend
NY Fashion week has come and gone, and we’ve been presented with what’s on trend for now, and for the Spring. Which is great, right? Hopefully you’ve been inspired and are excited about what will be/is offered to you, and you have ideas and plans on how to wear it (or you’re excited to see how we wear it here!) But loves, let’s be honest with each other. There’s a chance, and there are times, when you just HATE a trend. Maybe you try it and it’s just not flattering on you. Maybe it brings back bad memories. Maybe you just hate it so much you can’t bring yourself to try it or think about it. I get it. I know, I’m in fashion and supposed to encourage you to try new things. Which I think you should. But not everything is for everyone.
Loves, I’ve struggled with this part all week. A part of me is torn–I feel as if I’m supposed to encourage you to try new things. Maybe the right piece, the right time, the right color will change your mind on a trend. Maybe. Trying different versions of a trend is also valid. Maybe you hate cold shoulder, but you love a certain off-the-shoulder. Maybe. Classics may be your thing and you don’t want to vary out, but one dress could change your mind. Maybe. I think all these avenues are great-again, I’m for us all trying things. But loves, sometimes things don’t work. And that’s valid too. Trends are simply that, a passing fancy, and if you don’t like it, it’s ok. A new trend will come about, or classics are always in style.
There are trends that I don’t like; and my personal view is that fashion is supposed to be a fun way to express yourself–not a list of things you HAVE to wear.
So, at the end of the day my biggest advice is, if you don’t love it, don’t wear it. That simple. Love what you wear, wear what makes you feel good!
XO RA
Ruffles and Stripes
I’m not one for things that are too sweet; that includes desserts and fashion. Bows don’t do much for me, embellishments have to be just right, and I usually am picky about ruffles. However, some times things come along that are the perfect combination of sweet, classic, and fun, and I can’t resist them. Like this dress! I love the ombré blue stripes. I love the ruffles that aren’t too sweet. I adore the neckline and how low the arm hole is, I even love the bows (or knots) on the shoulder. Perfect for a bbq, wear it with heals for a night out, this dress screams fun and summer. This is the type of sweet I can’t resist.
This dress is from years and years ago- but the thing about a perfect not too sweet dress is that it’s something that you can go back to again and again. There hasn’t been a summer since I’ve gotten this dress that I haven’t worn it repeatedly. With my classic Dr Scholl’s (my cousin was the first to turn me onto how comfy these classic sandals are, and now they are my go-to recommendation for summer sandals!) or with heels, or with flip flops or anything in-between. This dress screams summer to me, and it’s been a part of so many of my summers. Even with its sweetness, it’s just right for me.
Ruffles and stripes are such a classic combo, but I love how this dress feels fresh! I couldn’t help pair the white and blue with a pop of red, but it would look just as great with tonal accersories. And if you’re a little shy on top, I think this dress layered with a white tee or tank top would be on point! Don’t forget your straw bag (this one is my mom’s from the 1970s, moral of that story is don’t give anything away), add a hat, and you’re set for the last few weeks of summer!
Shop my picks below! XO RA
As this dress is a few years old, I couldn’t find the exact dress, I’ve linked both striped dresses and tiered dresses that I love and that remind me of this dress. And of course, my favorite Dr Scholl’s Originals!
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!
Getting in the Water
Loves, in a moment of vulnerability, I have to admit, this was a hard week. I know, we’re all having hard weeks. It’s just a hard time. And what do I do when it gets tough? Buy shoes! Well, yes. But other than that, a thing I do is get in the water. There’s something about water-surfing, paddle boarding, just sitting by it, that calms me down and makes me happy. Getting in the water is one of my favorite coping mechanisms. And getting in the water in fashion? I LOVE it!!
And loves, this is why I love this job. I love the creativity of it, the thinking out of the box on how to present my fave fashion to you, and the people I work with. This dress is Clover Canyon, and as an Ocean Baby I can’t recommend them enough; their clothes are made of neoprene (always water ready) and the patterns are to die for! I love that my photographer, Katy Shayne, was nonplussed when I said I wanted to shoot this dress on a board and that I would figure it out! And so we figured it out, I got on a paddle board and we were able to get great looks from the dock (the dress is water ready, cameras not so much). Bonus-I got to be on the water and got a session in after we were done!
Another moment of vulnerability: this shoot is from years ago. Yet, I’ve updated it. And it rings true. This week, in August 2023 has been tough. My reaction? Get in the water. I found my self putting together a closet, stressed about what to shoot, and needing to be in the water. So, here we are. I went to the water, and I wore this dress (yet again) and things are looking up. Isn’t it funny how things can come full circle?
I’ve updated my shopping picks (and while I love swimsuits and wearing them out, thank you for indulging me in wearing dresses in water!) and hope that however your week has gone, you’re getting in the water!
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!
Pretending to be in Paris
It was a national holiday and the weirdest short week this week. So many of my Social Media feeds are full of friends and acquaintances who are traveling- from Europe to Asia to all the islands. With the holiday being on Tuesday, the week has been so choppy, and while there are a ton of great sales (and great sales coming), I decided to join everyone. At least in spirit. I’m linking and shopping for us, but just know, at least mentally, I’m pretending to be in Paris.
Sometimes the only reasonable response to a week is to pretend to be in Paris. To find a place that gives you the feel of the city of light. A cafe with great espresso and red umbrellas. High end art and velvet couches. A dress that’s classic and red lipstick. Loves, I have a confession to make: I’ve never been to Paris. It’s on my lists, and has been at the top of my Vision Board for years, but it hasn’t happened-yet. And with all the things in the world, it may be a while till I get to go. So, while I’m determined to make Paris a reality for me, in the meantime, I spend some time making Paris a reality for me, here. This may be the part where you tell me I can’t know what Paris is like, and that might be right, but I get to create what I want, and isn’t that amazing? My Paris? Chic, fun, and has amazing wine. I get to wear amazing dresses and act like the art I love. Will the real Paris live up to mine? Well, there’s only one way to find out, and I’m willing to take one for the team, and try it out!
Loves, how can you not feel like you’re some place magical in this dress? I love the black and white, the stripe, the silk. It’s timeless and classic, and lends itself to any situation,and any magic. We may not be in Paris, but here’s hoping your Friday is full of magic–and that you get to wear something like this!
XO RA
The dress is Valentino, I got it on Vestaire Collective for less than $300 and I’ve found you similar! Shop my similar and Paris inspired picks below!
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!