RachelAdelicia – Page 13 – Investment Piece

Sunday Chronicles: Catching Up

a cat biting the heel of a woman wearing a white dress with tabby cats on its

It feels as if my life has been a comedy of errors lately. And that’s not always a bad thing, but I am wary to make plans as none of the plans that I have made recently- from friends to pilates classes- have some to pass. Some of the things that I’ve had to break plans for have been AMAZING (print jobs, acting gigs, etc) but some things have been comical- weather and other extensional reasons. Yet, no matter what the reasons I’m missing my routine. And my friends. AKA Nothing ha been doing to plan, I’ve had to cancel too many times, I’m constantly scrambling to readjust my plans. What I’d really love to do is catch up.

So my goal for this next season (Taurus, like me! if you’re into that sort of thing, or just late spring) is to get to follow through with my plans. Classes. Lunches and more with friends. Shoots on certain days. I know not everything is in my control- from weather on down- but everything that is in my control- I’m willing it to go towards catching up.

Also-this goal to catch up doesn’t only apply to my plans (which I AM going to stick to), it also applies to me. From my workouts to my writing schedule (which I’m still working on solidifying), I’m looking to keep commitments this seasons- especially if the commitments in question are to myself. But how do you make catching up to yourself a thing when your work is always in flux? Honestly, I’ve been working as an actress since I was 20 and as a blogger for the past 8 years and I still haven’t figure that out 100%.

But for both me and my social plans I can’t Not plan on anything coming up (yes, I know that’s a double negative). Perhaps what I mean is that no one can ever see all the turns life will throw at you. What I can say is that I am determined to get to catch up. Stick to my plans. If I have to cancel reschedule right away. Maybe it’s a way of being more on top of my schedule, or maybe it’s a way of not letting my life get away. Catching up, at its heart, is about sitting down and listening to some else. And perhaps what I’m craving is really listening to my friends, and me, so that I can adjust my plans.

The coming up season- from birthdays to weddings to showers to graduations is a bit overwhelming, which makes it a perfect season to stick to catching up on what you need- and making that a priority. Exactly what I plan on doing.

Wishing us all a week of plans that follow through and amazing shoes!
XO RA

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:

Investment Piece, fashion, blogger, Red//Pink, Gucci, Brian Atwood, Jcew, Ca, TX

Stuart Weitxman, Pan and the Dream, tulle, socks, fashion, blogger, vintage, high fashion, InvestmentPiece

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?
Investment Piece: Trend to Try: Socks with Peep Toes

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!

Old Becomes New

a woman in a vintage peach night gown with flat sandals with fruit charms

What’s the saying? Everything comes back around? It all comes back? What you give you get? Or as in clothes and trends and all the like- old becomes new. As in, everything comes back in style- or you can make anything modern. Which, yes, does make cleaning out your closet a most difficult task. In this specific instance, this 1930s nightgown (sheer and lace and all the trends) becomes a modern dress (the sheer trend is going nowhere), especially when paired with modern sandals (fruit core, anyone?)

I am such a fan of vintage, and feel that oh so many of the things you can buy vintage look and feel and can be styled in such a modern way-and yet I know there is a temptation when buying vintage to dress is almost like a costume, or in the style of its own period. So. How do you make something old new?

a woman in a vintage peach night gown with flat sandals with fruit charms

When thinking about old to new, or how to wear vintage as modern, one of the most important things to remember is that as the saying(s) go- everything comes back. Sheer is in? Sheer is to be found in so many decades and their styles past. I find that so many vintage (old) styles can be so modern – or another way to say that trends can always be found looking back- and it’s all in the styling.

My first rule of any and all shopping from old to new is to buy things only that you love- and that you know you can style in oh so many ways. The going from old to new, or styling vintage as modern will simply follow.

a woman in a vintage peach night gown with flat sandals with fruit charms

This “old” (aka vintage) nightgown is a great example. First, it’s so gorgeous all on its own. And while it might take some thinking, is able to be styled in oh so many ways (and not just sandals to heels, there are layers and all sorts of details you can play with here). While this was originally a nightgown, now it’s not so modern to wear something this elaborate to bed- but as a dress? Right on trend. And for this summer, and to be incredibly modern, I can’t help but pairing with my favorite summer sandals- these fruit 3d pieces are just so chic. And the bee!

While shopping old, I don’t seek out trends that are modern (though that is a strategy! and a way to find chic pieces at that). I look for pieces that I love- and then I simply wear them all as if they were new. It can take a bit of practice, or training yourself to pick pieces that you truly love (one of the measures of timelessness) and letting any modern styling follow. But once you see that all old becomes new, it’s so easy- and chic.

Are there any old pieces you have and love that could be modern? Or any modern pieces you would love to see if you could shop vintage? If I can help with this let me know– it’s one of my favorite fashion exercises!
Here’s to all the old and all the new and everything that can be both! XO RA

I have linked these exact sandals and some 1930 nightgowns that would be great as oh so many things for you 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!

a woman in a 1930 nightgown and modern fruit sandals

Sunday Chronicles: Recovery

a woman in navy floral off the shoulder pant suit on a bed with a crochet bed spread

This summer has not gone to plan at all. There’s been health issues. A ton of burnout. Lack of creativity. Feeling just off and not like myself.

Yes, sometimes this is just life. We go through phases like this. Lose ourselves and find ourselves, recreate ourselves all over again. Yet, when you’re coming out of a period that feels “not you”. Or illness. Or switching habits, schedules, and the like. It can feel like recovery. Which I think – at least to me- is hard to admit. Recovery is something I associate with a serious illness. Or addiction (even shopping!). Or something major. From burn out to minor illness to trying to switch my habits and schedules all summer I have been beating myself up a bit as I felt like this was all things that should “come easily” or I should “get over” and “not take time with”.

Yet. Recovery. Any kind of recovery takes time. A lot of my adult life has been spent in gyms and with that comes injuries (both mine and observing others). And it’s not a rarity that recovery is difficult for many of us. Mainly as it involves admitting that you need a step back- or a change. Rest. A reevaluation. All the time that I have spent being hard on myself- and wondering why I was still burnt out or not feeling great (or event shy the house hadn’t been deeply cleaned) was a bit counter productive. In my heart I know that- that rest and focus on recovery would ironically help me recover and change my habits faster. A physical injury needs rest and recovery, and so does any burn out, etc.

But. Why is recovery so difficult? Why is rest, even rest you know you need, hard to allow yourself? Quell surprise, I have none of the answers. Even admitting to myself that I need to recover, or at least a few days off, has been incredibly hard (why I feel like I always need to be on is beyond me). Letting myself actually recover? Working on it.

For me recovery needs a lot of rest- even if that just means doing what I love (like pilates classes and time with friends). It’s alone time and piddling around the house. Bad TV and amazing movies. Schedules and changing of habits. The most difficult part? Giving myself the time to do all of this. Again, I am working on it.

I would love to know- how do you recover? From burnout or injury or simply just not feeling like you? What are your best tips to get to where you want to be and allowing yourself time?

I would love to hear all about it!

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

Awkward Summer…

a woman in a blue and gold maxi dress with brown suede platforms

It’s high summer. I want to tell you how glamorous and chic it is- how I have been spending time by the water, how fantastic the fashion is, and how the sweat is so light and gives the healthiest glow.

Maybe it’s my combo of stress and day job burnout and high heat. But. Instead of a chic summer, this summer has been a bit more ….awkward….

a woman in a blue and gold maxi dress with brown suede platforms

Awkward summer in that…..I melt almost the minute I leave the house. The sweat isn’t glowy (it’s just sweaty) and I worry about what to wear. Even this chic (and new fave from Rodebjer – an eccentric but classic line that’s a mix of NYC and Europe) can be a bit hot (and not in the “this is gorgeous way”).

Awkward summer in that….I haven’t seemed to get into a rhythm. From sickness to family to work to not feeling a ton like myself, this summer has just been off. Yes, I am getting back to myself. But, when you don’t feel 100% yourself it can come through in oh so many ways. I mean- just look at some of those poses and face expressions. Cringe!

Awkward summer in that….due to a lot of reasons I haven’t been by the water at all. Fantastic clothes? Yes! Though I admit tahat I don’t wear them everyday (and see below for changing that!)

a woman in a blue and gold maxi dress with brown suede platforms

So, how do we get out of the awkwardness? Time. Acceptance. And personally? Leaning into clothes. As I briefly mentioned above, and before, clothes (stories, getting dressed, fantastic things) are some of the things that draw me back to myself. Though I hate to be cliche, I have to admit that getting dressed- I mean really getting dressed (not always in a party dress) but in an outfit that I love helps me be less awkward. Hopefully the more I dress and the more I get myself back (and the more I hang out in the ac), the less awkward I get. Awkward summer? Perhaps not for long!

**** I have to put a big caveat that I don’t think this dress is awkward. Rodebjer is a fave brand, and this dress is a new comfort. It makes me feel chic and glamorous – event when it’s sweaty outside. The gold is a bit outside my usual comfort zone, but I love the combo with the blue and the sheer! It was on super sale- and I found one for you.

How do you get over the awkward part of summer- whether due to heat or anything? And what do you wear?
XO RA

I have linked some similar feeling dresses and this exact one below to pull you out of awkward with me!

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!

Circle It..

a woman in a denim skirt made of circles with a white button down and nude heels

One of the best things about having a ton of elevated basics in your wardrobe? Even “throwing” on a top and denim skirt can result in a chic (and oh-so-fun) outfit.

***SideNote: I really believe in a white button down as a classic, a must, and an elevated basic. Though what would seem like a simple outfit staple there are so many variations on the button down, and oh so many ways to style it that it can feel fresh and exciting with everything. I have quite a few white button downs in various styles (a post perhaps!), but I recommend stocking up on ones you love and wearing them with EVERYTHING

Non side note: This denim skirt is so refreshing. It hits so many notes:
denim. Patterns. Sheer. Classics. Edgy.

And there are so many ways to denim: a la a classic white shirt. Denim on denim. With sandals. With boots. Yet- this skirt alone is enough to make anything feel special.

a woman in a denim skirt made of circle, a white button down and a nude heel

Part of what I love about this elevated circle denim skirt is that (beyond the patterns and the cheek) is that it’s a play on denim. Denim is: a classic in its own right, a go to, and thought of as casual but truly one of the most versatile fabrics.

Some brief history on denim can be found: here, from Levi’s, and here

This skirt is both a twist on a classic (and surprise! Denim skirts are back “in”) and a statement piece. Another thing I love is wearing a statement as an everyday item- though that may also be a whole other post. Another thing? This skirt is from one of my most favorite modern brands, . All of their pieces are simply works of art- and work on both a statement and an everyday level!

A denim skirt and a button down? Classic. Go to. Perfect for any season. A twist? A statement? A way to make this outfit formula your own? Circle it. Write it down and make it your go to!

Who knows? Thoughts on white button downs and all their variations, as well as thoughts on statement pieces as classic pieces to come. In the meantime, I will be wearing this circle denim skirt with most everything!

White button downs and this exact skirt linked for your own circling 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!

Sunday Chronicles: Taking up Space

In light of all the world events, protests, revolutions, and my wanting to be a better ally I’ve been thinking a lot about my voice. And how to best use it. The thing is: I’m not always comfortable speaking up or taking up space. I was raised to be “nice” and not “make trouble” and “please everyone”. But the fact is none of those things are really possible. Some trouble is good. I (and you) deserve to be heard. And nice isn’t always the best policy. So. I’m working on it. And while my thoughts here are from a few years ago, reflecting on how I can take up space this week helped me. Hope it helps you! XO RA

Sometimes topics come and hit you over the head, forcing you to pay attention to them. This week I was minding my own business, cruising the internet, when out of no where this article and this article kept popping up, on repeat. A sign? Maybe, maybe not; but when articles appear, I read them.

A note–I am one of those who have a hard time asking for the space I need (unless we are driving an then just try to sway into my lane–you have a horn coming). I believe in courtesy, compassion, and sharing-but a long line of waiting for others to recognize that I may need leg room/arm room/a seat has taught me that you have to take your space–others won’t give it to you. And yes, there are societal and gender issues at play; there are different types of space and different issues that surround each of them. I could write about them all but want you to not be reading till Monday! So, for today, let’s talk physical space–we can deal with other issues another day.

So space. We all need it– be it on a subway, an arm rest, on an airplane. So why do some of us have such a hard time asking for it? There are those who don’t–and yes, as a member of the former group I can be in awe, envy, and sometimes hate those who seem to take up all the space they need (and sometimes more) without a thought or care. Are those people inherently bad or selfish? I like to think not (yes, I could write about those who probably are). Some people just naturally take up space. I, personally, don’t–and it’s not that I don’t need it. I’m tall, I like to spread out as much as the next person, and know I deserve the sidewalk or public space as much as the next person. And it’s not that I don’t take space–it’s just that if others are taking up space (manspreaders, etc) or if the space is in debate (shared armrests), I tend to defer-not ask for space, let the other person have it.

So why? If I know I have a right to the space, why do I, and others like me, have a hard time asking for it? Maybe we expect people to notice what we need and give it to us–which has never worked for me. Maybe it’s years of training to be nice and not demand things–I’m a Southern woman, I know this. Maybe it’s a combination, maybe other issues come into play. I don’t know.

I do know that I believe every single one of us deserves to take up all the space we need. And if people aren’t going to give it to us, we’re going to have to take it. Is this hard for me? Yes, but the good news is we can do hard things. So this week I’ve gone out of my way to take up the space I need. A guy at the movies had his legs spread wide, I willed myself to say “Excuse me” (not “I’m sorry”, another issue), and even though I had to say it twice, he moved. At the gym I stood my ground and held my space at the mirror while getting ready. Moon-landing accomplishments? No. But a start. This doesn’t mean my voice doesn’t shake sometimes, or I find it easy; but if other people are asking for the space they deserve, why shouldn’t I?

Here’s the secret guys, there is enough space for all of us. And if you aren’t getting what you need, you are going to have to ask for it. I’d love to know–is this something you struggle with? How do you deal with it?

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

Soon You’ll Feel Better..

I hate that it’s correct, but sometimes time is the best thing- no matter what you’re battling. As I have mentioned, recently I have been battling something. Not being 100%, not being truly ill, feeling bad in so many ways ( and a lot overtired). But. Time heals. And as they say- soon you will feel better. (Maybe the trick is giving yourself time to feel better!) However- I am here to tell you it’s possible…..within the past week I have gone from throwing a “jacket” over a night gown….

a woman in a black maxi dress with a pink bolero over and white and black clogs

To wearing my PJ top with pants and feeling better (and lighter with a hair cut!)…

a woman in a coral tank top and white pants and yellow wedges with a straw bag

To actually feeling the best I have in months. Maybe it’s the Barbie Brat theme?

a woman in black linen shorts and a button down with black and white sneakers and pink sunglasses

There’s a lot unsaid and in the air— but I am actually on the upswing and excited to get dressed and get back to me. There is a quote (I have seen it on social media recently) and (I am paraphrasing) but that “I’ve done nothing all summer but wait for myself to return to me”. That’s a bit what it’s been feeling like. But. I think I may be coming back. Is it the hair? The return of energy? I don’t know! Honestly, it’s probably a lot…..yet. I am feeling more and more like me. And getting more and more on top of things. Here’s to feeling better for us all (soon!) and the amazing stories (aka fashion) that will come from that.

And if you’re at a point where your fashion (or story) is where you are throwing something over a nightgown- solidarity!

Also- I am embracing the journey to feeling better I am linking all the outfits on this page for you below. When you need to get back to yourself what do you do? I am open for any and all stories and tips and community!
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!

a woman in black maxi dress and a pink bolero and white and black clogs — Got you this exact nightgown/lounge dress!

pink and black all day

a woman in a coral tank top and white pants and yellow wedges with a straw bag — This top is part of a Midnight Bakery set and a new fave!

pjs as outerwear but make it chic

a woman in black linen shorts and a button down with black and white sneakers and pink sunglasses — I know this isn’t right- but Barbie Brat summer?

New Fave Barbie Shoes

here’s to us all feeling (even) better soon! XO

This Barbie’s Job is Shoes….

Hi my loves! I have managed to catch some sort of stomach bug and am in bed, in sweats, completely out of it. And yet? When I get up to move around the house, I can’t help but still wear amazing shoes! I am in love with these Barbie x Keds- the pink, the throwback to the original bathing suit. They are so chic and the little details (the B!) are just everything.

I will be resting up and hopefully back in more amazing things on Monday. In the meantime….this Barbie is clinging to her shoes!

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 be a Barbie with me here

Designer to Know: Say it with Pins

Have you heard? Brooches are in- AGAIN! I love a great brooch, fun to put on a lapel, or a scarf. You could also- fasten your cardigan with it, put it on your purse, use it as a tie. There are so many ways to wear a brooch, and so many messages you can send with them. I love this reminder that what we wear tells a story, and when we are intentional with the stories we tell we can change the world!

Investment Piece: Designer to know: Say it with Pins

I’ve always been fascinated by those women who walk into a room and everyone notices. And I’m even more fascinated by the women who seem to get everything that they want, without having to over explain themselves. (Real talk? I’m wordy and would win a gold at over explaining myself.) So, when I had the chance to look at a way that one such powerful woman communicated, I jumped on it!

Investment Piece: Designer to Know: Say it with Pins
** Did you know that a spider represents patience and predatory behavior? I’m not the only one who suddenly wants to wear a spider on a night out, right?

***And you may have caught on, today isn’t a true “Desginer to Know”, but rather a way to wear a design. (Play on words? Maybe, but related)

Last winter at the LBJ Library in Austin, I got to go see the pin collection worn by Madeleine Albright during her time as Secretary of State. Fashion? Yes. But, Albright also used her collection of pins to communicate with other Global Leaders, and silently but clearly, make her positions and feelings known.

It’s all the best of everything I love about fashion. A personal way to say who you are, and what you’re feeling. It’s a bit cheeky. And pins are a way to stand out. Why don’t we all do this?

Some of my favorite pins from the collection:
Investment Piece: Desginer to Know: Say it with Pins

Investment Piece: Designer to Know: Say it With Pins
Investment Piece: Desginer to Know: Say it with Pins
Hear No Evil/See No Evil/Speak No Evil

Albright’s colleciton had flowers, butterflies, animals, and all sorts of patriotic symbols. She became known for her pins, and people became adept at interpreting what some of them meant. One of my favorite stories from the collection:
Investment Piece: Designer to Know: Say it with Pins

And I was thrilled to realize that a strong, powerful woman and I have similar tastes:

Investment Piece: Desginer to Know: Say it With Pins — Madeleine Albright’s leopard pin

I’m left with two questions: Should we bring back pins?

(Answer: I’m game. I loved that not all of Albright’s pins were designer. Which means-yes, if you can, start collecting Cartier and high end pins. But it also means, Etsy, any jewelry or vintage shop, and any market can provide you with a pin to say something with. )

Do you have to use pins to make a statement?

(Answer: No. Let’s use all of our fashion, accessories, and personality to say what we need to say.)

Which leaves the question: What are you communicating?

I’m off to make statements with my fashion. Join me?
XO RA

Investment Piece: Designer to Know: Say it with Pins