RachelAdelicia – Page 17 – Investment Piece

Sunday Chronicles: Is there Such a Thing as Balance?

a woman in a blue pant set with purple feather shoes on a bed with a lace bed spread

One of my favorite bits of wisdom? “You can have it all, just not at the same time”.
Another bit of wisdom I have heard recently? “Sometimes things comes in waves. You have weeks when you’re great at work, then weeks you’re bad at work. Weeks you kill it in the gym, weeks when going for a walk is a big feat. You get to be good at one thing at week. Sometimes two. Don’t worry when you’re not good at something”.

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about balance, about being good at it all at it all all the time, and how we manage. As I write this I am on a work trip for my day job. I have eaten meals, worked, and cried in this hotel bed. This week I have averaged working at LEAST 12 hrs a day (and I am most likely short changing myself). I haven’t worked out the way I love to. Or need to. In fact, putting myself first has been a thing I haven’t done. And I can tell I am suffering from not doing things for me, or working on the work I love.

We live in a world that makes it seem as if balance and keeping it together is easy! Just drink enough water (also haven’t done that this week), and keep up with everyone’s highlight reel and your work/social/personal/physical/spiritual lives and journeys are a snap! That’s what we are told. That’s what so many of us are killing ourselves to achieve.

There are weeks I feel like I have it together. And then days on days when I feel as if all I do is hit rock bottom. Lately I have really been worried and thinking about balance– mainly as I realize I am not doing what I want– and that’s not just shop all the time. When I get stuck in a pattern of my “scales” leaning towards everything that is not for me (ie. I am not drinking my water or working out or giving myself what I need in oh so many ways) and I find myself overworked and burnt out and trying to please people who probably don’t care (from bosses to clients to strangers on the internet), I can’t help but think about balance. And to use a wording from the original blogger, Carrie Bradshaw-

I can’t help but wonder: Is there such a thing as balance? And if so, how do we achieve it?

With only so many hours in the day (as we do need sleep), how do we excel at work, and our workouts, our diets and treats, at being a good friend and partner and if you are- a parent or child or caretaker, and still make time for ourselves? Is it possible to have it all and be it all week in out and every day? There have been times in my life where this did feel possible. But, lately? I have felt like I am failing at it all.

My experience this week at balance? Nothing balanced at all. My scales were heavily tilted and even with a few extra hours in the day I am so tired I don’t know that I could do anything with them. My birthday was a week or so ago, and one of the things I promised myself is that I would be my best self for me. So, does that mean I tilt my scales in my own favor? Personally, I know I need at least a few weeks of drinking the water and my workouts and focusing on the work (like this!) would make me feel better. But if that costs other things?

How do we balance it all? This is beginning to feel like a rant– which I never intended. Perhaps I should not be imbalanced and write! A vulnerable moment? I am struggling with my balance right now. And if you have any tips I am ALL ears. Even if it’s just how to say to my boss I need a day off!

I am sorry I have no insight. Tomorrow I will get up and do work. And I will also try to make time to get on a treadmill. And maybe spend some time in the water. And wear something fabulous. Have some water. And maybe some wine. Will it be enough? I guess we will see!

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

Easy. Set. Go.

a woman in a blue and white pattern linen long sleeve and pant set in front for green neon doors
a woman in a blue and white linen pant and Long sleeve set in front of green doors and concrete

We are heading into summer. And hopefully the living is easy. So how do we dress for that? For me? I am doing it in an easy set- a la this easy peasy linen pant set. We know how I feel about sets. I LOVE them. Wear them together. Apart. Mix and match in ALL the ways. And when the pieces are breezy linen –even with pattens- it’s so easy to feel as if it’s a bit summery. Perhaps also a way to ease into the season, give yourself a way to pant when its SO hot SO soon, and feel breezy when it’s a beginning of- all the graduations, parties, weddings, get a ways, etc and travels that just need an outfit that is oh so chic, oh so versatile, and oh so easy.

Even as a set pieces like this are easy peasy to switch up. From flats to heels. Sandals to wedges. Add a belt. A mule. Anything from a sweater over to a blazer to a scarf. So easy. And when easy is chic it’s the best.

This set is sold out but I am linking some of my current fave linen sets that have the same fell. Tell me- what are you wearing for the summer? How do you feel about sets and linen and easy?

XO RA

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

a woman in a white and blue line pant set

OOPS I Did It Again…

a woman in a net dress over a sheer skirt with raffia sandals and chained sunglasses and a head scarf
a woman in a black crochet dress with a blue and white stripe shirt dress over and black flip flops in front of a fence

The question I get asked most often? But do you re wear it? And how do you style it? And I know. There are so many blogs. So many IGs. So much out there- a lot of it ready made outfits. So thinking about rewearing and remixing and restyling pieces (which FYI is the hallmark of a great piece! That you can rewear and restyle and make it new again over and over again). And really? I LOVE remixing and restyling. And rewears. I always worry that it’s not engaging or exciting blog content (why do we always think that everything has to be new and now?) but most of my outfits are a rewear or a restyle.

The above? The base is a crochet dress. Over swim. Over sheer- which the sheer skirt you have seen! here. And this crochet dress was originally shown to you with a shirt dress and leggings here and I really want to mix the 2 up again! Sheer- yes over swim. Maybe over a shirt dress. For sure with a button down. A tee Mix! The crochet over swim (a theme!), over pants, over a skirt. Over another dress.

These are such little snapshots but the possibilities are endless.

a woman in a blue and white shirt dress with a red laminated skirt over and pink and red platforms
a woman in a red laminated skirt with a grey turtleneck and great tights and gold heels

This red laminated linen skirt is one of the pieces I was most excited for this summer. And Spring. I imagined it with cropped tees and heels. And yet- so far I have only ever worn it layered. With tights and turtlenecks and shirts dresses. I can’t wait to play with it as the temps rise!

And of course there’s my go to rewears that I have written about here and here and < ahref="https://www.investmentpiece.com/outfits/never-gets-old/"target="_Blank">here. There is so much that I reach for time and again. From classic < a href="https://rstyle.me/+mesSwKNP1YpoLZ0CXieM8w"taret="_Blank">Paul Andrew mules that I wear with everything to this strapless bathing suit that I wear as a body suit with EVERYTHING. Honestly too much to count at this point.

Even my party dresses? I rewear them. From various events to swapping out shoes and accessories that they feel new. I rewear and restyle. All.The. Time. It’s part of the fun of building a wardrobe you LOVE. And can style!

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

What do you LOVE to rewear and restyle? What things would you like to see restyled from jeans to party dresses? I would love to hear about them all!

XO RA

a woman in a slit jersey button dress and pink mules — a look at sweatshirt dress I’ve worn before with different shoes and styling

Cape it Off….

a woman with a black cape dress with a tortoise collar and black heels

There is something about a bit of the dramatic and a bit of exquisite details that can make even a classic or a basic- a la the “little black dress”- into a statement. A celebration. Something that when you reach for it, wearing it makes you feel a little better about life.

As I mentioned, this past Friday was my birthday. And I always love wearing a special dress on my birthday. This dress? Beyond. I’ll be honest- this was Plan B. It’s a Simkhai dress that I have had for about a year (maybe more!) that I had never had a chance to wear. For my birthday I had bought a lovely embroidered dress, but it needed a bit of altering and it wasn’t done in time. (yes, you will see it when it is!) So, on a whim and a need to be dressed I pulled this out.

And it may have been the best decision ever.

a woman with a black cape dress with a tortoise collar and black heels

We all know that I love a cape! (even when they’re swim, vintage, and one of my all time favorites. You can also search cape on this site and feast if you’re into capes!) But this cape dress is so much more. It’s a bubble (a bit, which is so on trend), it’s necklace (THAT COLLAR), a bit of a wrap. And it’s got that wow factor.

When people tell you that they felt like a princess in things I can’t help but think of BIG (whether it’s a puff factor or a full skirt) so I don’t know if princess is the right word here. Maybe modern princess? Or queen? All I know is that this dress made this day a ton more special- and the fun I had in the dress, the compliments I got, and the confidence it gave me? Fantastic present to myself- no notes.

I am a bit fan of everyone having (well, really more than one) a piece like this in your closet that makes you feel SPECIAL. SEEN. And for all of us it will be different. We know I love a party dress (and a detailed one). Part of why I can never resist them is that I feel like this in them. Whatever that is for you- party dress, great jeans, unforgettable set- my wish for us all is that we get a year filled with them!

As I mentioned, this dress is a season or so old- but I have found you similar. I’m also linking some of my current fave Simkhai dresses! Here is to us- in all the things that make us feel special! 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!

And my current fave Simkhais can be found here

a woman with a black cape dress with a tortoise collar and black heels

***Sidenote: My apologies for not having a post up yesterday! We were affected by bad storms (the shoes and I are fine!!) but it affected me posting. We are back and ready to go now. Thank you for your patience and presence!

Another Trip Around the Sun….

a woman in a blue maxi sundress in front of pink flowers
A woman in a white strapless dress with black polka dots and black heels
a woman in a white and brown flit and flare dress
a woman in a navy knit top with hello on it in and jeans
a woman in a cropped cardigan in BLUE AND WHITE stripe and white pants

Today is a start of another trip around the sun for me. This year I randomly do have BIG feelings about age and it all— but I am also so grateful for not only this community but all of the stories my closet has told- and will tell. I will be honest- this week is insane for me and my family. My mom’s birthday was yesterday. Today is mine. Cousin tomorrow. Mother’s Day. Crazy storms. A lot.

So this my little respite. And my story. Of what’s passed and what is to come. I truly hope you’ll stay for the next trip around the sun-I love our stories together.If it involves a great outfit- who are we to judge?

Here’s to yet another trip around the sun and more stories that we tell with our closets! Thank you for being here!
XO RA

a woman in a lavender dress with red flowers Investment Piece: Packing a woman with a black blazer belted with a gold lion belt, over jeans and wearing heels in a clothing store

Birthday Wishlist

a pink silk and floral velvet gown in front of a fountain — Me? Go Big for my Birthday? Never 😉

It’s my birthday week (the big day is Friday and yes, for some reason this year is somehow hard as it feels “old”). Every year- really almost every month and season and week- I make a wishlist. It’s part what I want, what I need, part who I want to be, and fantasy. For my birthday? I tend to go a little big! It’s like Christmas– but in May! This list will most likely evolve and change for the year, but it’s the start of something new and who and what I want to be. And while I know that there is so much going on and that that shopping can’t solve everything- I like to think that this list inspires you (and me!) to go after our best and brightest selves. We can’t solve anything if we aren’t filling our own cups. So- filling our own carts!

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 sheer yellow knit skirt, a tuxx blazer and black thong sandals
I posted a look in this yellow (sheer) knit. And I love it. The skirt was a bit of an impulse and yet know I want all the yellow knit to match and carry on the looks!

I love my fashion- but I also love my stories, and these fashion books hit the spot:

For some reason I can’t get these Madewell and Reformation jeans out of my head (and they are oh so dreamy for summer!)

I’m also dreaming of pedal pushers and all the ways to style them:

These lady like options from florals to summer tweeds to linen make me want to book a tea time:

And This ring was a gift and absolutely makes me feel like a grown up. I highly recommend:

a linen flax dress with green and yellow flowers on it. It's a mini with a maxi back train

I absolutely can’t stop thinking about this dress. The hem- and that train! It also comes in a green that’s usually not what I go for but is something I’m intrigued by!

Shop the floral here and the green here

Also on my lists? Dinos and classic bags from Coach. Carolina Herrera perfume (mainly as the bottles are shoes!). Quite a few vintage bags, dresses and more here and there. Ya know. IT ALL!

A woman in a navy and white polka dot short set with a skirt over it

AS it turns out, I am not great at saying no to me. In some way, shape, time there is a high chance I will get all of these (or find something more fab to lust after). I try not to let my bad shopping habits get in the way of budgets, etc, but this is a time of year that’s hard for me. (Because I do want it all!). So. Over the months I may get it.

It may not be your birthday, but there are so many reasons to celebrate this month. What are you wishing for? Shopping for? Longing to be? What kinds of stories could we tell with all these wishes?

Here’s to yet another trip around the sun– and some fantastic picks!

XO RA

Spring Knits

a woman in a yellow knit maxi skirt, a white with black lapel tux satin blazer, and black thong sandals
a woman in a yellow maxi knit skirt, a white with black lapel tux blazer and black thong sandals

Words that seem a bit odd when the Spring weather you experience is either extreme heat (and humidity) or storms- and not a lot in between? Knits that are great for spring. I know there are parts of the world where a lighter knit is great for spring. And I have light knits that I do wear for spring, though often I sweat in them. So, in general, the thought of a spring knit maxi skirt has me running for the hills. Usually, I couldn’t imagine getting into a “bigger” knit in spring. No matter what.

Yet. I couldn’t help falling in love with this knit skirt. It’s truly almost sheer so it feels incredibly on trend– and is incredibly light. Even in 85 degree, super humid temps I didn’t break a sweat (which is saying something!). Yellow is not a color I normally reach for- but I love it here. This is one of those pieces that would look fantastic with a simple white tee (and I do plan to wear that outfit often!), but also dressed up- a la a blazer (tux if you please).

Spring knits that I’ve been avoiding? Perhaps I have been wrong this entire time!

a woman in a yellow maxi knit skirt, a white with black lapel tux blazer and black thong sandals

A word about the blazer. I have a thing for blazers as tops (yes, even in this daring fashion). I know that it’s not always practical or best- and I think a simple tank or tee conveys the same feeling. I also have a thing for tuxes. Especially on women (think classy and edgy at the same time). And I think any time you can wear a blazer or a tux you should absolutely grab the chance. Even with a spring knit!

a woman in a yellow maxi knit skirt, a white with black lapel tux blazer and black thong sandals

Spring knits absolutely have a time limit. I know in a few weeks it will be over 100 and most knits or heavy pieces I have will be put in the back of the closet. However, I remain hopeful about this skirt. It’s so light, it’s airy, it feels like a bit of fresh air (note: they also make a top and a dress in this yellow knit- but you could also pull this skirt up and wear as a strapless dress- especially over swim!) Knits for summer as well? We may be pushing it, but in this fresh pick, I’m willing to risk it!

Below I’ve linked these outfit details as well as the other matching options!
How are you feeling about knits this spring?
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!

This outfit:

Related knits:

a woman in a yellow maxi knit skirt, a white with black lapel tux blazer and black thong sandals

Rock a Caftan

Investment Piece: 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!
Investment Piece: Rock a Caftan

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!

Your Spring Closet Clean Out

Investment Piece: Your Spring Closet Clean Out

Are you using this time at home to clean out your closet? If so, I’m impressed! It’s not that I don’t want to clean out my closet. I’m a huge fan of that! See: here, here, here, and here. And that’s just for starters. There’s something about a clean closet- knowing what you need, having everything organized, and getting rid of things that no longer fit your stories is both freeing and exciting!

But. Right now, a huge closet clean out just seems so overwhelming. I keep telling myself that I’m going to start a massive Cleanout and reorganization. But it hasn’t happened yet. What has happened? I did a brief Cleanout right before all the Stay at Home orders started (yes, years ago!). And while I had planned to sort and sell and donate those clothes, I didn’t get to it before I needed to be at home. So, this time I’m determined to do a proper spring closet clean out! I’m seeing what I might be able to donate, sell, and if there are a few things that could be added to those get rid of piles! While we’re apart, most places are accepting donations (check with your local companies. This is varying city to city). And if you have things to sell, my recommendation is Ashley at TheRealReal (Ashley.rochestie@therealreal.com. Make sure to tell her I sent you!) She will set you up and get your things online, all while you stay safe at home!

I know you must be sick of hearing me say this, but I truly believe that our clothes and fashions help tell our stories. And our stories are our masterpieces, and so we edit them. I’m going to try and use this time to edit- to get rid of things that no longer tell stories I love (and clothes that just don’t fit right) and making room for things and stories I love. What about you?

Xo RA

Ex Files: The One Who Lied About a Party

Investment Piece: Ngihts in LA

It’s that time of the month when I attempt to be Carrie Bradshaw, aka my own personal dating horror stories. If this speaks to you (or you just love the drama!) you can search ex files over in the search box for more, or may I suggest The BreakUp Text, Dudes and Nudes, The One Who Got Married. This month is a doozy- and sadly I didn’t break up with the dude over this (in my defense I was 23), but without further ado may I present The One Who Lied About a Party. Got Dating Horror Stories? I would love to hear them! Maybe we can even chat about you being featured! Xoxo RA

The One Who Lied About a Party

The kicker? It was my one of my dearest friend’s birthday party.

So Charles and I started dating in the usual way that you do in your 20s. We met at a party and he was cute, I was cute, there was flirting, which lead to a first date, to where we were spending almost every day together. Then (not related to this story) I broke my foot. Our dates went from on the town to more order in and be each other’s entertainment. Maybe it was a lot for a new relationship. Or maybe Charles just didn’t like it.

Either way, in the midst of all this one of my dearest friends was throwing her birthday party. There was no way that I could make it between the cast and the drugs and the pain and at the time Uber,etc, was not a thing. And ironically my “boyfriend” Charles told me that he didn’t want to go. Luckily my friend was incredibly understanding- she said it was mainly going to be her work peers, and was done around her work schedule (aka a bar by her work, later than usual, etc). As I was so put out by injury, I thought nothing of not going, was grateful for my friend’s understanding, and was aok with my boyfriend not wanting to go.

Then. The morning after my friend’s party she called me to let me know that Charles did in fact come. My friend asked him about why he didn’t come with me, and he let her know that as he and I weren’t “official” he didn’t want to come with a girl to ruin his chances with anyone else. I was embarrassed, horrified, and hurt. And honestly, didn’t know what to do.

Did I mention I was 23 and this was one of my first relationships?

I called Charles and confronted him. (Which BTW was super hard for me) I let him know that his actions hurt me, that he could have let me know about his feelings, and that I was disappointed in how he handled things, and most importantly he didn’t have to lie about going to my friend’s party. He hemmed and hawed and try to turn it into a way to ask me to define the relationship.

Sadly I let him get away with it. I was 23. And somehow felt guilty for being injured and not-as-fun. I even made him dinner. Shockingly, that relationship didn’t last. For many, many reasons- and yes, this was one of them.

What lie made you rethink a relationship?
Xo RA