RachelAdelicia – Page 2 – Investment Piece

Red and Black and Dots All Over

a woman in black and white polka dot long sleeved blouse and short shorts with red cage sandals

You know, you know-I have a thing for dots. In fact, I have never met a polka dot I didn’t love. And this spring? Shorts are in (I know, they are always in but this year they are IN) so I couldn’t resit a dotted set. The black and white keep it a bit classic, even with the shorts (more thoughts on those below). What I can’t resist here? Pairing this very classic black and white with a pop of red. The red is a simple pop of color, but the combo of red and black and white is a classic set all on its own.

To me this was the classic set, a must have- and it also felt a bit daring. Here are the usual caveats: sets are great as you can wear them together or apart in every way under the sun. Dots are my favorite pattern and I can’t resist dots in a classic black and white combo. And I love, love love adding red to the mix! It’s a pop of color that is a classic as well!

a woman in a black and white polka dot blouse and short shorts with red cage sandals

This is where I get a little personal and let you know that I did worry that these shorts were too short. And that I was too old for them. I hate thinking that-I hate these thoughts that come across my mind now and again as we age. Ironically? I would tell you if you asked me that age is just a number and if it something that you love, you should wear it. That too old is not something to worry about when you get dressed. (I know hem length is a personal issue and won’t go down that hole with us!)

Yet. When it comes to me? Even in a red and black and white set that I find so chic and so me- and fits so well? I worried about the being old thing. (And being too short! And worst of all the combo that I was too old and they were too short and I was trying too hard!) Why can’t we by friends to ourselves and support ourselves like we would support our friends? I have no answers, this is something I clearly struggle with. What I do know is that this set was so me, I couldn’t let a little insecurity stop me from wearing it. Which is great- as this is what I want to wear all season!

This set is actually from Zara (Shirt and Shorts (you can always size up to your comfort level! I did in the shorts but love that they are so high waisted!). Yes, I have mixed feelings about ordering from Zara but the set does feel good! I’ve also linked some similar options for you below.

Have thoughts about dots or pops of red or how not to worry about your age? I am all ears!
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 a black and white polka dot blouse and short shorts with red cage sandals

Happy Easter!

close up of a chic hat with black and white polka dotted bunny ears

Beloveds! This weekend is Easter. If you’re celebrating, I hope that your celebrations are full of people (and food you love!). If you’re not celebrating, I hope that this weekend is restful- and still full of things you love. I’m taking the day to be with family and celebrate the holiday- we’ll be back tomorrow with fresh fashion!

Happy Holidays!
XOXO
RA

Lavender Haze

a woman in a lavender maxi dress and gold wedge boots

A spring pastel that I can get behind? Lavender. Just spring enough. Just daring enough.
Here I love the cowl collar I love that this dress feels fresh but is just easy to throw on. I love the gold clash. The storm? Was a bit a luck.

And this back? I love it. It’s a bit more than I would usually do (yes. I know I have some marks from old injuries- we all have things we are hiding!)

Maybe the song is right, maybe we should all stay in the lavender haze.

a woman in a lavender maxi dress and gold wedge boots

Some notes:
This dress is not new- I have been waiting till my back looked better to wear it- though I have to say acceptance is a lesson of its own. I kinda love it paired with boots (though any maxi dress especially in a lavender color would look amazing with any show from sandals to heels to wedges). A dress like this could absolutely be dressed down. Dressed up.

Perhaps this post is a bit less about their exact outfit and a bit more about how to dress in colors that make you feel great and bring you joy. You should. A bit about how to let go of what others think and your perceived or not flaws and find that you can love anything you put on- as long as you love it.

Note. Those are not easy lessons and things to deal with. I am constantly struggling – not only with these lessons but writing with them and how to deal with my own ego.

Maybe the lasting message is staying in our own lavender haze is fantastic- and whatever makes us feel great there is something we should take with us.

a woman in a lavender maxi dress and gold wedge boots

I have linked options including these amazing boots that I can’t stop pairing with everything.
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 a lavender maxi dress and gold wedge boots

Fashion Stories: Skirt Suit

a woman in a black and white pleated skirt skirt with black mules
a woman in a green and pink and black rose print skirt suit

a woman in a green and black and pink rose print skirt suit

During the “lockdowns” I began to watch Golden Girls and Murder She Wrote, among other classics on the regular. (There is a whole other article and thought process about those shoes and the Guest Stars!) Whenever I get really into a show, I can’t help but let it influence my fashion- fashion is stories after all and so are our favorite tv shows. Ironically? Since Then? A Matter of Age? I have fallen a bit in love with a skirt suit.

Let’s be clear. I LOVE LOVE LOVE a great suit. I’ve never worked a job that required one. And a skirt suit? It’s a bit old fashioned- but on the other hand a bit forward and so daring. Yes, you can break up these “sets”- wear separately, update, make edgy- all of the things. Yet, I can’t help but be so attracted to – and start collecting skirt suits. Which, now, feel a bit edgy on their own!

a woman in a black and white polka dot pleated skirt suit

This polka dot number (and we know I can never resist a polka dot) is a Fortuny number. For reference Fortuny is both a type of pleat, a a fabric and was a label. You can read more here, here, and here. I’ve also linked some modern polka dots and some Vintage Fortuny for you below. I love these slight balloon sleeves. And the pleats. The blazer would go amazing with any white/black/denim bottom. And pair the skirt with anything from a tank to a sweater to a tee. Add a pop of red (it’s my favorite pop with black and white dots).

And yet. Without all of that- this suit with the cinched waist and the movement in the sleeves feels daring on its own. Any hose. Any shoes. Perhaps a skirt suit is a bit more daring than we ever thought!

a woman in a green and black and pink rose skirt suit

This silk set (which feels perfect for the season) is vintage YSL via here, here, and here for starters. Women in suits? Always a bit daring and always a bit forward thinking.

So. How also are skirt suits the perfect thing for the upcoming religious holidays? How are they modest at the same time? I am not sure– but I know do many of our stories are wrapped in skirt suits- from Easter Sunday (or your own service!) to first jobs to luncheons. The skirt suit is such a staple- and yet still forward.

What is your experience with a skirt suit? And are you wearing one soon?

I’ve linked a mix of Fortuny, modern and vintage skirt suits for your shopping pleasure!
XO RA

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

a woman in a black and white polka dot skirt suit
a woman in a green, black and pink rose printed skirt suit

Waiting on Rebel…

Hi All!!Thank you for your prayers and vibes and everything- Rebel made it home!! We are currently catching up on pets and treats and cuddles and wet food. And re-thinking our policy on feeding outdoor cats/letting him see them! I truly appreciate all your great thoughts- as I know it helped my handsome prince get home!
XO RA

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, crazy cat lady

As some of you know: I’m the most reluctant cat mom that ever was. But, like anything else – once I’m in, I’m all in. This summer I brought in a reformed feral cat Rebel- and he and I bonded intensely. Lately, a new neighborhood cat has been coming around – and Rebel has had his guard and protection mode up. Yesterday morning, he escaped the house trying to chase this cat away. At the time of writing he still isn’t home. To say I’m beside myself is an understatement.

I know- there should be new content and I should have a brave face on. I’ve spent the past day in sweats, sobbing, searching and waiting for Rebel to come home. Cool? No. Real life? Yes.

On Wednesday we’ll chat fashion stories and get dressed. But for now, if you could send heading home vibes to Rebel this all in cat momma would appreciate it.

Xo RA

Ex-Files: The One Who Wouldn’t Take No

Investment Piece: Ex Files

An Update to this Ex Files? Bob recently showed back up. He “had such a great time the last time he saw me” and wanted to see me again. He was going to be in my neck of the woods and would love to grab a drink, etc- and while I meant to respond – I forgot. Completely. And once I realized I ghosted Bob (which I get is bad)- a peace came over me. Why waste time explaining no to someone who doesn’t get it? Why put yourself in that position? So:

Loves! It’s here! In my ultimate attempt to become Carrie Bradshaw, and satisfy my friends’ need to hear my awful dating stories (and sadly, there are a lot), we give you: Ex Files, dating horror stories. Yes, these stories really happened, yes, names/dates/places have been changed to protect those involved, and yes, if you wanted to be remembered well, behave better.

This post is a little hard to read, think about, or discuss. I’m not an expert, nor do I pretend to be. Should we have a conversation about toxic behavior? Yes. Are “nice guys” bad? Not necessarily, but loves, if you’re a nice guy who thinks that being nice entitles you to certain behavior from women: you’re not a nice guy. If you have been assaulted, please speak up, seek help if you need it, and do what you need to do to take care of you. And with all of these warnings, I give you:

The One Who Wouldn’t Take No

There was a man, let’s call him Bob, who was interested in me. Now, for part of our friendship I had no clue that he was interested, as we were just friends. And not close friends, but say hi to friends. Bob and I went to college together, and while we knew each other there, we were never close. As with most friendships that are casual and fleeting, the only contact we had for years was Facebook. And even that was casual. Bob was a nice, kind guy, but not for me. Beyond that, I never thought about him that way as we never went much further than pleasantries.

About a year ago, Bob and I ran into each other at some alumni events, grabbed a coffee, grabbed a drink. But again, I thought nothing of it and wasn’t interested in anything more. Bob asked me to dinner one time, supposedly to chat about work; but at the table Bob’s interest in me as something more than a friend came up. I politely let him know that I was seeing someone, and wasn’t interested in him. I thought that the matter was handled.

It wasn’t.

Over the next few months, Bob would reach out constantly via text and email. Just to chat. To try to make plans. To let me know that he was thinking about me. I was polite, engaged when necessary, but let him know repeatedly that my feelings had not changed. I truly though that Bob was harmless: he was nice, he prided himself on nice, I just thought that he was a bit awkward at dating. However, at some point Bob’s behavior began to go from “nice” to “not nice”. Bob told me repeatedly he was nice, and he was. However, Bob was under the impression that I owed him something for his niceness; that every compliment or gesture entitled Bob to something. Not only is that off putting and untrue, it made me avoid Bob.

Things came to a head when Bob asked me out, and I said no, as I already had plans. While this would have been the end of it in most circumstances, it wasn’t the end of it for Bob. As Bob felt he was owed something, he wanted to know why I told him no. Bob didn’t call or text to find out my reasoning. Bob showed up at my house, came in, and wanted me to explain to him why I couldn’t go out with him. Now, maybe you’re thinking that every one wants closure or deserves to know the truth; I have never had anyone else show up at my house after texting me to go somewhere to find out why I told them no. Yes, Bob was bigger than me. Yes, Bob brought up how he was a trained black belt. Yes, Bob showed up at my house to challenge a no he received. It was scary, and inappropriate, and he didn’t see that.

As many women do when faced with a situation that makes us uncomfortable, I tried to diffuse it. I explained that I had other plans, I placated him, I got him out of there. The worst thing that happened to me is that Bob tried to kiss me, it didn’t work. And while I had reinterated that I was not interested in a romantic relationship with Bob, he continued to ask me out for months, till he became too mad that I constantly said no.

I’m not sure that Bob gets it to this day.

Is this part of a larger convo? Sure. Do I know how to solve this problem? No. And do I know if ghosting is the answer? No.

Wishing us all a week of people who can take a no and amazing shoes!
XO RA

Go Big and Go Pockets

a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats

As a woman who will absolutely gush about pockets if you compliment my outfit, I cannot tell you how excited these pockets made me. In fact, they are modeled after a pannier*, and the shape, the ease, the functionally of them made me fall in love quickly!

(Side note: I am aware that this dress pulls a bit, even did so on the model- I think it’s just the fit! And worth it for the pockets!)

The benefit of huge pockets? You can store all your secrets and magic (or just keys and lipstick). But here, these pockets allow you to play with portions- cultivating your look to your own liking. You can absolutely pair this dress with a sweater, top, or even a belt, to further exaggerate the pockets. Or you could wear it alone, letting the pockets speak for themselves! Besides being functional and helpful pockets- these are also fun!

**A Pannier is a bit of skirt looped around the waist. They were incredibly popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, usually as an undergarment to make your skirt wider. In fact, some of the fashionable panniers were as wide as a full grown man (what a spectacle!)! Obviously, “modern” panniers are not that big, but playing with volume and proportion are always part of fashion that’s a bit fun. You can read a bit of pannier history here, and you can see modern versions in the popular barrel leg jean as well as this dress!

a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats

I couldn’t resist pairing these pockets with a scarf (tied in the idea of a cape). For a pop of color. For some fun. And to be slightly off shoulder and play with proportions even more. Flats (and these are absolutely my new go-tos!) for more play–and I was good to go! In this outfit, I loved the various elements – but I would by lying if I didn’t tell you I love the pockets the most!

Are you a fellow pocket lover? Do you go out of your way to get clothes with pockets? And how do you feel about proportion play?

I’ve linked similar options for you as well as this exact dress for your shopping pleasure below!
Happy Shopping! 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 you can shop my favorite shoes here

a woman. in a khaki dress with pannier style pockets, a red and blue silk scarf and red flats

After Labor Day Do We Wear White?

I have asked this question and debated it and yet- I never thought to ask: when do we start wearing white? Do you wait till Easter? Is the first day of spring ok? If there is a cut off to wear white when do we begin again?

Is this because I’m in possession of fantastic white (ish) pants that I’m currently wearing (see ? OR because at a point when the weather is all over do I say I’m just doing what the weather tells me? Please let me know- do you have dates for your outfits and colors? I would love to hear about them!

XO RA

I’m from the South and it’s a pretty hard and fast rule that you don’t wear white after Labor Day. It’s so ingrained in us that a few years ago at a football game a guy friend of mine–who is not into fashion–saw a woman wearing white pants and made a comment that she shouldn’t be doing that, as it was after Labor Day. In fact, starting Monday, my mom puts away all her linen items–citing the fact that it’s a summer fabric. And I get it–I’ve clearly been excited and ready for fall. There is something to be said for dressing for the season.

However, after living in California I came to realize that the white rule isn’t necessarily followed everywhere. You could argue that in CA it feels like summer longer, although it can be in the 100s till October in TX. Even the fashion elite –Vogue, etc– have relaxed their thinking and you can search for articles today like “How to Wear Your White Jeans Through Fall”. So who do we listen to–our Southern Moms or those who say we can wear white?

Honestly, I fall in the middle here. Don’t worry Mom–after Monday I won’t wear (a ton of) white pants (winter white is a whole other story though!) but I won’t be rushing to my fall/winter wardrobe. The fact of the matter is it will still be hot on Tuesday. And while I won’t be wearing white pants, white will still most likely pop into my outfits as an accent or piece–skirt, top, etc–but not the whole look. I no longer judge those who wear white after Monday–fashion is so diverse and if you like your outfit I’m a fan of you rocking it! (Also I love it when you’re daring) But I will say I’m looking forward to our gradual shift to fall clothing! Have I mentioned I have some amazing boots to show you??

I’d love to know–what’s your stance on white after Labor Day?

Hope you’re have a great holiday weekend! XO RA

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

Sunday Chronicles: Getting Pinched

a woman in a green turban and a green and white silk jacket and dress

I know today is a “holiday” and a day a lot of people use as an excuse to cut a little loose. I get it, truly I do. To me? Today is about pinches- or avoiding them. The family story my family is sick of hearing about?

The one where my sister pinched me.

When I was 8?9? I had strep throat- awful- on St Patrick’s Day. Strep throat was an illness was I dealt with on a yearly basis, and it always took me down, in a horrific fashion. I am also one of those that has never run high fever, 99 is high for me. But, strep made me super ill, event without a high fever. So, I had been sent home from school- super sick, and as strep was the thing that I always got my mom could tell what it was and got me to the dr right away for a diagnosis and some meds. Even as a kid I loved to dress to a theme, and would usually wear green on St Patrick’s Day (the childhood celebration of it!). However, being sick and needing comfort I wore one of my fave, comfort outfits at the time- a white sweatshirt with a teddy bear on it and a white ribbed skirt with keds. No green.

Coming home from the doctor my sister and I were sitting in the back seat- again we were kids! And noticing that I wasn’t wearing green my sister pinched me. This may seem a bit innocent, a thing that sisters do-but the thing is my sister has a prosthetic arm. She was born without her left arm (and is a total rock star and was HomeComing Queen!) and at the time had a myroelectric arm –and pinches were not subtle. They hurt! And were hard! I remember being so upset, here I was feeling awful with my throat on fire, and I get pinched. Hard. And my sister laughed.

I tell this story so much my family gets sick of it. What it changed for me? Every year on St Patrick’s Day I make SURE I wear green. Sometimes big green, sometimes subtle green, but always green. I’m making it my mission to not get pinched again!

Do you wear green today? And do you pinch those that don’t? Weirdly, I’ve never been one to pinch- perhaps my own experience has made me a bit more understanding! However you “celebrate” and whatever you’re wearing , I hope today is fantastic!

Wishing us all a day of no pinches and amazing shoes! XO RA