outfits – Investment Piece

Trying it On- Camo

a woman in half camo half black jeans, a black mock neck and black heels
a woman in half camo and half black jeans, black mock neck and black heels

I am not a camo gal. At all. Ever. And I grew up in a place with hunting, love people who hunt, and yet will not bore you with my own opinions- on everything from guns to camo to hunting. But, safe to say, it was never something I thought of as “me”. Even when camo has been “in”, and everything from pants to dresses to hoodies and everything- I have avoided camo like the plague.

Yet. Lately, things, circumstances, people I love- have my trying camo on. The thing is- I do encourage you to try things on. Yes, I am a firm believer that if you don’t love a trend you don’t have to try it, but I also believe that you can try things on. We are all full of contradictions. SO. Recently I made a choice to try camo on. To see if I liked it. With the full understanding that if it wasn’t for me, I would take them off and never think of it again.

I will be honest- I really thought that any camo would not be for me. My style (though I hate defining it) was too refined and classic and not camo for it. Story time? Camo is so not me when my mom first saw these pants she asked if they were my Halloween costume.
Perhaps this is also where I say that perhaps, incorrectly, I sometimes judged people who were SO into camo (because of my own associations with it). Well. Turns out I have been wrong- maybe about a lot of things. These half denim, half camo pants look and feel so chic to me (and who knew! I am also not a cargo person but it turns out extra pockets can be helpful on occasion!). I actually liked wearing them. I liked how they look! Trying it on? A good thing?

(Also, maybe some of my judgement of all the things and people camo is not 100% right. Maybe we all have a bit more in common!)

However. I do have some tips for trying it (whatever it is to you!) on:
a woman in half camo and half black jeans, black mock neck and black heels

-stick to your own style. A full camo look for me is not (most likely) in the cards. My signature red lip and heels helped this look FEEL like me. And look like me. Camo, my way we could call it. But I do think that even when trying new things on staying true to what you love matters
-Keeping it simple or classic. Yes. At the end of the day these are jeans and I could wear them with anything- from a tee to a blazer. For me, keeping the rest of the outfit a bit “basic” (aka matching black with black) let me play with the new-to-me camo while not feeling intimidated by the rest of the outfit. Or worrying about matching. Next time I wear these? I may branch out. But the first time? It was nice to keep the rest of the outfit simple.

What have you recently tried on that you didn’t think you would like? What might you like to try on?
Honestly, I would love to hear all about it!

These pants were bought second hand (another tip for anything you might not like!) but I did find some options you might love below! XO RA

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission off them. Thank you for your support!

a woman in camo and black pants with a mock neck and black heels

Tis the Damn Season

a woman in bike shorts, a denim safari jacket and embellished blue and velvet shoes

Yes. Tis the damn season. And while I know that often means holidays or festivals, etc, etc — the season I am referring to is “Iconic Princess Diana Outfit Season”. Usually this refers to bike shorts (check!) and a sweatshirt. Here, I trade the sweatshirt for an iconic denim jacket. And trainers for the MOST STUNNING shoes. (Because even the most iconic outfit deserves -I won’t call this an update- I will call it a twist!) But no matter what you call the outfit- it is the season for it. As in, it’s fall but not quite. It’s not summer, but is still a little. The mullet of seasons? Sounds awful. Transitional? A fashionable way to put it, and a better way to plan your outfits.

As we all wear the outfit of the season (a la bike shorts and) I find the most interesting takes on it are the details:
a woman in bike shorts, a denim safari jacket and embellished blue and velvet shoes
like pockets..

And belts. It’s an all in one with a safari jacket (and I am loving this one in denim that feels a bit upscale!)

Embellished heels- though I love the curved kitten heel on these! In the iconic Diana outfit she wears high top Reeboks(a must have from my childhood and a part of me still yearns after them!), so I feel as if this elevated take on a basic mule adds to the outfit of the season.

From gym. To errands. To just a Tuesday. This outfit formula (again, the outfit of the season according to Princess Di, and it’s the one time I won’t argue with royalty) is not only the outfit of the season (and yes, it is absolutely the sweet weather spot to wear it in all varieties – tis the damn season), but oh-so-adaptable. You can make this outfit in so many ways your own. Take the base of bike shorts and add:
-your choice of long sleeve top
-your choice of stylish shoe

Tis the damn season? Tis the damn outfit. In oh so many ways!

a woman in bike shorts, a denim safari jacket and embellished blue and velvet shoes

Are you a fan of this iconic Princess Diana outfit (Ala bike shorts and)? How have you made this formula your own? How are you inspired by a simple formula that lets you play with so much?

I am linking this exact jacket (on sale!) and these shoes (not on sale but worth it!) below. I am linking bike shorts but as they are oh so versatile I think any and all are a must! If you have a great take on this outfit I would love to hear about it!
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 bike shorts and a safari jacket and embellished shoes — my take on an iconic outfit

The Thing About A Classic…

a woman in a white silk cape dress with the sun behind her

There are oh-so-many-ways that we describe a “classic”: Timeless, must-have, basic, corner stone, and the horrid- boring. All of us have our own style (which is incredibly thrilling and I am endlessly fascinated by how each of us style anything from button downs to jeans to silk dresses) and all of our lives and wardrobes have their own “classics”. As someone who loves vintage and modern style and yearns to be a la “Old Hollywood” style my definition of a classic is something that I can reach for over and over again, that never goes “out”, that every variation of adds to my classic.

And truly, the great thing, and one of my definitions of a classic is that it can be anything you need it to be. Take this AMAZING silk blend, cape dress.

a woman in a white cape dress with sandals
You can stun in a classic with minimal effort- aka even just some sandals!

Of course it goes with heels!

A classic allows you to play with accessories (like tulle gloves)

And of course a classic can transcend seasons- aka take a simple white dress from summer into fall and winter with a simple addition of leather sleeves and boots!

A Few of my favorite ways this classic looked anything but boring:

a woman in a white cape dress with sandasl

a woman in a white cape dress with black heels

a woman in a white cape dress and black leather sleeves and boots

a woman in a white cape dress with tulle gloves and black heels

a woman in a white cape dress with sandals

a woman in a white cape dress with black leather sleeves and boots

What is your definition of a classic? Does it allow for room to play- to express yourself? Does it go through the seasons with you? This cape dress isn’t my only classic (and yes, there are seasonal classics – there is always room for nuance here!), but it’s a great one for this transitional time to go from summer to winter. All in the same classic.

I did get this dress a bit ago- and I will admit that capes are classics that I simply can’t get enough of- in any form. BUT, I have found a special someone one of the last ones out there (and it’s 10000% worth it!)

All your thoughts about classics and how you style them? 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 white cape dress

Back at my Dots

a woman in a polka dot jacket, sweater vest, pencil skirt, wallet, and red sandals

Lately, it’s been a lot. Went on a trip- that was 100% worth it. And then have been battling migraines out of the blue, where I have been spending days in bed almost unable to move (much less enjoy my beloved fashion). I can’t promise anything. I hate to get ahead of myself. And yet- I am finally -sorta- getting back to myself. Getting back to my dots, and my skirts and my shoes. Getting back to myself. Perhaps the start of a new season is a new start?

Here’s hoping at least!

a woman in a polka dot jacket, sweater vest, pencil skirt, wallet, and red sandals

This polka dot jacket is part of a vintage set- and we know I love a good set (skirt styled below). A sweater vest (worn as a shirt) is one of my go to’s. And a pencil skirt- classic must. Crossbody wallet. Statement Sandals. I technically wore this in “summer” but could this be a great fall fit? (and yes, we use quotes as where I am we won’t see cool temps for about another month- even though I would love to!)

I am not going to lie- the past month or so has been hard. There’s been some day job burn out. Some medical stuff- and these deliberating migraines. Not feeling like me. And going going going. So a chance, any way to get back to me- wearing polka dots and more- is a welcome change. If this is a time where you have advise on how to get back to you I am all ears. And if nothing else, I will be back in my dots and here!

XO RA

Though most of these pieces I have had forever/are vintage, I have found similar for you!
Note: While this post does contain affiliate links that does not affect the price for you, though I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

a woman in a polka dot jacket, sweater vest, pencil skirt, wallet, and red sandals

Leopard Shirt Dress

a woman in a leopard shirt dress with a pleated waist leans against a vintage car

There are outfits that we (or maybe just me?) say can be dressed every which way. Usually, we (or me), mean that you can dress them up or dress them down. That these outfits can be paired with any shoe, accessory, or combo. And yes- this leopard shirt dress does all of that. It’s completely versatile in how you can style it- even without big belts. In one day I managed to wear it with heels (above) and leopard kicks (below). Varying styling can absolutely change an outfit- in this case a dress- and knowing a piece goes with everything in your closet is a thrill, as it opens up so many possibilities.

And we haven’t even chatted about how leopard is a neutral and how a shirt dress (especially one with details) is a classic. (Both true statements!)

But, what most impressed me about this leopard shirt dress that I spent part of the last week living in is that this dress was able to be whatever I needed it to be- with minor work on my part. And when a dress, or an outfit, does the work for me? I can’t resist it!

a woman in a leopard shirt dress and black heels in front of a gate

a close up of a pleated waist of a leopard shirt dress
the hem of a leopard shirt dress with leopard sneakers

Leopard will forever be my go to. Classic. Edgy. Neutral. And yet feels like something. Also- goes with everything! This particular leopard shirt dress (another go to as a great shirt dress is both classic and edgy and has oh so many style possibilities!) was a draw for me because of the details. The pleating on the waist, that makes it look as if you’re sucked in. The slight batwing sleeve. What you can’t see? The stretch! The pockets! I knew that this was a dress that could be anything that I needed it to be, all while looking chic. And- I was right!

I wore this dress on a recent trip– and from walking from cafes to museums, to cocktails and upscale events, this dress was everything I needed it to be. Yes, I changed shoes- but that was about it. You could absolutely add belts, jewelry, big or small bags, so much– but the leopard shirt dress did the work for me. And I am oh so grateful for that!

a woman in a leopard shirt dress with leopard sneakers in a mirror

Leopard. Shirt. Dress. That can be anything and everything you need. Why wouldn’t you add that to a fall (or spring or everything in between) rotation?

I couldn’t resist– and if you can’t either, this exact dress is linked for you below!

Wishing us all a week that works as chicly and as hard as this leopard shirt dress! 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!

Is it a Summer Suit Still?

a woman in black Bermuda shorts, a black bra and black blazer with open toe leopard print kitten heels and a Gucci logo print clutch

It’s not like I expect Labor Day to happen and all of the sudden that a new (cooler) season would be here (but a woman can hope!). I know that it’s still *technically* summer- and if nothing else the temps would love to remind me. Aka they won’t let me forget. So, while we’re in this in-between seasons, when we’re not quite done with one, and it’s not quite cool for the next season- what do we wear? Especially when we want to start wearing all of the new(ish?) trends- like suits (suits aren’t a trend.They are definitely a classics, but back in super style again!).

Yet- what do we call suits like this- on trend but appropriate for the temps? A summer suit? I know it’s still summer- but it feels as if I shouldn’t be calling anything “summer” right now. And is it a suit if it’s shorts? Or is it a fantastic blazer with shorts? And does it matter what we call it if the outfit is both stylish and we love it?

As in- I have worn various versions of this summer suit (again, a blazer and shorts- even fancier shorts!) for everything from dates to work meetings to attempting to look super professional while not overheating. I feel as if the secrets are to match colors (all black for example), pair with a statement shoe-from leopard kitten heel to real heels, and an amazing bag. Am I partial to a clutch? Sure, but I don’t know that there’s a wrong answer here from totes to briefcases to shoulder bags to clutches.

Can we call this a summer suit? Is it a pre fall suit? Whatever it is, I think that for the next few weeks, if you can get away with it, this outfit combo is the secret to a lot of your dressing woes.

This blazer is vintage (as is the clutch) and the shorts and shoes are from seasons past, but I’ve linked similar pieces for your “summer” suiting below. Let me know how you style pieces like this in this transitional time!
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 Bermuda shorts, bra and blazer with leopard kitten heels and a Gucci clutch

Hello Fall!

A Woman in a grey coat and Adidas sneakers

a close up of a woman in Adidas sneakers

I know that *technically* it’s been fall for a bit now. HOWEVER- yesterday was the first day it never got to 80 degrees or above. It rained all day and was cool and gloomy, and I wore a sweater as I needed it, not for fashion. Candles were lit, soup was had for dinner. I put on socks because my feet were cold.

For weeks, I’ve been looking forward to cooler temps, layering my outfits, boots, knits, and all of the fall fashion. And yet, it didn’t feel real- or as exciting- till I got my taste of fall yesterday! Funny thing? I spent the day in yesterday (other a than a short fall walk) just being excited about fall. I’m sure that somewhere there is a lesson about getting out and enjoying, but there’s also something to be said for anticipation.

One of my fave ways to ease my way into fall is by wearing a coat as a dress for early morning errands. (Here light coats are best, but whatever weight is best for your fall weather!) Pair with a chic pair of shoes- and run around in the fall morning air. Coffee, crisp air, chic coat- it’s the little things that get me excited!

How do you welcome fall? And what gets you excited? This weekend I plan on decorating, doing some fall cleaning- and getting out there in. my coats and sweaters. However you welcome fall I hope it’s fantastic!

XO RA

I have linked some similar options for your fall mornings below!

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

a woman in a grey coat and Adidas sneakers

Is it Over?

a woman in white linen shorts and a blue linen shirt jacket and a scarf and oversized sunnies and snake wedges in front of a lake and hotel

I will say this again- and though the true calendar will tell you it won’t be fall for a bit (and that’s not even counting the temps!)- why does this weekend (Labor Day) feel like the end of summer? Even if you are no longer tied to the school year calendar. Even if you live in a place where it will still be hot in October. Is it (summer) over (now)? Or does it just feel like it?

My mom (and how I was raised. Me? I’m a rebel) will tell you that this is your last weekend to wear white (unless winter white, which is a whole other ball of wax!). I have written about this before (see White After Labor Day). And yet, while there are times in the next few weeks where I will wear white. Linen. And be oh so hot (temp wise), it does feel as if this weekend is the ending of something. When a story ends- even if it’s just a season- what do we do?

a woman in white linen shorts and a blue linen shirt jacket and a scarf and oversized sunnies and snake wedges in front of a lake and hotel

Because I am (over)sensitive, this about the time in an ending (even of just a season) that I think bout how things could have, should have, would have been- worn or done. This ending is a bit hard as I do feel as if I kind of wasted this summer. There was so much- I wish I had done and worn and all the things- and it feels kind of incomplete. Where I live, there is a great chance I could wear almost anything in the next few months (yes, it will be that hot–though I am wishing for fall), but all of the sudden I am nostalgic for all the linens and whites and swimsuits I didn’t wear (and all of the swims I didn’t take!). But. If it is over? I am glad I wore this: linen shorts. Linen jacket. Whites. Scarves. Sunnies. Fantastic wedges. It feels like a great goodbye (if it is over) or a great start. Or perhaps a chance to do it right?

Do you think that summer is over this weekend? Are there things you wish you wore? Things you’re glad you did wear? Things you plan to be a rebel with and still wear?

I would love to hear all about them!
XO RA

Scheduling notes: there will be a post up (new! improved! on Sunday!) We will be off on Monday- and I would love to have you shop along with me via so many apps (linked in bio) and social media (Rachel Adelicia or Investment Piece should get you to me. Please reach out if you can’t find me!)

However: this outfit is absolutely linked for you below- including this linen shirt jacket (with tie waist) that’s on sale for under $40!!)

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Fashion Stories: Wedding Guest

a woman in a teal and gold lame dress under string lights

One of my first posts in this series was about wedding dresses (and how we hang onto them and why) while wearing my great-great-grandma’s wedding dress (you can read about it here). So, in a way, it seems a bit full circle that I’m now writing about being a wedding guest (and what I wore and why) for a recent family wedding.

Let’s be honest: weddings are a great ritual, a great party, a great time and a stressful event for many. Recently my cousin got married (and I’m not sharing pics as it’s not my news but let me say that she was STUNNING and that the event- from top to bottom- by a lake, with gold Dinos as decorations, with family dancing- was just perfect), and like anyone else, I worried about what to wear to the wedding.

I was not a part of the bridal party, but I am who I am, and knowing that Id see family that I don’t often to visit with, when my invitation said “cocktail”, I knew that I wanted to look special (and not upstage the bride). So, below, from lunch with cousins to wedding to the morning after brunch (of which I was a hostess), I break down what I wore and why. Weddings are big stories- for all of us. I hope my choices help you in similar situations, or just inspire you to get dressed up!

Cousins Lunch
a woman in a white silk shirt and lilac corduroy pants with snakeskin mules

The day before the wedding, I had lunch with come cousins I hadn’t been able to catch up with in years! A casual affair, yes, but I wanted to look my best! My choice? A silk shirt with corduroy pants. Easy, seasonal, and yet chic- this combo would work with any color combo (I happened to choose purple and white for my college colors and CFB season!) and while I choose a chic flat, from boots to heels almost any shoe will do!

What I love: it’s easy and yet elegant. Super on point with textures, and easy to customize with colors and shoes!

What I would do differently: I did feel a bit undone. A belt would help, or adding more jewelry!

Wedding
a woman in a teal and gold lame dress on rocks by a lake

You may have read about this dress here. It’s new (to me, vintage Hanea Mori) and when I got it, I knew that I had to wear it to the wedding. I felt as if it were perfect- fallish colors, midi length, long sleeved, and cocktail. But not overpowering – it wasn’t a gown, it’s a cocktail dress- and with the right gold shoes and jewelry, I felt like I nailed it!

What I love: everything. Everything about this dress. The fit. The color. Invite me to all your events so I can wear it again! I also felt like it wasn’t so over the top that I upstaged anyone (the last thing I would want to do!) but yet felt so good in it (and got a ton of compliments!).

What I would change: Not. A. Thing.

Morning After Brunch

a woman in a Dino print button down with sleeves rolled up and black jeans

For the morning after brunch, I knew that I needed something casual (yet chic), and I wanted to make a nod to the happy couple! As the table decorations at the reception were decorated with gold painted Dinos I felt as if a Dino shirt would be incredibly appropriate! Paired with a “nice” pair of jeans (and un-pictured amazing shoes!), it was a hit!

What I loved: Such an inside joke and felt like a cute outfit, even when I was “working”

What I would change: I loved the outfit but as we had to clean before and after the brunch I wish I had brought non-high waisted comfy pants and something I didn’t care about getting dirty for that!

I was very lucky as I didn’t have to travel for this wedding, meaning that if I put something on and it didn’t work I had my entire closet at my disposal. I know that’s not always the case, so a few of my wedding guest dressing tips:

-Plan in advance and take a backup. You just never know!
-Comfort and chic-ness are key. Yes, you want to impress everyone you haven’t seen in ages, but you want to move and dance, etc, with ease. There is a balance to be found!
-Look your best but adhere to the “rules”. Usually this means no white dresses, no overdressing, no upstaging the bridge, etc
-Have fun! Weddings are for the couple- and for families! Enjoy it all, from the event to what you wear!

What have you worn to recent weddings and what concerns about wedding dressing do you have? I would love to help you out with them and hear all about it!

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!