outfits – Page 34 – Investment Piece

Vintage Halston

Investment Piece: Vintage Halston

Some things to know about me and this dress:

-this is vintage Halston. I know that there is the Halston show on Netflix, and it’s on my list!- but I haven’t watched it yet. This dress is Halston for Neiman Marcos (before the caftans and the jersey). I love that it’s both Deisgner history and fashion history. Doesn’t this dress feel like a moment in time?
-I love vintage. I love that dresses like this vintage Halston feel both modern and of its time. Things that can be more than one thing at a time intrigue me. Like the full skirt and Ruffles, combined with a low neck line.
– I love being surprised by color. Right or wrong, I have it in my head that there are colors that I don’t look good in (or don’t gravitate towards). When colors that aren’t “me” end up being one of my faves, I love it. While I will never give up my faves (you can NEVER own enough black) I love finding new colors (and fits)!
-mixing vintage and new is my jam. Vintage dress and bag. New shoes. And my modern attitude? I like to think it all works!

Investment Piece:Vintage Halston
Investment Piece: Vintage Halston

More things to know about me and this Vintage Halston:

-if there is something to climb on, I will find it and I will climb it. (Statues, construction equipment, all of it) Yes, in vintage, yes in heels, yes on this construction equipment that was left unsupervised.
-there was a moment when the basket began swaying and it was a little nerve racking. I couldn’t help but think- could I break a whatever this is called? Luckily it stopped, I was fine. But there was a second when I worried a foreman was going to appear and I would get in trouble. Can you get in trouble for climbing on something someone else left out?
-I love Juxatipositons. Fancy dress and construction equipment? To me, they go together.

Investment Piece: Vintage Halston

Shopping vintage is always a bit of treasure hunt, but I’ve found you similar vintage Halstons (and bags and shoes!)
What are some things that I should know about you?
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!

Shop this look here

Investment Piece: Vintage Halston

Being Cool

Investment Piece: Being Cool

What’s your definition of being cool?

I feel like so much of my life has been spent trying to be cool. From following trends (we moved my freshman year of high school and I read that knee socks were in, I wore them to my first day with this inspired outfit. I was the ONLY one at my school remotely dressed like that. Which was one way to make an impression) to trying not to care too much, or at least show it (when the truth is usually that if I care, I care a lot). But what is cool? An outfit? An attitude? A combination?

Investment Piece: Being cool

This graphic tee (Which I like to think is cool) is all about the iconic picture of Faye Dunaway the morning after winning her Oscar. For years, I’ve thought this was the epitome of cool. The caftan. The pool. The uncaring. (I’m sure there’s a whole another essay/book about why not caring is seen as cool and why we should change that, this isn’t that essay, but I do love this shirt. And I would read it if you know of it!)

I’ve wanted to be an actress like Faye since I was a little girl (maybe that’s when my definition of cool started). Yes, I would like to think that I’m cool- and mysterious- but the older I get the more I think that being cool isn’t something that you can try your way into. I’m a bit sensitive, awkward, passionate, and I like to think that all makes me cool. I am no longer aiming for being completely on trend (I wear what I love and what makes me feel powerful) and instead of going for a “non-caring” attitude, I aim more for effortless.

Maybe that’s what Faye had. Effortless-ness. She just was herself and everything flowed from there. Or at least, that’s my hope- that being effortless (or cool) comes from just being myself.

Investment Piece: Being Cool

In a completely cheeky way I will also tell you that wearing shorts helps you stay cool- but thinking twice about that, it doesn’t sound as cool as it did in my head. One of the traps of coolness?

(This is where I’m praying my sarcasm lands and is cool!)

I’ve linked these exact shorts and top for you! The shoes are vintage Gucci but I’ve found similar!
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!

Shop this look here

Investment Piece: Being Cool

Self Love

Investment Piece: Self Love

This week was a doozy. And there were days when I was so behind I wanted to hide and cry- planned outfits didn’t work, shoots got rained out, many personal and professional things. I had no clue what to shoot or say today. Then I stumbled across this- I still have this outfit. I still wear this outfit. And it made me happy. I don’t think that self-love protects you from anything bad ever happening. But I do think it can get you through (also great jeans!). So this is up as a little reminder to us all!

I share a lot here with you. I’ve written a lot about self love, in various forms; mainly as it’s something that I’ve struggled with, and because I think it’s something that we can all related to. I love fashion, I think it’s freeing, I think fashion let’s you be who you want. However, as women, we live in a society who profits when we don’t love ourselves. We get messages about how we need to be perfect (and how we’re not) and how if we buy xyz product we could finally find self love. Social Media doesn’t help–though sometimes it does. I have to say, as someone who struggles with her body image it’s encouraging to see that everyone has rolls when they twist (because everyone does), and to see that everyone struggles. My personal journey to self love has been hard, and evolving. I’m still struggling to love myself on some days–when I mess up, or am tired, or fall into old patterns.

I made a decision a few years ago that I would be the love of my life, and treat myself as such, and it was the best decision ever. It’s still been difficult. There are still days when I can pick myself apart. There are still days when I’m not very nice to myself. I’m working on it. I’m working on loving me–all of me: my laugh, my lines, my quirks, and my flaws. I’m actively trying to be my own best friend, and the love of my life. I’m hoping that it makes me a better friend, and if there’s ever a lucky someone, a better lover.

This is the most intimate shoot I’ve ever done (the wine was not a prop!). No makeup. At all. A little sunscreen (loves, skin care is important). Nothing in my hair. I love my editorial shoots (it’s what I adore), I love my juxatipositons (I love sharing them with you), but it felt like it was time to really share myself with you. No screens, no distractions, no blurred lines. This is me. And I love me. And I love this community. And I love you for following along.

This is the part where I’m supposed to talk fashion. You need a graphic tee, you know this. I’ve always been a fan of flares and these flare jeans are not only stunning but I get asked where I get them every time I wear them. I’ve linked them and tee options below! But loves, let’s wear amazing fashion and let’s love ourselves. Let’s practice some radical self love this weekend, because that is not exclusive from fashion. In fact, I dare you to make your fashion a celebration of your self love.

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!

Swim Set

Investment Piece: Swim Set

We all know that there is nothing- nothing- I love more than wearing my swimsuits as outer wear fashion.

Need a little refresher? See here, here, here for start.

So imagine my intrigue and joy when I found a swim set that was a fashion set- as in a complete top and skirt that’s super chic- fashion/swim/outerwear/waterwear all in one? Turns out heaven is real.

Investment Piece: Swim Set

Some notes: this is a vintage set (I did find you some similar however!). Yes, that is not my real bust, this suit has a bra (bullet no less!) built in, and while I don’t fill it, I can’t bear to cut it out. Also- it’s kind of fun having it in? I’ve also tied the straps around my neck rather than use the clasp to make it fit a bit better. One of the best things that I can ever impart to you, vintage or modern, is both to embrace your clothes and make them fit you the way you like best!

My shoes in this shoot are my beloved Sarah Flints. I’m an ambassador for the company which means that you can use code BAInvestmentPiece to get $50 off your first pair at Sarah Flint. That is not a commission link, but they are the most comfortable heels I own (and Sarah offers so much more than heels!)

Investment Piece: swim set

While my immediate plans for this swim set are as a set- I love the skirt as a skirt aspect, it’s such a fun summer outfit; I love that it doubles as swimsuit. Going to brunch and getting straight into the water (as an option)? Here for it. A swimsuit that is this flattering? Double here for it. Outfits that can do all of that? Again, heaven.

And I can’t beat these colors. Or pattern. What I may be saying is that I may be wearing this for the rest of the summer, from events and lunches to errands, to the water. What a swim set!

I did find you similar vintage swim sets 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!

Investment Piece: Swim Set

In a Blue Dress

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

The thing about blue dresses versus red dresses is that they’re a little bit unexpected. They’re a bit understated. But while they may not have the reputation of a red dress, they can still pack a punch.

What’s that saying about a blue dress? And the people who were them?

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

I’m not sure that I’m a devil, but I can tell you that I love being in this blue dress. Simple enough- it’s cotton (machine washable), goes great with sneakers, and makes errands fun. But it’s also elegant enough- I love the neck detail, it goes great with heels, and makes any summer event special.

I’ve even worn it on a special night out with sneakers. The possibilities in a blue dress are endless.

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

Maybe the color of our dresses doesn’t matter. My closet is full of black, and yet I can tell you how each piece is special, needed, and different from the others. Yet, I do truly believe in color, and try to pepper it in as much as I can. But, I would be lying to you if I didn’t admit that there are colors that I’m drawn to- red is one of them (that’s why I keep bringing it up!), but I love a good blue. And this is a good blue.

You deserve clothes and colors that make you happy. That let you be everything. And make you feel special.
Maybe it’s a blue dress for you, too?

I’ve linked this exact dress (and similar ones!) below for you!
Xo RA

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

Investment Piece: In a Blue Dress

To The Water

Investment Piece: To The Water

It’s the heat of the summer. Ok- yes- August and September (and may even October) will be hotter, but it’s hot. And it’s summer. Officially. There’s something about July. Things slow down, get hot. People travel (now that we can again), life in general seems to go on vacation. And all I can think about is getting in the water.

Last year was a year inside, and while I was grateful for my litte back yard (toddler) pool, it wasn’t enough. I got into a REAL pool for the first time in year last week, and I thought I had died and gone to heaven. For me, there’s just something about the water. It’s healing and calming and grounding- all at the same time. This year, as things get more open and I get more comfortable with that, I am yearning to be in all sorts of water, from pools to the beach. Yes, if you have access to any of that please invite me over.

Investment Piece: To the Water

This may also explain why I’m currently living in a bathing suit. If I always have one on, then I’m always ready to be in the water. Like a “if you build it, it will come”, but more of a “if you dress for it, you’ll find it”. (And also I had a habit of wearing my swim suits around, see here, here, and here for starters)

On top of all that, it’s horridly hot outside. Wearing a bikini top as a top for a light skirt is the closest I can come in public to being as lightly dressed as I would like. It’s all balance.

But if I happen to find water I can get into- all bets are off!

For the next month, I’ll be dressed in similar outfits, all swim based, all hoping that I get to be in water as soon as possible. What about you? What are you wearing?

I’ve linked this exact suit and skirt for you 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!

Investment Piece: to The water
While both of these pieces are vintage, I love a great wicker bag for summer! I’ve linked some of my current faves:

Investment Piece: To Water

Secrets

Investment Piece: Secrets

Have you heard that one thing that I LOVE in outfits is Juxatipositon? Well. The only thing that I may love more than that is secrets.

Like when outfits surprise you. When outfits seem to be one thing but are really something else. Those kind of secrets? Those are my kind of outfits!

Investment Piece: Secrets

What looks like a strapless maxi dress (and is partially), opens to be a slit top. Worn over pants that have a secret (or not so secret) slit up the side? Depending on your angle you have an outfit full of secrets and style.

Investment Piece: Secrets

The thing about clothes with secrets is that they are so many ways to wear them. You could wear this top alone as a maxi dress. Or as a dress with a long sleeve top (button down or turtleneck) underneath. Wear it open over a pair of shorts. Or a skirt. Or jeans. Or pants like these, with secrets of their own. Whatever way you choose (and clearly the ways to wear secrets are endless), somehow it’s always chic.

I love wearing something that reveals itself to be another thing entirely. When I wore this, I had someone think I was in an evening gown. Another think I was in a skirt and top set. And each time, when I moved and the top and pant slit revealed themselves? The surprise and pleasure was worth all the secrets in the world.

(Note: I shot this in front of a theater. As you may now, I’m an actress by training and I’m never far from it. Maybe my love of secrets is really just a dramatic turn. Or maybe it’s just my way of staying true to my theater degree. Whatever it is- I recommend it!)

Investment Piece: Secrets

The other thing about clothes with secrets? They can hold all of yours. Everything you want to show, what you want to hide, and they help you reveal what you need to when the time is right. And they hold all the feelings and worries that goes with all of that!

I’ve linked this exact top (on sale) and similar pants for you below. Secrets- I recommend them!
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!

Investment Piece: Secrets

Sunnies

Investment Piece: Sunnies

I wear sunglasses in almost all my pictures (they let me not worry about having my eyes closed in a great shot!), but I hardly ever write about them. It’s not that I think that Sunnies (what the cool kids call sunglasses) aren’t a must have fashion accessory, but just that they are such a basic for me that I often don’t think too much about them.

Yes, that is a bit of a contridiction.

I do think about the sunglasses for each shoot- and each in real life outfit. From color to shape to function, I’m thoughtful and intentional about which sunglasses I wear. They matter.

Investment Piece: Sunnies

Some people will tell you that you shouldn’t spend too much on sunglasses (they get lost and broken way too easily). Ironically- the only pairs I’ve ever lost or broken have been less expensive (and I was still upset about them). My sunglasses collection has a little bit of everything- cheap ones, designer ones, free ones from sporting events. And I love them all.

Investment Piece: Sunnies

My advice for adding to your own Sunnies collection? A mix. Low to high. All the colors. All the shapes. Pairs to keep in your car. Pairs you don’t mind losing in the ocean. Pairs you’re careful with. I have a bit of each, and I have to say that adding the special pair of sunglasses to my outfits is one of my joys.
And the great part? All of these kinds of sunglasses you can find all sorts of places, from gas stations to designer boutiques. (Though my biggest tips of all? If you love designer Sunnies consider buying them resale or vintage. You can get the pairs you love at a price you’ll also love!)

Below I’ve linked some of my current favorite Sunnies for all of your outfit needs (and bonus, a couple of sunglasses chains so you won’t loose them!)

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!

Investment Piece: Sunnies

Bike Short Season

Investment Piece: Bike Short Season

Do you remember when bike shorts became a THING? I remember Princess Diana wearing them (and looking chic per usual) when I was little, but it’s only been in the past few years that bike shorts have become a staple and must have piece of my wardrobe. What about you?

Yes, this is another set. I’m not even addressing it because at this point, sets are just who I am.

Bike shorts? They are also quickly becoming a part of who I am. The only thing I want to wear for workouts lately, and what I keep reaching for after workouts- bike shorts are my new go to’s. From all sorts of colors to rises, to lengths. From wearing them with sports bras and sneakers to blouses and heels, maybe summer is now bike short season.

Investment Piece: Bike Short Season

I’ll admit, I had some reservations about this set, as chic as it is. It’s white. And white (and tight) are a difficult thing to pull off. For anyone (don’t ever let any picture tell you differently). However, this set was just patterned enough (that metallic snake provides a bit of color and a bit of pattern and a bit of coverage- perfect combo) and the fit (high rise and oh-so flattering, they also hold you in!) that I couldn’t resist. I do feel like these make me run faster and my abs work harder in Pilates, but my fave way to wear them? With denim and cute sandals. (It’s a different kind of workout) This set was made for looks that don’t include sweat.

Maybe that’s why I keep going back to bike shorts. Yes, they are perfect for workouts in this heat, but they’re more perfect for errands, meeting up with friends, and summer outings in the heat.

Investment Piece: Bike Short Season

Do you keep reaching for bike shorts? How do you style them? I’ve linked this exact set (as well as what I love to wear them with) for your shopping pleasure 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!

Investment Piece: Bike Short Season

Wine and Packing

Investment Piece: Wine and Packing

Last week, I went on a short trip with my family. It was lovely to get away for a bit!

**This was my first time traveling during the pandemic, and in all honesty, I wasn’t sure how I would handle my pandemic-anxiety. While there were times when I worried about crowd size and mask wearing, over all I was at ease and comfortable the whole time. It can be done!

It also didn’t hurt that we had a great time!

We drank some wine:
Investment Piece: Wine and Packing
Went to the National Museum of the Pacific War (a lot of info but really worth your time):

There was even a castle:
Investment Piece: Wine and Packing

Truly a wonderful time and I’m so grateful to have been able to spend time with my family.

However, a trip always means packing. And I am an overpacker. Even going to the gym I take extra shoes and options. I can’t help it. But this time, I was determined to pack thoughtfully and intentionally.

How did my packing hold up? Ok-ish. There were times on the trip that I felt like I brought the completely wrong shoes.

Investment Piece: Wine and Packing

Instead of the pink shirt I had planned to wear with this skirt, I wore this white tank top instead. The elastic of the top and skirt just laid weird together. But I ended up loving this top- even with my pink pants!

Investment Piece: Wine and Packing

I ended up throwing in a dress, which was the right call! I wore it to wineries and our one “nice dinner” the second day we were gone.

Investment Piece: Wine and Packing

The only things I didn’t wear? My extra shirts. Travel is so amazing, but I can rethink everything I wore- for me it can really be difficult when I have limited options. However. I LOVED what I took, and I loved the outfits I came up with.

May every bag you pack be as gentle with you!
Xo RA