outfits – Page 5 – Investment Piece

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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Trend to Try: Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?

We are so sorry for the lack of post on Wednesday! The server had a downtime and we were not alerted in advance- it feels as if everything this summer is a bit off. What’s not a bit off? A trend that comes back. One of my very first posts asked the essential question: Are Socks with Peep Toes Something We’re Doing? Hint- my answer was yes. And on Fall trend lists this question -for all heels, etc- is being asked again. My answer hasn’t changed. So- let’s revisit a bit of tips and inspo- and sock shopping!! XO RA

There are times when I think of trends for us to try, that aren’t exactly trends. Socks with Peep toes? Not only was it one of my very first posts (look below, I’m so grateful you stayed with the site while we grew. We’re still growing!); I keep seeing this look everywhere!

And I get it! It’s a way to: show off a great pair of socks, hide a bad pedicure, wear heels in the winter, and make a statement.

I loved this “trend” years ago, and I still do! See:

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

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

What is it about socks with peep toes (or any heels) that’s such a pull? I love that it’s slightly cheeky, slightly edgy and slightly classic. It’s just the combo that seems both fashion forward and almost geeky (can we admit that fashion can be geeky?) all at the same time. A trend? Not really. Something you should try? Absolutely!

Below is my orginal post and thoughts on the matter:

Are Socks With Peep Toes Something We’re Doing?
Investment Piece: Trend to Try: Socks with Peep Toes

They are something we’re doing.Look at any magazine, any campaign right now and there they are–peep toe shoes worn with socks. Do we like it? Is this what we want? I will be honest–I was hesitant, but I LOVE these Chanel boots that look like socks:

So I thought: How bad can it be?

And here’s the answer: Surprisingly enough, not that bad.

I found it’s really comfortable. I think it looks best when the colors match– but it can be fun. So if you like it–why not? And if you can’t–I get that too.

Some style tips: feel free to ease into the trend by wearing the same color sock as shoe (it will read like a boot).
Play with sheer as they can give a hose like feel which can be a bit more comfortable as well!
Patterns, bows, all can be done as an ankle sock till you feel more comfortable.

This trend is so customizable and oh so chic- I hope that if you haven’t before that you play with it and make it your own!

I’ve updated some shopping options for you! And would love to know: would you rock this trend to try?

XO RA

Notes: This Post Does Contian Some Affilate links, while that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!

Old Becomes New

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

a woman in a 1930 nightgown and modern fruit sandals

Awkward Summer…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Circle It..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soon You’ll Feel Better..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

pink and black all day

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

pjs as outerwear but make it chic

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

New Fave Barbie Shoes

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