outfits – Page 52 – Investment Piece

#OOTD RoundUp

Loves. It’s hot. So hot. Like I wore a swimsuit yesterday and I still sweated through it hot. What do we wear in this? (Really, I want to know) Below I’ve rounded up outfits that I’ve loved wearing recently. (And of course all my #OOTDs are on LiketoKnowit Or Shopstyle) I’d love to know: what are you wearing to survive the heat?
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: OOTD RoundUp
A Throw back, but I’ve worn this dress more than once as it creates a breeze. I found someone this exact one. Shop it and similar ones here

Investment Piece: OOTD Round Up
I get asked about this bag every time I carry it. And it’s now on sale for you. Shop it here

Investment Piece: OOTD RoundUp
There are days when the only thing I can do is throw on a chic top with my workout leggings. But it works? Shop it here

Investment Piece: OOTD Round Up
Date night called for all white chic. Get yours here

Investment Piece: OOTD Round Up
Me? Dramatic? Not at all. Get similar dresses to this vintage stunner here

Investment Piece: OOTD RoundUp
I’m LIVING in this Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress. Match me here

Investment Piece: OOTD Round Up
I also can’t stop wearing this padded headband (it’s a cure all for all the hair days) And it’s under $15!
Get one here

Investment Piece: OOTD RoundUP
Why should the heat be the only thing in red? I love this style, get it here

Investment Piece: OOTD ROundUp
This is one of my most fave dresses, it also works in the fall, but keeps me cool now. Get yours here

For real, loves, what are you wearing?
Xo RA

Make it Your Own

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: Make it Your Own

This story has two parts.

Every summer there comes a time when I only wear swimsuits and dresses. It’s not that I don’t love jeans and tees. Not that I don’t want to look chic and elegant in pants (a la Eleanor in Crazy Rich Asians). But it’s hot. Too hot. Yesterday, it was over 100, and I drove by a woman who was wearing jeans and boots getting gas. My only thought was how hot she must be. I just can’t do it.

I’m a fan of summer dresses, both casual and formal. They can be anything you need them to be, are effortlessly chic, and most importantly : they’re cool. And keep you cool. From t-shirt dresses to hatters to off the shoulder, there are so many different types of summer dresses and stories to tell in them. What’s yours?

You can shop some of the ones I’m thinking of adding to my collection here.

And of course, now that I’ve taken a stand, life will find a way to have me in pants for the rest of the summer. (You can’t see me but I’m laughing about that now!)

Investment Piece: Make it your Own
This is also a story about making it your own. I loved this denim/colored dress when I first saw it at Target. The issue? It was in the kids department. And didn’t fit quite right:

But. I don’t let a little thing like that stop me. Some snips (I cut the straps off in the back), some fray check (sew without sewing and seal fabric), some tying around my neck and viola:
Investment Piece: Make it Your Own

This is not a call for us to all wear children clothes. They aren’t made for our bodies, and women’s bodies-all sizes and curves–should be celebrated. And in clothes that make them feel amazing. I am very flat chested, and thought the XXL would work for me, so I wanted to see if I could alter this dress. To me, part of the fun of fashion is making it your own. And that means altering what doesn’t work for you. I have a dress that started as a skirt, pants I’ve changed. Alterations are a great way to take the clothes offered to you, and make them your own.

I have a feeling we’ll be talking more about alterations. In the meantime, I would love to know: what’s something that you’ve made your own?

Below I’ve linked this exacted dress, and some other Target picks I love (as well as Fray Check if you need it!)

Xo RA

Investment Piece: Make it Your Own

Summer Fantasy

Note: the top featured in this post is part of my collab with Elaine Kim. All opinions are my own, and you can use code RACHEL4EK to get 15% off your first order at Elaine Kim. The 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: Summer Fantasy

I’ve been thinking a lot about the summers when we were kids. Not that there’s a typical one. There were summers I had art camp (never sleep away), summers full of days at the pool, reading books, and indulging my imagination. Times when summer dinner was simply watermelon, and I can still taste the sno-cones we would sometimes get after the pool, still in our swim suits and in towels.

The continuing theme no matter the summer? A little summer fantasy. Yes, I know there are all sorts of theories on vacations and staycations, of letting yourself get way, even for a bit. And I agree. But what about the day to day? What about the random summer Tuesday? Doesn’t that deserve a dollop of fantasy?

Maybe we define fantasy differently, but to me, fantasy can mean anything fun, out-there, amazing, that stretches you, isn’t routine. There are summer days, full of water and laze, that can invite fantasy on their own. And of my favorite ways to add a little fantasy? Fashion. I’m 100% the type of woman to wear a ball skirt about, because you never know where it will lead you. To dress up, in whatever strikes my fancy, and let that be my vacation or fantasy for the day.

This ball skirt makes me want to lounge in a garden, or by the beach, have tea, or champagne, and whisk away. And with the heat of summer stretching before us, isn’t that a great fantasy?

Investment Piece: Summer Fantasy

A note about the top: faux leather, but it goes with everything. Shorts. Jeans. A great way to elevate anything. And, leather is a must for the fall. It will go with everything and you need it. I’m ready to pair mine with vintage Levis and kitten heels! You can find it here (the white is so chic!). And the code RACHEL4EK for 15% off your first order.

The skirt? Alice and Olivia. It makes me smile, and I love the pattern. I’ve linked you similar ones below!

What’s your summer fantasy?
Xo RA

Shop the skirt: here

Wardrobe Building

Investment Piece: Wardrobe Building

I’ve been thinking a lot about what goes into building a wardrobe. Is it pieces that can last? Pieces that fit together? Ones that can be worn in so many different ways? What does wardrobe building look like?

As you may know, I take a lot of pride in my closet (see, well everything, but especially here when I chatted a little bit about how I shop). There are pieces I love, pieces I can wear with anything, and pieces I’ve had for years. Sometimes, I can go through my closet and still be surprised. My wardrobe can represent so many parts of my personality, and yet there are times when it seems like such a fluid thing to me.

I think a wardrobe is a lot of things. There should be pieces that are classic, fit together, and can be made into any thing you need, and pieces you can build with. You need stand out pieces, there should be things that make you smile, and feel special. How do you fit them together? How do you know what to shop for?

It’s bigger than this post. And sometimes, it’s just instinct. Take this romper. I’ve had it for years. It’s taken me to the opera with wrap sandals. Been worn with flats to a swanky spring party. Shooting this, I had an urge to wear it with my most favorite lion belt and gold heels (Guess I need to find an event!). This romper isn’t something I can pair with many other pieces (other than belts/shoes/bags), and while there are times when I worry about wearing shorts (I have to talk to my therapist about something!), it feels special and a seamless part of my wardrobe all at the same time.

What are your thoughts on wardrobe building? Do you shop for classics? Blend? Have standouts? Not just this piece, but I am thinking about our wardrobes and would love your input!

Investment Piece: Wardrobe Building

This romper is Sass and Bide, an Austrailian brand. It’s a few years old, but I was able to find you similar pieces to build with!

Xo RA

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

Summer Solstice

Investment Piece: Summer Solstice

The beginning of every season is exciting. And the summer solstice? Doubly so. It not only kicks off summer, but as the longest day of the year, lends itself to a sort of magic. Summer, I think, is magic and full of endless possibilties. Will it be a summer of beach parties, vacations, and water days? Or, will your summer be full of days when you can just eat watermelon and read library books, go to the movies, and invite loved ones over to BBQ? (I say go for a summer where you can do both!)

The summer solstice is the doorway to all of that. It’s fresh, new, and hopefully not too hot!

Investment Piece: Summer Solstice

What does the summer solstice mean to me? (Besides the kick off of summer?) White. Pants, dresses, tops, shorts, etc. (Yes, I know, we can wear white when we want, we’re grown!) But, there is something about the start of summer (and the beginning of a season) that just make me want to break out the white.

Of course, the proper pops of color are fun. Though you could tempt fate and do all white!
Some notes:
This dress is Mara Hoffman. I love her. The company is committed to sustainable practices, the clothes are colorful and fun, and most of it is fit for summer. The dress above is from a few years ago, linen, perfect (in fact it was in one of my first posts, seen here). And I’ve linked similar ones for your shopping pleasure below!
Shoes are Dr Scholl’s and some of my favorites. Easy to wear and go with everything.
Vintage hat. Let’s enjoy the sun but not look like it!

I would love to know: how do you celebrate summer? What does it mean to you? Any solstice rituals?

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 here

Investment Piece: Summer Solstice

Wild Wild Wrap Dress

Investment Piece: Wild Wild Wrap Dress

When it’s hot I reach for a dress. I find they keep me cooler better than anything else (other than my swimsuit in the water). Want to take your summer dress from cliche to chic?
Wrap dress.
They’re flattering on everyone. Come in every shape and length imaginable. The skirt opening keeps you cool (and on your toes). And somehow, even though wrap dresses are my go-to, always feel a little special.
Now. Wanna elevate your wrap dress?
Make it Wild. I couldn’t resist this bright pink and feisty (and Wild) cheetahs.
(At this point it is completely aok to skip ahead and shop this Wild Wild wrap dress here)
This is where I lovingly point out that I never met a pop of color in the form of shoes that I didn’t love. Fashion, wrap dresses and shoes included, are a chance to show a little bit about you. If that part is bright and Wild, why wouldn’t you show it off?

Many of my Wild summer stories may be in Wild Wild wrap dresses, what about you?

Investment Piece: Wild Wild Wrap Dress
Investment Piece: Wild, Wild, Wrap Dress

This Wild Wild wrap dress wouldn’t be a full story if I didn’t tell you about the brand. makes small batch, limited productions (they open each week, and you can get on restock lists!). Made in the US and in heritage sites around the world, the line is made of beautiful, functional pieces that will become backbones of your closet. (I still wear the first pair of pants I got from them years ago!)

Wild Wild wrap dress is actually a part of their India Collection, a collab with artists in India that are hand dyed, hand printed, and made with organic cotton and low ecological practices.
Also? They’re gorgeous, easy to wear, luxe.

The color and print of this dress caught my eye. I love that it’s already a story before you get out the door. And loving the company? Everyone wins.

I’ve linked some of my favorite pieces from Emerson Fry/India Collection (as well as similar shoes) below.

What kind of fashion story are you telling today?
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!

Summer Version

Investment Piece: Summer Verision

There was a vintage robe that I loved during the winter, and while I wore it around the house (as one does), I also wore it out and about. You can see the photos of that amazing dress/robe here. The great news for me? I found my Summer Version! Yes, this is a vintage robe (this one is the perfect soft silk instead of velvet, you know-for summer), and yes, even this one is from Bloomers and Frocks (make sure you read my review of them here and follow them on Instagram @bloomersandfrocks). Another thing to do? Get you a Summer robe that works as a summer dress! Summer Versions are the best!

This is the perfect number to wear with sandals for a day out, at work, or for drinks by the pool. It can be dressed up very easily (heels/jewelry), but lends itself to being casual as well (think flats); and even better, it still works around the house. Really, what I’m telling you is that with this summer version enables you to go from bed to work to out on the town without changing. Isn’t that what Summer is all about?

Shop my picks below, having an amazing Friday, and don’t be afraid to rock your robe in public!

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: Summer Version

Momma Said Stand Up Straight

Investment Piece: Momma Said Stand Up straight
Investment Piece : Momma Said Stand Up Straight

Momma said stand up straight. What she said when I left the house wearing this outfit. And, quite frankly, what she (and my Pilates teacher) tell me often- stand up straight.
Why?
Do we look better?
Yes
Feel better?
Yes
Does the reminder still annoy me occasionally?
Yes.

So what to do?
Stand up straight. And see where that takes us.

Investment Piece: Momma Said Stand Up STraight

This outfit wasn’t planned. In fact, I threw this outfit together on day that wasn’t going in any way, shape or form, good. None of the things I wanted to shoot seemed to be fitting or lining up. Time wasn’t on my side. I was cranky. And this is the only thing I could think that I wanted to wear. (I had a meeting and was hoping to shoot before it.) Yet, when I put this on– it felt right.
I saw my mom, she loved it. In fact, she asked, “Why aren’t you shooting this?” I didn’t have a great answer. Her only note: “Stand up straight”.
So, I did.
Both shoot the look, and stand up straight.
The thing is : when I stand up straight I do feel better, I look better, my “power” is better. And there are outfits that are better when I stand up straight.
Investment Piece: Momma Said Stand Up Straight
The thing about things not going right? It’s amazing how quickly they can change with the right outfit. Or the right posture. It’s a thing. Maybe the next time we have a day that seems awful, we could try it?

This top is custom via AAVintedge, and while the rest is from seasons past, I found you similar. What do you put on when you’re having a bad day?
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!

Options:

And here

June Armarium Picks

Investment Piece: June Armarium Picks

Note: this post is a part of my partnership with Armarium. While I am a partner, the opinions below are my own. Don’t forget to use code RADELICIA to get 20% off your first rental with Armarium!

Some off the top notes:
1. Did you know that Armarium has the new Zimmermann line? One of my favorite brands and so chic (see here). I couldn’t JUST pick Zimmermann, but wanted to alert you.
2. Did you know that Armarium does minor alterations? Love a dress but don’t want it so low cut, need it hemmed, etc? Chat with their stylists and they will make it happen!
3. Let’s not stress about time. Sometimes you know months in advance about an event, sometimes it’s a week. The team at Armarium is ready to take care of you no matter what!

And with that out of the way, let’s get to my June Armarium picks. Wedding Season is here. It’s not going anywhere. So I’ve selected things that I would wear to a wedding. If nothing else, ask me to be your plus one? I promise to be stylish!

Wedding Looks!
Investment Piece: June Armarium Looks
I love this look for your black tie occasions/weddings.

This look is perfect for outdoor weddings, or really any sunny event. I think it would also look great with flat sandals or wedges!

I think this dress is so chic. I can’t think of a wedding you wouldn’t look lovely at wearing this!

Non-Wedding Occasions
Weddings aren’t the only game in town. These are some pieces I think are just perfect for those kind of events!
Investment Piece: June Armarium picks
This is perfect for work, meetings, cocktails, and all the things June brings.

Yes, pair it with pants or a maxi skirt and it’s occasion ready. But it would also look good with jeans for drinks with your girlfriends. I just love this top.

Yes, you could wear this to a wedding. Or date night. Or just a good night out. Do you have to choose? Rent it here
Investment Piece: June Armarium Picks
From cocktails to BBQs, shoe dependent, I just love this number. It’s fun and isn’t that what June’s about? Rent it here.

Love the gold number at the top? Rent it here.

I would love to know: where are you going and what are you wearing? My pick? Rent it at Armarium and use code RADELICIA for 20% off!

Have fun out there!
XO RA

Do it Again!

Investment Piece: Do it Again!

There are a few ways to define “investment piece”. One is simply a piece that is expensive, and requires you to make a big investment. Another is simply a classic piece that you buy and then wear over and over again (I don’t personally think price matters here). This dress is an investment piece. I got it from the first H&M conscious collection (and it gets mistaken for Chloe) years ago. I’ve worn it over and over to every kind of event imaginable (from work to weddings). And now, I’m going to do it again!

I first shot this look for the blog here (and this post still rings true. But, yes, I had to do it again!)

(Side Note: H&M Collections are some of my favorites. They pair eco friendly fashion, high end fashion houses, and affordable prices. What’s not to love?!)

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!

If you’re interested in shopping some of my recent H&M picks (and a few Chloe Dresses) you can do so here

Investment Piece: Do it Again

Everything comes back around. Yes, everyone does it again. The mini dress is no different. Can I tell you how many emails I’ve gotten recently about all the mini dresses we should be wearing this summer? (There have been a lot) The thing about a classic is that it will never go out of style. You can always do it again.

There are specific details I love about this dress-those sleeves, that “lace”. But there are things that I just love about this style. A mini dress is both cheeky and classic, work wear and party wear, all at the same time. I’m not sure if you have a little number like this in your closet. But I think you should!

I’ve gotten a lot of miles out of this piece, and I can’t wait to do it again!
I’ve linked some of my current favorite mini dresses below!
Xo RA

Investment Piece: Do it Again