outfits – Page 60 – Investment Piece

I Work Out

Investment Piece: I workout

Investment Piece: I work out

Things to know about me:
I love fashion. And shoes.
And my workouts are akin to my church.
I spin. I Pilates. I yoga. I will tell you that I box, but that happens rarely. I run.

Other things that I love?
Athlesure wear. Especially when it doesn’t compromise my fashion sense.

These leggings? When I saw them, I knew that I had to have them. The bands, the colors, the brand. Have I worn them to spin? Why, yes. Have I worn them out? Why, yes.

Does something have to be only one thing or the other? I don’t think so, do you?

Investment Piece: I work out
Investment Piece: I workout

There’s a chance we’re getting way too close to the line of “are leggings pants”?
I have no dog in that fight. Wear what you love, and if it makes you happy and you love the way it looks, it’s good enough to me.
But, that doesn’t mean I’m against wearing your workout gear as fashion gear. Why not be proud of the statement, ” I workout”? Isn’t that what this outfit is about?

Or is it?

Maybe great leggings are just great leggings. Maybe anything that goes great with heels is something to throw on for drinks or errands or anything in between.

Note: I don’t know of anything that doesn’t look good with heels.

That being said, maybe workout leggings have their place. (Let’s be fair, none of us want a thin pair of workout leggings. Or leggings in general.) But, maybe workout gear should only be used for our workouts?

If I fell in love with these leggings, and could wear them in and out of my workout, is that a bad thing? Or a good thing?

These leggings are from SoulCycle. I can’t recommend their lines enough-from being perfect for any of the workouts you do to being fashionable for any event you have before or after (or unrelated) to classes. This shirt I’ve had for at least 6 years. And these heels? A basic–you need them.
I’ve linked similar items below. Let’s workout!

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: I workout

It’s all Angles

Investment Piece: It's All Angles

There are times when I don’t always know what to write about these outfits that I come up with.

Angle: I’m wearing all black in the summer. Just like I do at any other time of the year. Black is chic, it’s a go to, and covers a multitude of sins.

Angle: This outfit was inspired by an outfit I saw in an editorial shoot. And I believe strongly in everyday editorial. I love the drama. The contrast of the (partially) flowing top and the wide legs. And it doesn’t hurt that both pieces have cut outs (these slits and the shoulder to say the least!)

Angle: All black with cutouts may not be the best outfit for your 9-5. This look may be best for your fancy parties. Though you know me, and I say why not make any day a fancy day. BUT. You could take these pieces apart and make them more work appropriate. Slit pants with a blouse. Put a tank under a cropped shirt.

Angle: I’ve had this top for a while. I realize I come up with outfits to wear it, but tend to only where it in pictures. Why? I get nervous about showing my stomach in real life. These pictures are not photoshopped (none of mine are). And there are some I wouldn’t show you as I was moving and my skin didn’t look “perfect”. Can we, as women, admit that we have skin and our bodies move? Is it ok to wear things that make you a little nervous. I had an acting coach once tell me that one way to get an audience to fall in love with you is to show them your vulnerabilities. Does that apply in fashion?

See, it’s all angles.

(Maybe the best angles: when wearing a top like this, stand up straight. It’s an important angle.)

Investment Piece: It's all Angles

It’s all angles.
The take on outfit. Where you can where it. The posture. Your attitude about it.

Another confession? I was never amazing at geometry. I could always get the big picture (aka solve the proof) but couldn’t always list the theorems that got me there (micro isn’t always my thing). But angles? Angles like these I can get- big and small.

Another angle? Maybe this is the summer we let go of all our angles and wear what makes us happy (even if our stomachs don’t always look perfect)?

I’ve linked some similar items for your angles below–what’s your take on 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!

InvesmentPiece : it's all angles

They call it Amore

Investment Piece: They call it Amore

They call it Amore.

What they didn’t realize is that I call it fashion. Another word for Amore?

Things that I Amore (yes, I know, not quite how I’m supposed to write the sentence but):
Prints
Attitude
Mixing Prints
Pencil Skirts
Anything that makes me feel as if I were in the Italian countryside.

Is it possible that this skirt gave me all that? Loves, I think it is.

(If you need a refresher on how I match patterns you are more than welcome to take a gander here).
(And super side note: have you ever noticed that your style goes through phases? I seem to be in a pencil skirt phase. I’m not mad at it. I also am wearing this swimsuit with everything. That’s also a thing I do. You can see evidence here. One of many swimsuit posts. I can’t help what I Amore)

Investment Piece: They Call it Amore

Pencil skirts that have something to say? Amore. Pencil skirts who’s patterns mix well with others? Amore.

I’m a fan of basics that don’t feel basic so I just couldn’t resist this number. While it’s colorful, and literally says Amore, it’s become a neutral in my closet. Tees, blouses, prints, heels, sneakers, this number has been with them all. But I couldn’t resist pairing it with this polka dotted swimsuit.
It’s bold and fun, and somehow classic.

Of all the things that I Amore, I love outfits like this. Basics that aren’t basic, statements that aren’t overpowering, and feelings that get shown. Stock up on your basics. Get all the tees and pants and skirts and dresses you like. But don’t forget numbers like this: I promise you can wear them with so much.

Also, wear your swimsuits. As hot as it is, at least you’re always prepared. And it’s chic.

I would love to know: what basics do you Amore? Are you wearing your swimsuit with everything?

I’ve linked similar items and things I love below! Happy shopping!
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! RA

I found this exact skirt and shoes on sale (what’s not to Amore about that?), and some great similar pieces starting at $15!

Investment Piece: They Call it Amore

Classic Repeat

Investment Piece: Classic Repeat

Loves, we all know that one of the most often posed questions I get is : “Do you re-wear your outfits?”

And, as usual, the answer is a resounding yes. (Note: some party dresses, and do I love a good party dress, are more difficult to rewear, but I make it work.)

This dress? It’s a classic repeat. I originally got it a few (at least 3) years ago, and put it up when we were brand new here. (OMG, we’ve come so far, right?). I wear it often, but perchance I wore it the other day and when the 5th person stopped to ask me about it, I was reminded of what a classic it is. So, I had to repeat it.

What I love about this dress? (Because let’s be honest, you could get a denim dress anywhere). The details. The neck and the back and the slits, you show just enough skin to keep it interesting, but not too much. (Goldilocks would be jealous of your balance). It goes great with heels, equally great with flip flops. Not to mention, it’s cool enough for summer (how is it over 100 already?).

Investment Piece: Classic repeat

My take? Your closet should be filled with classic repeats. Yes, fill in with special pieces that make your heart sing. There’s never a reason to say no to a party dress. However, when you have your pick of classic repeats, you always have something to wear. So, what makes a classic repeat?

Classic repeats can be a couple different things. A basic that you can wear over and over, in multiple ways. OR an outfit that makes you feel great and you can wear over and over. Same thing? Maybe. Either way, a classic repeat is timeless and some thing you can’t help but repeat. This dress is one of mine. What’s one of yours?

Even though this dress is a few seasons old, I found some similar looks for you! Happy Shopping!
XO RA

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

Investment Piece: Classic Repeat

Romping Around

Investment Piece: Romping Around

I cannot be the only adult woman who has issues with shorts. And then, there’s the short’s sister, the romper. I love rompers, and yet I hate them. Tell me I’m not the only one.

Here’s the thing about shorts and rompers–there are just so many chances for things to go wrong. Are they too short? Too structured? Too sloppy? Do you look like a kid in them? I worry about these things every time I put on shorts or a romper.

I’m also brave enough to tell you what no one else will: even when you’re over your fear of rompers and love them (be patient, we’ll get there), you do have to get completely naked to pee. Just keep that in mind, but don’t let it stop you.

So, how do you go from having issues with rompers to romping around? Let’s chat about it.

Investment Piece: Romping Around

Romping around? I do love it. As nervous as they can make me, rompers are a great all-in-one option. Just like moods, there are different kinds of rompers. My fave? The more structured ones (though flowy ones are great for the pool), but there’s something about a tailored one that makes me feel grown up.

And somehow, when they’re tailored I worry less about the length. Weird, I know.

This little number? I love the satin/silk fabric. It feels like it would be right at home with heels and a night out. And yet, it goes with sandals (not just wedges) and a day romping around (sorry not sorry). Most importantly, this romper makes me feel like a 1940’s star. It’s the details- the pleats, the cap sleeves, the buttons. I feel like I’m on trend (shorts) but still me. My tip for finding a romper that you love?

-Experiment with cuts. I like structure, maybe you like them loose. Most rompers (just like jumpsuits) can be worn in so many ways, the most important thing is that you like it.
This number is not the first romper I tried, and in fact I’ve had it for years. The trick is that once you find something you love to romper around in, you keep it!

I’ve found a great selection of rompers below for your shopping pleasure! Happy Romping!
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!

Investment Piece: Romping Around

The Duchess

Investment Piece: The Duchess

Loves, this post is a part of my partnership with AmberLeaf. While I may earn communion, this does not affect any price for you. My opinions are my own, I truly love not only these pieces, but am in love with Amberleaf and the two amazing women who run it. You’ll be hearing about them now and then, but rest assured that my take on any product is that–my take. Now, let’s get to shopping! XO RA

I think I would make a great Duchess. What do I have to back me up on that theory? My fashion sense, desire to help others, and how I look in this blazer. What? Like wearing a blazer called The Duchess isn’t prove that you shouldn’t be a duchess? Nonsense.

We all know that the 9 to 5 world is not one that I dwell in (though I do love me a good suit). However, I LOVE a great blazer. From the aforementioned suits, to jeans, to over a dress or with a skirt, there’s always a place for a blazer. They can instantly pull an outfit together, and are great for people like me who tend to get cold (even in the heat). My favorite kind of blazer? The kind that goes great with dress pants (see above), with flares and a graphic tee, with a skirt (see above), pants, or can be a jacket that doesn’t look like a jacket over a “going-out outfit”.

Did I just age myself with the use of the phrase “going-out outfit”? If so, let’s just pretend I said whatever the kids are saying. A fancy outfit?

The good news for me? The Duchess does all these things that I love, and more. The fabric has a subtle sheen, meaning it goes over my cocktail dresses and looks great with my jeans. I can belt it (see above, also side note-I love a great blazer as a top, don’t ever be afraid to belt them) or let it rest on your shoulders. I tried on the whole Duchess line and every single color is stunning, and versatile.

Now, here’s the great news for you. For a limited time the code DUCHESSS30 gets you $30 off the Duchess blazer at AmberLeaf. Don’t forget to put the code RACHELADELICIA in the seller notes for anything you buy (it keeps you up to date on all the things Amberleaf and I have planned for you, and let’s them know you’re one of mine!)!

I know in my heart of hearts that you will love the Duchess as much as I do. And, for fun, if we just started calling ourselves Duchesses when we had our Blazers on, that could be a thing. Right?

XO RA

red-y set

Loves, like many of you, I was rocked by the tragic death of Kate Spade this week. I’m still wrapping my head around it, and trying to figure out what to say. Isn’t it funny that sometimes an event involving someone we don’t personally know can rock us so deeply? I know her struggle with depression and anxiety, and her worry about her brand, hit close for some of us; making this topic both difficult to talk about, and yet, impossible to ignore. I was going to write about it today, but everything I put on paper felt wrong. Then I got so wrapped up in that struggle that letting it go seemed wrong as well. I’m working on that piece, in the meantime let’s flash back to a piece and outfit that made me smile. I hope you’re week has been smooth sailing. I hope that if you’re suffering, you know how cared you are, and you know that reaching for help means you’re strong, not weak. Thinking of us all xx RA

Investment Piece: red- set
Investment Piece: Red-y Set

It seems just fitting to end a week where I chatted about a vintage trip (missed that? check out #fashioninthewild here) with a vintage set. It’s no secret that I have a thing for vintage. By now you know I think it’s chic and modern to mix vintage and new. And this outfit combines all of those things.

It’s a red-y set.

Yes, in my mind the word match was said. Yes, it’s a bad joke. But if you didn’t at least think it, we may have to reevaluate some things.

Investment Piece: Red-y Set
Investment Piece: red- set

What I love about sets? Especially this red-y set? Within the set are endless possibilities. Wear the pieces together. Wear them apart. Add accersories to your heart’s content. Keep the look simple. So many options, so many looks, so many ways to be red-y set.

This vintage won me over this past holiday season, though I like to think that this knit could be worn year round. And this red color? When isn’t red in season?

I love the classic ease of this look, it made me feel very Rosemary Clooney in White Christmas during the holiday season. Now that spring is here, it makes me feel very chic. The knit is mid-weight, meaning it can hold its shape, but isn’t too hot. I love the addition of the bigger belt–the set is a little big on me, and while I’ll tell you I’m not a belt lady, I love great waist definition. The kitten heel is my new old favorite thing. They just scream chic to me. This look is perfect for work, or drinks, or whenever you want to feel a little put together.

I’ve also rocked this skirt with a band tee and this sweater with jeans. Red-y sets may be my new go-to!

This set is vintage, as is the belt, but I’ve linked similar items and these shoes below!

XO RA

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

Investment Piece: Red-y Set

Summer Prep

Investment Piece: Summer Prep

Things I’ve been thinking about lately: Prep. Or preppy style.
How much I love boat shoes/loafers.
Outfit formulas that work in any season.
How it’s barely Summer and it’s already SO hot.
The fact that everyone needs a white button down (it’s science).

The result? Summer Prep.

As in, yes, I’m prepping for Summer. I have all the SPF and the swimsuits (see my guide here), and am wearing hats to protect my face. (No one wants wrinkles).

*Note: this hat is vintage Lanvin, a great etsy find. It’s cloth, so there are times when the brim won’t lay exactly how I would like, but I love the pattern and colors!

I’m also doing Summer Prep, meaning I’m leaning into my preppy side. Have I mentioned that a white button down is one the champions of your closet. They go with anything, can be dressed up or dressed down, and will never fail you. Boat shoes? Same thing. (You can call them loafers. I do.) I just love the preppiness that they can add to any outfit.

As for outfit formulas? This look is seasonless. Get cold? Wear jeans. Or trousers. You don’t have to wear cutoffs. (Though as we’re Summer prepping and it’s a million degrees outside, at this time, I would recommend a bottom that is cool. And not just in the preppy way). You could swap loafers for mules, heels, or sneakers. But you’ll always look pulled together and ready to go. And isn’t that what prep is all about?

I would love to know: how are you doing Summer prep? Please tell me it involves cooling down, and you’re willing to share your secrets!

These Summer prep pieces are some of my go-to’s. I’ve linked similar below for your shopping and Summer prep pleasure!
XO RA

And don’t forget your sunglasses!

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 Prep

Shake your TailFeather

Investment Piece: Shake Your TailFeather

We all have our first. Our first big purchase, our first favorite thing, our first time shaking your TailFeather.

*Sidenote: I am well aware that a pink feathered maxi skirt is not an everyday look. However, it was my first. Well, not my first. But one of them. What first, you may be asking? One of my first big purchases on eBay. Many moons ago, when I was teaching myself how to not only Shake my TailFeather in an authentic to me way, but also how to shop and find the things that I love, I found this gem on eBay. It’s Zara, back when Zara’s European offerings were different than the US ones. This pink feathered number filled me with visions of balls, romance, and shaking of tailfeathers.

This not only represents a great occasion look, but one of the first times that I was able to find and buy something special for myself.

Investment Piece: Shake Your TailFeather

One way that I’ve learned to embrace how I shake my TailFeather? I love a reason to dress up. Or, more aptly, I just love to dress up. If I can get away with a special look, I’m wearing it.

I’m also a fan of taking a random occasion and making it special. This whole “you don’t have to dress up” thing? Or the dressing down thing–we don’t have to do that. We can shake our (literal) TailFeathers in any special occasion dressing whenever we want.

Or, at least, that’s how I Shake my TailFeather.

**Another SideNote: this bodysuit is one of my faves (I also have it in black and cream). It’s from some no-name place on Melrose Ave in Los Angeles that I bought many moons ago. I wear them with everything, but especially love them with maxi skirts.

All of this begs the question, how do you Shake your TailFeather? How do you want to?

While both the bodysuit and this amazing pink feathered skirt are a few seasons old, I’ve found similar items and linked them below for your shopping pleasure! Shake your TailFeather!

XO RA

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

Summer Swimsuit Guide

Investment Piece: Days in La

Loves, happy summer! This is one of my favorite seasons for so many reasons. The water, the long days, and I even can handle the heat (somewhat). The main reason I love summer?

I have a thing for swimsuits. In the water. But, and this is my biggest secret, out of the water too. I wear swimsuits as bodysuits, as tops, as the base for most of my summer outfits. So what does that mean?

We need new swimsuits.

Investment Piece: Swim Suit Round up

We all know how to pair a swimsuit with a cover up. Throwing on shorts or a t-shirt with your swimsuit is natural. I do that. What I also do? Plan outfits around my swimsuits. Pair them with higher end pieces. Use the swimsuits as anything but something that should go in the water. Or find the holy grail of swimsuits, one that works as well in the water as it does in life.

Investment Piece, leather swim, leather skirt, pleats, Norma Kamali, altazarra, high fashion, CA, TX

What am I loving this summer for swimsuits? One pieces in prints to wear with jeans, skirts, and shorts.
Highwaisted two-pieces that have a retro feel. And a selection of suits from some of my favorite brands! I’ve linked some each below!

Some of my current favorite One Pieces:

Two Pieces I’m crushing on:

As for brands? I can’t stop buying Jcrew suits. They’re always on trend, fit great, and are budget friendly!

JCrew Swim:

On the hunt for a standout suit that looks amazing with anything you can pair it with? One of my go-to brands is For Love and Lemons. Cutouts, Lace, and more for your swimsuit pleasure.
For Love and Lemons Swim:

One of my new obsessions? Onia swim. Their latest collaboration has the high waisted bikinis I love and the retro feel one pieces I love to pair with everything!

Onia Swim:

From the water to the runway, I feel like there’s a swimsuit for that. I would love to know your thoughts! What swimsuit styles are you looking forward to wearing this year? Do you wear your swimsuits as clothes like I do? Let me know!

XO RA

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

Investment Piece: Summer SwimSuit guide