Change with a Belt

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There’s a school of thought that says a “special occasion” dress is only good for one occasion. I disagree–for many reasons, and not just because I love me a good party dress. Some people completely disregard this train of thought and just wear what makes them feel great. No matter where you fall on this spectrum the good news is that there’s a solution, or way, to make any outfit different: your accessories, or more specifically a belt. I’m not a big belt person–but the right one, at the right time is life changing. The above dress is a treasured Zac Posen. I’d wear it all day any day–but the simple addition of a belt completely changes it. I’d love to know–what’s your take? Do you like the belted or non-belted? Do you re-wear “special occasion” outfits? What’s your belt POV?

Happy Thursday! XO RA

Details:
Dress: Zac Posen, old, similar here and here
Belt: old, similar here

#snowqueen

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No, there’s no snow in this post (sadly), but this dress made me feel like a queen. Just modest (high neck, long sleeves, semi-train in the back) to be suitable for family, enough edge (semi-sheer sleeves) and enough of the vintage feel I love (cream and texture) to be perfect. I had visions of wearing this in snow-capped mountains–but it was just as perfect at the water park, and might also work at your next holiday party or night out!

 

Happy Wednesday! XO RA

Details:
Dress: Free People

 

#simple

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Sometimes with the hustle and bustle of the holidays it’s nice to have simple stand-bys to fall back on. Yes, it’s all black–but the detail on the modern boot and the camel coat keep me feeling like I look pulled together. And the simple joy of being able to throw on jeans and a t-shirt? Priceless.

Happy Monday! XO

Details:
Coat: Zara
Shoes: Kate Spade New York
Shirt: Jcrew
Jeans: MiH, old, similar here

#blameitondisco

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Semi-sheer, gold-stripped, and yet somehow appropriate? Sign me up! I love the disco feel-the gold, the sheer, and yet the length, sleeves and full skirt keep this dress on the modest side. It’s perfect for cocktails, parties, and dinners-put a sweater over it, or wear a camisole underneath it and it would be great for work. Gives the question “What Has Disco Done for You?” a new meaning!

Hope your Friday is full of happiness (and a little gold!) XO RA

Details:
Shoes: Gucci, old
Dress: Jill Stuart

Are Leggings Pants?

As with any great debate I am aware by broaching this topic that there are passionate people on each side; and those opinions may not be able to be swayed. Ironically enough, for an issue that can divide many a fashion lover I am not staunchly on either side–but I do think leggings as pants have their place.
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I love to work out, and it’s a major part of my daily routine. So therefore I am no stranger to wearing yoga/workout leggings as pants–both to the gym and for errands afterwards. Honestly, I’ve never given any thought to the idea. However, just regular leggings as pants? I have to admit I’m a little cautious. In my mind, leggings are associated with lounge-wear, so while I may throw a pair on for errands or a matinee, I don’t think I’d ever consider them for a night out. And even for those leggings I’m particular about structure (I like to be held in) and of course want a fabric that’s thick enough to not ave to worry about see-through issues!
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Above are two pairs you might see me out and about in–but more often than not, I’ll be in jeans! What about you? Do you wear leggings as pants? What are your guidelines? Can we see pics?

Happy Thursday! XO RA

All of that being said, I do love David Lerner Leggings–shop them here

#Degenerate

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Sometimes the best thing about your fashion sense is your sense of humor. Take this Milly sweater–it’s super soft cashmere, yet I love the cheeky message. Paired with great jeans and amazing shoes–it’s a fun take on a classic combo!

Happy Wednesday! XO RA

 

Details:

Sweater: Milly
Jeans: 3×1
Shoes: Reed Krakoff, old, similar here

Lady in Pearls

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There is something so delicate about this vintage pearl top–perfect for holiday parties with both skirts, pants or even jeans–but what I love so much is that it’s not precious. Meaning, that it goes just as well with messy hair and sunny day as it does with a party. It’s making my Monday a bit more bearable!

Hope yours is just as grand! XO RA

Details:

Top: Vintage, got mine at Garment Modern
Pants: Zara
Shoes: Valentino

#LaceTights

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Chanel presented its Pre-2016 Runway show (I loved it! You can catch it on Instagram or their official site Chanel And while you have to wait to get your hands on it, there were so many elements we can incorporate now to refresh our wardrobes- mainly the lace tights that were everywhere. (sidenote- I Loved the messy beehive and make-up, but am way more qualified to shop rather than do hair!) As the weather turns colder, tights are a great option anyway- but I loved the way these lace ones changed the outfit by becoming the focus. All you need to recreate this look is a black dress- and of course lace hose!

I’d love to know – do you love wearing tights? Will you be trying this look? As for me, I’m off to buy some lace tights!
Happy Thursday! XO RA
Get lace tights:
Chanel
Wolford
And even some very budget friendly ones at Target

La Vie Boheme

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Tis the party season. And everyone, including all of us, has gone the route of velvet, black, red and green, and plaid to parties. There’s nothing wrong with that. I love those clothes, that texture and print. But when I found this dress it felt like a breath of fresh air–the color means you can re-wear it in the spring, the lace and mesh make it holiday-worthy and the semi-sheer adds a hint of fun. The dress does come with an attached bodysuit–of course a slip underneath would work as well! Heels, or barefoot on a beach, and you’re good to go!

What are some of your favorite party outfits? XO RA

Details:
Dress: For Love and Lemons

Printed

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Prints don’t need to be scary-in fact I love them at this time of year as they can add a festive pop to any situation. How loud, over the top is up to you–and I suggest you play! However, with low key top and muted accessories they can also be a subtle hint of color!

Welcome to the Holidays! Happy Monday! xo RA

Details:

Top: Vintage

Skirt: old, similar here