shopping – Page 24 – Investment Piece

Escape

My week has been thwarted by a jammed toe. Yes- I am a klutz! Earlier this week I walked into a weight during Pilates class, jamming 2 toes on my left foot- and while I’m aok, they’ve affected everything. What shoes I can wear. My sleep. My schedule. Shoots, posts, appointments all had to be rescheduled. So while I’m on the mend, I’m still barefoot- meaning that today we’re looking back so next week we can move forward in amazing shoes! Xo RA

Investment Piece: Escape

Escape.
She was bored. Even with the impending holidays, she needed a little excitement. A little adventure. She needed an escape. It was nothing personal, and nothing to fear; it’s just that sometimes we all need to be a little wild, a little different than we are, a little escape.
So, she got herself just that.
In the country, in the quiet, she was able to let loose. Never one to blend in, she let the escape be her canvas. From vistas to leopard sightings, what she really found in little moments of escape was herself again.
And don’t worry, she brought the clothes home with her. Just in case she needs a little city escape.

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Have I mentioned how much I love Amberleaf? And the coat selections they have for you this season are just…..I can’t imagine you needing anything else. From cashmere to classic cuts to every color you could want. They are worth escaping in!
(Remember to use the code RACHELADELICIA when you shop!)

Just because it’s coat season doesn’t mean that you have to resign yourself to bland winter fashion. Mix colors (how great are these gloves?). Wear print (well, leopard is a neutral, but there are so many prints out there to embrace). Your coat can be the star of your outfit, or a stunning topper. Realistically, you might not need an escape. BUT your outfit can be an escape from the ordinary, and I see nothing wrong with being ready just in case there’s a last minute get away.

This coat is Amberleaf and avaible on their site. I’ve linked pants and gloves for your escaping pleasure.
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!

Holiday Sanity

a woman in a plaid shirt and black pants sitting by a green reindeer

Halloween is barely over – I haven’t even put up the decorations- and yet, it feels as if the HOLIDAYS are already breathing down our neck (and I know that the holidays usually means American and Christian traditions and if those aren’t yours I see you!). Though, let’s be honest, if you’ve been to the shops any time lately the holidays have been coming (aka my local stores swapped out Halloween deals for Christmas deals and decorations about two weeks ago). This is where I want to give you tips on how to navigate the holidays and keep your sanity in tact.

I want to tell you that I have every post, holiday outfit, holiday gift, and holiday trip planned. This is where I could tell you that I’m so ahead on gift guides, writing, plans, and all of the holiday things that I can just sit back and relax, enjoy November and have a stress free holiday season.

Yet. I would be lying to you.

This season I have big plans for gift guides (something that I struggle with so I’m excited to share my plans with you!), my outfits are still somewhat in flux- as are my plans- and while I’m aiming high and want to take each moment as it comes- I’m not ahead. There’s a chance you could even say I’m not over prepared. (Which I long to be each year at this time) So, with all of (waves hands at all we’re supposed to be doing and all that’s going on) how do we stay sane during the holiday season? How do we enjoy it as it’s happening and not worry about what we “should” be doing?

This is where I tell you that I’m not sure. However I can share what I’m doing to keep my sanity- holiday and otherwise.

a woman in a plaid shirt sits at a table with a red bookmark and a candle surrounded by greenery

Lists
From my calendar to my to-do list, I’m writing down my wants, my shoulds, my goals, and my deadlines. Attempting to break everything down into doable steps and timelines, trying to plan ahead, but not be overwhelming to myself. Does it help? For me? Yes. And sometimes, that does mean that I make double lists and then throw lists away, but constantly seeing it all helps.

Deadlines
While deadlines can sometimes lead to insanity, I actually find that they help me during the holiday season. I pick and keep to the days where I can no longer take on new projects, that I need to have posts done by, that I’m giving up (in the good way!) by. Sticking to my self-imposed deadlines may be a different issue, but knowing that I have the deadlines in place help me set boundaries which lead to sanity!

Giving Up
I want everything to be perfect- especially at this time of year. And while that’s a great goal, I know that it’s impossible -especially at this time of year. So. I give up. Not on everything- and it doesn’t mean that I don’t try- from outfits to posts to presents to plans. I try so hard during the holiday season. Yet, at some point, for sanity, you give up and let things be what they are and turn things off and just enjoy things. At least, that is the goal. Always. There are days when it’s easier than others, but giving up is one of the best things that I do for my holiday sanity.

I also plan ahead (and leave room for flexibility), I’ve moved to ecards and scaled down my gift list, I’ve focused on holiday things that really matter (family, friends, etc), and I’ve tried to shop in advance (with room for impulse purchases). What do you do to keep your sanity during the holiday season? How do you enjoy November without focusing on the December holidays?
I would love to hear your tips and tricks!

XO RA

Start your holiday shopping early with Miranda Frye- jewelry for you and all the women in your life! While this is an affiliate ad, it hasn’t affected my love of the brand!

Get EARLY ACCESS to Miranda Frye’s Black Friday Sale

Fashion Halloween: Dorothy

a woman with pumpkin in pigtails, red ruby shoes, a blue striped dress, white undershirt
a woman in pumpkins in ruby red slippers in a blue striped dress with a white shirt
a woman in a blue and white striped dress with ruby red slippers and a cat and a gold round
a woman with pumpkins in ruby red slippers and blue socks and blue and white dress
a woman in pumpkins in a blue and white dress with a white undershirt, red ruby slippers, blue socks
a cat with a basket and ruby red slippers
close up of feet in ruby red slippers and blue socks a gold rug, a broom, and a white wall

Honestly, my plans for my big Fashion Halloween were delayed (get ready for next year!) and then I realized I could easily be Dorothy (from The Wizard of Oz). Fun fact? This was my favorite movie when I was 4-5 ( in fact, my grandparents were the first people to record it on their VCR for me and because of timing it took me years to know that a part of the film was in black and white- yes, I’m not that old but that old! If you know, you know- and I may lie about my age!) But. Dorothy has always been a fave. And ruby red slippers (or as I’ve always called them “date shoes” have always been a closet staple). So, when I realized I could easily do the Dorothy outfit- from hair (from pigtails to curls to braids) to dress (any light blue or gingham, or apron with a white undershirt- as long as it’s short sleeved, in this case a vintage Laura Ashley dress pinned over a white short sleeve shirt) and paired with a basket and a Toto(I tried to get my cat involved! This was our our best bet and she was interested but the pics were not our best! In short, animals are always a crap shoot but worth a try and as someone who loves to be near me this Cat and Toto is always a risk!) and of course- the Ruby Red Slippers. More a Fashion Story, but I was so obsessed with Wizard of Ozthat I thought that all red shoes were magic as a kid, and therefore that all women should own a pair of red shoes to wear on dates (aka date shoes), so I’ve kept more than one pair of red heels on hand -but who could resist a sparkly pair? And then to pair those with socks (slippers with blue socks and red sparkly shoes)?!? Magic.

It was my mom who suggest the broom- both a nod to Dorothy killing the Wicked Witch and Halloween in general. And yet- both that and the “yellow brick road” (aka gold towel) were so perfect.
Last minute. High fashion. Perfect Halloween (I was also Dorothy in high school with friends and this one might be the best!)

Tonight for Halloween, I’ll be in Skeleton Pjs (seen here handing out candy.You may have already worn a costume, or had one planned for tonight, but if you’re in need of ideas I’m hoping this easy look is something you can get together (or keep in your mind till next year!)
I hope that whatever you’re doing and whatever you’re wearing that it’s fashion and fun and a bit of frolic!

Happy Halloween! Hope it’s fashion!
XO RA

Pink Power

a woman in a hot pink dress, hot pink tights and hot pink boots
woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots and gloves
a woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots and gloves

Every October I do at least one post in a pink outfit. It started as a way to chat about breast cancer for Breast Cancer Awareness Month (please go get your mammogram. I’m also talking to myself- as that’s on my to-do list. And it’s easy to out off. But we can’t wear amazing things if we’re not here! Wanna be accountability buddies and make our appointments?) I’ve had so much fun each year coming up with pink outfits and “celebrating” (I know that’s not the word but I can’t really put my finger on what is) the month. Yet, ironically, if you were to ask me, I’d tell you that I’m not really a pink person.

But the thing about pink is- it can grow on you. And, like anything else, once I’ve found my shade of pink, it’s became one of my favorites. Hot pink is the pink for me- from gowns to suits, it has snuck throughout my closet so it’s almost a neutral. Perhaps, when I would say that I’m not a pink person I meant the stereotypical pink- over sweet, a bit timid, a bit young. The thing that I’m learning is that pink is power. Wearing it makes me feel powerful, the hot pink is a symbol of my power, and when you get to have fun like this how could you not want to indulge in your own pink power?

a woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots, and gloves
And yes, this year’s pink outfit is a play on the Zendaya Valentino campaign and the hot pink looks that are everywhere. I’ve had this pink dress for years (it was one of my first hot pink purchases!). The boots were also from season’s past, every so often I think about culling them from my closet, but they bring me so much joy that I could never part with them. And it turns out my instinct was right (and maybe gives strength to the argument that everything comes back and you shouldn’t get rid of things!). The tights and gloves were simple purchases, and super easy to find! Putting my own take on the look of the moment was so incredibly fun- and once again the pink was powerful!

a woman in a hot pink dress and tights and boots and gloves
a woman in a hot pink dress, tights, boots, and gloves
a woman in a hot pink dress with tights, boots, and gloves

One of the things that changed my stance about pink, and power, besides how great it looks, was that I realized that my power- the things that make me special from my sarcasm to how I cry easily to my ability to make leopard work with anything- is my own. My power can be soft, it can be chic, and can be pink. What do you wear when you need to feel powerful? What’s your stance on pink?
And when is your mammogram?

I’ve linked similar shoes and dresses for your shopping pleasure below! Both the tights and gloves were found on Amazon if you want those as well!
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!

Fashion Halloween: What you Already Have

There have been many Fashion Halloweens when I chat about “easy” costumes, Halloween shirts, and little accessories that you can use to get in the spooky spirit! And I stand by those!

a woman in a black shirt that says bad witch with white pants
This shirt is my go-to (yes, I’ll be wearing it more than one time this week!) and stand by these tips for last minute costumes read here. And yes, if costumes aren’t your thing, a headband with any ears or horns is great. Or an elaborate makeup look. Or a shirt that says “bad witch” on it (this fave of mine is from seasons past but I know you can find it on eBay! If you need help with that LMK!)

And yet.

With Halloween being on the edge of the winter holidays- where, in theory, there will be all sorts of parties and events and date nights (or if nothing else excuses for you to buy dresses for events you don’t have to go to!)- and I couldn’t help but think of simple, but effective, costumes that you could put together with pieces you may already have! OR with pieces that you want to buy but need another place to wear!

Below I’ve taken 2 “high” fashion dresses and let you know easy ways that you could make them into Halloween costumes. Not only would you be very Fashion Halloween, these are dresses you may already own. Or, if you want to invest in these dresses they are great for any holiday party, dinner, date night- and not just in the holiday season! Fashion as your halloween costume? Maybe that is the scariest (aka most fun!) thing of all!

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 Cat
a woman in a leopard dress

I’m a firm believer that leopard is a neutral, and any leopard piece you buy is an investment! So a leopard dress? A must. From date night to parties, this dress (or similar ones) will have you always on trend, always able to accessorize, and always not boring! And for Fashion Halloween? Super simple! Just add cat ears (or mask if that’s your jam)- and you’re a cat. A costume you already have or an excuse to get a new dress? Either way, it’s chic!

I’ve linked this exact dress, choices under $100 and cat ears I love:

Witch
a woman in black lace dress

A black lace dress- is a bit witchy, a classic, a must for any holiday or date night or big event- and super easy to turn into a Halloween costume. Simply add a witch hat (or devils’ horns). Simple, stunning. And a great reason to wear a stunner you already have or invest in a new one! You’ll wear it all the time (I wore this for Valentine’s last year!). This number is vintage but I’ve linked similar for you below!

What are you being for Halloween? Or to parties? And if you don’t have something in mind, might I recommend one of these easy Fashion Halloween looks?

Also- if you need a costume and have no idea what to wear, email me! This is something I love and I would love to help!

XO RA

Fashion Halloween: Skeleton

a woman in skeleton pjs with pumpkins
a woman in a skeleton pj set with pumpkins
a woman in skeleton pjs and pumpkins
a woman in skeleton pjs surrounded by pumpkins

Every Halloween I tend to wear a certain shirt to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters (a thing I LOVE to do!) and you can see my usual go-to trick-or-treat outfit here. Maybe part of fashion halloween that I should chat about is that I have my costumes, and then I have what I answer the door to trick-or-treaters in (and why shouldn’t both be fashion?).
And yet, this year, I’m thinking of not only combining Fashion Halloween and giving out candy, but comfortable costumes and a night of frolic.
AKA on one of my costume shopping trips I found this pj set that’s not only perfect for a party but perfect for a comfy Halloween night- and yet is still fashion. You could elevate this look with make-up (not my skill set), or even heels (my wheel house for sure!), Where I found this set (Target!) also had matching sets for the whole family so if you need a couple or family costume, this is an easy or high fashion way to match!

I’ve never thought or considered being a skeleton for Halloween. And yet, with matching accessories, these pjs feel just as great as any ball gown costume that I can think of (and most likely more comfy!). A bonus is that they are the best costume to stay at home in- be that watching scary movies (or Hocus Pocus for the 300th time!) or handing out candy to your local goblins! (aka wear to hand out Halloween candy but make it fashion!). You don’t need makeup (though if you can do that teach me how!) or anything else- but this simple set. I’ve linked it and the slippers below!

What do you love about Halloween night? Handing out candy? The costumes? Let me know! And if you already have a plan for your Halloween (fashion or not)- because we know this isn’t the only costume I’m wearing this year (see for my picks so far!), but I am dying (down to a skeleton) to hear about yours!
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 skeleton peeps with a skeleton next to her — me and my skeleton peeps!

Suit but make it Fashion

a woman in a plaid suit and grey corset with platforms

a woman in a plaid suit, grey corset, brown gloves, and bucket bag

Is it weird that I love a suit- even when I have never needed to wear a suit in any of my adult pursuits? As in, I’ve always loved a suit and every time that any of the “fashion” says suits are back I get excited. Because, besides being a work wear staple, a suit is a symbol of power, a suit is also a fashion staple. A suit can be so many things (and the pieces of a suit can be so many more!). And when you choose to make a suit fashion- like let’s say pairing it with a corset (fashion of course) and platforms (so in!), gloves (let’s bring them back, shall we?) and a great bag (this one is vintage but I’ve found you similar!).

Suits are one of the staples that I can routinely go back to, over and over again- no matter the style, that make me feel good. Suits make me feel adult, professional, and a bit more in control. And when I can put my own twist on them (see above), I can’t help but wonder why I don’t wear suits every day!

a woman in a plaid suit, grey corset and brown platformsI
a plaid blazer, navy bucket bag and brown gloves on a bench
a woman in a grey corset and plaid pants and brown platfroms

A corset top seems like a lot, right? Yet, it can elevate a lot of outfits- even a suit which I think is one of those outfits that doesn’t need elevating. Is there a limit to elevating? Perhaps not!

One of my favorite looks this fall is strapless tops with pants (and a blazer thrown in) so doing that with a suit makes my day. How I did it? Paired a much loved vintage corset top with a suit from last season (That feels oh so now) and platforms, vintage gloves, and a vintage Bottega that feels brand new.

I know that to me, suits are these fun and fascinating pieces, but if you have to wear them everyday they may not be. So. If you have to wear suits all the time how do you make them fashion? What tips might you need to make them more fun? If you don’t have to wear a suit, what’s stopping you and what would make you wear one? How can we make suits fashion?

I want to hear about it all!
XO RA

I’ve linked similar and exact pieces below!

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

a woman in a grey corset and plaid suit

Fall Wishlist

a woman in jeans, jean jacket and a plaid blazer with suede boots

While I make wishlists for every season (and also constantly make them), for some reason fall wishlists are hard for me. Perhaps it’s because even though it’s fall, it doesn’t even really feel like fall- aka it’s hard to want sweaters and jackets when it’s still 90 degrees out. Perhaps it’s also that so much of my fall wishlist feels like updates, not new styles. Yes, I love corduroy and plaids and velvets, and I have a lot of them in my closet, so many of the pieces I love now feel like I’m just updating, not making a new wishlist. (And especially this year when, between us, I’m behind on cleaning out my closet and feel like it’s impeding my shopping!). Or perhaps, it’s that during fall time seems to speed up. One day it’s Labor Day, then it’s Halloween, and then we’re right in the middle of the holidays.

And yet, with all of that- there are still things I want this fall, outfits and styles I’m excited to play with, and styles that feel so fresh and exciting to me. Yes, there are sweaters and jackets to update. Yes, I love a great corduroy suit (or pieces) and will ease velvet in my wardrobe as the temps cool. Below I’m linking both ideas for outfits and individual pieces I want.

What does your fall wishlist look like? Are there specific pieces you want or are you recreating fall ideas? I would love to know all about it!

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!

Strapless Sets
Quite a few places are pairing a strapless bustier top with pants. And I love it. It’s a bit retro, a bit fresh and yet completely appropriate for work! Here are some of my favorite sets:

a woman in a leather midi skirt and sheer blosue

Leather
Leather isn’t new, but there is a lot I want to play with. From midi skirts to trench coats to leggings to colored leather. I’m so interested in mixing and matching with sweaters, tights, boots, heels- all of it!
Shop leather midi skirts here and leather leggings here. I’m on the hunt for a great leather trench coat and will keep you posted!

Other ideas I’m playing with: Monochrome looks (especially playing with different textures in the same color), corduroy (a la a suit!), statement boots, and capes (because I can never resist them! As usual, I will see you updated on all I buy and all my outfits. What are you wearing for fall? What have you bought so far?

XO RA

The Thing About Timing

a woman in a pleated print skirt and black sweater on a sidewalk
a woman in a printed pleated skirt, sweater and boots on a sidewalk

Have you ever heard that it’s possible to meet the right one at the wrong time? I know many people will tell you this when you’re out dating- and it may be true (my verdict is out on that). In the shopping world? While timing is an issue-it’s not like you’d wear a bathing suit in a snow storm- I more lean to the adage that’s what’s meant for you will find you (though it is also true that nothing haunts you like the vintage you didn’t buy!).

Perhaps a more accurate way to state my philosophy (for fashion), is that the right item can be fit into any timing (within reason). Take for example this skit:

a woman in a pleated printed skirt and sweater and boots

From a new to me brand, ME+EM, a UK brand dedicated to bringing luxury and classic workwear and beyond, this skirt was meant for spring/summer. The brand suggested paying the matching scarf as a top (Which I could never make work for me, though I did make a crop top work!) and pairing both of those with a blazer for work, and without the blazer for play. And I wanted to show versions of that. Yet, I got this skirt on sale, right at the end of summer- when there was so much to chat about and do!

My intent was to show you all the ways this skirt (and scarf) could be worn- and I did wear it with a crop top and sandals, with a blazer, with heels. But, the timing called for a sweater and boots (if it’s not sweater weather, maybe we can conjure it!); so instead of fighting the timing, I went with it. It was supposed to be spring-ish skirt, but because it’s right, and because it’s timeless, it fit the timing, even if it wasn’t intended.

Who said that timing was an issue? Maybe they weren’t wrong, but perhaps they weren’t right.

a woman in a pleated printed skirt and sweater and boots

How does timing affect what you wear? And if it’s the right thing for you- from shoes to skirts to dresses- how do you wear it throughout the seasons. I know that there are things that don’t translate seasons, but I am a believer that timeless pieces, and the right pieces for you, will always fit. (And as a styling note, the more timeless pieces you have the more timing isn’t a thing you need to worry about!)

I would love to hear about all your timings! And I’ve linked this exact skirt and scarf for you below- to wear in whatever time you see fit!
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 striped skirt and sweater and boots

End of an Era: Online Vintage Shopping Tips

One of my favorite ways to shop is vintage. It’s helped me collect things, it’s shaped my style, and it’s made me a better shopper. However, I know that it’s intimidating to shop vintage (especially online!). So, I’ve rounded up a few of my best tips for shopping vintage below!

A few years ago, the last episodes of “Mad Men” began to air. Can we chat for a minute about how this show affected our culture? Not just for the viewers (and yes, I’m obsessed) but in how it affected fashion. Styles always come back around –evidenced in the resurgence of the 70s on the runway–but this show made vintage, and vintage inspired dressing cool. I’ll admit–I’ve always loved vintage, there’s something about clothing that has a story that speaks to me. However, let’s be honest–it can be hard to shop for–both online and in person. The good news is there are a ton of amazing vintage shops out there–and if you find one by all means go in and look (don’t forget to try on!). With the advent of Etsy, some online shopping for vintage has gotten much easier–and the finds can be amazing. Here are some of my favorite Etsy finds as well as tips to online vintage buying!

1. Know your measurements, not your size.

Clothes were cut and sized differently in different eras, not to mention that certain body types go in and out of fashion (a whole blog on its own). Make sure that you measure correctly (or get someone to help you!)–and go by those. Also, depending on the fit of the dress, give yourself an inch of wiggle room–there’s nothing worse than ordering a dress and having it be too tight to breathe.

2. Research Shop Policies

Some shops take returns and exchanges, others won’t–most that I’ve found are happy to dialog with you about everything. Ask questions, send them your measurements–make friends. Knowing upfront some of your options if things don’t work out can make the purchasing process easier. Communication can be key here. Even if you read the policies, reach out with any questions or concerns you have. Most vintage shop owners I know are more than happy to help, to work with you, and to provide more information!

3. Have a budget and understand what you’re paying for

Some vintage is really expensive–when you factor in the rarity quality. Some is really affordable, either way make sure you know what flaws the item has–and what other costs such as alternations and shipping with cost you.

4. Buy things you will wear

This is probably a rule for life, but when I get deep in vintage holes I can lose myself in just beautiful pieces. Realistically however, there may not be a place to wear that pristine 1900 wedding dress–I know, shocking! If you are just a collector, amazing-buy at will. If you’re looking to add to your closet realistically assess whether or not you could wear it without feeling like you’re in a costume (unless you want a costume). Yes, this means that you may pass on some things, but what you’ll buy will be great when you wear it!

Some of my favorite vintage shops (where you can shop online)?
Bloomers and Frocks
RecessLA
The Kit Vintage
Timeless Vixen
Garment Modern</>
Miriti
Of course Etsy
And one of my current faves is the GEM shopping app (should be available on any of your devices!). There you can simply search for any vintage item and have a ton of options!

And FYI vintage is a great place to shop for Halloween costumes!
Need more help shopping vintage? Please reach out- it’s one of my favorite things!

All clothing vintage

First picture photo credit Kate Richards

I’d love to know: how do you shop for vintage online?

Xo RA