Category: shopping

Spring Springing

Investment Piece, fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring springing
Investment Piece: fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, springing spring
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring springing

Have I ever mentioned that at times I expect things to happen instantaneously? IE, big birthdays- you wake up different. Seasons start and that day it FEELS like that season (warm, hot, cool, cold, etc). In reality, I know that’s not how it works. At all. And yet, it doesn’t stop me from thinking things will happen over night.

The truly ironic part is (well, other than I can sometimes be resistant to change, see here) I wouldn’t always want to have things be instant. Sometimes, the joy of a season is that season becoming. Yesterday, the first day of spring, is not the height of spring, we have so much amazing spring to come. Yet- here we are springing.

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring springing
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring springing

The weather where I’m at does feel spring-like – at least for part of the day. In the early am, when I’m taking my morning coffee walk it’s down right cold, then it warms up, by the end of the day it can be hot (why have one season when you could have them all?). Even when I can have my pick of seasons, spring is often my favorites.

(This is where we can all make a florals are groundbreaking joke, which is still timely and are still funny!)

For me, it’s more that I can wear outfits like this one. Soft colors, bare some skin (but not too much), and really welcome the season. I know, it’s a little crazy to associate a whole season with a single outfit, but this outfit is one of my ultimate spring outfits- it makes me think of Spring, and all the spring that will be springing. Fun fact? I had to be talked into this skirt when I bought it (it’s Versace before he had his own label and then became and remains one of my go-tos). And this top is another staple that I thought would be trend (do you remember when I called off the shoulder tops a trend to try? You can read my short-sightedness here). As it turns out, off the shoulder is here to stay- and it goes with everything.

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring springing

I think what I love about this outfit is that it tells the story of spring for me- hope, renewal, a redo. Yes, there’s more spring to come and more transitions, and more outfits. But what a great first spring outfit, right? It’s spring springing!

I’ve linked you similar spring options below. What are your spring thoughts?
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, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring springing

Sponsored by Champagne

Investment Piece: Sponsored by Champagne
Investment Piece: Sponsored by Champagne
Invement Piece: Sponsored by Champagne
Investment Piece: Sponsored by Champagne
Investment Piece: Sponsored by Champagne

Champagne is synonymous with fun, bubbly, celebrations, and boldness. I would love it if my life were like that: fun and light, bubbly and known for a good time. I’d love it even more if it didn’t hurt the next morning. The bad news? Life isn’t sponsored by Champagne. But love bugs, your outfit can be.

If I leave you with one thought ever, it’s that fashion should be fun, bubbly, and a good time; just like your fave champagne. And if we’re going to be fun and bubbly let’s chat about bold colors. In fact, let’s chat mixing bold colors. Tempting as it can be to always reach for black, bold colors aren’t something to save for a special occasion. They’re great on a Wednesday, and used right, they can be just as classic as your go-to black. I know, bold colors can be frightening, and if you’re wearing one, you will stand out. My take on that? Make them look, just make the look worth their while! I love a great red, blue or green, and there are so many ways to wear them!

Today, however, we take our cues from champagne and are being bubbly! So, if one bold color is good, are two better? I say : YES! This is not the part where I convince you that all colors go together, there are limits, there are pairings that work, and many factors to play with (shades/brightness/textures), but mixing bold colors is not something to shy away from. My tips: take colors you love together and experiment with various shades of each. If you’re still a bit gun shy, stick with classic and traditional shapes. Still a little nervous? Have a glass of champagne. It works!

One of my current favorite combinations? Red and purple!(Did you know that lavender/lilac and this light shade of purple are some of the IT colors for spring? Now you do- let’s play with them!) I love the vividness of this red top, and paired with these lavender pants (I love the almost neon quality of these! And pro-tip: lavender is sticking with us through the fall so if you love it, you’re in luck!) it’s a classic outfit that stands out! This combo works for your 9-5, dinner, drinks, champagne drinking- the list is endless.

I’d love to know: how do you mix boldly? And if you could be like champagne, what would that mean?

XO RA

I’ve linked you similar items below for your shopping pleasure!
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 this look here

Does it Have to be Special?

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, does it have to be special
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, does it have to be special
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, does it have to be special

I know that special can mean a lot of different things. Perhaps something is special because of where you wore it first, or who you wore it for, or maybe how long you had to save for the outfit, or any combination or more reasons special can be used. Or maybe special can be why you want to wear the outfit. I’m a big fan of special.

But. As I am slowly learning, special can’t sustain it all of everything (Awkward?Crossing my fingers you know know what I meant) by itself. Special needs support (and maybe a place and a time). And as I’m beginning to think or explore or play with- what if it doesn’t have to be special.

This is rich for someone who in these pictures is wearing shoes and carrying a bag that are special to me. (I couldn’t resist. And maybe special is something I cling to?) But, if special is something I showcase or have to have or feel incomplete without- what if an outfit wasn’t special? What if it just was? Would it be ok? Does it have to be special?

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, does it have to be special
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, does it have it have to be special
fashion, blogger, high fashions fashion stories, does it have to be special

We know that I love special. From shoes to bags. I keep outfits from special days, from my family, from people I love. Special makes up a lot of what I own. (Or at least a lot of what I own is special to me). What happens when everything is special? Does it make it less special? What if your day-to-day go-to outfits aren’t “traditionally” special? (And that still means that you could look great and feel good in them) Does your outfit have to be special?

These are the questions that I can’t keep thinking about. Maybe it’s because I’ve spent so much of this year so far sick or recovering or super tired, and my daily outfit has been sweats (special points if they match). Or maybe it’s because (especially with the pandemic) I now feel that every time I shoot something or wear something it has to mean something. But. What if we just put on clothes? If there’s an outfit that you love but that has no meaning or statement piece, is it any less of a great outfit?

I tried here- a simple shirt dress (but in denim that hugs in all the right places), maybe the shoes (velvet and if you can’t see them there are sparkles on the heels) and a bag (vintage Gucci that they re-released this year) were too much. Where I lose my own argument is that I can’t help but add a special element- I can’t help but feel like even a great dress could be made better by a statement piece. And I’m working on it, I do think that we are what makes any outfit special. So not every outfit needs a statement piece. Theory doesn’t always transition easily to practice, which is weird for someone who can lay around in nothing special – but this idea, these areas of play, this is what I’m working on.

What do you think special is? Do you think an outfit has to be special? When you go out can you resist dressing it up? I would love to hear all about it!

And I’ve linked this outfit (or similar) for your shopping pleasure 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!

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion, stories, does it have to be special

Spring Break

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring break

Where I’m from Spring Break starts today (or I guess Monday?), and while I’ve always had the theory that parts of our lives are always on the school schedule (even if you don’t have kids), for some reason this year Spring Break hit me out of the blue. Maybe it’s the pandemic that has screwed with my sense of timing or events. Perhaps it’s that it’s still feeling like winter (it’s cold and rainy today) and while in some part of my brain I’ve known warmer temps are coming, but they’ve felt far off. Or maybe it’s that my own life has been upside down a bit so a thing like Spring Break hasn’t been on my radar.

The thing is, no matter my own awareness, Spring Break is here. And it has me thinking- in a world that’s been a little off (and there is still so much going on) and as an adult without kids- what does Spring Break really mean?

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring break

I wish that I could tell you that my spring breaks were full of fun trips, a little respite from responsibilities. In reality, if I do get some time off this coming week it will most likely be spent cleaning (even cleaning out my closet) and getting caught up on things. BUT. If I could have a spring break like the movies tell it, this is what I would like to do:

Investment Piece: Swim Cape

Absolutely spend some time on the beach or by the water. Sleeping. Reading (can you imagine the luxury of reading books a day). Sipping on bubbles and eating fresh food. I’m one of those who still loves to work out on vacation, but balancing that I would love some true time off.

Investment Piece: Birthday

Spend time with family and friends. Over the past years I feel like my relationships have suffered. Having time to catch up, hug my people? I can think of nothing better.

Investment Piece: Vintage Swim

I’ve mentioned that I need to clean out my closet- have I mentioned that I would like to spend some time replenishing it? A few shopping trips (to see some friends even!), a little update, a little making room. Maybe my issue with spring break issue is that I need more than a week.

I think the main thing that I would like to do for Spring Break is break- get some down time, get some fun and come back to my life a little refreshed. Since my life is no longer around school spring break is something we have to make. So, if we’re making our own spring break how are we giving ourself the break we may need?

I’m still working on that. In the meantime I am dreaming of being on the beach, so below I’m linking everything I would love to take on a beach trip from swimsuits to picnic needs!
I would love to hear any and all your tips for breaks and how you’re spending the next week!
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!

Spring in Leather

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather

It may not quite be spring, but we’re getting there. Outside it’s getting warmer, which always makes me want to dress- I don’t know if daring is the word- but as things seem to come alive I want my outfits to be more alive as well. So. Leather?

I know that leather doesn’t seem like a spring fabric, it can be heavy, but how could this number- with the cut outs, the apron tie, the carwash slits be anything but alive and daring like spring?

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather

Some very quick style notes:
-This skirt was on my wishlist forever, it’s A.W.A.K.E Mode, a British designer who is known for their modern takes on classics. I just LOVE them
-As this skirt needs to go over something, it’s seasonless. For cooler spring days I’m loving it over a lighter sweater dress, but it also goes over shirt dresses, sundresses, even bike shorts. It’s both a statement piece and incredibly versatile. I’ve even been tempted to wear it over my workout leggings when I’ve been leaving pilates class!
-I did need to size up- there’s no stretch and to get it to tie (those do loosen with wear a bit, as you can see in pictures), so you might want to as well. Also, if you’re planning on wearing this stunner over more bulky items you will need to!
-these shoes are my beloved Sarah Flints.The arch support alone makes them worth it, as does the fact they go with everything. Use code SARAHFLINT-BAINVESTMENTPIECE for $50 off your own pair of Sarah Flints (any style!)
-This is not the first year I’ve welcomed warmer temps with leathers and suedes. See here and here!

Investment Piece, fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather

Maybe what I love about spring in leather is that it’s a bit unexpected. Not the pastels or florals we’ve been conditioned to associate with the turning of the season. Yet- is there anything better to transition from winter to spring in? Leather lets you layer (this leather skirt in particular), keeps you just warm enough (spring is not summer. Though sometimes the temps forget that!), and lets you master the in between spaces of seasons. Ironically enough, I think that there are years I wear more leather in spring than in winter.

What about you? Do you wear leather in spring? How do you feel about stand out leather? What would you ear this skirt over? I would love to hear about all of it! I’ve linked this exact skirt and dress for your styling pleasure 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!

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, spring in leather

PREZ Day Sales

We chatted yesterday about minor holidays, and here we are- in the midst of one. I hope that you get some time off today, or if not, I hope you get to treat yourself. (I have to work but may have to clock out a bit early this afternoon for some sale shopping!). As I mentioned, I often know if these holidays because of the sales, which is never a bad way to find out about anything!

From designer goods to jeans to coats, shoes and more- here are some of my favorite things on sale around the internet (you can shop some more with me by following me in the LTK and ShopStyle apps! I’ll be updating all day!). Many of these things are in bag at these shops- what are you shopping for?

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!)

Nordstrom Sale
From Designer Shoes to Chic Jeans, what seems like almost everything is up to 60% off at Nordstrom. Boots, sandals, and even some swim, this is what I’m loving:

Crew
One of the best sales of President’s Day! Get an extra 60% off sale- from shoes to sequins- with code WARMUP

Rebecca Taylor
Get an extra 25% off romantic favorites from Rebecca Taylor with code EXTRA25

Kate Spade
Some of the chicest bags and shoes for Spring, an extra 25% off with code BLOOM at Kate Spade

Frame Denim
Some of my favorite jeans are Frame (they help show off your assets) and these cuts beyond (think leather and knits) are all up to 70% off!

Bags? Shoes? Coats? Jeans? Dresses? What are you shopping for this minor holiday? I hope you’re finding ways to treat yourself- and I can’t wait to see what we all end up buying!
XO RA

Now and Then: Loafers

investment Piece, fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, now and then loafers

Is there anything more classic than a pair of loafers? My parents both tell stories about their penny loafers, buying new shoes for school, and the wanting to fit in with their loafers. I remember Cole Haan loafers being what the “cool kids” wore in Jr High, and desperately wanting them. (My mom wouldn’t spend that on growing feet, my mom and I no longer discuss shoe budgets ;))

Maybe it’s that loafers go with almost everything (from jeans to pants, skirts to dresses, suits to casual wear), maybe it’s that there’s always a new version of the loafer, whatever it is, loafers are a wardrobe staple.

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, now and then loafers

The good news about loafers being so classic is that no matter what kind of loafers you like- simple, platform, with tassels, without tassels- there’s a loafer for you. And you have so many shopping options, new or vintage. Vintage loafers are one of my most favorite things to shop for (Etsy and eBay are my go-tos) and I can’t pass a shoe section (at a department store or anywhere) without looking at loafers. My current faves are loafers that are mules!

What about you? What do you wear your loafers with? And what kind are your fave loaders?

Below I’ve linked some of my current favorite loafers from vintage to modern for your shopping 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!

Love Lace

Fashion Blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace

It’s the big day for romance! As much as I chat about not being the biggest fan of Valentine’s, I do love a good night out, I do love romance, and I love a good party dress. And a party dress that’s a bit romantic and somewhere to wear it? How could I not love that?

As you know, I believe that we use our fashion to tell our stories- and the thing about love is that there are so many stories, and so many things that are romantic. From nights in, wearing great lounge wear, to first or big date jitters, and the perfect dress. Little gestures – one of my boyfriends would pause the beginning of the show Ozarks for me so I could see all the symbols, to big gestures- flowers and jewelry, etc. What kind of story are you telling tonight/today? Is there a perfect outfit that you found first that you made plans around or did you make plans and find an outfit?

After finding this perfect dress, the lace and those details, I couldn’t help but plan my Valentine’s around it. And can you blame me with a dress this great?

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace
fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace

This black lace dress is a vintage Oscar de la Renta (I want to say 1964 but I may be misremembering) and when I saw it I fell in love. There is no love like fashion love. The black lace, the high neck, the bow around the waist. The small details- the flare sleeve, the lace on the skirt, the slit on the black. When I put it on I not only felt beautiful, I felt powerful. There is something about a dress that commands attention, it makes me feel as if I’m worthy of the attention. Dresses like this one make me feel in control of the story, a feeling love. And when those feelings look like this, it’s just heaven!

(This is a vintage number and as we all know some of the magic of vintage is that there is only one, but I’ve found you similar dresses and linked them below).

fashion, blogger, high fashion, fashion stories, love lace

Since I have the dress and I have the love, all I needed was a plan. I took my love to a magical restaurant where it feels like we’re stepping back in time. There’s a big fountain, all these stone walls, some trees. Surroundings like this make going out to dinner feel like an event. And as we all know, events need dresses. I’m so grateful that love and lace go together.

I hope that no matter what you do today you feel loved and that the outfit is one that tells an amazing story.
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!

Shark Love

Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a Sense of Humor
Investment Piece: Shark love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humor
Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humor
Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humor

Or how to dress for Valentine’s with a sense of humor.

Maybe you’ve read some of my Valentine’s posts and you’re worried that I hate Valentine’s Day. That may be a valid worry, but let me assure you that I love love. (I even have Shark Love. And totally get a pass on that bad dad joke because of love.) Things I also love? Dressing with a sense of humor, sequin skirts, and outfits that work for any sort of date night (even Valentine’s Day).

***About Sharks. I couldn’t resist this sweater as it’s just so cheeky. BUT. There’s no way I’m the only one who’s fascinated by and scared by sharks all at the same time. After seeing “Jaws” for the first time, I didn’t get in the ocean for years. And did you know the Ocean is the love of my life?

Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humor
Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's Day with a sense of humor

Right now, there are articles out there that will tell you how to dress sexy or romantic on Valentine’s Day. And I get it. It’s a night (or day) of romance, and there’s not a thing wrong with dressing to theme. (I’m a fan of dressing to theme.) There’s also everything right with dressing to show your personality, and a sense of humor is one of my most favorite things to showcase. Even through, and especially with, my fashion.

Yes, this is the part where I let you know (again) how much I love juxatipositons and cheekiness.
Loves, it’s aok to love love and love to laugh. (Side bar: if you don’t love to laugh, are you ok? If you’re with someone who you can’t laugh with is that really a love you love? Would Shark Love help you?)

So, my take on a “great Valentine’s look” is a little cheeky, a little funny. No, it’s not my only one. But, can you resist the sparkles and the shark? That this is look is perfect for the office (with a different skirt) and for date night (with a skirt like this). To me, this look says you’re ready for love and you’re good with a great laugh. What’s more attractive than that?

Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humorI
Investment Piece: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humor

Some notes:
-If you’re scared of sharks, another animal would work just as well here as would any graphic sweater or shirt (I hear hearts are popular this time of year)
-Another great skirt (leather, maybe?) could replace the sequins
-Love. But let you shine through. I know you’re fab and you’re loved for the real you.

Even if the real you loves Shark Love sweaters.

I’ve linked similar items below. Again, this is not my only “Valentine’s look” ( I do have something more traditional to show you!), but I’d love to know. What do you wear for Valentine’s?

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: Shark Love or how to dress for Valentine's with a sense of humor

Valentine Gift Guide

Lovers, I’ll be honest, Valentines has never been my favorite holiday. It’s not that I don’t love love- I do! And it’s not that I don’t love telling people that I love them- I really do! Also- I love presents, so it’s not that I’m anti-present! I think my issues with Valentines is that there can often feel like there’s a lot of pressure, that some things get forced, and my internal debate about whether flowers and nice dinner because you “have to” are romantic. In past years, I’ve been a bit more anti-Valentines, but with the pandemic and missing friends and family I’ve warmed up to the holiday. I’ve had fun sending Valentines in the mail to friends, buying flowers for family, making special dinners. AND I’ve really enjoyed giving and getting presents to my loved ones. As we head into another Valentine’s season I’ve rounded up some gifts that I love. Some might be for you, your mom, sisters, friends, or anyone who might need a little love note for you!

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!

Hearts
I’m very picky when it comes to heart jewelry. However, lately I’ve been very into heart shaped lockets! And from there finding just sweet enough (but not too sweet) heart jewelry has been a bit easier. I love all of these and I know you or your loved ones will too!

Shoes and Bags
If there are shoes or bags that you or someone you love wants then you should get them, but if not- might I recommend some of these shoes or bags? Just a bit themed but chic for year round use!!

For Him/the House
A few things for him, a few things for the house, a few wine glasses for everyone!

For You
I can’t resist shopping for me (ever), so I’ve rounded up some of the red and pink, somewhat seasonal items on my wishlist right now. For you, for friends, for family, these picks are perfect for the holiday and beyond!

What are your thoughts on Valentine’s Day? Have they changed over the course of the pandemic? This year what are you doing to celebrate? I hope that no matter what, this year Valentines is a day when you feel loved- and if you get gifts they’re fantastic!
xo RA