shopping – Page 34 – Investment Piece

Leopards Gone Wild

Investment Piece: Leopards Gone Wild
Investment Piece: Leopards in the Wild

If leopard is a neutral, why do I sometimes wear it as a statement? Sometimes, I find myself going wild with things that are true neutrals (yes, in general I think leopard is- but these pants! So subtle! And on top of that, they’re so soft!) and then questioning myself. Can something be both a basic and a statement? A neutral and wild?

I know, some of this depends on the outfit- and the day. There are days when I’m big and bold, I can take up all the space. And, days when I’m more quiet, more to myself, when my space is incredibly personal and not something I share. Neither of those descriptions have even touched on my outfits (that not only change daily, but sometimes hourly). If I can hold all those multitudes why not my outfits? Why can’t leopards both go wild and be subtle?

Investment Piece: Leopards gone wild

Really, this is a simple, easy outfit. These pants are corduroy, soft, draw string, and just this side of being sweats. The leopard print is just there, barely. A simple sweater and chic clogs? It’s just a fall outfit- for errands or work or meetings or lunch or your day. But. On what felt like it might be the last warm, super green day of the fall (you know, the one right before the weather turns for good), I couldn’t help but use this outfit to make a statement. In the wild. No retouching, just my garden in its last hoorah (that vine is a pumpkin plant that I planted “accidentally” aka put out pumpkins last year and this year I have a plant!) and basic plants with a statement to make.

If these leopards can go wild, what can we do today?

Investment Piece: Leopards gone wild

What does it mean to be both a statement and a neutral? Could it mean that you speak up when it’s needed and let things be when you don’t need to meddle? Perhaps, it means that you can adapt and fit in anywhere- even when fitting in means you pop.

It’s Monday, and you may need to go wild. Or, maybe you need to stay basic. Whatever you need I hope you find it today and I hope your outfit is superb!

I’ve linked these pants for your wildness 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!

Investment Piece: Leopards in the Wild

The History

Investment Piece: Aunt's Coat

My closet is a mix. Vintage, modern. Designer, non brand. High, low. And while I don’t know that I have favorites (or if I do they change all the time), I love it when I know the stories of a clothing item. Stories are what I base my outfits on (if we’re honest, I think we all base a LOT on stories), so when I know where something comes from, what’s it’s been through, what it’s lived- it brings me joy.

This coat is my Aunt’s. Now it’s mine, but I know it’s history, who gave it to her, where it’s been (Dallas to Houston to Denver to me), how she wore it, and what it held for her. Yes, it’s a great coat without all of that- the suede, the low waist, the button detail, the way it’s a bit neutral and a bit statement; however, knowing its history helps me write its future.

I know that there’s a low belt missing, and while I could replace it, I know that it works both as a dress or a coat without it. Knowing the history means my aunt warned me that this stunner of a coat has a tendency to rub off on lighter colored clothes (so to watch what I wear underneath). The little imperfections? I’m aware of what caused them, and that makes it all a bit more special.

Investment Piece: The History

It’s not that I need a piece’s history to style it. No matter what I know about this coat, I know it will be so mod over a short skirt, chic over a long dress or skirt, perfect by itsself, and go great over jeans (I’ve thrown it on over sweats for an early am errand and it was heaven!). But. Knowing how’s it’s been styled does give me jumping off point. If there are ways it doesn’t work (like I already know it needs a slip under if it’s being worn as a dress because of gaps) I’m prepared.
So, now I get to make new looks and new stories, make this coat my own.

Do you like knowing the history of pieces you own? Adding to it? Or do you like brand new pieces to make your own history in?

All of the pieces in this outfit are from past seasons (or my Aunt’s closet), but I’ve found you similar and have linked them 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!

Investment Piece: The History

Cape it Off

Investment Piece: Cape it Off

As we move into the holiday season, statement pieces will become prominent- and I have no problem with that. We know I love a good party dress (and look) and am unafraid to standout. And yet, as we move into the holiday season, I also have a tendency to want to dress as easy as possible. I truly have 2 modes- I’m either VERY dressed up or I’m in workout leggings or sweats VERY casual. While I constantly work to find my middle, during the holiday season (with the statement and party) looks, I have a weird desire to marry the 2 sides of myself in one amazing outfit. (Aka I want an outfit that looks like a party and feels like my pjs)

Capes. Capes are the answer (for me). I have a thing for capes – see here, here, and the ultimate statement cape here. Through the years, I’ve worn capes as coats, tops, dresses, and as statements. The great thing about a cape is that as much as it’s a statement, capes are easy. As fancy as they can be, you simply put them on (even over your workout gear) and go.

Investment Piece: Cape it Off

This latest addition to my cape collection is a fringed vintage number (look closely: it even has an attached pouch for carrying lipsticks or secrets). I mentioned here that this holiday season is already seeming like a lot. And it is. In the past few days, I’ve had events, work, a lot of housework, deadlines, volunteer shifts, and social engagements. As much as I love a party look, running from thing to thing is tiring (especially when we keep messing with the clocks!). My saving grace? A piece that I can put on, that lets me look as dressed up as I need to, but is simple.

We shot this in between Pilates and a trunk show. Yes, this cape is truly over my workout leggings and a turtleneck. My hair is coming out of its bun, I’m sure my lipstick is smeared- but when you cape it off, those things don’t seem as noticeable. Everyone just focuses on your cape (which lets you get away with a lot, maybe that’s the secret!). Add a pair of shoes that walk the line between slippers and loafers, and you’re ready to holiday. Or run errands. Or whatever it is that your day needs you to do.

Do you love capes as much as I do? What’s your go-to when you need a statement outfit but want to feel relaxed? Or have to run from the gym to a holiday event?

While this cape is vintage (via Recess LA), I’ve found you similar and linked them 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!

Investment Piece: Cape it Off

Keeping it Simple

Investment Piece: Keeping It Simple

We’re heading into a time of year that always seems overwhelming. Overdone. Over a lot. In the 24 hrs from Halloween to November (and really before! This year is worse with supply chain issues), we go VERY quickly into “uber” Holdiay mode. You may feel it-and may not know how to dress. And while I’m never one to say not to a party dress, there’s something that makes my life easier during this time of year.
Keeping it simple.
I know in terms of schedules and gifts (?) that can be hard. And in terms of feelings of pressure, expectations, and hopes and disappoints, I can’t help. Where I can help in keeping it simple?
Your outfit.
A simple midi (or maxi!) slip dress (they are so easy to dress up or down and go with anything!), a leather blazer (a must. They add so much to any work look, party look, over coat look, etc), and a great heel (I’m partial to my Sarah Flint perfect sandals, the arch support alone! Use code SARAHFLINT-BAINVESTMENTPIECE for $50 off your first pair!). I happen to add a vintage fur muff- but any holiday clutch will do. I promise this simple formula will never steer you wrong , will never leave you wanting, and will always keep it simple- do you can focus on all the other aspects of the holiday!

Investment Piece: KEeping it Simple

Are you surprised that I’m keeping it simple? Don’t worry, there are a ton of party dresses and looks headed your way. But the thing is, I don’t know that party and simple are opposites. As we head into this time of year, it’s important to have outfits in your pocket (or muff!) that make you feel confident. That are easy. The easy kind that don’t look easy(in the they look great way, not in the over complicated way).
That’s what this look is- and it’s a formula that’s custizable for any occasion (work, party, etc). Most importantly it can keep your holiday simple, so that you can focus on what’s important- like the people around you.

How are you keeping it simple this holiday? What are you wearing?
I’ve linked options for this exact outfit (for parties or work or more!) 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!

If you love these shoes (and I do!) shop Sarah Flint and use code SARAHFLINT-BAINVESTMENTPIECE for $50 off!

Investment Piece: Keeping It Simple

Trying It On

Investment Piece: Trying It On

Remember when we chatted about fall trends here and about lug sole boots here? Well. I decided to try them on.

Which really means that I got a sweater vest dress (aka knit dress, which I highly recommend) and some lug sole boots (these happen to be vintage and wedge. If you know me, these boots wouldn’t be my first run to, but it turns out that I highly recommend them as well!).

So. How do you know what to try on? How do you know what to keep on and what to take off?

Investment Piece: Trying It On

For me, this choice was a tad bit easy. I love sweater vests (I have no idea if that makes me trendy or preppy), so a knit dress (which I also love) as a sweater vest? That’s a no brainier. Of course I had to try it on, and of course I had to keep it. Lug sole boots? That was a much tougher call. I remember the 1990s (so, yes, when we call them vintage it does personally hurt), and I’ve been wary about any “trend” from that time period that “came” back. Also- I always thought that lug sole was a bit too clunky- aka would make my feet look bigger- for me. It turns out? I was wrong. Lug sole (again, these are “vintage” from Etsy) are actually fun. And perfect for the season! Where I am, fall means a little (lot) bit of rain, and these boots made me feel confident walking through it.

Trends can be difficult to wade through (pun intended). My best advice is to go towards ones that are similar to what you already love. Try what you’re curious about. Try what you’ve loved on others. And perhaps, try a bit, even if it’s outside your comfort zone. It turns out that there are trends out there worth trying on. For me, it was these. What trends have you been trying on this season?

Investment Piece: Trying It On

Below I’ve linked both this exact dress (with a slip under!) and current lug sole boots I’m loving. If you try them on I would love to know about it!
XO RA

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

Investment Piece: Trying it on

Fall Colors

Investment Piece: Fall Colors

Black is classic. I love it- and my closet will attest to that. Neutrals are also a love of mine, they’re so easy to match with anything, always chic, and a neutral monochrome look is one of my go-to’s when I need to feel pulled together. And if you haven’t caught on- grey is one of my favorite colors (is it a mix of black and neutrals? Its own category?)

But lately. Even though it’s a bit unexpected. Even though there are times when it feels a bit daring. Even when I worry that I shouldn’t. I’m playing with colors for fall. And not just the colors you may associate with fall (or the colors I associate with fall): reds, yellows, etc. The fall colors I’ve been playing with are like these Lavendar cords: softer, brighter, unpredictable, and yet- stunning.

Investment Piece: Fall Colors

Lavendar is one of those colors that I love, but I don’t think of wearing all that often. Then I do- and it’s just wonderful. I love that it’s almost neutral, but still a standout. I love that we think of pastels as a spring palate, but that this shade now seems like fall to me. Lavendar now appears in the fall leaves for me, in the fall sunsets, in all the fall colors.

And if a color can surprise us this fall (then turn out to be a classic) what else could?

Investment Piece: Fall Colors

Some notes about these fall colors:

-If you’re exploring your own fall color and are a little bit worried about how season appropriate the color is, make sure the fabric is seasonal. These are cords, so even if the color can feel light, the fabric makes it a bit more grounded. And I love a great cord- they truly feel like fall to me.

-while I’ve linked a few cord options for you below, these are actually from the little girl section of Target. I know- a bit much. And not an option for everyone. But sometimes I play in the teen and pre-teen section. So much of that is not cut for a woman’s body, my style, etc. BUT. Sometimes I come across a gem like these- high rise, wide leg, and they fit perfectly. (Play with sizes if you’re going to experiment in this section) The other great reward? These pants were only $20!

Add a great sweater and a fall mule- all the fall colors you could ever need.

Investment Piece: Fall Colors

I’ve linked these exact pants and other options for you below. Happy fall!
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!

Cat Eyed

Investment Piece: Cat Eyed

It’s my personal opinion that leopard is a neutral. I’m also of the opinion that this is old news.
So. If leopard is a neutral, how can we play with it? How can we make this old news new again?

First- I have spent years – YEARS- hiding the fact that I wear glasses. I mean- usually contacts, but over the pandemic, I tended towards my glasses. It’s not that I think my glasses are nerdy (they’re cat eye! How could they be anything but chic!), but that it’s was just in my head that it’s a “thing” to wear glasses. So, I just didn’t. But. There’s something about this combo, the leopard, the crop, that just felt like it was the time to bring out the cat eye.

And what is leopard than a cat eye? (A classic, a neutral, a needed thing – but a bit of a pop)

I love this version: cropped, pleated, shoulder pads. It’s vintage, and while the rest of the outfit is modern, I can’t help but feel that the whole outfit is a bit of a throw back. Hence the cat eye. Perhaps the way to make old new is to revisit the old.

Oh. And add a cat-eye.

Investment Piece: cat eyed

The great thing about this cat eye (jacket and my glasses) is that they go with everything. I have worn this jacket with a dress, a knit skirt set, my pjs, leggings, and honestly whatever I have on. From black to hot pink, it’s both a neutral and a stand out, and now a go-to. My glasses? I’m slowly but surely getting over wearing them (I wear them all the time in real life, but for pictures!), yes, you’ll see me a lot in contacts. But I hope there is always a bit of that cat eye in me.

How are you wearing leopard right now? And I would love to chat about glasses! Do you wear them? Do you hide that you wear them? Why are we like that?

While this jacket is vintage, I’ve linked modern options as well as these exact shoes (so comfy) and pants and top!
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: cat eyed

Fall Party

Investment Piece: Fall Party

Have I ever met a party dress I didn’t like?
I honestly can’t recall.
Which probably says a lot more about me than it does about party dresses. And yet, I can tell you all the details, nuances, reasons why I love all the party dresses I have (and have missed out on).
This one? It’s every so slightly vintage inspired- that tent shape, that neck bow, that low back. It’s so comfy (I mean, it’s the perfect dress to eat or drink ANYTHING in) but oh-so-chic. With just-so-slight kitten heels, it lets me feel like it’s the 1960s while being completely modern. This combo has become my new go-to for fall parties (even the virtual ones),

Pro-tip- with dresses (or tops) that show off my back, I like to wear my hair up. I feel as if it shows off the statement of the dress!

Investment Piece: Fall Party

This dress is Staud. Over the pandemic they’ve become one of my favorite brands, I love the vintage feel of these clothes, with modern touches. And every single piece I have from Staud has been so comfy and flattering.

No matter if you’re going to parties or staying in, they have never let me down. This exact dress is sold out, but below I’ve linked some of my current favorite Staud dresses, and these EXACT shoes (they’re Kate Spade and they’re on sale!)

Investment Piece: Fall Party

A quick note about fall parties. I know so many of us (me included) are not yet comfortable with big crowds (a pandemic will do that to you). Has the fact that I’m not going to parties stopped me from buying party dresses? Not at all. But it has changed the way I’m wearing them (aka at home or with a mask). Please wear and go where you feel safe- and know that the right party dress will always feel great at home!

My shopping picks are linked below. What fall party are you headed to this weekend?
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: Fall Party

Sunday Chronicles: My Wishlist

Investment Piece: Let's Get In Formation

As I mentioned here, this year holiday shopping is starting early due to supply chain issues. I don’t know that I’ve perfected how to handle gifts guides here on the blog. Gifts, I think, are best when they’re personal, when they mean something, when they’re a way to let the reciever know that they’re seen and love. Generic lists have just never done it for me.

So, my big idea is that I would profile me and people in my life in the hope that something on one of our wish lists would inspire you, help you think of things that may be perfect for people with similar intesrests, or give you great things to buy. I wanted to start with me, but it’s been so much more difficult than I thought it would be!

It’s not that I don’t want things (I want things ALL the time). And it’s not that I don’t know who I am or what I like (I manage to find things I like all the time and can spot things that are “me” from anywhere. I have a running list of bookmarked items on my phone that serves as part of my wishlist). However, the process of making a list (that constantly changes) with all of my interests (that can often be contradictory) to give to others has been a bit overwhelming, and I’m not sure that I have “it” yet. In fact, every year I struggle with telling my family and friends what I want (I am the reason I advocate for gift cards).

But, if you’re here, you either like what I like or know someone who does-so I thought I would tell you a bit about my current wishlist, what I’m shopping for, and what I’m loving right now (and yes, if you shop for you, that’s a gift too!)

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!

I love fashion (obviously) and while I can be a bit all over the place I love Classic pieces and a bit of sass. We all know that I can’t say no to any party dress or standout pieces. I’m thinking of this gold set for NYE and love the cutouts in a dress!

Speaking of classics, I also am loving the new revamp of Banana Republic- chic work and safari inspired looks. Here are some of my favorites:

Lately, I have been loving workout jumpsuits (unitards? bodysuits?). And I currently love all of these:

I also LOVE Mother jeans (they have a high rise cut that flatters me!) Mother released 2 new fits this week and I’m already in love with them!

Another item I keep looking at? A sweater dress (I just love how comfy and classic they are!) These are some I’m currently loving:

As we know, I love vintage. But vintage can be difficult to shop for other people (if you’re shopping for a vintage lover make sure you have their wishlist, measurements, and know return policies). That’s why I often just let people know about the vintage bags I love (and ask for gift cards for any other vintage!). This Coach bag is just so yummy!

Of course, there are books I want, and very randomly I want the Schitt’s Creek Monopoly game (I’m usually not a fan of board games). It’s the time of year to began thinking about what you want, and what you want to get others; I hope that this glimpse into what I’m currently wanting helped you find something for someone you love (or you!)

What’s on your wishlist this year?
Wishing us all a week of getting our wants and amazing shoes!
xo RA

Modern Preppie

Investment Piece: Modern Preppie

What clique were you in while you were in high school?
I know it’s kinda a trick question because every high school was a tad bit different, but I think there are certain cliques we can all recognize: the jocks, the populars, theater kids, the nerds, the preppies, goth, and if you’re in the south, the kickers (like Cowboys).
While it sounds cliche, I was a bit of a floater- I was a theater kid but also was on dance team, and was a in the smart crowd. Rubbed elbows with the popular kids but wasn’t really one of them. And while I would have never told you that I was preppie- and in some ways I still don’t consider myself preppie- I can’t help but LOVE (like just adore) some preppie style.

To me, preppie style means certain things. Sweater Vests. Big Collars (though apparently those could also be bow girl?). I think of preppie as a clean cut, laced up, school-spirit like style.

I always associate Tory Burch and Kate Spade as preppy, but I know that they can have twists to them, which is maybe where the modern comes in?

What does preppie (or preppy? I realize I’m not sure how we spell it!) mean to you? And are you like me and when you hear “preppie” you always think of the Zach MORRIS character in Saved by the Bell?

Investment Piece: Modern Preppie

This was my take on modern preppy. I love, love, love a good sweater vest. Paired with tailored cropped pants and a block heel. There’s just enough sass- nothing under the vest, and the snakeskin on the shoes. But it’s clean cut. Almost school girl. But not. Maybe modern preppy is a bit like hot librarian?

I would really love to know your thoughts on modern preppie- what it is, how you style it, if you love sweater vests like I do! Below I’ve linked the pieces to recreate this exact outfit AND some of my favorites from the fall collection at Tory Burch. Happy Shopping!
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!

This outfit:

Tory Burch Fall:

Investment Piece: Modern preppie