Of all the weapons in my online shopping arsenal Moda Operandi may be the most unique and powerful. Just like any other site MO’ has a boutique with clothes, shoes, and accessories that are in season and ready to ship. Unlike most other sites, MO’ lets you order directly from the runway–so if you see something you love during Fashion Week you can preorder items you love for a 50% deposit. When the item comes in you pay the balance and get your item. It’s a great way to shop ahead–and another look at trends that were on the runway. I can’t tell you all of the great things that I’ve gotten from Mo–but trust me, you love them.
Another perk–their customer service is beyond stellar. Everyone I’ve dealt with has been super helpful, and every customer is assigned a personal shopper, who often goes above and beyond to help find you what you want.
Things to know:
MO’ does cater to high end brands (though there are deals to be had, and the breaking of payments can help)
Not all items are ready to ship–so look at the item’s ship date!
Trunkshows (as the site calls them) last more than one day (often about a week)
All items in Boutique are ready to ship
Their sale is not to be missed
A little bit more on how the TrunkShows Work:
and my current favorite from the site:
I hope you check it out and love Moda Operandi
as much as I do!
The BBQ is great.
Austin is its own thing.
People are friendly.
And bluebonnet pictures are a thing.
Like a real thing.
Every spring you will see countless pictures from your friends and family from Texas of their kids, pets, and themselves in bluebonnets. The pictures will flood your social media feeds and you will love the cute kids, and the sea of blue.
As you know, I recently spent some time in Texas. And you know what they say:
When in Texas.
I had to take my own bluebonnet pictures. Everyone can think that they’re amazing in your feed. And when in Texas I couldn’t resist wearing this vintage number from one of my Texas favorites Bloomers and Frocks. I felt like the red went well with the bluebonnets. And I love everything about this vintage dress. The color, the skirt, the belt, and the collar. It can be dressed up with heels and the right jewelry. However, it looks great with sandals.
I have to give a shoutout to my mom. Not only did she scout this bluebonnet Texas location. She also provided these on trend little sunglasses and took the pictures.
When in Texas this dress fits in perfectly, especially in bluebonnets. However, when I’m not in Texas, this dress looks great on the beach, or at events, or just going to the store. Maybe this why I felt a kinship with this post. I like to think that I fit into Texas, even in bluebonnets, but I go great anywhere else too.
This great dress is vintage, the bluebonnets have passed, and not everything is in Texas. However, I’ve linked similar looks for you below–as well as these Dr Scholl’s which are some of my summer go-to’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!
This month, you’ve been indulging me as we looked back at some of the first posts we did. I have to admit, looking back at some of the old photos, seeing just how far we’ve come from then to now has left me feeling both nostalgic and excited for the future. When I started this blog, I had no clear vision, just a love of style and the desire to want to share mine. I didn’t know exactly what I was doing, and yes, so many of those first photos were taken on my iPhone using a remote. As we’ve grown, my vision, style, and what I want to share have all been refined. Most importantly, I’ve grown to love this community, I don’t take for granted that you have so many options when it comes to your online pursuing, and I’m ever so grateful that you visit my little corner of the Internet. And I’m so excited for all of the things that are coming!
The past FBF have all been one outfit, you can refresh all our looks: First Neutrals, Tied Up, and Gucci Top. This FBF is a little different. I couldn’t choose just one look to flash back to, so I chose a few. From our very beginnings then to now, these are some of the looks that I couldn’t resist revisiting!
And there are so so many more. I’m lucky to be able to do what I love, and to share it with you! Thank you for FBF with us this month! We hope that you’ve enjoyed our blog birthday as much as we have!
And just because it’s the weekend, here are my sales picks of the week! Happy shopping!
XO RA
Note: This post does contain some affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
I’ve spent the past few weeks telling you about how I have vision and plan for the blog. And I do. I promise. But there are times when I tempt fate.
I can wait till the last minute to shoot a look.
Or schedule a shoot.
Or act on my big visions.
And then sometimes I tempt fate in other ways and wear all white. As we all know when you’re wearing all white, there’s a 10,999 chance that you’ll get something on it. You’re just asking for it.
And I did:
Proof: This spot was discovered after 2 shots and we (I) had to wipe it off. Tempting fate? Fate might get you.
All White is not a look for the faint of heart–you’re tempting fate in more than one way. Will your white be too see through? Too tight? Get dirty? Be dingy?
And yet, here we all are. Wearing white and tempting fate.
I knew that I wanted a new pair of white jeans for the spring/summer. It’s been a while since I ventured into that sort of fate temptation, but this is the year I decide to go for it. I had the same fears: would they be too thin? Too tight? And yet, I’m in love with these Hudson jeans. They’re not thin at all, help hold everything in (for size reference I’m in a 24, I can be anything from a 24-27 based on rise and amount of stretch). And those details! I love the rose gold exposed zipper. It makes this “basic” feel a bit non-basic. And that’s always something I’m a fan of.
These are incredibly easy to “dress up”, but I kind of love them with “almost” matching rose gold kicks. The white top? Not needed, but what can I say? There are times when I just love tempting fate.
I’ve linked some other white jeans I love, as well as these shoes! Wanna tempt fate together?
And yes, this was a last minute shoot. I’m tempting fate all over the place!
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!
Cliche: wearing all black, formal dresses only being black, and fashion girls wearing only black. The thing about cliches, though? They’re cliche for a reason. And how does something become a cliche? By being a staple go-to, something that works, and something that we all love. All black? It’s chic and it works. Formal black? Always a classic. Fashion girls wearing black? Why not?
But loves, here’s the thing about cliches: they don’t have to be cliche.
Sound crazy? It’s not. I promise.
Take this formal black dress. It hits all the cliches: black, long, formal, and worn by a fashion girl. But is it just another unoriginal formal black dress? I think not. Let’s discuss.
So if black is cliche, and formal black is the utmost cliche; what is black that’s part sheer, part slip, part formal, and all chic?
Did I mention it has a train?
And that cowl back?
Cliche doesn’t have to be boring. And maybe cliche isn’t cliche. Is it the details that prevent something from completely cliche? If so, this dress has them in spades. I can’t resist a train. Or a cape. I just can’t. (And why would you want to?) So I have to admit that one of the first things that I loved about this dress was the train. Other things I love? The juxtaposition of the straight skirt and the lace and sheer top. All black, but giving a nod to lingerie dressing.
This number, cliche or not, is all formal but fun, a little sexy but perfect for all your classic needs. Does it matter if it’s cliche if it’s this good?
And who doesn’t love formal black with a pop of leopard? That completely changes the cliche convo, right?
Yes, surprise! The above formal black dress is vintage. However, I’ve linked similar items below. Let’s not be afraid to wear all black, be cliche, and have our cliche not be cliche. Sound like a lot? I believe in us!
XO RA
Note: This post does contain affiliate links. While that does not affect prices for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
Loves, this may be the most exciting post of logo week. I know, I just set the standard high, especially as these Gucci boots are pretty stunning. BUT. Hear me out. We’ve reached the point in logo week where I don’t show you the logo pieces I love, I don’t share my logo styling tips, this is the part where I share with you how to shop for logos.
And loves, we’re not just talking about getting the new stuff. I mean we can.
We chatted Fendi logo yesterday and I’m in love with the new logo pieces the designer house is offering this season. Like this skirt.
We all know that I love anything Gucci, and these kicks are extra, but can you help but love that logo?
And loves, if you long to shop for these new offerings from any designer with any logo (no judgement here, I’m with you), it’s fairly simple. From your favorite high end department store (Neimans, Barneys, etc) to your favorite online retailer (Net-a-Porter, FarFetch, etc) it can be simple to pick what you like and wear all the logos your heart desires.
However, what if you want a vintage logo. Or one that’s hard to find. How do you logo shop then?
Lucky for you, you have me. Let’s chat about it.
Why Shop Vintage Logos?
It’s no secret that I love vintage. I love mixing it with modern pieces, I love resale pieces. But why did I get into it? Honestly, it was a way to get the pieces I loved at prices I could afford. Yes, when I first got into resale and vintage it had nothing to do with the great style, the way it’s the ultimate recycling, or the endless juxatipositons it allows me to create. I began shopping vintage and resale as I could afford it.
Which, when you think about it, isn’t a bad reason.
And, even now, it’s a great reason to shop vintage logos. Some others? The logos don’t change. Some styles might, and some details might. But, the logos? They’re the same. And so often the vintage styles are SO similar to the new offerings. Case in point:
Even better? You can get them at a fraction of the new price. So, how?
Really, knowing how to shop for (vintage) logos comes down to 2 things:
Knowing Where to Shop
The good news here is that there is no wrong answer. First places? Your local favorite vintage or resale shop. Goodwill is another place. But, let’s say you want to shop logos from the comfort of your couch. You’re in luck.
The most obvious places? eBay and Etsy. Watch for authentication.
Other place? Instagram. Many sellers offer pieces there first (just search your item).
Both sites offer vintage and current logos (and other items) that have been processed and authenticated, and are easy on the wallet.
The second thing you need to shop logos?
Patience
Decide what you want, either generally or specifically. Then you search for it. Here keywords are important, I’ve found pieces with “Fendi logo” but there are times when I’ve had to get really specific and say “Gucci Label hobo bag”. Use more than one keyword. Set alerts. Do this on more than one site.
Then you wait.
Sometimes what you’re looking for appears right away. Sometimes you wait for months. Patience is the real key here. (I’ve found it helps if you’re a bit forgiving in what you’re looking for, and if you think of it like a game). But it’s patience. Just patience.
These are my bit tips on shopping for logos. I’d love to know-what are yours?
And if you ever need help? We offer personal shopping services here at Investment Piece. We would love to logo shop (or just shop) for you!
Happy logo week!
XO RA
Note: This post does contain some affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
It’s still logo week. Yes, it may be a thing that I made up, but I like my creations so we’re sticking with it. And why wouldn’t we celebrate a week devoted to logo’s? As we chatted about Monday, the wearing of logos is undergoing a resurgerance. From runways to vintage, there”s a way to rock your logos. My way? All the ways.
I have to admit that the Fendi logo was not one that I had in spades before these pants. Gucci? Gucci I have a collection of all that. Fendi was a new logo to lust and collect. I fell in love when I saw a friend in vintage Fendi pants VERY similar to these new Fendi pants. Maybe I have a thing for vintage logos? Or maybe I don’t care about the logo when the cut is cute. Either way, and maybe it’s a little of both, I knew that I wanted to get my own vintage Fendi pants.
Mainly, as they are fun.
This is also the part where I tell you that I love the new ones, too. If you wanted to buy me a pair, or this Fendi logo dress I wouldn’t be mad. It is the blog’s birthday month, and my birthday is coming up. Just saying.
After falling in love with the Fendi logo, and yes, that includes the new offerings, I knew that I had to have my own. Sometimes the trick to getting what you want is looking for vintage (more on that tomorrow), so I started my search for Fendi pants in my usual places. Where I scored? eBay. And I couldn’t be happier!
I love the navy, the logos, the flare. There is this huge temptation to make the logo piece the center of the outfit. And I do–how great is this sweater? But I also think that you could use logos as a neutral. Hard? Yes. You do have to take into consideration the mixing of patterns, etc. However, I think that you could use the logo as a neutral, or at the very least a way to pop another color. Something new to try?
I’ve linked some of my favorite Fendi logo items, as well as similar sweaters and shoes below. Happy logo 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!
These pics were taken by @KYNPhoto (on Instagram) and it’s one of those times I had a hard time choosing!
Logos. We all have an opinion. And dare I say–we all secretly love them?
Confession: there was a time when I thought that wearing logos was a bit tacky. Gauche even. I mean, head to toe logos? I didn’t think it was for me.
And yes, I love mixing low and high. It’s modern and feels fresh. But, maybe I’ve evolved. Maybe my sense of fashion has changed. Loves, it turns out I have a thing for logos. So much so that it’s logo week here at Investment Piece.
Now, there are some caveats to my new found love of logos. But before we get to those (as my logo tips are good) let’s enjoy these Gucci boots–because loves, they are good too.
Note: This shoot was spur of the moment while I was wearing this outfit and fell in love with flags in the air. Not the best pics I know, but this is how much I truly love this outfit. Points?
What really prompted logo week? Not only these amazing Gucci boots. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but logos are having a moment. From Gucci to Fendi to Dolce, there’s not only a resergance of vintage logo items seen everywhere; but, a selection of new logo items from all the designers for our wearing pleasure.
Again, I thought that logos were not for me. As logo week will prove, I was wrong.
We know that I have a thing for Gucci (and these Gucci Boots) and that I have a thing for vintage. Loves, when vintage and logos are combined it’s fantastic. And if you want to buy me some of the new logo pieces I won’t be mad at you. In the mean time these are my tips for wearing logos:
– Don’t wear logos head to toe. Yes, they do it on the runways. Yes, I live my life like it’s a runway. Maybe don’t do head to toe logos unless you’re on a real runway. It’s fresh to mix them up with low end/other pieces.
-Vintage logo pieces are super chic. New is fun. Vintage logo pieces are fantastic. And if you love the look of the new logo pieces, vintage gives you the chance to get the look for less!
-Wear logos different places. Shoes. Clothing. Accersories. If you like a logo there’s a piece for you.
What’s coming this week? More logos. More tips. More shopping. Let’s logo week?
OH! About these Gucci Boots! I found them vintage on Etsy. I was terrified that they wouldn’t fit, as vintage shoes hardly ever do. I love the kitten heel, the logo, and the way that they’re causal but feel special. I can’t stop wearing them with jeans and tees and sweaters. I’m trying to find a way to wear them with skirts and dresses-stay tuned!
I’ve linked some of my favorite logos and these fave jeans (AYR) and sweater. Happy Logo Week!
XO RA
If you’re looking for great vintage logos this is a great place to start:
Note: This Post does contain some affiliate links. While that does not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
Loves, as you know, we’re using the Friday’s in April to look back at some of my first posts, and the history of Investment Piece. Today? Tied Up. Why? I still wear this outfit (I legit just wore these shoes to get the mail and this top is a spring/summer go-to). But, more importantly, this was one of my first times shooting with a REAL photographer, you know, not just me and an iPhone or me and a camera. This tied up shoot marked the beginnings of my relationship with Katy Shayne–and that changed the blog. Learning how to work with an other professional, swap ideas, give over some control, and upping the quality were huge steps for me.
This is the part where I let you know I’m a control freak–so tied up for me also means letting other people take control. That’s a lot for a FBF .
So, without further ado: let’s get tied up. I’ve kept all the orginal wording, but have updated shopping options. Thank you for indulging my FBFs!
Xo RA
Loves, I have two confessions: I’m becoming obsessed with vintage denim, and these Dr Scholl’s slides are more comfortable than they have a right to be. I love the slight flare of the jean–it goes great with this shirt tied up, or with all of my closet. The slides are perfection–as is the clutch that Clare V makes (that truly holds everything). I have to give credit to my cousin for introducing me to the slides (I completely copied her!) and I have to let you know–there’s something so comforting about this outfit to me. Pulled together, comfy, and just slightly summer-y. Perfect for errands or whatever the day throws at you!
XO RA
Note: This post does contain some affiliate links. While that doesn’t affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support.
Loves, it’s been a week, right? Just me? Either way, no matter what kind of week you’re having there’s always one kind of therapy that can make it better. Retail. Order amazing shoes and see how you feel when you get them–I’m not wrong. So, here are my round ups of sales and sales picks. Something for everyone.
Happy Shopping! And it’s therapy, so it doesn’t count!
XO RA
Neiman Marcus
Take 30% off 3 items, 25% off 2 items, or 20% off of 1 item in online clearance. Retail therapy at its best!
My picks:
ShopBop
Get up to 25% off with the code EVENT18 And get free shipping with your Amazon Prime account.
My picks:
Lord and Taylor
Take an extra 30% off almost everything and 15% beauty with the code FRIENDS
My picks:
I hope that you found something to satisfy your therapy needs (have I mentioned that retail therapy is the best therapy?). Wishing us a good rest of the 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 support!
