We are heading into summer. And hopefully the living is easy. So how do we dress for that? For me? I am doing it in an easy set- a la this easy peasy linen pant set. We know how I feel about sets. I LOVE them. Wear them together. Apart. Mix and match in ALL the ways. And when the pieces are breezy linen –even with pattens- it’s so easy to feel as if it’s a bit summery. Perhaps also a way to ease into the season, give yourself a way to pant when its SO hot SO soon, and feel breezy when it’s a beginning of- all the graduations, parties, weddings, get a ways, etc and travels that just need an outfit that is oh so chic, oh so versatile, and oh so easy.
Even as a set pieces like this are easy peasy to switch up. From flats to heels. Sandals to wedges. Add a belt. A mule. Anything from a sweater over to a blazer to a scarf. So easy. And when easy is chic it’s the best.
This set is sold out but I am linking some of my current fave linen sets that have the same fell. Tell me- what are you wearing for the summer? How do you feel about sets and linen and easy?
XO RA
Note: This post does include affiliate links. While that does not affect the price, I may earn commission off them. Thank you for your support!
The question I get asked most often? But do you re wear it? And how do you style it? And I know. There are so many blogs. So many IGs. So much out there- a lot of it ready made outfits. So thinking about rewearing and remixing and restyling pieces (which FYI is the hallmark of a great piece! That you can rewear and restyle and make it new again over and over again). And really? I LOVE remixing and restyling. And rewears. I always worry that it’s not engaging or exciting blog content (why do we always think that everything has to be new and now?) but most of my outfits are a rewear or a restyle.
The above? The base is a crochet dress. Over swim. Over sheer- which the sheer skirt you have seen! here. And this crochet dress was originally shown to you with a shirt dress and leggings here and I really want to mix the 2 up again! Sheer- yes over swim. Maybe over a shirt dress. For sure with a button down. A tee Mix! The crochet over swim (a theme!), over pants, over a skirt. Over another dress.
These are such little snapshots but the possibilities are endless.
This red laminated linen skirt is one of the pieces I was most excited for this summer. And Spring. I imagined it with cropped tees and heels. And yet- so far I have only ever worn it layered. With tights and turtlenecks and shirts dresses. I can’t wait to play with it as the temps rise!
And of course there’s my go to rewears that I have written about here and here and < ahref="https://www.investmentpiece.com/outfits/never-gets-old/"target="_Blank">here. There is so much that I reach for time and again. From classic < a href="https://rstyle.me/+mesSwKNP1YpoLZ0CXieM8w"taret="_Blank">Paul Andrew mules that I wear with everything to this strapless bathing suit that I wear as a body suit with EVERYTHING. Honestly too much to count at this point.
Even my party dresses? I rewear them. From various events to swapping out shoes and accessories that they feel new. I rewear and restyle. All.The. Time. It’s part of the fun of building a wardrobe you LOVE. And can style!
Note: This post has contained affiliate links. While that might not affect the price for you, I may earn commission from them. Thank you for your support!
What do you LOVE to rewear and restyle? What things would you like to see restyled from jeans to party dresses? I would love to hear about them all!
XO RA
a look at sweatshirt dress I’ve worn before with different shoes and styling
There is something about a bit of the dramatic and a bit of exquisite details that can make even a classic or a basic- a la the “little black dress”- into a statement. A celebration. Something that when you reach for it, wearing it makes you feel a little better about life.
As I mentioned, this past Friday was my birthday. And I always love wearing a special dress on my birthday. This dress? Beyond. I’ll be honest- this was Plan B. It’s a Simkhai dress that I have had for about a year (maybe more!) that I had never had a chance to wear. For my birthday I had bought a lovely embroidered dress, but it needed a bit of altering and it wasn’t done in time. (yes, you will see it when it is!) So, on a whim and a need to be dressed I pulled this out.
And it may have been the best decision ever.
We all know that I love a cape! (even when they’re swim, vintage, and one of my all time favorites. You can also search cape on this site and feast if you’re into capes!) But this cape dress is so much more. It’s a bubble (a bit, which is so on trend), it’s necklace (THAT COLLAR), a bit of a wrap. And it’s got that wow factor.
When people tell you that they felt like a princess in things I can’t help but think of BIG (whether it’s a puff factor or a full skirt) so I don’t know if princess is the right word here. Maybe modern princess? Or queen? All I know is that this dress made this day a ton more special- and the fun I had in the dress, the compliments I got, and the confidence it gave me? Fantastic present to myself- no notes.
I am a bit fan of everyone having (well, really more than one) a piece like this in your closet that makes you feel SPECIAL. SEEN. And for all of us it will be different. We know I love a party dress (and a detailed one). Part of why I can never resist them is that I feel like this in them. Whatever that is for you- party dress, great jeans, unforgettable set- my wish for us all is that we get a year filled with them!
As I mentioned, this dress is a season or so old- but I have found you similar. I’m also linking some of my current fave Simkhai dresses! Here is to us- in all the things that make us feel special! 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!
***Sidenote: My apologies for not having a post up yesterday! We were affected by bad storms (the shoes and I are fine!!) but it affected me posting. We are back and ready to go now. Thank you for your patience and presence!
Today is a start of another trip around the sun for me. This year I randomly do have BIG feelings about age and it all— but I am also so grateful for not only this community but all of the stories my closet has told- and will tell. I will be honest- this week is insane for me and my family. My mom’s birthday was yesterday. Today is mine. Cousin tomorrow. Mother’s Day. Crazy storms. A lot.
So this my little respite. And my story. Of what’s passed and what is to come. I truly hope you’ll stay for the next trip around the sun-I love our stories together.If it involves a great outfit- who are we to judge?
Here’s to yet another trip around the sun and more stories that we tell with our closets! Thank you for being here!
XO RA
It’s my birthday week (the big day is Friday and yes, for some reason this year is somehow hard as it feels “old”). Every year- really almost every month and season and week- I make a wishlist. It’s part what I want, what I need, part who I want to be, and fantasy. For my birthday? I tend to go a little big! It’s like Christmas– but in May! This list will most likely evolve and change for the year, but it’s the start of something new and who and what I want to be. And while I know that there is so much going on and that that shopping can’t solve everything- I like to think that this list inspires you (and me!) to go after our best and brightest selves. We can’t solve anything if we aren’t filling our own cups. So- filling our own carts!
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 posted a look in this yellow (sheer) knit. And I love it. The skirt was a bit of an impulse and yet know I want all the yellow knit to match and carry on the looks!
I love my fashion- but I also love my stories, and these fashion books hit the spot:
For some reason I can’t get these Madewell and Reformation jeans out of my head (and they are oh so dreamy for summer!)
I’m also dreaming of pedal pushers and all the ways to style them:
These lady like options from florals to summer tweeds to linen make me want to book a tea time:
And This ring was a gift and absolutely makes me feel like a grown up. I highly recommend:
I absolutely can’t stop thinking about this dress. The hem- and that train! It also comes in a green that’s usually not what I go for but is something I’m intrigued by!
Also on my lists? Dinos and classic bags from Coach. Carolina Herrera perfume (mainly as the bottles are shoes!). Quite a few vintage bags, dresses and more here and there. Ya know. IT ALL!
AS it turns out, I am not great at saying no to me. In some way, shape, time there is a high chance I will get all of these (or find something more fab to lust after). I try not to let my bad shopping habits get in the way of budgets, etc, but this is a time of year that’s hard for me. (Because I do want it all!). So. Over the months I may get it.
It may not be your birthday, but there are so many reasons to celebrate this month. What are you wishing for? Shopping for? Longing to be? What kinds of stories could we tell with all these wishes?
Here’s to yet another trip around the sun– and some fantastic picks!
Words that seem a bit odd when the Spring weather you experience is either extreme heat (and humidity) or storms- and not a lot in between? Knits that are great for spring. I know there are parts of the world where a lighter knit is great for spring. And I have light knits that I do wear for spring, though often I sweat in them. So, in general, the thought of a spring knit maxi skirt has me running for the hills. Usually, I couldn’t imagine getting into a “bigger” knit in spring. No matter what.
Yet. I couldn’t help falling in love with this knit skirt. It’s truly almost sheer so it feels incredibly on trend– and is incredibly light. Even in 85 degree, super humid temps I didn’t break a sweat (which is saying something!). Yellow is not a color I normally reach for- but I love it here. This is one of those pieces that would look fantastic with a simple white tee (and I do plan to wear that outfit often!), but also dressed up- a la a blazer (tux if you please).
Spring knits that I’ve been avoiding? Perhaps I have been wrong this entire time!
A word about the blazer. I have a thing for blazers as tops (yes, even in this daring fashion). I know that it’s not always practical or best- and I think a simple tank or tee conveys the same feeling. I also have a thing for tuxes. Especially on women (think classy and edgy at the same time). And I think any time you can wear a blazer or a tux you should absolutely grab the chance. Even with a spring knit!
Spring knits absolutely have a time limit. I know in a few weeks it will be over 100 and most knits or heavy pieces I have will be put in the back of the closet. However, I remain hopeful about this skirt. It’s so light, it’s airy, it feels like a bit of fresh air (note: they also make a top and a dress in this yellow knit- but you could also pull this skirt up and wear as a strapless dress- especially over swim!) Knits for summer as well? We may be pushing it, but in this fresh pick, I’m willing to risk it!
Below I’ve linked these outfit details as well as the other matching options!
How are you feeling about knits this spring?
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 week has been a little off. We were without power on and off for a few days. Then my neighbor had a gas link — and somehow it made me sick! On top of a very busy to-do list, it was a bit jarring. To say the least. But. it’s the weekend which really kicks off the season (as it were). The Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo. Even on the couch I will be rocking this caftan (and maybe drinking something minty or spicy). In the meantime, let’s revisit this pieces!
Caftans are the quintessntail summer chic. They’re elegant and yet they hide everything. (I’ve always had a thing for caftans including this one from my love AAVintedge). Caftans can be worn dressed up or down, at the pool or on a casual day, there’s no right or wrong way to Rock a Caftan (part of their appeal).
My fave way to Rock a Caftan? Find one you love that makes you feel special. This one from NewCropShop is simply to die for! Those sleeves! That embroidery (all done by hand!) It’s perfect for an event (even a wedding) or just a day that needs a pop.
You can order one at New Crop Shop, shop my picks below, and let me know all the ways you Rock a Caftan!
Loves, I have to admit this post was hard to write! Not because I don’t love this caftan, or love to Rock a Caftan, but because my heart is in TX. At times like these it can feel so overwhelming and we can feel so helpless that we do nothing. I understand that. I think the solution, and how we combat that is to do a little. As one of my fave people says “Do a little with great love”. There are so many organizations that you can choose to give to, I won’t tell you which is best. I’m linking Red Cross and this article from Texas Monthly that outlines where you can give. I know various stores are giving part of their proceeds this week to relief efforts, and I will link them as I get details. Let’s go out there, Rock our Caftans, love each other, and do some good.
And loves! Remember our great Skin Print EyeDeal giveaway? Due to the craziness of this week I’m extending the deadline! Go get you some amazing eye cream!
Does it age me that one of the ads that I most remember from my youth is a song that goes: Who wears short shorts? We wear short shorts!
It was for a shaving/Nair product- but I still have that song in my head. And I still think about it in short season. Are shorts in season every spring/summer? Yes. I mean- they have to be, right? But, for some reason this season, I feel as if shorts are everywhere. EVERYWHERE. As in- everyone you know is wearing shorts, shorts are in so many editorials, so many red carpets, so many EVERYTHING. From short shorts (like the song) to Bermudas, to even pedal pushers- all shorts are en vogue.
So. Shorts are a thing we’re doing?
The thing about shorts? They do scream summer. I can’t think of anything other than swimsuits (and we know I love those both in and out of the water) that I wore more as a kid in the spring/summer.
My one issue (ok- not my only issue as out of no where I get worried that I am too old for shorts) with shorts is that I don’t want to look like a kid (and ironically too old) wearing them. So, how do we tell our stories (which I hope this season includes a ton of fun, a bit of nostalgia, and perhaps a smidge of sexiness) with shorts this season?
These are my tips, and my tips alone for shorts. Note: Like you I am still feeling it out as I go along and experimenting with short length, etc!
-Figure out what you feel comfortable with! Is it a length? A color? A pattern? This season everything- from suits to patterns to to all fabrics and lengths. If you’re drawn to a certain pair of shorts- play with them! I promise you that all shorts, even and especially those pictures here can be styled in SO many various ways.
– Dress up or down as you love. I have been playing with pairing my shorts with heels. Flats. Sneakers. As a suit. Super casually (cut offs and a tee!). Shorts, any shorts, with your favorite tee or blazer or blouse might the outfit for your season. And there are so many shorts! From suiting shorts to tailored Bermudas to the beloved cutoffs. Even rompers.
Perhaps the biggest story for shorts? To play. For you to figure out how and what and where shorts make sense for you. How to style them to feel most like yourself. Shorts that make you feel your age- in all the best ways.
I’ll be honest, I’ve been both drawn to shorts lately and a bit scared of wearing shorts lately. Yet, for fashion, I’ve been pulling through. (Also, because I refuse to believe that we are too old to wear anything. If you think you look great, who does care? At least, this is what I am telling myself) Shorts can be: cheeky (in the attitude way. OR I guess the other way!), sophisticated, flirty, causal, dressy- and all the things in between. And if shorts can be ALL of that, what stories could we tell in our shorts?
I can’t wait to find out!
How do you feel about shorts? How do you wear them? And any tips for feelings on shorts? I am all legs!
I have linked some of the shorts above and shots I want to wear below! Happy shopping for shorts!
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!
One of my fave vintage dresses as it was worn by the Miss Texas of 1964 and I bought it in CA. Both of my states!
The best way to celebrate Earth Day (according to me, a shopping maven) is by shopping and enjoying vintage. Shopping isn’t earth friendly you say? Vintage shopping ins one of the most earth friendly things you can do! No need to demand more supply, everything from leather to silk is better from the past (and you don’t have to feel guilty about it!) So, as a way to say thank you to our Momma (Earth) and to do the best recycling (that benefits our closets) here is a round up of my fave vintage places!
You may have heard by now, infamous designer Roberto Cavalli left us this week (see here, and for more insight here and here), and while I admit that I don’t have a ton of Cavalli pieces, the pieces I do own are simply amazing.
Like this skirt.
While I perhaps waited too long to shoot it (note to everyone: leather and 90 weather DO NOT mix!), this skirt is one of the dreamiest things I own. From the stitching. To the buttons. To the slight mermaid flare. And really, this is tame for Cavalli. It goes amazing with a simple white tee, or would be fantastic with any sort of sweater, sweatshirt, button down or blouse. Boots. Pumps. The thing about a great piece- like a Cavalli- is that it’s incredibly easy to style as it goest with oh so much. And elevates almost anything you pair it with.
Every time a great designer leaves us (and I feel as if it’s happening more often recently), I can’t help but search for their pieces- both for sale and on resale sites. It’s a bit of honoring the work, researching the work, viewing the work– and sometimes wanting to own a bit of the work. With Roberto Cavalli I couldn’t help but be attracted to his bold pattens, his mixing (I too feel as if leopard is a neutral and goes with florals!), and his iconic flowing sets. TBH I also fell in love with a bit of his snake details (which for this purpose came across in the shoes I found!). I am linking some of the skirts I found below for your own shopping/owning fashion history purposes!
Back to this leather skirt- I’ve had it for years, but each season I appreciate it more. It’s so well made, so thoughtful, so detailed.Even in the heat, it’s the perfect piece to wear with almost anything- even in the heat!
The following scene from Sex and the City got it right (say what you want about the show, but Carrie often did), Cavalli as a designer is not just some stupid outfit. His pieces aren’t just clothes. Our best designers gave us art. And perhaps the best way to honor them is to wear the art.
Did you love Cavalli? Do you own any?
As mentioned, I’ve linked similar skirts to this one for your pleasure below!
XO RA
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!
