Investment Piece – Page 111 – Everyday Editorial

Where to Shop: AmberLeaf

AmberLeaf: Classic Clothing for the Modern Woman

Today is not the first time that you’ve heard me mention Amberleaf. I’ve been crazy for Blazers, and excited to share about my partnership with this amazing company (read all about that here and here). And while I love sharing pieces that stand out, this company is too special to leave things at that.

Amberleaf is an Austin, TX based company run by mother/daughter team Lisa and Liz. I first met this team of special women at a fashion event, where I couldn’t help but fall in love with not only the beautiful blazers, dresses, and now pants, but the women who made them. And then, as I got to know Liz and Lisa, and play in the clothes, not only did I find pieces I couldn’t wait to pair with EVERYTHING and women I wanted to support, I found a company designed for modern shopping. Amberleaf isn’t sold in stores*, you can get your hands on these exquisite pieces online (here), at a pop-up, or through one of the company’s stylists. (You can also enter the code RACHELADELICIA on your online orders to be added to my list and to get 15% off your order!) Liz and Lisa are incredibly hands on, they love to interact with clients and will help ensure the cut/color/fit of your Amberleaf is perfect.

Amberleaf garments are hand-made by artisans, so you can not only feel great about supporting a woman-owned business, you can feel amazing about the clothes they make!
Some other reasons to love Amberleaf like I do:

Affordable Luxury
Amberleaf prides itself on the quality of the clothing produced, and with good reason. From cashmere coats to impeccably cut pants, dresses, and Blazers, (all lined), the selection here is outstanding. All of us want the classic pieces that we buy to last. Quality is important and something to pay for. However, Amberleaf allows you to get the quality you crave at a price that won’t break the bank.

Sustainability
Amberleaf is changing the conversation regarding fashion sustainability in more than one way. And yes, this is an important convo to have– did you know that the US alone produces 26 BILLION lbs of clothing waste a year?!?! (People who throw away your clothes, what’s going on there?) Amberleaf strives to counteract this problem by producing amazing clothes that last a lifetime. By focusing on classic shapes (and who doesn’t need a great blazer?) with great construction, Amberleaf hopes to eliminate the need for “throw away” clothes in your closet.
Another way that Amberleaf is sustainable? Their business model. Most fashion companies produce a set number of their collection pieces, which are sold to various stores who then sell to the consumer. At Amberleaf? The company buys bolts of fabric, so that any of their patterns can be made in any of the colors available. Essentially, they aren’t forcing a certain color down your throat.

Quality
The thing about classics is that we all want them to last. That’s what makes them great investments, right? But even a classic that isn’t made with quality in mind isn’t always an investment piece. You should care about the fabric, cut, and lining of your clothes. Amberleaf does.

Non-Generational
Like the mother-daughter team at Amberleaf, I work with my mom. And it’s amazing. And it’s hard. What I love about a line like Amberleaf is that it’s one Mom and I can agree on. The designs are non-generational, meaning that not only will the clothes last, you can style them for every stage of your life. The company makes sizes 00-16, so there is someone for so many of the women in your life!

Some of my favorite pieces are

The Wendy Dress.

The Duchess Blazer

The Capone Pant

The Juliette Dress

***** BIG NEWS!
If you’re in Austin and eager to try on some of the Amberleaf pieces, I have great news! Amberleaf has just placed a few pieces in Altatudes (1717 East 12th St), so feel free to head over and try some things on!

And watch for their cashmere coats in the winter! (Don’t forget to put RACHELADELICIA in your shopping notes for 15% off when you shop online!)

I truly hope that you fall in love with Amberleaf the way I have. I’d love to know, what are your favorite pieces?

XO RA

Sunday Chronicles: Living in Chaos

It’s not Sunday, so it must seem odd to read a Sunday Chronicle. Right? However, for me, this entire summer has been odd. I’ve literally been living in chaos. From helping my mom deal with my grandma’s apt (boxes) to moving all my homes (boxes) to settling into temporary digs to breaking my toe this week (yes, ouch!). It’s been chaos. And some chaos is great! A lot of chaos, is overwhelming. With clothes and things spread out, I’ve been out of wack, and I’m not going to lie, this venture of ours has been hard to shoot. Living in chaos takes it toll. So, I couldn’t help but look back at this and remind myself that chaos is nothing that I haven’t conquered before.

The good news? The boxes are almost dealt with (for now). Next week there’s all new content, and it’s amazing. This weekend all looks from Instagram will be updated and shoppable here, on Shopstyle, and on Pintrest. Have I beaten chaos?

For the moment, it feels like it. In the meantime: a look back at living in chaos.

I’m moving (more on that in a coming post) and am completely overwhelmed –if nothing else because my apartment is currently filled with boxes, furniture, and varying stacks of items to take, sell or store. This makes my little Type-A, really organized, neat heart anxious. Let’s be honest–moving and packing are draining, and I have a hard time relaxing when things aren’t in their place.

This isn’t to say I’m used to everything going swimmingly all the time. I’m no stranger to bad days (both hair and personal), outfits that don’t work (even with prior planning), and the general mess that life can bring. And I’m a control freak (in the best way!)–and I’ve always used keeping things neat (and my work outs) to feel like I had some sort of power over what was happening in life. So living in a state of constant unrest is not just super settling. So what do?

There is no right answer right? Or if you know one please share! What I know is I’ve been working on keeping my sanity – my schedule, my to-do list, my priorities. My things might be in boxes but that’s no reason to stop functioning as myself; as much as I can I’ve been doing what I need to do for self care- workouts, seating aside time for relaxation and friends, etc.

Let’s be honest, I wish life wasn’t complicated. I wish here were times and situations that didn’t make us uncomfortable. I wish things were always smooth. But. the uncomfortable and unsmooth times allow us to grow. They prepare us, make us strong, make us better. And if that’s the endgame, a few weeks with boxes is nothing, right? Right. Or at least that’s what I’m hoping for.

Wishing us all a week of good change, no boxes, and amazing shoes! XO RA

Weekly Sales Picks!

Another week, another sale! And the great news is that as the summer winds down, the sales only get hotter (one thing to be thankful for!). Below get my weekly sales picks–and I would love to know: what are you 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!

DRESSES

Jeans

Shoes

Tops

Sales and Such

Loves! It’s August. We’re hot, we’re tired, we are in need of something new. It’s aok–we’ve earned it. Also, with these sale prices, we’d be crazy not to treat ourselves.

Listen, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. Deal? I’ve rounded up some of the things I’m lusting for-from the Nordstrom Sale to a Fall Date night look to just the best new things on sale this week!

Nordstrom Sale
Loves, this deal of a sale is coming to an end. Special prices on Fall items go up on 8/6. That’s Monday. Yes, you have all weekend to shop, but let’s not waste time!

Investment Piece: Sales and Such

The above look is everything I love about the Nordstrom sale- great basic (jeans) with a fall staple (blazer) and a bag that you can make a statement. Below are my general picks from the Sale. This is one event you don’t want to miss (so many great deals), so let’s get to stocking up!

Fall Date Night
Investment Piece: Sales and Such

I can’t take credit, the above look was sent to me in an email from Moda Operandi; but I can’t get it out of my head. The dark floral is perfect for fall (it is coming) and the shape of the top is such a show stopper (and these pants are such a basic!)

Is this look on sale? Technically no, it falls on the “such” spectrum. However, I’ve also linked “on sale” items. These exact pieces can be pre-ordered in the Attico trunkshow on Moda Operandi.

(Read about how I love Moda here and my take on dark florals here and here )

Weekly Sales Picks
The Nordstrom Sale isn’t the only party in town, and fall date nights aren’t the only outfits on my mind. Shop my sales picks below!

I’d love to know: what’s in your bag?

Xo RA

And loves, a little programming note: we’re working on amazing content for fall! New and old series, some special things, and listening to your input (you can always reach me at racheladelicia@investmentpiece.com). Through August you can get content here on site and on my social media channels (@racheladelicia)! In Septemeber we will update you with our new and improved publishing schedule!
XO RA

Stress Relief

Investment Piece: FBF From then to now
Investment Piece: Stress Relief

As we’ve gotten to know each other, there are some things I’m sure you’ve heard before. I believe that fashion is a way to tell our stories, that fashion can let you be anyone you want for the day. Fashion is also something I use as a stress relief. This post details someone else’s journey with using fashion and beauty as a cure for anxiety, and I can whole heartedly relate.

Right now my closet is in transition. Ok, I’m in transition, but I worry more about my closet. I don’t know what that says about me. Anyhow, moving and dealing with family stuff my closet is currently in pieces over my mom’s house. For someone who’s prized possession is her closet, it’s a little bit stressful. What am I doing for stress relief? Planning outfits.

We know I’ve been thinking about this dress. The above jacket? When coming across it, I couldn’t help but fantasize about all the outfits this vintage YSL beauty could make for the end of summer. Over slip dresses. As a bathing suit cover up. With shorts and pants. The pink and the details make this jacket too good to stay in the closet.

Then I came across this fave bathing suit. And while I don’t wear it in the pool (I’m afraid the chlorine would hurt the colors), I dream of being ocean side, or wearing the top with a jean skirt.

Investment Piece: Stress Relief
I recently wore this skirt with a band tee for a first date, and it was a hit. Now I’m thinking of all the tees and crop tops and sweaters I can pair it with. Unconventional stress relief? Maybe. But it’s getting me through the day.

Investment Piece, fashion blogger, blazer, tie, Valenino, high fashion, CA, TX
I literally just stepped over this tie, and am now relaxing thinking about all the ways I can wear it.

Fashion as stress relief? Why not?

The only thing left to do is to shop for stress relief and have somewhere to wear all of these amazing outfits I’m planning.

I’ve linked some things I’m eyeing for stress relief 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!

Can’t Get You Out of My Head

Investment Piece: Can't get you out of my head

#InvestmentPiece #faves #aavintedge

Have you ever not been able to get an outfit out of your head? Even after you’ve worn it?

This vintage dress from AAVintedge is hardly new (even new to me). And it’s been posted before, see here. Yet…..

I had to move my closet recently. It’s in pieces. Yes, it gives me anxiety, yes, I’m working through it. But there are pieces that stand out to you. Like this floral dress. I had it in mind before the move. It called to me–and summer nights full of bbq, beaches, and good times.

We moved my closet and it is spread all over–and my eyes keep coming back to this dress. I dream of wearing it to lunches, drinks, and all sorts of summer good times.
Do I still love this neckline? Yes. And the flowers? Yes. The fact that’s it’s another Texas/California mix (just like me)? Double yes.

Can’t get you out of my head. I know that these are lyrics to a love song. But for me, they apply to fashion. What does that say about me? There are just pieces and fashion that I can’t help but think of, plan for, yearn to wear to any and every event. What does that say about me?

I’m sure that there are things that you can’t get out of your head: pieces you want, pieces you have. We all have favorite outfits for a reason.

There are just some things that you can’t get out of your head. For me, this dress is one of them. So, the big question is: where should I wear it?

I’ve linked similar dresses below for your “can’t get you out of my head” pleasure!

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!

Investment Piece: Can't Get You Out of my head

What I’m buying!

I’m a shopper. I love to shop–for both you and me. And loves, I know that this is not news to you. However, even I have to admit that the heat of the summer is not the best time to shop (though is there ever a bad time of year to online shop?). With the heat, and the waiting for the new season inspiration and morale can be low. Lucky for us all, I found my inspiration -in my shopping bag! Below are items I’m buying, on my Wishlist, and more picks form the Nordstrom sale. If we’re going to melt, we might as well do it in style, right?

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! Xo RA

Zodiac Necklace
Investment Piece: Birthdays, Runways, and New
This Zodiac Poker Necklace from Lulu Frost has been on my Wishlist since my birthday, and now that it’s on sale I don’t think I can resist!

Mini Bag
Investment Piece: What I'm buying
This mini bag from Free People mini bag is perfect for summer nights, and yet also on trend for fall. Bonus? It looks much more expensive than it is!

Macrame Clutch
Investment Piece: What I'm buying
There’s nothing more summer than a woven bag, and I love this macrame that plays homage to that trend, and it’s an affordable option to this it bag. (You can see what other summer bags I’m loving here).

I also still have my eye on all of these vinyl shoes as well!

Floral Set
Investment Piece: What I'm buying
I’m a fan of a great set, I’m a fan of florals that aren’t basic, and I’m a fan of this set from MOTHER. I dream of wearing it (with leopard heels a la these outfits) and rocking these pieces through fall.
MOTHER floral
top

And of course, I would be remiss not to mention the things I’m loving from the Nordstrom Sale! My current picks:

I’d love to know: what are you buying? If you want to shop together, now is a great time of year to book a personal shopping session: racheladelicia@investmentpiece.com!

Happy Shopping!
XO RA

Crazy for Blazers

Loves, we’ve chatted about Blazers. In fact, we’ve chatted about these Blazers before. Need a refresher? Read all about them here.

Not a lot has changed. I’m still such a big fan of the blazer. As a top on its own. Over your favorite dress. Worn with pants and a tank. There’s not really a wrong way to do a blazer. And this Duchess blazer from Amberleaf is still one of my go-to’s. Sturdy and lined, yet with just enough sheen to feel special.

I still love Amberleaf. This mother/daughter duo, based in Austin, TX, are creating classic clothing that feels modern. And the way these classic Blazers (and dresses and now pants!) are made warm my heart. Amberleaf creates everything by hand-from pattern to product. The idea is affordable luxury, and the fabrics are picked with both durability and the look in mind. The price point is kept affordable on purpose (luxury isn’t just for the top), and the styles are multi-generational. (That’s just a fancy way to say my mom and I both love them! Do we style the pieces differently? Yes, but isn’t that the fun?) However, my most favorite thing about Amberleaf (besides the clothes) is the way the clothes are made. Not just handmade, Amberleaf sources bolts of fabric, not pieces of an item. What does that mean for you? Most of the pieces are made to order, and there’s as little waste as possible. And you get a stunning piece, in this case a blazer.

About this time, you may be wondering : what’s the update? We get that Amberleaf is a company to support. And that these stunning Blazers are worth adding to your closet (all of the different ways you can wear them!). Really? I just got more pictures in and couldn’t wait to share them with you. Over a fringe skirt. With a slip dress. Paired with flare jeans. And as a traditional suit (even if the pants aren’t traditional). The Duchess blazer has taken me from work to event to drinks with a girlfriend–and isn’t that what a great blazer should do?

I hope you check out Amberleaf and that you love them as much as I do. Use the code RACHELADELICIA when you shop their site, and we will keep you informed of specials and new items!

Happy Shopping!

XO RA

Note: This post is part of a partnership I have with Amberleaf. This is in no way affects pricing for you (though you may be offered a discount), and I may earn commission from your purchase. Thank you for your support!

Nordstrom Sale

It’s the most wonderful sale of the year! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here and it’s one of my all time favorites. From stocking up on fall trends for the new season, to getting everything you need for the end of summer, there’s a little bit of sale for everyone. I’ve linked some of my favorite picks below, and as the weekend and sale go on, I’ll be posting more. Make sure that you keep updated here, on Facebook, and on Instagram. Want more of a personal shopping experience? Now is a great time to book a personal shopping package with me! Email me at racheladelicia@investmentpiece.com.

Here are my first picks from the Nordstrom Sale! What are you shopping for?

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!

Beach Pajamas

Investment Piece: Beach Pajamas

Investment Piece; Beach Pajamas

Some of our favorite things: the beach and pajamas. The next best thing? Combining them! I won’t waste your time chatting about my love for the ocean and the beach: we all know that I’m a water baby, and have to see the love of my life (the ocean) every so often or I go a bit nutty. So, let’s chat Beach Pajamas!

True Beach Pajamas are a vintage treasure! They come from the 1930’s–women didn’t really wear pants yet, but, yet, at the beach it was “socially acceptable”, and jumpsuits with palazzo pants were popular! You can find silk ones, many have amazing embroidery. These, however, are not true beach pajamas. However, they made me think of beach pajamas, so I couldn’t help but fall in love!

This a is Dolce and Gabbana jumpsuit that I found on TheRealReal, and it’s just as dreamy as the vintage pieces! I love the raw silk, the fact that it’s a jumpsuit (WITH POCKETS!), the tie, and this print–no one does a great citrus print like Dolce and Gabbana! It would be perfect with sandals for a casual day, but these dreamy palazzo pants and heels would be great for a cocktail party.

I may be partial to this look on a beach though. California sunsets are their own brand of magic!

Hoping your outfit feels like pajamas and that you get a little bit of magic today!

XO RA

A great place to search for beach pajamas? Etsy, or your favorite vintage shop. I’ve linked some similar pieces, and some Dolce below!

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!

And get your own deal from TheRealReal: