Art of Dress

Investment Piece: Art of Dress
Investment Piece: Art of Dress
Investment Piece: Art of Dress
Investment Piece: Art of Dress
Investment Piece: Art of Dress

We know I love fashion. We know that I love Art. We know that I think fashion is Art. We know that a goal of mine is to be Art. Is it any surprise that I love this dress?

I love going to museums, and I also like dinosaurs (yes, like a kid!); so the tar pits in Los Angeles hold a special facisnation for me. I love the thought of walking on history! And though you can’t play in the tar (which would require a different outfit entirely) the scenery is beautiful! The tar pits are connected to LACMA, which makes this art inspired dress a perfect fit. I love the abstract faces, the color blocking, the cut out. It’s classic, but it’s edgy. This dress is silk, but a Topshop find-so it’s completely affordable!

This piece is perfect for gallery openings, museum days, cocktails, dinner, or 9-5. I like to think it brings me a bit closer to being Art, and that I will take every time!

Happy Friday! XO

This Topshop dress is sold out (Their Unique and Boutique lines are worth a look!) I love this one , this one, and this one. Shop my other picks below!

Events

Investment Piece: Events

Loves! There are many, many things I love about my job. I love the shopping and the putting together of outfits. I love finding things to share with you, and interacting with you on social media, and the site. And one of my most favorite things about this job are the events. I get to meet you and other vendors. I get to be with you and shop! It’s amazing!

Investment Piece: events

I’m also incredibly lucky that I get to host and attend events in more than one state. In my current tour through Texas, and specially this past weekend, I got to attend two amazing events: Bloomers and Frocks/Lively Collective held a Ladies Lounge in Austin, TX, full of tarot/henna/amazing fashion; and in Tyler, AAVintedge held a “Cool Collective” benefitting rescue dogs with amazing vendors/food/music.

Investment Piece: Events

Both events were amazing! At the Ladies’ Lounge I got to meet Solaris, who was simply amazing at reading tarot cards, as well as got to shop my some of my two fave stores in Dallas. In Tyler, I got to be with my love AAvintedge, and got to know amazing new vendors: Jesse Roberts (@jlr_leathers on Instagram, her bags are dope and so affordable) and Vanessa from Cade Republic Design (Cade Republic), and Beetle Rose (@shopbeetlerose, amazing shorts and undies!)Events leave me feeling so energized and full of inspriration. I love seeing what people wear, what people are selling, and what people are saying. I love getting to know you and getting to know people I think you should know.
Investment Piece: Events
Investment Piece: Events

If I haven’t made it to your neck of the woods for an event, don’t worry! I have events (and am planning events) for this summer in both CA and TX. Got an event you want me to visit? Have an event you think I should host? Let me know, I’d love to make it!

I’m busy recovering from my wild weekend, I have great things to show you this week, and make sure you’re following me on Instagram to see what goodies I got at these events!

XO RA

Gucci Pink

Investment Piece: Gucci Pink
Investment Piece: Gucci PinkInvestment Piece: Gucci Pink
Investment Piece: Gucci Pink
Investment Piece: Gucci Pink

There’s been a few reports lately about Gucci doing collaborations with this or that designer, and I have to put it out there, Gucci- if you’re listening, and you need people to collab with- I volunteer as tribute. You can take me, I’m yours.

Loves, I often wax poetic about how much I love Gucci, I know many of your other factor it fashion bloggers do as well. It’s hard not to. To me, this resergnce of Gucci under Alessandro Michele is the perfect combination of fun, details, the classic shapes, and excess. There are pieces that simply belong in a museum, there are knit pants that I long to live my life in; and the frivolous way that the fashion is presented (skateboards) is just magical. I am an unapologetic fan girl and have already googled how to sell them my kidney for the shoes I want. (Only slightly kidding)

Pink is the color of the season, or one of them, and surprise I love this Gucci Pink. I love the simplicity of the cut, the details, the bow. It’s great for running around (it would go great with sneakers), dinner, work, events (these are Zara boots but it would also go great with heels or higher boots). This dress is available at Reccessla right now (loves, they have so much Gucci in) and it was a joy to play and shop in! I managed to leave it behind, which is the most shocking piece of information here, but yet I can’t think of a more perfect Spring dress.

How are you rocking pink?

XO RA

Shop my picks below:

90% off luxury consignment

How to wear a Corset Belt

Investment Piece: Corset Belt

This trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, so how to wear a corset belt? With attitude. With jeans.

Investment Piece: Corset Belt
Over a dress, having fun.
Investment Piece: Corset Belt
Investment Piece: Corset Belt
Investment Piece: Corset Belt

Actually loves, there aren’t a lot of rules when it comes to corset belts. Part of the magic of wearing them is that they are part statement, part basic–and they go with everything. I love the Rock and Roll edge that the belt provides with this simple white tee and jeans, but you could easily make this more casual by wearing sneakers instead of heels. Over a dress with flats, with shorts and sandals, with super high heels. (Get my other corset look here). Corset belts are perfect when you want to define your waist, add a little something, be edgy, be soft, or just need a belt! They’re a nod to sexy, a way to hold yourself in, a little throw back, and are modern all in one; the point being that you can’t go wrong with them.

Loves, there’s also a very good chance that you don’t need me to tell you how to wear a corset belt, or any fashion for that matter. Though I have lots of ideas, and am always happy to help, the reality may be that you don’t need my help. Maybe you need inspiration, or loves maybe you just need permission. Before you take a deep breath and my comments get filled, I am not trying to imply that as a woman in charge of herself that you need permission to wear anything, any way you like. What I would argue is that sometimes we hold ourselves back, for reasons that would be another article, blog, another forum. So we’re focusing on the corset belt. And loves, however you rock it or don’t is perfect. The outfit you have in your head will be amazing (and if turns out you don’t like it, you change). You have permission to have fun, to try things out, to wear what makes you happy. Ironic that we’re talking about permission with a corset belt that holds you in? Maybe. Or maybe not!

This belt is from my love, Elaine Kim, and I love how soft it is–seriously loves, you need to feel this leather–and the zipper! It’s gone with everything from jeans to dresses (see above) and I’m still thinking up ways to wear it!

I’d love to know: how do you wear a corset belt?

XO RA

Shop my picks below:

7-11 Juxatipositon

Investment Piece: 7-11 Juxatipositon
Investment Piece: 7-11 Juxatipositon
Investment Piece; 7-11 Juxatipositon
Investment Piece: 7-11 Juxatitposition
Investment Piece: 7-11 Juxatipositon
Investment Piece: 7-11 Juxatipositon
Investment Piece: 7-11 Juxatipositon

I cannot explain to you how fun this shoot was, one of my faves! And yes, I say that all the time, and yes, I take it as a challenge to improve each time: but loves 7-11 Juxatipositon was simply fun. And isn’t that what fashion is supposed to be? A high end jumpsuit, by Katy Rodriguez found at Resurrection Vintage, fit for the red carpet in 7-11, Twizzlers in hand?!? I was inspired by the Rihanna looks in a drug store, and I have to say–she was on to something. There was so much to play with, not as many people stared as you would think, and this jumpsuit! I highly recommend playing with Juxatipositons and if that happens to be in 7-11, so be it!

And this fashion! This is not where I tell you that this jumpsuit could be made into something it’s not. It’s a special piece, rhinestones and slits, and all; and you can’t/shouldn’t hide that. It’s not something that you could repurpose as workwear or casual wear, but there are ways to soften it. The slits on both the legs and chest could be sewn up–either with thread, tape, or safety pins. You could wear a shirt under the jumpsuit, and this night I threw a sweater on top (so only the legs showed) for drinks. I think for an upscale pool party you could pair this stunner with flats, but I think, other than that, heels would be best! Resurrection Vintage (Resurrection Vintage, lastore@resurrectionvintage.com, or @resurrectionvintage on Instagram) has a pink jumpsuit exactly like this one available–if you get it, show me the Juxatipositons you wind up in!

Love bugs, most importantly, go have some fun out there!
XO RA

Shop my picks below and have an amazing weekend!

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Blog Birthday!

Investment Piece: Blog Birthday

Loves, it’s our second birthday!! (Or close enough!) This journey has been so amazing: the work, the people, the clothes! And I’m so grateful that you’re along for the ride. We’ve been growing, refining our niche, and adding new series’ and your support means so much. The blog has so many exciting things in the works and I’m thrilled to share them with you! You can expect more editorial inspiration and outfit looks Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s. Tuesday and Thursday we will continue to spotlight brands, stores, and events we love-and hope you love too! Some new series: Designer Spotlight, once a month we’ll chat about a designer we love and Fashion in the Wild, once a month you can expect a video of a fashion trend out in the world (real trends, real reactions, real out there!). Sunday’s you’ll get the same op-Ed piece that’s one of my faves (Sunday Chronicles), other than the last Sunday of the month when I’ll share the ExFiles, horror stories from the dating world.

And loves, it’s our birthday but we’re celebrating you! Are you signed up for our website? Make sure you do, because as part of the celebration every newsletter subscriber will receive 10% to one of our favorite stores, Lively Collective (@livelycollective on Instagram) and be in the running for prizes including a stacking ring set and a snake flannel from Velvet California (like the one I wore here). You’ll get details when you sign up!

We’re off to have a sip of champagne and work on posts, again, thank you loves, from the bottom of my heart!
See some of my fave looks from our journey below, shop my wish list and have some champagne –it’s our birthday!!

XO RA

Investment Piece
Investment Piece
Investment Piece
Investment Piece
Investment Piece
Investment Piece

Cape, Saks, blogger, atx, la, vintage, Stuart Weitzman, Ft Worth, Texas, designer, fashion, high style,
Vintage, fashion, TX, CA, InvestmentPiece, blogger
Investment Piece, fashion, style, vintage dresses, leather sleeves, Chloe, high fashion, ca, TX
Investment Piece, fashion blogger, high fashion, black tie, fringe, Megan Weaver, CA, TXInvestment Piece, fashion blogger, A Tractor, high fashion, CA, TX

Can’t wait to spend another year with you!

Walking in LA

Investment Piece: LA Walk
Investment Piece: LA Walk
Investment Piece: LA Walk
Investment Piece: LA Walk
Investment Piece: LA Walk
Investment Piece: LA Walk
Investment Piece: LA WalkInvestment Piece: LA Walk

Loves, when we think LA we think beaches and boardwalks, Melrose and Beverly Hills; but there are other sides of LA. Colorful, playful sides that deserve to be explored: Downtown, Mid Cities, Korea Town, to name a few. And lucky me, I got to walk Downtown LA in one of my favorite outfits to date. The sites, the colors, the sounds, the endless cars: all were amazing backdrops and fun to explore! We know I love the beach, but my advice? Get out of the sand and get to walking LA, I promise you won’t be the only one, and you’ll love it!

As for the fashion:
This Jcrew graphic tee is the best! It goes with everything, and has just enough attitude to make anything pop.
Todd Oldham pants: Can you believe this print?? It’s fun and festive, I can’t wait to wear it with purple, and it’s simply iconic. If you missed it, I wrote about Todd yesterday, you can catch up
Armani shoes: Graphic, vintage, classic
Zara bucket bag: Perfect for summer, surprisingly roomy, it’s become my go to!

Where are you walking today?

Investment Piece: LA Walk

XO RA

I found the shoes and pants at Recess, shop my picks below!

90% off luxury consignment

Seeing Stars

Investment Piece: Seeing Stars
Investment Piece: Seeing Stars
Investment Piece: Seeing Stars
Investment Piece: Seeing Stars
Investment Piece: Seeing Stars
Investment Piece: Seeing Stars
Investment Piece: Seeing Stars

There’s something magical about the heavens, and there’s something magical about putting the heavens on a fantastic dress! The details of the dress are simply stunning-from the embroidery to the cut-outs (I’m usually not a big fan of the cold-shoulder silhouette, but when it’s done right, it’s amazing), the flow, and loves, this dress has pockets!! This dress, seeing stars and all, is perfect for date night, events, and cultural outings. It would look just as great with flats as heele, making the options endless!

Happy Monday!
XO RA

This dress was a vintage find at Recess and shot by Katy Shayne at LACMA! If you’ve never been to LACMA, I highly recommend it. There is the iconic light fixture in front (I’m sure you’ve seen some of that on Instagram), but don’t ignore the rest of the grounds! Besides a stunning collection of artwork, LACAMA is host to gardens, this rock struture; and is attached to the LA Tar Pits, where you can find dinosaur like finds! Anything on these grounds would be magical, I just have a soft spot for stars!

Shop my picks below:

Snake Bitten

Investment Piece: Snake Bitten
Investment Piece: Snake Bitten
Investment Piece: Snake Bitten
Investment Piece: Snake Bitten
Investment Piece: Snake Bitten
Investment Piece: Snake Bitten

Oh Loves! This shirt has me snake bitten. In real life, snakes aren’t a favorite of mine, but Gucci and my new fave Velvet California have changed my mind! {Side Note: look for an upcoming post on Velvet California: the owner is amazing, I love the patches on vintage flannels and slips, and it’s all affordable (and chic!)} The snake is just a little bit edgy, and then these jeans! I borrowed these Dolce and Gabbana’s from a friend (yes, I was sad when I had to give them back!). The silhouette is simply stunning. And together! Just so cool and fun! I felt like a rock star, and my opinion on snakes may be changing!

Top: Goes with everything. Seriously. I’ve worn it with jeans, over slip dresses, with black pants, heels, flats: I’ve yet to find something it doesn’t go with. The snake makes it a statement, but the vintage flannel is so soft and comfy!

Jeans: I did have to give these back, but the good news is that this shape is everywhere! From Zara to Free People, you can get an extreme flare. And the good news? It’s a statement! Goes great with everything from tanks to sweaters, sheer tops to flannels!

And these Stuart Weitzman shoes: they are just perfect!

You too can get snake bitten at Velvet California, or on their Instagram (@VelvetCalifornia), the Dolce Jeans were resale from @Recessla, but you can shop some of my picks below!

XO RA

A Current Affair

Investment Piece: A Current Affair
Details from A Current Affair #InvestmentPiece

Loves! We know that I love me some great vintage, and shopping is passion (both personally and professionally), so it should come as no surprise that I attended “A Current Affair” this past weekend in Los Angeles. A Current Affair is held biannually in NYC and LA, promises “The Best Vintage Under One Roof”, and loves, it didn’t disappoint! (You can learn about the fair and vendors, as well as upcoming shows here, and my advice on navigating a vintage fair here).

Investment Piece: A Current Affair
With Miriti Vintage at A Current Affair

I can’t stress what a great experience A Current Affair is: amazing vintage, drinks, eats, the people! What I love about the show is that they pride themselves on having the best vendors, and loves, they do. From my faves (and friends) RecessLa, The Kit Vintage, Miriti Vintage, Timeless Vixen to some of my new faves: Timesless Vixen, Siren, Mercy Vintage, 1860, Antique Graces, Patty Hubbard, and more; the vendors and selection is top notch. No matter what you’re looking for: designer vintage, rare finds, denim, or accersories, A Current Affair has you covered!

Investment Piece: A Current Affair
Vintage Moschino at A Current Affair

Investment Piece: A Current Affair
Accersories from RecessLa at A Current Affair

My tips for A Current Affair:
Go both days! There is so much to see and shop it’s overwhelming to do it in a day. Also, the second day is often restocked, and fresh eyes can spot a treasure you missed!

Visit vendors you know and love, or have read about, but be open to new stalls! You never know what you’ll find!

Know what will fit best with your closet! Like any big shopping trip the goal is to add to your closet, having a clear idea of what you need/like is a big help!

Investment Piece: A Current Affair
A look at A Current Affair

No shock, but my experience at A Current Affair was amazing! And I can’t wait to show you my treasures in upcoming posts. I’d love to know: have you been? Will I see you at the next one?

XO RA