shopping – Page 2 – Investment Piece

Southern Summer

We’re back! After a week of reflection and listening, we’re still in the fight but excited to bring you new content! First up: one of my all time favorite summer dresses. I pull this number out every year when the heat turns up. I stay cool. I look like a lady. And there’s something about this outfit that lets me know that summer has started!

There is something special about summer in the South. Yes, it’s hot and can be humid. There’s also magic in the air, there’s a kindness and time can slow. Spending part of my time in the South it’s an exciting time: there are bbqs, rivers, and sweet tea on the porch.

And when I got my hands on this stunner from the 1910s I knew it was a perfect fit–the tiers, the buttons up the back. This is a lawn dress, which means it’s linen or cotton, and these dresses were commonly used for everything from tea time to night gowns to picnics! We know that I love a great vintage number, and I love making them modern. Maybe it’s my height, maybe it’s the age, but I love that it’s a midi dress now. And the shoes! Gingham screams summer, and I love the mix of colors and leg wrap!

While white is most certainly a summer color, I love adding a bit of pop to it. And any color can be your pop (ya know, if gingham is not your thing). Again, the mix of traditional and non-traditional is what I love about this outfit–and summer! While this dress is vintage, and these JCrew shoes are a few summer seasons old, there are so many ways to take the idea of a southern summer and make it your own. Gingham dress with white shoes. White shoes with this summer’s gingham. Mix and match. Pop your white with a bold color. All white (if you dare). Wear what you love. Maybe that’s the trick to any southern summer.

And a note: My mom is the true star of this southern summer- not only did she do all the buttons (and snaps, because yes, there are two layers of each), she helped take these pics! Stay cool out there lovers!

I’ve linked all sorts of options for your southern summer. I can’t wait to see your take on it!
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!

Want your own vintage lawn dress? I got you here:

Or maybe something more modern:

Happy summer!
And loves it’s supposed to be SUPER hot this week- please stay cool out there!

for Mom

I promise there is so much exciting, new content headed your way. Birthday weeks are always a little crazy, and always make me a little nostalgic. I can’t help but look back at some of my old looks, and my old celebrations. This post is from a few years ago. I had worn this sheer dress with just a body suit to a fashion event. And though my momma loves me, she doesn’t always love the fashion risks I take. So, that year, for her birthday, I knew that I had to style this dress the way she’d love it!
As I wrote:
My mom is my biggest fan and helper (she’s actually CFO of this little venture). She’s always has my back, always supports me, always is willing to help. And she’s not the biggest fan of all the sheer that I sometimes wear, and that is so on trend this season. Literally her thoughts when she saw thisNote: 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!

End of an Era: Online Vintage Shopping Tips

One of my favorite ways to shop is vintage. It’s helped me collect things, it’s shaped my style, and it’s made me a better shopper. However, I know that it’s intimidating to shop vintage (especially online!). So, I’ve rounded up a few of my best tips for shopping vintage below!

A few years ago, the last episodes of “Mad Men” began to air. Can we chat for a minute about how this show affected our culture? Not just for the viewers (and yes, I’m obsessed) but in how it affected fashion. Styles always come back around –evidenced in the resurgence of the 70s on the runway–but this show made vintage, and vintage inspired dressing cool. I’ll admit–I’ve always loved vintage, there’s something about clothing that has a story that speaks to me. However, let’s be honest–it can be hard to shop for–both online and in person. The good news is there are a ton of amazing vintage shops out there–and if you find one by all means go in and look (don’t forget to try on!). With the advent of Etsy, some online shopping for vintage has gotten much easier–and the finds can be amazing. Here are some of my favorite Etsy finds as well as tips to online vintage buying!

1. Know your measurements, not your size.

Clothes were cut and sized differently in different eras, not to mention that certain body types go in and out of fashion (a whole blog on its own). Make sure that you measure correctly (or get someone to help you!)–and go by those. Also, depending on the fit of the dress, give yourself an inch of wiggle room–there’s nothing worse than ordering a dress and having it be too tight to breathe.

2. Research Shop Policies

Some shops take returns and exchanges, others won’t–most that I’ve found are happy to dialog with you about everything. Ask questions, send them your measurements–make friends. Knowing upfront some of your options if things don’t work out can make the purchasing process easier. Communication can be key here. Even if you read the policies, reach out with any questions or concerns you have. Most vintage shop owners I know are more than happy to help, to work with you, and to provide more information!

3. Have a budget and understand what you’re paying for

Some vintage is really expensive–when you factor in the rarity quality. Some is really affordable, either way make sure you know what flaws the item has–and what other costs such as alternations and shipping with cost you.

4. Buy things you will wear

This is probably a rule for life, but when I get deep in vintage holes I can lose myself in just beautiful pieces. Realistically however, there may not be a place to wear that pristine 1900 wedding dress–I know, shocking! If you are just a collector, amazing-buy at will. If you’re looking to add to your closet realistically assess whether or not you could wear it without feeling like you’re in a costume (unless you want a costume). Yes, this means that you may pass on some things, but what you’ll buy will be great when you wear it!

Some of my favorite vintage shops (where you can shop online)?
Bloomers and Frocks
RecessLA
The Kit Vintage
Timeless Vixen
Garment Modern</>
Miriti
Of course Etsy
And one of my current faves is the GEM shopping app (should be available on any of your devices!). There you can simply search for any vintage item and have a ton of options!

And FYI vintage is a great place to shop for Halloween costumes!
Need more help shopping vintage? Please reach out- it’s one of my favorite things!

All clothing vintage

First picture photo credit Kate Richards

I’d love to know: how do you shop for vintage online?

Xo RA

What to do when you HATE the trend

I originally wrote this post a few years ago. I pull it out now and again, because I can’t stop thinking about this topic. Again we’re finding ourselves at a time when trends are going to be presented. We’re in the middle of a transition to a new season. We’re being told what’s trendy, what we should buy, and the looks that we HAVE to have. And loves, I’m not mad at any of that. I love seeing new interpretations and getting to explore new sides of ourselves through fashion. The flip side of that? What if we hate it all. What if the trends for fall or next spring are just awful and wrong for us? Next week I’ll be sharing what 2021 Fall trends I’m excited about (and also what trends you can buy vintage!). I know that trends can have this negative connotation. But I really think if we can think of them as the fashion being offered to us- to do what we need to- they seem more appealing.
With that I feel a little bit better. I hope you do you!

Wishing us all a week of good trends and amazing shoes!
Xo RA

NY Fashion week has come and gone, and we’ve been presented with what’s on trend for now, and for the Fall. Which is great, right? Hopefully you’ve been inspired and are excited about what will be/is offered to you, and you have ideas and plans on how to wear it (or you’re excited to see how we wear it here!) But loves, let’s be honest with each other. There’s a chance, and there are times, when you just HATE a trend. Maybe you try it and it’s just not flattering on you. Maybe it brings back bad memories. Maybe you just hate it so much you can’t bring yourself to try it or think about it. I get it. I know, I’m in fashion and supposed to encourage you to try new things. Which I think you should. But not everything is for everyone.

Loves, I’ve struggled with this part all week. A part of me is torn–I feel as if I’m supposed to encourage you to try new things. Maybe the right piece, the right time, the right color will change your mind on a trend. Maybe. Trying different versions of a trend is also valid. Maybe you hate cold shoulder, but you love a certain off-the-shoulder. Maybe. Classics may be your thing and you don’t want to vary out, but one dress could change your mind. Maybe. I think all these avenues are great-again, I’m for us all trying things. But loves, sometimes things don’t work. And that’s valid too. Trends are simply that, a passing fancy, and if you don’t like it, it’s ok. A new trend will come about, or classics are always in style.
There are trends that I don’t like; and my personal view is that fashion is supposed to be a fun way to express yourself–not a list of things you HAVE to wear.

So, at the end of the day my biggest advice is, if you don’t love it, don’t wear it. That simple. Love what you wear, wear what makes you feel good!

XO RA

Backless

Yes, I love this dress so much we shot it twice! I love the simplicity of it. From the fron it’s simply a t-shirt dress, but from the back–oh from the back! It’s backless! And it’s both sexy and yet still simple. It goes great with heels, as well as with sandals. I’ve worn this to dinner, and out running errands. It’s just perfect!

The surprising thing about this dress? At first glance, it’s not my color. If you know me you know that orange and I usually don’t mix. Usually I’m more of a purple person, or classic black, or red. But there’s something about this shade of orange, just bright enough to feel like summer but not SO orange. (We’re sticking with that).

Perhaps, much like a basic that is really a statement, there’s something to be said about things that aren’t what they seem on the surface. In all honesty, everything about this dress was a bit shocking for me-from the out-of-my-comfort-zone color, to the length (I do still worry about being a bit too old for mini dresses), and while I love a bit of back showing, this one felt a bit risqué. But all together, it’s perfect and somehow me.

Shouldn’t our choices give us room to shock (even us) a bit? Give us a bit of room to grow? I like to think so. And choosing dresses that sometimes aren’t what we would think we would choose for ourselves can expand how we think about ourselves. OR just look amazing at a weekend brunch 🙂

This dress was custom, but I’ve linked similar dresses that are new and fantastic for you below. I hope that your weekend is full of the best kind of surprising plans!
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!

Simple

Investment Piece: Simple

Loves, we know that I love gowns, prints, juxatipositons, and special pieces. But let me be clear, I also love simple. I love pieces that can take you from the beach to cocktails, that are effortless, and that speak for themselves. Simple doesn’t need bells and whistles. Simple doesn’t have to mean boring, or plain. Case in point? This easy tank dress! It’s perfect for wearing over your swimsuit, with sandals or sneakers, but would also look great with heels, a jacket, a scarf. I love the slightly faded color, the slits, the draped arm hole. (And though I know you can’t feel it, I promise it is so soft!).

There is a time for drama, but there is also a time for simplicity. There’s a time to let things be, and appreciate them for what they are. Summer is a great time for simple. The heat, the water, the casual air. So let’s give in. There’s no reason to make anything more complicated than it needs to be! And I promise with great simple pieces like this, you will love simple like I do.

Especially in this heat, there’s no need for complications, no need to overthink, we could all use a bit simple.

I’m also a big fan of magic and love. We could all use a bit more of those, so let’s give more of those 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: Simple

Vintage Swim

Every year I do a round up of swim suits that I’m loving. And it’s not that there is not a ton of vintage swim out there that I’m loving, but I’ve been thinking a lot about vintage swimsuits, and how much I love them- from pin-up one pieces to swim sets.
There’s just something about a vintage swimsuit – the cut is impeccable, it can fit perfectly, and it makes water seem like an occasion. I love both of these above vintage suits for different reasons: the bikini as it’s perfectly fun, the one piece as it’s almost Bond like. The cut is so good in each I have dreams of wearing them on land!

It can feel intimidating to dive into vintage swim (pun intended), and that’s not just finding vintage suits at your favorite vintage dealer/shop. So, I’ve put down my top tips for buying and wearing vintage swimsuits!
Some tips on vintage swim wear:
-there are several sites that sell swim suits made from vintage patterns. They’re not vintage, but look and have the vintage feel. IF you want “true” vintage make sure you’re paying attention to tags, etc. If you only want the vintage look, these sites and stores are great!
-Shop by measurement, not size- vintage sizes aren’t modern!
-The cuts are different, don’t be afraid to try various cuts and sizes
-Play with color! Patterns! One of my current favorite vintage swimsuit gold lame, just because it’s vintage don’t be afraid to be bold!
-Have them tailored,most vintage suits are cloth without spandex which means they can be altered (and you can have the lining replaced)
-Accessorize! How great is this swim cap?

While these suits are a part of my personal collection (from Recess and AAVintedge respectively), I managed to round up some of my current favorite vintage swimsuits. Will I shop some modern swim this summer? Of course, but it never hurts to feel like a bombshell in a vintage suit.

What about you? Are you heading into vintage this summer? Do you love a good vintage suit? I would love to hear all about your swim preferences- both vintage and modern!

Hoping that your swimsuit makes you feel like a million bucks today!
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!

Fashion Stories: Raiding Mom’s Closet

Today is my mom’s birthday. And tomorrow is mine! There have been a few posts over the years that have felt like “tradition” to post on our days and this is one of them. Today my mom (and sis and dad) will be headed to lunch- and I won’t be wearing this, though Mom did approve the dress! It feels great to be able to celebrate and mark our birthdays with fashion-because, like playing dress up with this number growing up, fashion (no matter how much mom and I differ) fashion is what can bring us together. Hoping you have a great Monday and that this post gives you some inspiration – even to raid your mom’s closet and restyle her pieces! xo RA

This post was originially just an outfit post. But even then, I knew that this vintage piece, from my mom’s closet was a story. And what’s that I’m always saying? Fashion is just a way to tell our stories. My mom wore this in her 20s. It was in my sister’s and my “dress up box” growing up. My sister and I have both worn it-to parties, as business wear, even as a costume. To me it tells the story of my mom’s hope and dreams, and how my sister and I carry that on. I am so fascinated by what we keep in our closets. And in this case, what we keep, use, and keep going back to. What’s in your closet?

Investment Piece: Raiding Momo's Closet
Investment Piece: Raiding Mom's Closet

As someone who loves vintage clothes, there’s a special place I love to go for vintage: Mom’s Closet. I don’t always get the chance to raid mom’s closet, but when I do, I think it’s magical. This dress/jacket set is from my mom’s wedding, it was her going away outfit. I love that she saved it, that she lets my sister and I wear it, and that it’s a vintage piece that lends itself to modern style. Everything about this vintage dress is great–the button detail, the drop waist (though I couldn’t resist belting it with this stunner), and the flair.

Here’s part of what I think is magical about fashion: it can transform itself and you. While this dress holds special meaning for my family, it’s easy to make this a “new” look”. The belt is a way to dress it up, and socks with shoes are one of my fave things ever. ( See here, here, and here for some examples). The look feels fresh, yet it’s an homage to my past. Raiding my Mom’s closet is one of my favorite things. I’d love to know: who’s closet do you love to raid? And how do you do your vintage?

The dress/jacket are from my mom’s closet
The socks are Gucci, the shoes Brian Atwood
The belt is vintage from RecessLa. Pics are by the amazing Megan Weaver!
I’ve picked some similar picks for you below!
XO RA

Dinos and Shade

It’s Spring, which means that in the span of a day I go from freezing (am) to sweating (pm). The only thing that saves me? A great outfit and in the afternoons- shade. And this adorable dinosaur key chain from Coach also is making me incredibly happy. My fave gingham shirt (that looks great tied) and these pants (part mom, part cropped, and the structured satin! I’ve worn them dressed up and as a bathing suit cover up–they’re a new staple.) Even when it goes from 50-85 outside, these things make me feel cool–which is hot, right?

Side note- this week has felt like a month so I’m hoping that whatever you’re wearing is bring you joy and some coolness.
XO RA

This outfit is made from pieces that are seasons old- but I’ve found you modern (aka current ones!)
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!

Posted on April 1, 2022March 31, 2022Categories outfits, shoppingTags outfits, shoppingLeave a comment on Dinos and Shade

Sponsored by Champagne

Champagne is synonymous with fun, bubbly, celebrations, and boldness. I would love it if my life were like that: fun and light, bubbly and known for a good time. I’d love it even more if it didn’t hurt the next morning. The bad news? Life isn’t sponsored by Champagne. But love bugs, your outfit can be.

If I leave you with one thought ever, it’s that fashion should be fun, bubbly, and a good time; just like your fave champagne. And if we’re going to be fun and bubbly let’s chat about bold colors. In fact, let’s chat mixing bold colors. Tempting as it can be to always reach for black, bold colors aren’t something to save for a special occasion. They’re great on a Wednesday, and used right, they can be just as classic as your go-to black. I know, bold colors can be frightening, and if you’re wearing one, you will stand out. My take on that? Make them look, just make the look worth their while! I love a great red, blue or green, and there are so many ways to wear them!

Today, however, we take our cues from champagne and are being bubbly! So, if one bold color is good, are two better? I say : YES! This is not the part where I convince you that all colors go together, there are limits, there are pairings that work, and many factors to play with (shades/brightness/textures), but mixing bold colors is not something to shy away from. My tips: take colors you love together and experiment with various shades of each. If you’re still a bit gun shy, stick with classic and traditional shapes. Still a little nervous? Have a glass of champagne. It works!

One of my current favorite combinations? Red and purple!(Did you know that lavender/lilac and this light shade of purple are some of the IT colors for spring? Now you do- let’s play with them!) I love the vividness of this red top, and paired with these lavender pants (I love the almost neon quality of these! And pro-tip: lavender is sticking with us through the fall so if you love it, you’re in luck!) it’s a classic outfit that stands out! This combo works for your 9-5, dinner, drinks, champagne drinking- the list is endless.

I’d love to know: how do you mix boldly? And if you could be like champagne, what would that mean?

XO RA

I’ve linked you similar items below for your shopping pleasure!
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!

Shop this look here

Posted on March 18, 2022March 17, 2022Categories outfits, shoppingTags champagne, outfits, shoppingLeave a comment on Sponsored by Champagne

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