Living with my Capsule Wardrobe for a month.

Posted on June 25, 2015July 3, 2015 by El Geeezy

A month ago (whoops!) I told y’all I would be diving into the Capsule Wardrobe lifestyle. The first step was clearing out my wardrobe as it stood.

As you can see, there is a lot of stuff there, and it’s a mess. While I LOVED my clothes, looking back at this photo makes me realize how cluttered my closet was. And it’s all over the place. Even if you knew what each of these pieces looked like, how could you describe my style? Ann Taylor Loft? Not exactly a style.

I have cut way back in the last couple months. And don’t let me fool you–I was not perfect about my list. For example, instead of having a white button down shirt, I kept every plain button down shirt. Same with plain black pants, and a few sweaters. However, I reminded myself that this was about clearing up brain space, not about cleaning out my closet. It makes sense to have multiples, because it cuts down on the number of times your husband has to do laundry.

That line was just me, yet again, bragging that my husband does the laundry.

People in my building are like, “the weird smiley girl is taking selfies in the communal mirror…”

Here is an outfit using just pieces I own (I do that once in a while). The black dress is part of my capsule wardrobe, and since I kept my accessories it was easy to dress up.

These are my favorite black pants. You’ve seen them a million times. I had this fabulous white jacket from Rent the Runway to mix it up a bit. And I love how the jacket is the featured piece. More so,I love how I look so Miami Vice.

And my pièce de résistance is this fabulous chill outfit featuring a fannypack. Guys. I wore a fannypack. Literally one person noticed what it was without my telling them, but I made sure to tell everyone (including my uber driver).

My dad taught me how to rock the fanny pack.

I realize I prefer to wear a lot of black, which makes this whole capsule thing easier. However, it has already made my mornings better (in just a month!). So far, I’d say I recommend it.

Also, if you want more timely updates, follow me on instagram @rentanista. If Kim Kardashian didn’t exist, I’d be the selfie queen. Luckily, she does and I’m just an apprentice from afar.

Until next time (which will def be in less than a month)…

Love,

The Rentanista

The Capsule Wardrobe + Rentals

Posted on May 6, 2015May 6, 2015 by El Geeezy

I have seriously been considering the idea of a capsule wardrobe for weeks. I’ve already pared down my wardrobe quite a bit and found the pieces that were easiest to use with my rentals. However, I’m taking it a step further.

I started where most great projects start: the Internet. I found a blog that broke it down nicely. Then another. Then another.

Then I took it to Pinterest and found the style boards that I felt best represented my style.

Then I made my own list. Not only is it mostly items I already own, but it exposes the holes currently in my wardrobe.

And then…

Well, the prep is done. The first step is purging the clean clothes in my wardrobe that didn’t make the list. Then, after Big Sug does laundry (yes, my husband does all of the laundry), I will purge the rest. A few items will inevitably make it into storage, just in case.

I also don’t plan on getting rid of my cocktail dresses, swimsuits, shoes, or accessories. While that keeps me well over the 37 or 25 or whatever number you choose, they are items that are inevitably rarely worn, so it will take longer to realize what I need and don’t need. Also, I will keep my two drawers of work-out clothes/relaxing clothes (’cause you should always change right after work!).

Stay tuned. I’ll let you know just how much I cried. I love my clothes, but I’m so on board with freeing up my mind space. Plus, this is a great way to use my rentals wisely. I’m nervous and excited! Can you tell?

Love,

The Rentanista

The Last Few Weeks

Posted on April 26, 2015April 26, 2015 by El Geeezy

Oh my goodness! What a busy month it’s been–weddings, showers, parties, galas–I mean, I really thought getting married last year had killed my social life, but now I realize it was just this seemingly endless winter.

The first look I’m going to show off is this gorgeous Badgley Mischka off the shoulder gown from Rent the Runway. I wore it to Taste of the South (an annual charity gala). The BFF is also in Badgley Mischka from Rent the Runway.

Note: the hat and clown noses were, unfortunately, just props for this photobooth and not part of our outfits.

Next up is, of course, a romper!!! I wore this to a birthday party. Most of you already know I’m a hapa-hapa (half-a-hapa, or 1/4 Japanese if you have to google “hapa” or hate fractions). Sometimes it’s a little more prevelant, like with this outfit, or my YouTube searches for “funny Japanese game show.”

I loved this romper and necklace from Rent the Runway. I paired the romper with tights, sky high pumps, and a leather jacket to offset the delicate sheer panels. Oh, and that hella high bun is everything.

Last up for today’s show and tell is, obviously, another romper. This is more of a jumpsuit, and was certainly meant to hit mid-calf. But I’m 5’3″ and it’s a big no-no to take your rentals in for altering. Also, I was out of fashion tape.

The cut-out made it a little edgier, which was super offset by the little tulips. This one is also from Rent the Runway (as is the bag). I wore this cutesie little number to a bridal shower where I only mentioned that I write a blog once. For everyone reading this, I know you’re in shock.

I’m just so excited for all of the upcoming events this year and all of the excellent excuses to overdress 😎😎😎.

Until…sooner rather than later???

Love,

The Rentanista

#throwbackthursday/#flashbackfriday: Why I Need LeTote and Rent the Runway

Posted on April 9, 2015April 9, 2015 by El Geeezy

This is a story told in pictures…

Blue dress with brown belt — Bright blue summery dress and a belt meant for around my hips. Also, everything about that dress is terrible on me.

Pictures of my go-to outfits before having a better selection of clothes…

Brown undershirt white shirt — I was like, “What cami for under my white shirt? Obvi brown.” Girl. Undershirts were meant to be felt and not seen.

Pictures of the most terrible accessories…

Classhing accessories — Nautical shirt. Heart necklace. Crazy beaded bracelet. Yup, let’s hit the bar (and clearly I hit the bar hard). Shout out to my blackberry!

And cardigans meant for my mom (hi Mom!)…

Cropped Sweaters — A t-shirt length sweater? I blame LOFT for selling it to me in the first place.

Pictures that prove I really thought I’d be Forever 21…

Gaucho Pants... — This used to be my go-to outfit. Yes, those are gaucho pants. Yes that’s a graphic tee. Yes, that’s a metallic belt. Yes those are giant pink hoops. Yes, I am ashamed.

Pictures of so many hearts…

Heart Pockets — Bubble shirts were awful, but a bubble shirt with a heart pocket? I can’t.

Pictures of confusing layers…

Layered camisoles — Cause layered camisoles were a thing?

Pictures of when I really thought I was cool…

I love my beanie, but this purple thing is a mess. And the necklace...nope — I love my beanie, but this purple thing is a mess. And the necklace…nope

But mostly pictures where I’ve had too much to drink…

Wooden Accessories — Wooden jewelry. And silver jewelry. And plastic jewelry. The only cool thing going on in this pic is the karaoke.

Thank goodness for Rent the Runway and LeTote.

And the weekend.

Love,

The Rentanista

A Little Bit More Professional

Posted on April 6, 2015April 6, 2015 by El Geeezy

Now that the weather is turning, I’m trying to force myself to look human Monday-Friday (winter gave me a great excuse to dress comfortably). This round of items from LeTote is not necessarily bright and colorful, but very work appropriate.

I wore this top to work today and a coworker said, “What are dressed like you’re going to work for?” And that, my friends, is what we call a reality check.

Unfortunately, my arms are not “spring/summer ready” so I will have to pair this with a cardigan or a blazer.

I love this sweater. Someone call me in a week to make sure I did not purchase this sweater. I wore it under my trusty leather jacket, and I loved my look. The bestie told me to stop asking people if I looked cool (because it made me less cool), but I felt cool and I wanted other people to tell me. But really. I looked cool.

Noir Luxe Samantha Necklace (retail $28)

I feel like I have the corresponding bracelet for this…but I think I spent too much time as a school kid coordinating my jewelry that now I just cannot wear sets. It’s weird, I know.

Adia Kibur Honeycomb Bangle (retail $24)

Check back with me later this week to find out why I need LeTote! (hint: I will be calling out some of my craziest outfits from life)

Love,

The Rentanista

Mindy Inspires Me

Posted on March 31, 2015March 31, 2015 by El Geeezy

I have a Mindy addiction. She’s basically the icon of ladies like me: young, works full-time in a male-dominated industry, not model-thin, and certainly not ready for pantsuits. I love that she takes elements of things that are fun (studded everything!), and things that are feminine to create an eclectic look. But, like, good eclectic. Not me in middle school eclectic.

All looks today are from Rent the Runway, where you can get basically everything they have for about $100/month.

For our first look Mindy takes a conflicting patterns and fancies them up with fabulous earrings and a fun purse.

This jacket has that mixed-pattern look, but is a little safer than a whole dress of it. It’s so fun. And weirdly makes me want to wear a newsboy hat (don’t worry, I don’t own any newsboy hats).

Clover Canyon Flight of the Earls Blazer (retail $500)

Janis Savitt Treasured Green Earrings (retail $350)

I covet this purse so hard. I don’t know what it is about Loeffler Randall, but I cannot get enough!

Loeffler Randall Studded Junior Work Tote (retail $395)

Next up: Mindy’s black and blue jacket.

This is fab for 2 reasons. 1. I was always the girl who yelled, “NEVER NAVY AND BLACK!” and now I’m so excited about navy and black together. 2. I’m hoping this is my last post where jackets are necessary. Hi Summer, it’s me and I miss you.

And then we have my favorite. I think you’ve all figured out my undying love for leather jackets. It’s undying.

I love the mix of anything rock ‘n’ roll with something feminine.

Barbara Bui Jet Thriller Biker Jacket (retail $1880)

And I also love quilted everything. Maybe not quilted pants…but then again, I could be pleasantly surprised.

I hope you’re as inspired as me!

Love,

The Rentanista

Last week’s looks

Posted on March 12, 2015March 12, 2015 by El Geeezy

Last week I had three pieces from LeTote that I was pretty obsessed with. The first is this cardigan.

J the Way Jada Zip Pocket Cardigan (retail $88)

I wore it with leggings (always) and a plain shirt. I topped it off with a chunky scarf and boots. It was the perfect look for running errands–allegedly casual, but actually thought through.

French Connection Studio Jumpsuit (retail $228)

I was also pretty obsessed with this jumpsuit (cause jumpsuits!). I paired the jumpsuit with a black cardigan and a leopard print belt. I finished this easy-chic look with black flats and a gold watch. Four pieces, and I had a great look for work that was still fun and trendy. Then there was this sweater. I’m kind of obsessed with the Divergent trilogy (cause I’m 13) and the birds make me think of Tris’ tattoos.

Willow and Clay Sparrows Sweater (retail $78)

I’m so excited for the warmer weather! I’m coming out of hibernation soon! Happy renting! Love, The Rentanista

Rent the Runway is doing WHAT?!

Posted on March 8, 2015 by El Geeezy

Rent the Runway has added dresses to its unlimited package!!!!!!!!! Granted, the unlimited package now costs $100/month, but $100/month is less than you’d pay for one of their great dresses if you purchased retail (over a year period). I am beside myself with excitement. I found this out on Wednesday. I had a dress to wear by Saturday for a party.

Also, Le Tote is letting you swap out pieces to get items. This is HUGE! I’m so excited they’ve enacted this policy, and now that both services are offering you the ability to choose before they send it really feels like you’re shopping. I cannot explain how much more fun being a rentanista now!

Also, I am finally getting my act together with taking pictures of my clothes. And with the weather warming up, it’ll be a lot easier to get pics (since I won’t always be in heavy coats). Super stoked!

Without further ado, this week’s fabulous pieces!

From LeTote:

Steve Madden Lady Lumberjack Scarf (retail $34)

Adia Kibur Circles Galore Necklace (retail $48)

From Rent the Runway:

Halston Heritage Berkshires Dress (retail $445)

Hunter Bell Geometric Gold (retail $374)

The dress I already wore to a party, so I’ll show that off soon. There’s also a purse I haven’t sent back to Rent the Runway (this Elizabeth and James number from this post). I am so excited to rotate the Rent the Runway dresses on a weekly basis. Let’s all just band together to make sure I’m not in a ball gown every weekend (just kidding–let’s not interfere with nature).

Until next time!

Love,

The Rentanista

Inspiration: The Mindy Project

Posted on March 1, 2015March 1, 2015 by El Geeezy

It’s been a long winter. I am spending way more time thinking about what to wear than actually wearing any of it. It’s just too cold. I walk out of the house in leggings and a down overcoat, because I am hibernating. That’s how I’m referring to my new hermit status: hibernation.

While I hibernate I search the internet for things to wear in a month. I don’t watch a ton of TV, but when I do watch I watch for the clothes. I’m loving the looks on The Mindy Project. Her outfits are perfect for the young working woman–young, fun, and fairly professional.

Without further ado, here are three outfits of Mindy’s that I LOVE and some corresponding pieces from LeTote.

Mindy Project + LeTote

AG Adriano Goldschmied The Coated Biker Jacket (retail $295)

I have just started truly dressing down. And I don’t mean sweatpants and a baseball cap. I have just really started grasping the idea of being comfortable, but still looking polished. I love this easy-going and flattering look of Mindy’s.

BB Dakota Olivia Wrinkled Jacket (retail $98)

We all know how obsessed I am with this jacket.

Geometric patterns are incredible. There is nothing like a geometric pattern to preppy up any outfit.

I am really, really hoping LeTote sends me this one soon. I am so in love with this coat.

Pair the coat with these fabulous earrings for the full-prep effect.

Trading Trunk Antoinette Crystal Earrings (retail $18)

I am so for the sassy jumpsuit. EVERYONE: GET A SASSY JUMPSUIT.

I haven’t tried this one, yet, but I have been running around in another one of their jumpsuits.

And to get the Grecian Goddess effect

I love that Mindy has a pretty definitive style, but she can be casual, preppy, and sexy. She is the perfect style icon for those looking for a cohesive look.

Who are your style inspirations? I want to hear them!

Love,

The Rentanista

Relaxed or polished? Let’s do both.

Posted on February 17, 2015February 17, 2015 by El Geeezy

BRRRRR!!!

It’s a Snow Day here in the District (as well as most of the Eastern Seaboard). And so we’re all inside, locked to our computer screens and dreaming about the awesome outfits we could wear if only we didn’t have to walk outside looking like marshmallows. Maybe that’s just me…

When LeTote sends the e-mail letting me know my box is shipping, I immediately sign on to see what I’m going to get. I think I audibly screamed this time. I LOVE rompers/jumpsuits/(onesies), and there was one on its way to me. And wait til you see my Rent the Runway choices–both packages will be delivered today. This is the best Snow Day ever!

From LeTote:

Willow & Clay Sparrows Sweater (retail $78)

I have had my eye on this sparrow sweater since I signed up. It reminds me of Divergent, and since I’m basically a 16-year-old girl that means something to me.

On LeTote they have this jumpsuit styled with a button up shirt underneath. I am weirdly excited to try it.

Adia Kibure Industrial Bracelet (retail $34)

From Rent the Runway:

Elizabeth & James Black Cynnie Shopper (retail $645)

Oscar de la Renta Crystal Web Necklace (retail $995)

I am really hoping I can pair the Oscar de la Renta collar, the jumpsuit, and the Elizabeth & James shopper together. Just looking at the three pieces makes me want to go get dressed (not enough to actually do it right now, but you know…I thought about just trying it all on…).

Stay warm!!!

Love,

The Rentanista

Rentanista 2.0

Murdering Everything Like a Millennial

Living with my Capsule Wardrobe for a month.

The Capsule Wardrobe + Rentals

The Last Few Weeks

#throwbackthursday/#flashbackfriday: Why I Need LeTote and Rent the Runway

A Little Bit More Professional

Mindy Inspires Me

Last week’s looks

Rent the Runway is doing WHAT?!

Inspiration: The Mindy Project

Relaxed or polished? Let’s do both.