This weekend a sweet friend got Big Sug and I tickets to see (well…mostly hear) the National Philharmonic Orchestra. The friend was performing with them as a member of the National Philharmonic Choral Society. Why do I give all these details? Because I’m trying to humble brag about how fancy I am.
The concert was on a Sunday afternoon, which I decided was the perfect opportunity to wear funky pants. These pants (from LeTote) are a sort-of harem pant (just no diaper butt). I paired them with a leopard top and black blazer (you know how I feel about black Blazers). I have also fallen in love with this gorgeous cross-body bag (from Rent the Runway), which is almost perfectly matched to this year’s Pantone Color of the Year.
After the concert I headed to a girlfriends house to discuss our upcoming beach trip. This trip is the antithesis to the Game of Thrones mantra, “Winter is coming.”. Dewey is coming. We must go to Dewey and sacrifice orange crushes to the Horae. I tried to pose as The Thinker. But really I’m just a goober.
Valentine’s Day is coming! Are any of you renting for a fabulous Valentine? Show me you fabulous look!
Over the last few months, I feel like I’ve been able to hone into my own style more and put together looks that I’m excited about. For years I’ve been trying to incorporate bright colors, but I’ve decided to embrace it: I love the color black. If I want to wear black all the time I’ll wear black all the time, because I’m old and I can (as my bestie and I always say).
Rent the Runway is doing something amazing with their Unlimited Program: they are letting you pick which pieces you want to check out. This is totally based on availability, but it really gives you more control over what’s being sent. This helps for outfit planning, which can save you about…what?…five hours each morning?
AV Max Gold Tetra Chain Earring (retail $75)Lauren Merkin Taylor Crossbody Bag (retail $375)Pamela Love Eagle Necklace (retail $270)
I am PARTICULARLY excited for this eagle claw necklace. It’s just sooooo sassy, and I really like to think of myself as sassy.
Maybe you’re like me and have a few TV shows that you watch because you kinda like the story, but really it’s for the clothes. The internet will feed that addiction: there are blogs out there whose sole purpose is to find the outfits characters wear on TV and tell you where to find them. One of my favorites–the blog I’ll highlight here–is Worn on TV. My absolute favorite show right now (for–OMG–so many reasons) is Pretty Little Liars. I thought there has to be a way to combine sites like this, my love of fashion-forward TV, and my rentanista lifestyle.
So I have been scouring the outfits from Pretty Little Liars listed on Worn on TV, then finding LeTote substitutes to bring you some inspiration on how to style your rental pieces.
First up is my favorite Pretty Little Liar, Hannah (or Ashley Benson).
So, in this episode Hannah is actually going to a funeral (yeah, ok, morbid…but she looks fabulous).
Alice and Olivia Em Silk Dress (retail $223)
I love the textured look of the dress, and that it’s right between dressy and casual. LeTote has this fabulous dress that you could style with black nail polish, and blow dried straightened hair to get Hannah’s full look.
Something I love about Hannah’s style is that she transitions so easily from looking laid back to looking polished without losing her coherent sense of style.
Sunburst Button Earrings in Robin’s Egg/Silver by House of Harlow Sheer Sleeve Blazer by Robbi + Nikki
I love this top from LeTote–I think it has the same polished-but-trendy look that Hannah exudes.
BCBGeneration Andy Boxy Raglan Top (retail $88)
Then rent a fabulous black blazer–a black blazer makes everything so much better.
Search for Sanity Vice Tailored Blazer (retail $98)
Then finish off the look with a pop of color!
Nine West Vintage Annette Stud Earrings (retail $24)
Now we move on to not-Hannah, which is Emily/Aria–Spencer gets her own name because Spencer is the (second) best. I would also like to take this moment to say, yes, I do realize that these girls are supposed to be in high school. However, you would never look at them and say, “well, obviously they’re in high school.” Mostly it’s just obvious that these girls are dressing about 10 years older than they should (and also that the actresses are 10 years older than their characters). Which is perfect, because I graduated from high school about 10 years ago so clearly this is what I’m supposed to be wearing now. Well, at least that’s what I tell myself everyday I get dressed.
This is not-Hannah. I don’t remember what was happening in this episode, but I love the outfit. Like I said before, nothing makes an outfit like a blazer.
All Saints Riviera Dress (retail $178)
The remake of this outfit from LeTote items is a little more tame (read: not super short on one side). I really love ruching. There is nothing like ruching to take a few pounds off at the last minute.
Max Studio Lindell Ruched Dress (retail $118)
Pair the dress with a blazer that has a really small lapel.
Willow & Clay Amber Blazer (retail $78)
Then finish it off with a simple statement necklace.
Gazel Chiya Pearl Necklace (retail $48)
I think I basically use television at this point to find outfits I adore. I think my style is one of the most obvious ways I express myself, and so I enjoy putting a lot of thought into it. Where do you find inspiration? Are you a Pinterester, do you scour TV fashion blogs, or do you tap into those creative juices and draw inspiration from things in life? Let me know! I’m always looking for new ideas.
If there are three things I want in life they are these: gold, tunics, and leggings. Gold jewelry, gold make up, gold[en] skin–everything is just better gold. If I could, I would invite King Midas over to give everything I own a good rub down (except my dog…and Big Sug…I guess).
Adia Kibur Snake Bracelet ($38 retail)
Lately, I’ve been trying to make my casual look appear less…casual. Or as I like to call it, “Sweatpants and a t-shirt.” Ok, let’s be honest: they aren’t sweatpants–I still wear a Juicy Couture sweatsuit around the house. And yes it’s velour. And yes, sometimes I wear it to the grocery store/to walk the dog. And yes, I’m ashamed.
So this was basically my chill look this weekend. The beanie is made by Whitney Pogon–comment for the deets. The wrinkled leather (looking) jacket was so my jam: comfy, mostly form fitting, warm, and sneaky-fabulous. I think I’m going to start calling things that are not ostentatiously fabulous sneaky-fabulous.
BB Dakota Olivia Wrinkled Jacket ($98 retail)
I love that it sort of drapes, but is also fairly structured. Girls with a little tummy (like me) or bigger arms (they’re really soft muscles I SWEAR!) benefit greatly from jackets with a bit of structure. And sticking with a tighter pant or legging also keeps the outfit from making the wearer appear bulky. Also, jackets change an outfit so dramatically. You could wear the same t-shirt and jeans every day, and if you switch the jacket and maybe the jewelry no one would ever be the wiser (but, like, make sure to wash the t-shirt a lot).
RD Style Susan Zip Sweater Dress
And here is the dress. On the website they have the model wearing leggings (to show that maybe they know it’s not really a dress…right???). Well, it certainly was not a dress on me. I know I have some (read: a lot) of junk in the trunk, but not enough to make the length work as a dress on a more flat-bootied girl. Nope. This is decidedly a tunic, and I like it that way. The zippers are fun–I would have hardware on every item of clothing (except my Juicy Couture velour pants, obvs) if I could. And the print is really subtle, but helps make the dress tunic more flattering.
So far, I’ve been really pleased with this batch. I am really happy I received a couple items I could pair together, too. Have you tried LeTote or Rent the Runway yet? Or maybe you’ve tried another rental group? Let me know what you think!
OK, so I realize I forgot to post pictures of my outfits the last couple of weeks. I have a really good excuse: I was on my [belated] honeymoon. So, really it’s not so much an excuse as a humble brag that just turned into a brag.
Do as the Mayans do
Like I said last time, the stylists have just been killing it. I’ve loved every item that’s come through, and feel like I have reason to wear each piece (before there was usually at least one item that sat aside). This week I’m even MORE excited. These were all waiting for me when I returned from my honeymoon, which made coming home slightly easier (and I missed my dog).
I did manage to get in a couple pics from my last batch of clothes. Here’s from just post-surgery. I was wearing leggings constantly, and was dying to say:
But no one setup the joke…
Noir Luxe Siberian City Scarf ($28 retail) and Nine West The Olympian Necklace ($26 retail) & Matty M Zonia Zippered Leggings ($78 retail)
That jacket tho…
BB Dakota Olivia Wrinkled Jacket ($98 retail)RD Style Susan Zip Sweater Dress ($68 retail)I. Madeline Pleather Henley Top ($58 retail)Adia Kibur Snake Bracelet ($38 retail)Gazel Zoe Necklace ($46 retail)
Times Arrow Mini Jo Tote ($695 retail)Ella Carter Rev Ear Cuff ($65 retail)
And then there’s this. I think I was born to wear Helmut Lang.
Helmut Lang Smoking Wool Tuxedo Blazer ($690 retail)
Also, if there are any DC runners reading, a group I volunteer with is doing a 5k in March. Sign up here, or see my fundraising page here. I’ll do a post about Bright Beginnings at some point, but if you believe every child deserves and education you should check it out.
This week I am back at it. Over vacay I feel like I really upped my selfie game, so pics of outfits will be…prolific. I’m also always posting on Instagram! #rentanista to see my outfits, and tag yours, too!
My newest batch of clothes has arrived, and let me just say: I’m OBSESSED! To be honest, this may be my favorite batch yet. I’m wondering if it’s luck, or if it’s because I rate almost everything on the sites. This gives the magical people at LeTote and Rent the Runway insight on what fits, what doesn’t, and what you just don’t like. I think it’s especially important with LeTote, because they are sending more clothing than Rent the Runway.
And now, ladies and gents (though I’m guessing this is mostly ladies), here is my favorite batch of clothing and accessories yet!
I haven’t worn this one, yet, but check my Instagram feed, cause it may just make an appearance today!
Zonia Zippered Legging (retail $78)
I can’t stop wearing these. I love leggings so much. I feel like a toddler–no pants, just lots of leggings. But these are amazing and I’m a bit obsessed with any kind of hardware on my clothes.
Noir Luxe Siberian City Scarf (retail $28)
I keep wearing this one, as well. I love animal print, but I’m particularly loving this version. It’s not warm, per se, but it does help.
Nine West The Olympian (retail $26)
This necklace is the perfect “oops I need something to tie this together” piece. It’s simple and fits basically anyone’s style.
French Connection Romonov Top (retail $88)
This one was the only bummer. It didn’t fit. Like, husband-had-to-help-me-out-of-it didn’t fit.
I haven’t used this one yet (mostly because I haven’t had time to switch over my purses since getting back from CA), but I’m pretty stoked. I think I have a thing for bulky handbags.
Helmut Lang Smoking Wool Tuxedo Blazer (retail $690)
I. Die. If I could sleep in this, I would. I mean, being able to wear Helmut Lang to work makes me feel super fabulous. And who doesn’t want to feel super fabulous?
Ca and Lou Faye All Over Earrings (retail $260)
These I meant to send back last round. They hurt my ears quite a bit. I’m pretty picky about earrings, and these just did not work for me.
I’m so excited. So many great pieces!!! I’ll put some outfits up soon, but if you want them in real-time follow me on Instagram!
As you may have noticed I have a few pieces that I own and wear constantly (or maybe I’m being paranoid and now everyone knows). Lately I’ve been trying to give away/sell (Poshmark!!!) any pieces that I don’t wear often for a few reasons:
1. I’m starting to believe “less is more,” and when a room isn’t cluttered with clothes I won’t wear, it’ll make my life more streamlined.
2. Living with someone else means less closet space (even if you use an entire bedroom for a closet like we do…yes…that’s true and I’ll share it at some point).
3. The clothes I actually wear fit my style AND are comfortable, which is why I wear them all the time.
As far as the pieces I own and wear all the time, I try to stick to the basics: black pants, jeans, white undershirts, white tops, black tops, etc. It may sound like a lot of “blah,” but that’s the point. Keep it blah so you can really make a statement with your rental pieces. Make the rental pieces your pieces to remember, and the blah pieces will just act as a base.
My favorite thing to wear are black pants. I just love me some black pants. I particularly love this pair from Ann Taylor, or this pair from Ann Taylor Loft. Now, not everyone can wear Ann Taylor. This is something I’ve come to learn in life. Ann Taylor was basically handed down from God to short girls. They do have a petites section, but I never shop in it–the regular cut fits me (again, 5’3″) without having to have the hemline taken in. But the lesson is to find what works, and work it!
“[LAURA GRACE]: YOU ARE A [photo] REPEATER!”-Kate Sanders (sorta)Now, if you’re wearing rental clothing you’re going to want to wear undershirts when you can. Maybe I’m crazy, but really–other people may have worn them! Just a little barrier is nice, plus they smooth you out. And the older I get the more smoothing the better! My particular favorite cami is from Old Navy. I am not a huge Old Navy/Gap/Banana Republic shopper, but Old Navy has V-Neck camis for cheap. Look, if I’m buying undershirts that no one is going to see that will require bleaching then I’m going to buy 5 at a time Old Navy for $3/piece. They are perfect. And I’m not known for exaggerating.*
As far as jeans go, I’m a Paige Denim girl through and through. Paige jeans feel like they were made for real people (not just girls who look like my perfect little sister…ugh! right? just kidding I love you!). I’ll spend a little extra on jeans, because I buy one pair a year (Bloomingdale’s Denim Days FTW!). Remember: with the basics we’re going for quality over quantity (I keep telling myself and then it’s Black Friday and I TOTALLY freak out). Pick which works best for you, and what is comfortable for you (and then send me links because maybe I’ll want them, too).
The perfect jeans accompanied by the perfect rentals.
Remember, this is all just me. You’ll have your own way of making the rentanista life work for you. Maybe it’s just to add pieces or to try before you buy. Maybe it’s to try and cut down the clutter in your closet. Maybe it’s just ’cause you wanted to. There are so many ways and reasons to be a rentanista. Find yours and get to it!
In mid-December, my fabulous husband had a birthday. It was a pretty generic birthday (30 something), so he was looking forward to not celebrating. Too bad. He’s too loved. He got a dinner with his wife and then a dinner and a party with friends.
I also used this opportunity to exercise my first amendment rights by simultaneously wearing navy (the handbag) and black (the outfit). It’s a bit rebellious, I know. But I like to live on the edge. Handbag is from Rent the Runway.
Gigi New York Navy Python Buckle Bag (retail $495)
I’m also wearing one of my favorite Black Friday purchases (!!!), this amazing pair of Poker Boots by Ash.
Ash ‘Poker’ Leather Boot (retail between $190-$350 depending on Nordstrom vs Bergdorf Goodman)
This look was perfect for a chill evening with Big Sug. It as warm (with a coat over), comfy, and allowed for us to walk leisurely to and from dinner (which is one of our favorite activities). All in all, this was a delightful way to share my wonderful husband’s birthday together!!!
For Christmas this year I decided to rent a special dress. I loved this dress so much. The high-low was subtle, the fabric was great (though the sequins in the bodice were uncomfortable).
And now, the fabulous ML Monique Lhuillier Back Down Dress.
ML Monique Lhuillier Back Down Dress (retail $498)
I paired the dress with the Ella Carter necklace I received in my last batch of Unlimited items from Rent the Runway.
Also, included are my favorite Capezio tights. Yes, they are for dancers. Yes, they are a little pricier than some tights. And yes, they are worth it. I rip every pair of tights I own. The difference here is that it’ll take me a couple years to rip my Capezios. I am also wearing my favorite black pumps by Guess (and they’re on sale at Nordstrom Rack!!! I picked them up at Bloomingdales a year ago). Who would have thought Guess had such fabulous pumps, but I have these in black and nude because they look great and are super comfy. And of course it’s all tied together with a black Ann Taylor cardigan. Cause of course.
Disclaimer: I wound up changing. I usually don’t when posting here, but it became quickly evident that being a Christmas glutton would be out of the picture in this dress.
I was going to do a post on my NYE rental outfit (this romper), but had a little medical emergency and won’t make it make to DC in time. So instead, enjoy my “hospital chic” look (Big Sug pointed out that the gown looks like Brooks Brothers meets ER with its slight pinstripe and shield accents).
I’m totally fine now, just a small surgery so I can’t fly. Because of course that would happen to me.
I take packing for long trips very seriously. I have been known to put outfits together, bind them with ribbon, and list what day the outfit is for and what jewelry to wear with it (and if I’m repeating an item I let myself know which bundle to find it in). I’m a little nuts. In my defense, though, I like “looks” not outfits. I want it all to tie together, and that takes forethought (usually while I’m doing my make-up and I have my entire closet at my fingertips…so don’t think I mean that much forethought).
When I say “I like looks not outfits,” what I mean is I want every piece to jive. I usually want to emphasize one piece and then build around it, but not overpower. It’s more than making sure I don’t clash, it’s about wanting everything to look intentional. I try to figure out best hair, best jewelry, best lip color (and let’s be honest I have a small bank of hair styles and make-up looks that I pull from–I am not reinventing the wheel everyday). I don’t always hit the mark (because I am hella quirky and sometimes just say, “NO! I AM GOING TO WEAR A FUZZY YETTI VEST AND NO ONE CAN STOP ME!”
Now that I’m renting so many pieces I had an idea: why don’t I incorporate all of my rentals into this week’s looks and then send the packages back on the last day? That opens up room in my suitcase for whatever I need to bring back with me (hint: it’s my gigantic wedding dress).
Now, without further ado, the pieces that I have packed and how I’m incorporating them into this week’s looks!
My options from LeTote include a really fun sweater, a fairly neutral black top, and a bright blue shirt–it’s a shade I used to wear a lot, and have kind of backed away from, but let’s give it a run! The jewelry is all perfection.
Lemieux Toni Blouse (retail $58)Shilla Revolution Top (retail $58)BCBGeneration Crosby Crewneck Sweater (retail $78)Noir Luxe Tatiana Necklace (retail $28)Adia K Silver Crystal Bracelet (retail $28)
Rent the Runway was pretty spot-on, too. The necklace is going to be perfect for my Christmas look, and this bag was fantastic for running around San Francisco with my husband. The earrings, while super cute, hurt so much I could only wear them once and then kind of regretted it. My poor ears!
Elizabeth and James Accessories Cynnie Coco Bucket Bag (retail $485)Ella Carter Devin Necklace (retail $85)Ca and Lou Faye All Over Earrings (retail $260)
Here is what packing looks like:
Step 1: make a basic list of your outfits
Step 2: I mean…at this point you just pack.
Can’t forget the pre-paid envelopes!!!
This is seriously the easiest way I’ve ever packed bags. When I implemented this method I went from over-packing and never having anything to wear to packing fairly lightly and always having a “look.”
Rentanista 2.0 