RIPLEY RADER - JUMPSUIT QUEEN

When I first met Ripley I instantly lite up! Not only are we both "dancin fools" but we're southern girls and she's incredibly passionate about women feeling their best. My friend Melissa Meyers said, "you've gotta meet Ripley, you'll love her and her brand." She was right. Melissa and I did a Facebook Live segment with Ripley at her studio talking about her brand and the inspiration behind her designs. Meet the Hollywood's mover and shaker...literally, Ripley Rader.

"The jumpsuit is here to stay." So sayeth The Queen!

Meet "The Queen of the Jumpsuit" herself, Los Angeles-based designer Ripley Rader. Rader, an accomplished professional dancer who considers herself an artist first, launched her eponymous ready-to-wear label in 2013. Inspired by Southern California's eternally sun-drenched 1970s chic, her aim was to "encourage women to express their individuality through timeless silhouettes and softly tailored separates," all at an accessible price point. Celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Amy Schumer, and Kate Upton have all rocked her designs... Can you dig it?!

Cue the perfectly classic, totally effortless, infinitely wearable jumpsuit. If you're looking for a versatile piece that will carry you from an important morning meeting to a cocktail hour after a long flight, or a night on the red carpet, clear out some closet space! This is the line for you! The pieces are very flattering and feel incredible. The fabrics Rader uses are SO comfortable and soft, while still being carefully-crafted and luxurious. Seriously, you can wear Ripley Rader anywhere! 

Ripley's two piece top and pant - wear with flats or heels! / Encircle Necklace

Ripley's two piece top and pant - wear with flats or heels! / Encircle Necklace

The designer attributes her particular form/function sensibilities to a lifetime spent stretching and pirouetting across dance studios.  (ahhh woman after my own heart) "I like 'good-move' clothes," she says. "I live in dance clothes. I always like to feel free and move my body easily and I never want to put a lot of time into getting dressed. I like to walk out the door feeling polished and comfortable the next."

One Piece Jumpsuit  Let's Dance!

One Piece Jumpsuit  Let's Dance!

And that comfort level carries over to the bottom line, as well. One of my favorite things about Ripley's approach is her reasonable price point. "Our jumpsuits are all under $200 and 100% LA-made. I feel even $200 is an investment for the modern woman, and I wanted to really honor that," she says, "keeping it at that price point and having everything is made in the U.S. does present some challenges, but I can sleep at night." Another reason for Rader's frugality? Her roots in the creative community. "I'm an artist, so I just wanted to be sure my hippie/artist-friends could afford this line," she laughs. 

Not sure if a jumpsuit is your Groove Thang? Fear not! Rader has a few suggestions up her (bell) sleeve. "Tailoring is key," she says. "Pay particular attention to hemlines--you shouldn't have fabric pooling around your feet, nor should your whole shoe be visible. Find the middle ground."  What's better than getting your groove back with your girlfriend's in one of Ripley's Jumpsuits!

You can shop the post below

Styling can also make a big impact. "Rock a great shoe, and try incorporating different belts, statement necklaces, or a high-end clutch to carry your look from daytime functionality into evening chic." This line makes incorporating the High/Low trend so easy and fun(ky). "For me, the jumpsuit works on all body types-tall, short, curvy, straight," she says, "with great tailoring and styling, you can really make it your own and make it feel fresh and modern." 

This year will also see the line extending its sizing options to include Plus sizes, something that Rader says is of great personal importance to her. "I design my pieces so they can be worn at any age, and at any size. I want people to feel good in their bodies and I want to help them dress their bodies--no matter what shape that might be. I'm not trying to reinvent the look of the modern woman, but it is important to me to have clothes that not only can carry her from day to night but also pieces that are hearty - that will last and look good and feel good.

Ripley's pants paired with Elizabeth & James top / Encircle Chocker

Ripley's pants paired with Elizabeth & James top / Encircle Chocker

Dying to slip into one of these disco-dusted creations? The full line is available via the Ripley Rader website, and is slowly-but-surely coming to a boutique or shop near you! "We're in about 100 high-end boutiques nationwide," she says, "We were slow to break into the larger market because I wanted to make sure we were a well-oiled machine first. I wanted to be a company that grew organically. Now I feel we're ready, and I'm excited to be able to dress more women."  

Melissa Meyers & I during our Glow & Grateful segment for Facebook Live.

Since Ripley's initial outreach was purposely Boho-boutique, this true Hollywood IT-Girl used a little star power to build her brand. "I don't have a huge publicity team behind me, so I've always gifted pieces to stylists who love them so much, they refer their celebrity clients and word spreads out of a genuine enthusiasm." Organic press? Genuine love?? 

Hats off to my fellow dancing sister, thanks for creating clothing that's "got all the right moves"

Kumbaya and Long Live The Queen!

Check out Ripley's website to book an appointment or shop online. Her studio is so much fun!      

         "I think the best role models for women are people who are fruitfully and     confidently themselves, who bring light into the world." —Meryl Streep

SHOP THE POST - 

TRUNK CLUB - CULVER CITY

Do you ever get overwhelmed with shopping? Do you open your closet and say "I have nothing to wear!" Wouldn't it be lovely to have a little assistance with styling? With so many brands and so many trends, It can be hard choosing the right pieces that will both flatter your body and express your personal style. When I first heard about Trunk Club, I was excited to pay a visit to their Culver City location here in Los Angeles.

I was first introduced to Trunk Club from an invitation to an event. I was so impressed with their space in Los Angeles and everyone that works there is incredibly helpful and happy! What a lovely way to shop, to really enjoy your time trying on clothing and exploring different styles. Was it as simple as it seems? The answer is Yes... and there is no fee to join...Seems like a fun club to be a part of so... Welcome to Trunk Club.

Shopping solo is not half as much fun as shopping with your girlfriends. I asked Shalini Vadhera & Michelle Day Gillette to join me for a day of shopping, sipping a little champagne and of course, having fun! Meet my shopping squad; Michelle & Shalini. 

Michelle: Hudson Jeans, Frame Shirt, Rag & Bone Bootie / Janet: Mother Jeans, Joie Blouse, Stuart Weitzman Shoes, Rag & Bone Purse / Shalini: AG Jeans, Frame Blouse, Veda Leather Jacket, Rebecca Minkoff Bag, Vince Bootie

I am in love with this dusty rose trench! It's feminine, stylish and works from morning into the evening. Backpacks are a staple in my wardrobe, and this sleek Rebecca Minkoff is perfect for on the go. Trunk Club specializes in women and their busy schedules. Chances are you have a breakfast meeting, lunch, and even dinner...dressing from day to night's not always so easy, their stylist can recommend a stylish wardrobe and accessories for your calendar week.  ALC Trench /  Frame Black jeans / Vince blouse / Rag and Bone bootie / Rebecca Minkoff backpack / Frame black jeans.

Yes...those pink beauties are from Sarah Jessica Parker  / Rebecca Minkoff bag /  Vince Boots 

Michelle:Paige Jeans, Joie Top, Stuart Weitzman Booties, Joie Bomber, REbecca Minkoff Bag / Janet: Rag & Bone Top, AMO Jeans, Vince Booties Vince Sweater, Rebecca Minkoff Bag

Michelle:Paige Jeans, Joie Top, Stuart Weitzman Booties, Joie Bomber, REbecca Minkoff Bag / Janet: Rag & Bone Top, AMO Jeans, Vince Booties Vince Sweater, Rebecca Minkoff Bag

The Trunk Club female customer tends to be thirty to fifty, busy and a professional who wants to look the top of her game but needs to be efficient with her time. Not only are you saving a huge amount of time, you're having a personalized experience. They can also style your whole family. Maybe you're leaving for vacation and would love to have your wardrobe planned so you don't overpack!  Your stylist will also pop over to your home, organize your closet and help you choose what to keep and what to toss...It all starts with a simple phone call. Trunk Club speaks to their clients via email or phone. There are no fees for this and usually, a phone call takes about 30 minutes.  For your first initial meeting, it takes around an hour to an hour and a half.

Holidays - Weddings - Special Occasion - Trunk Club's got you covered.

Holidays - Weddings - Special Occasion - Trunk Club's got you covered.

Holiday party shopping, wedding, or any event, no need to stress about finding the right dress for any occasion. If you visit a Trunk Club location you can leave with your clothing or wait for your trunk to be delivered in the mail. You pay for what you want and send the rest back. There is a $25.00 home try-on fee for trunks, which is charged when the trunk is shipped and applied as a credit towards your purchase. It takes around 5 business days after the trunk has shipped to receive your trunk filled with goodies! There is no charge for shipping and to return just load the items you aren't keeping back into the box, stick the enclosed pre-printed label on the outside of the box. Then, schedule a pick-up via email and the UPS people will come to your house to pick up the return. Easy!                  Michelle: Alice & Olivia Dress, Louboutin Shoes / Janet: Kooples Dress, Jimmy Choo Shoes / Shalini: Alexander Wang Dress, Sarah Jessica Parker Shoes

How pricing works: The brands that Trunk Club carries are aligned with high-end department stores, each item on average is in the $100-$200 dollar range, some of their core brands are: Vince, Joie, Theory, Equipment. I don't know about you, I sometimes find myself dressing the same way, I'm rushing around, and I left zero time to decide what to throw on, so having pieces put together for you from your personal stylist leaves you feeling confident, as your running out the door.   Wearing: Rag & Bone Leather Pants, Vince Bouse, DKNY Blazer, Rag & Bone Bootie, Rebecca Minkoff Clutch.

Rag & Bone / It's easy to buy things you don't need, working with a Trunk Club stylist will help you realize the staple pieces you'll need / Valentio Rock Stud Flats.

MCO Jumpsuit , Jimmy Choo Shoes, Rebecca Minkoff Bag

MCO Jumpsuit , Jimmy Choo Shoes, Rebecca Minkoff Bag

 You'll find  5,000 square feet of space in the Culver City location. You can enjoy different areas to relax while the racks are rolled in for your shopping pleasure. Your personal stylist will suggest brands & styles you wouldn't try on if it was just you shopping. It's so helpful having a different eye, someone who can actually help us get out of our comfort zone, think outside the box..or the Trunk...

Michelle: Alice & Olivia Dress, Louboutin Shoes, / Janet: Kooples Dress, Joie Vest / Shalini: Alexander Wang Dress, Sarah Jessica Parker Shoes

Michelle: Alice & Olivia Dress, Louboutin Shoes, / Janet: Kooples Dress, Joie Vest / Shalini: Alexander Wang Dress, Sarah Jessica Parker Shoes

When women feel great in their clothing, our game is stepped-up. We can walk through the door and nail any meeting and "Get the job done"  Feeling confident in our clothing influences our performance and dressing for success leads to success. 

Always time to carve out a little play time at work. Trunk Club stylist are a blast to be around! They enjoy their job and love working with their clients; it's like being in a giant think tank filled with positive people who love creating a great style just for you!

Cheers Trunk Club! Thank you to CEO & Founder of Passport to Beauty Shalini Vadhera and Life Coach and Founder of Thrive and Fly, Michelle Day Gillette for a fun day of shopping and sharing a few laughs together. Feel Beautiful and Thrive... Shalini can show you how to feel beautiful from the inside out, and Michelle is here to help you thrive in your daily life. Incredible women doing meaningful work in the world. 

How about a gift card for a family member or friend to get them started on a fun journey of having their own personal stylist. And don't forget about yourself!  Personal stylist Rebekah Miller would love to hear from you.

What's in your Trunk?

What's in your Trunk?

Trunk Club locations:  New York  / Charleston / Chicago / Dallas / Los Angeles

Happy Holidays! Thank you to Trunk Club and especially to May Yeung & Rebekah Miller for a day of shopping, personal styling and for creating an exciting shopping experience.

Photo Credit: Dalen Muster

FAQ

FLIGHT 001 - ORGANIZED CLOTHING & GADGET IDEAS

There's something to be said about looking stylish and being organized when heading to the airport. It's great to be in charge of your own comfort, and you feel good when the inside of your luggage is organized as well as the outside. 

The outfit you wear on the plane will be your outfit when you arrive at your destination. Choose your wardrobe that feels cozy in your seat and also works for your arrival. Vince Sweater / Adidas Superstars /  CJ Drawstring Pants / Rimowa Carry-on / J.Crew T / Emi-Jay hair ties / Ray-Ban Sunglasses / J.Crew Grey Scarf / Gucci Backpack

Welcome to FLIGHT 001 - The one stop shop for your travel treasures.

FLIGHT 001 / 8321 West 3rd. Street, Los Angeles CA. (323) 966-0001

FLIGHT 001 / 8321 West 3rd. Street, Los Angeles CA. (323) 966-0001

So you're feeling great about your travel wear, let's take a look at a few ideas for perfect packing every time. One of my favorite things to do, before we leave for our vacation, is seek out any new inventory at FLIGHT 001.  It's like a candy shop for travelers. I've been shopping here for several years and look forward to seeing just how organized I can get. Here you will find all the necessities you need for a flawless journey. You can find great travel-related items with a little fun and fashion to make packing a lot less painful.  experience, everyone working is helpful and patient.  Travel on over to FLIGHT 001 for a one-way first-class experience and excellent customer service. Be sure to ask for Digby, he's incredibly helpful and great to work with.

When you're on a long flight and if you're in a tight space (the middle) it helps to be organized, and it's much more enjoyable if you have all of your own personal items. It seems like the AC is always blasting so why not snuggle up with your own blanket and neck pillow. I have all three items pictured above, and  I never travel without them. I look forward to using this soft and lightweight padded eye mask. It's pressure free and smudge free, so it won't leave a mark on your face!  

I'm not sure how many cute pouches I have...I've definitely lost count. But it always puts a smile on my face when I'm lurking around in my carry-on and read a positive phrase. I always take a photo of what's inside my bag; it's a great way to stay organized. I keep my vitamins, l'occitane hand lotion, eye drops, face serum, Kiehl's lip balm, and a tiny mirror inside the pink plastic bag. I have all of my charging cables, plugs and ear buds in another pouch.  All airline regulated. If you like to be an organized traveller and want great looking items, this is the place for you.

 

We started using these spacepak bags three years ago and I can't say how efficient they are. I pack a lot less when using spacepak bags and it helps they're colorful and labeled.

Don't forget your adapters. This 4-in-1 universal adapter is all you will ever need. I purchased this for my travels last year, and it's a smart & easy way to stay charged, it's color coated to make it easy-breezy . I use the toiletry spacepak bag for all of my lotions and potions and it holds up to 30 bottles. It's a perfect size and when you're unpacking; just unzip... it unfolds neatly and you'll find a small hook if you need to create a little more counter space.

Neck pillow / TSA pop quart  bag / Passport Cover (love having a bright color  / Money and Passport Holders for under your clothing - I just bought one for our son who is on a school trip, makes it safe and easy to be hands-free and on-the-go.

Bring a little fun to your bag tags.

Bring a little fun to your bag tags.

Don't leave home without your stretch bands. Sometimes it's fun to workout in your room and enjoy the view at the same time. While you're working out why not download a language app and learn a few phrases if you're visiting a foreign country.

Here are the other necessities packed away in one of my pouches. Handy wipes are a must. I wipe down everything...headrest, seatbelt, arms, tray table, window, and air vents. I find the heat patches work well if you're on a long flight and need to relax your muscles. Boost your immune system with Airborne tablets, put Aquaphor on your feet and then slip on your socks. SEA-BANDS if you feel a little nauseous, or your stomach is a little upset.

Steam Fast Steamer / Packs easy and works like a charm. Some hotels are equipped with an iron and ironing board, but not always. I prefer having what I need when I need it.

SKYROAM / WIFI all the time. If your flight gets delayed and you need to catch up on a little work or some on-line shopping, here's your answer. A secure service to keep you caught up. The cost is $99.99 for the initial cost and $10.00 a day for (8) hours. You can link up to 5 devices for the $10.00-day charge. It last for 10 hours, it's a little smaller than an iPhone 6; It does not work on a plane. When you're traveling around and need a connection, here's the solution.  Set up time is about 5 minutes.  We had a two hour drive today, and oh boy am I happy I had this!  We were lost, but now found thanks to the SKYROAM.  I whipped it out of my bag and off we safely went. Thank You Skyroam!!  You really do work.

 

No matter where you're headed be grateful for the journey. It's that time when we step out of our routines and make some new discoveries. It's a chance to reconnect with our family, friends and ourselves...meet new people and embrace different cultures. Sometimes when we discover the unknown all things seem possible.

        “One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

Shop The Post: