Oct 31, 2017

Crisp White Shirt Dress


I have an obsession with crisp white cotton!  I have for as long as I can remember.  I get it from my Mamma and Grandma who always wore white cotton tops.  It's just so clean and fresh. 
I also like how lighter brighter shades compliment my fair complexion.

Bright whites just make you look and feel invigorated.

I even have 5 crisp white cotton dress shirts for my maternity wardrobe!  They are each a little different with ruffles, cuffs, and buttons.

This crisp trapeze dress is one I purchased from Anthropologie a few seasons ago but has been a great transition piece for my baby bump.  To give it more of a cold weather look I paired it with over the knee boots.  Adding boots is a great way to style dresses into the colder months.

I added a broach to the buttoned collar rather than a necklace.  I think it makes it more sophisticated and sharp.







Laughter looks beautiful on everyone!




Crisp White Shirt Dress  ||  Over the Knee Boots  ||  Handbag  ||  Broaches  ||  

Dress Beautifully in a Crisp White Cotton Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 30, 2017

Mamma Monday: Rainbow Baby

This Mamma Monday post is by far the most personal post I’ve ever shared.
I’m a very private person, but I have grown to learn that God has called us to minister to one another and because of the ministry I received from others, I feel lead to do the same.  We are to bear each other’s burdens.  We simply do not exist in a bubble – although I find it comfortable at times.

Today I want to share with you about what it means to have a rainbow baby … pregnancy after loss.

After the turmoil and darkness of a storm, when light breaks through the clouds, sometimes we are lucky enough to see a rainbow.
The rainbow doesn’t erase the storm nor does the arrival of a new baby eclipse the tragedy of previous pregnancy loss.

The rainbow send a message of beauty, promise and hope to those who see it

This time last year Mr and I were quietly celebrating the joy of expecting a baby.  I say quietly because we kept our little blessing a secret from everyone.
Having a baby wasn’t something we knew we’d always do.  It’s not like we said never either.  But over the past 11 years of our relationship we’ve had other focus areas.  We were long distance while dating for 4 years and for the first 3 of marriage. I was concentrating on building my career in Charlotte and Mr was studying medicine in DC. Following his studies we united on the coast of NC for 3 years for his service in the US Navy.  It was Mr’s deployment to the Middle East that changed the game.
I had moved into our new home in Charlotte and began the reintegration process back into private sector living.  I thought I would just pick back up where I left off; work, Junior League, church, gal pals etc … Wrong! Being a naval officer’s wife with a husband gone for nearly a year made me feel like a unicorn & all alone.  At this time myself and all my gal pals were around early to mid 30’s and they were already starting to have babies.  I had a family but he wasn’t there (in person) and the cat as sweet as he is doesn’t count.

I began to notice the joy and love that grew in their lives.  Mr being amongst military saw how the men missed their families and wanted nothing more than to be home with them.  We both started to see that there is more to our family than just us two.
So when Mr returned home (there are literally no words to describe that feeling!) he was so eager to explore the idea of a party of 3 + cat.  I was more reserved as I let fear hold me down.  Fear of the detriments on my career, lifestyle, freedom, my figure etc…. 
We planned a trip to celebrate his return and our new life together in Charlotte to San Francisco & Napa for a week.  On that trip we enjoyed every minute of our time together in love. When we returned with Mr’s encouragement I made an appointment with my doctor to explore the option of a baby (I’ve had some health problems in that department).  He was encouraging and calmed my overwhelming fears letting me know that no matter what God had a plan for our family. Best doc ever!

And just like that the first week of October double lines on the test!!! Que freak out!  That was a Monday.  I took a test Tuesday and Wednesday and each time the extra line just got darker. I was stunned, so stunned that I waited until Friday to tell Mr.  I bought him a coffee mug that said ‘Dad’ on it and placed it front & center on the shelf so he couldn’t miss it.  I had also ordered him a t-shirt that said ‘Baby Daddy’ to put in his drawer but it hadn’t arrived and I couldn’t wait any longer.

He was overjoyed! I needed that gals.  I was so scared.  But we made an appointment to see my doc and it soon became very real.  I wasn’t sick and didn’t really have any physical changes other than extreme fatique.  I would look at our ultrasound pictures every day and Mr carried one in his wallet. 

I did decide to tell my 2 best friends since middle school as we had a gals trip the weekend before Thanksgiving.  They were so excited and it felt so good to share the news.  Then it was my sister’s birthday on Monday and what better gift than a card that says you’re going to be an aunt.  She cried and so did my Mamma.  Our plan was to tell our parents and siblings on Thanksgiving Day.
But then it was the day before Thanksgiving.  I went to pick up my race bib and t-shirt for the annual Charlotte 10k Turkey Trot that I would run early on turkey day.  When I got home and went to the bathroom it all fell apart.
I didn’t know what to do. It was like the world was in slow motion.  I had to tell Mr but I waited until he got home from work.
We both convinced ourselves that everything was ok that sometimes these things happen in the first trimester and all is good.
He had to work on Thanksgiving so thank goodness all my family came to our house that day.  I didn’t run my race and the nurse hotline had me set up for an appointment for Friday at 1pm.

I was busier than ever cooking and spending time with my family.  I was still the most worried I had ever been but it helped to not be alone.  The next day Mr had to go back to work but we were both so hopefully we never thought the worst would happen.  It did. 

The hours leading up to my appointment were torture.  When I went into that room I knew as soon as the screen came up that our baby’s heart was no longer beating.  I think mine stopped too.

I got dressed as fast as I possibly could and was moved into another room.  I sobbed. I sobbed harder than I ever had before.  I wanted to scream my lungs out but I just couldn’t.  It was unimaginable.  I was so alone.  My doc wasn’t there that day and the nurse just wanted to talk about my options as I was at 10 weeks.  I just couldn’t.  I needed to get out of there so I said I needed my husband and would call back. 

I sobbed the entire drive home not aware of my surroundings.  My sister called and I just wailed and she just stayed on the phone.  Mr had called as I walked into the door at home. My legs were barely holding me up.  I just pressed the answer button on my phone and he heard my cries and just said he’s coming home.  It took him an eternity as he couldn’t concentrate on driving.
He held me so tight and you know what he said … he said our baby will always have a brother or sister in heaven watching over.  I couldn’t have loved him more.

Here’s the ministry part.  My dearest sister at church had lost her baby the week before. We were due 10 days apart.  I failed to mention that our baby was due June 26th the day before our 7 year wedding anniversary.

She sat on the phone and comforted me.  She encouraged me on what to do.  I went to my doctor on Monday and he held both our hands and prayed with us.  The next Tuesday I was scheduled for outpatient surgery and before they wheeled me in my doctor held my hand and prayed.  He told me I was brave and that Mr and I were courageous.  What?!!!  I’ve never thought of myself as brave before.  But I am.  I was faithful and fought my fears to carry this baby.  I was brave to be a Mamma.

Mr and I did our best to heal by putting up a Christmas Tree that afternoon – well he did and I rested.

I felt completely empty.  My belly was hollow.

Every day was a new day but a lonely day as our baby wasn’t with us. 

I was hurting beyond measure and Mr encouraged me to reach out to my sisters at church. Being a private person I was in no way going to do that. Mr was struggling too.  Working in the ER he often treats situations such as ours and he felt so helpless.
But this was bigger than me.  I just prayed and prayed constantly for God to heal our hearts.
I wrote an email to my dear gal pals telling them what had happened.

I received more love than I could have imagined. They prayed hard and offered hope with scripture.  I now knew what it meant to minister to one another. I had received the love of God through these women.

This post is my longest ever and if your still reading please know that my goal is that I could be that ministry to someone else.

I placed a picture of this baby in a locket and wear it from time to time when I’m miss him.  We don’t know if our baby was a boy or girl but I think boy.  I imagine him as Vivian’s big brother looking out for her.  We never gave our baby a name.  We will one day when we are ready. I came across the name ‘Vivian’ which means “Life” earlier this year and knew that if we ever had a baby girl that would be her name.  It’s all we prayed for, life.


Mr also keeps an ultrasound picture of both our babies in his wallet.

I’ll never hold our first baby in my arms here on Earth, but one day I will in heaven.  God has our baby with him and I rejoice knowing that.

With each month after, it was hard to embrace the idea of trying for another baby but I gave it up to God.  I even hosted a baby shower for a gal at church and as hard as it was I found healing celebrating her blessing and knowing that ours was coming again one day.

It wasn’t until May that I saw those double lines again and this time I told Mr immediately.  He shook with tears of joy.  This baby isn’t without it’s struggles.  I did have a trip to the ER with a similar situation but this time all was ok. 
I’ve also been throwing up and having 24/7 nausea since the first month and it hasn’t stopped now at 27 ½ weeks.  But I find peace knowing she’s safe and sound in my belly and I will endure anything for her!

Our faith and love for God has grown through these times and I’ve opened up to my sisters at church who have been the greatest blessings over the past year.
There are so many women out there who have the pain of losing their babies and yet we don’t share it.

Every day I’m grateful to God for giving us Vivian and even still I miss our first baby every day. 
Mr has never forgotten our first baby and always prays for both of our children. He reminds me that God has given us two. Bless that loving man of mine!

I wear my necklace with our baby’s picture in it whenever I’m sad or just missing him. Now it hits my growing belly and I smile having my two babies with me.


One of my sisters sent me these verses to help me heal.  I read them all the time and hope that they may just help you too.

1 Samuel 1:27-28
"For this child I prayed; and the Lord has granted me my petition which I made to Him.  Therefore I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord."

Ecclesiastes 11:5
"Just as you do not know how the life breath enters the human frame in the mother's womb, So you do not know the work of God who is working in everything."

Mark 10:13-16
"And they were bringing children to Him, that He might touch them; and the disciples rebuked them.  But when Jesus saw it He was indignant, and said to them, "Let the children come to me, do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God.  Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."  And He took them in His arms and blessed them, laying His hands upon them."

Isaiah 56:4-5
4 For thus says the LORD,
         “To the eunuchs who keep My sabbaths,
         And choose what pleases Me,
         And hold fast My covenant,
5To them I will give in My house and within My walls a memorial,
         And a name better than that of sons and daughters;
         I will give them an everlasting name which will not be cut off.

Being a Mamma isn’t easy it takes bravery and to all those Mamma’s who’ve seen the rainbow I pray for you!

Maybe you have loss in a different way.  Pray.  Reach out for ministry.

And on a fashion note, consider a locket like mine to hold a precious memory.

Dress Your Heart Beautifully and Look for the Rainbow After the Storm


XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 27, 2017

Friday 5: Walking in Whites

I know that here in the South we don't dare wear our white shoes after Labor Day But honestly, the bright whites are a fresh contrast to all the dark hues of the cold season. It just breaks all the rules.
Now 'Winter White' is perfectly acceptable. 

Winter white is the same as ivory, cream, off-white, whatever you want to call it. It's just not the bright bleached white.

I already have the tasseled loafers - they are in compliance as they are an ivory color.

Skirt the Rules Gals and walk in white this Winter! ... I think I may have to in these booties!

Here are my favorite pairs ...




Dress Beautifully in White Shoes

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 25, 2017

Pink Fur Vest


Gals I love fur!  I know it makes no sense living down here in the South.

When I saw this fur number in pink I got all excited.  Now, when I featured it on this Friday 5 post several of my gal pals were less than thrilled. Mr's not a fan either. To each their own ladies.  If there's a unique piece that tickles your fancy who cares if your gal pals like it or not.  Rock it!

Now since this vest is a bit loud I paired it with basics: a denim shirt and black skinny jeans.

If colored fur isn't your thing go for more neutral in a brown or black. This one comes in navy and burgundy.
Or if your style is bold it comes in a leopard version!

PS When did my barely there bump grow into a belly?! There's no hiding this baby girl :)









Dress Beautifully in a Fur Vest

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 24, 2017

Sweatshirt


Today's look is a bit different.  I haven't worn a true 'sweatshirt' since my college days and the two I had advertised my college and sorority.

When I think of sweatshirts I think of old school casual.  Well here lately not only have I embraced soft and comfy garments but I've noticed so has the fashion industry.

Sweatshirts are out on the racks but in a decorative way.  Basically designers have taken the long sleeve tee and incorporated the prints and embellishments onto a sweatshirt.  They've also made efforts to make the sweatshirts more fitted.

You gals know I love a good leopard print so this creamy, comfy number got my attention.  I used to never embrace a top that wasn't tailored - these days it's all about the loosey-goosey to accommodate this baby bump.

Now, I did put my SL style touches by layering a crisp white shirt underneath with statement cuffs exposed for a more dressy and polished look.
Dark jeans and burgundy booties finish it off.
I don't see why you couldn't also pair with black trousers for the office - the dress code rules soften when your expecting. Except no matter what, NO leggings. UGH Why ladies?! I can't get into it but please I can't say it enough - Leggings are NOT pants! Just NO!

I will say I'm not a fan of tees, tanks nor sweatshirts with catch phrases on them - we are not teenagers! Unless you're wearing it at the gym, that I'm down with.
Opt for a sweatshirt that has embroidery or even beading on it and keep the rest of your look put together with jeans so that you don't look like you stepped out of the 90's in a sweat suit.

I foresee this sweatshirt being a go-to this Winter season. Even after baby girl arrives it will be a nice top to throw on and still be comfortable & stylish as my figure adjusts.








Dress Beautifully in a Sweatshirt

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 23, 2017

Mamma Monday: Baby Shower Dresses

One of the sweetest blessings when expecting a baby is the gift of a shower.
It's given to the Mamma-to-be to help her prepare for motherhood with things she and baby will need throughout the first year.  Like when you got married, those family and friends who love you want to set you up with gifts to assist with the big transition.  Because gals, it's a lot.

Showers are special occasions.  A time for putting you best self forward, because you will be the center of the celebration ... and these sweet memories will be captured in lots of pictures.
That means you must dress beautifully.

I'm so honored to have the love of my gal pals that are hosting my showers!

I knew when I found out our baby was a girl, that her nursery was going to be based on the color lavender.  Feminine but different.  I then started thinking that I wanted to wear a lavender dress for one of my showers.  And naturally, I picked a dress that Princess Kate has worn!

Please don't feel that if you are having a boy you need to wear blue or even pink if you're having a girl.  You should wear a dress that makes you feel beautiful.

Here are some dresses I've scouted for you that would be absolutely lovely for a baby shower ...


Purple Floral (I wore this one to church last Sunday) ||  Pink Ruffle Sleeve  ||  Blue Lace  ||  
Pink Drop Waist Ruffle (I'm wearing this one to a shower!) ||
 Lavender Blossom  (I'm wearing this one to a shower as worn by the Duchess!) ||

Dress Beautifully for Your Baby Shower

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 20, 2017

Friday 5: Leopard Love

TGIF! Friday's are always busy in the office UGH I have to present at our weekly afternoon meetings and all I can think about is flying the coop and turning the work off.

This weekend is packed full of fun.  Tonight I'm gathering with some gal pals from church, tomorrow a ladies lunch then our church's Fall Festival (it's THE event of the year with bounce houses, hay rides, dessert contest and fireworks!!!) and Sunday after church I'm headed to Raleigh to visit some gal pals since I have to be there for work on Tuesday.  

Again I say TGIF! 

This week's Friday 5 is full of leopard love - because I seriously LOVE leopard.  I have it in all aspects of my wardrobe and even in some home decor. So I couldn't limit it to just 5 pieces so I just multiplied it giving you ample options.
Even with my baby bump I've added a top & dress in maternity designs.

Leopard is a neutral, so style it accordingly.  Treat it as you would a tan, brown or black because all of those hues are elements of the print.  You can even get bold and mix it with florals or stripes! 

Ladies - add some leopard love to your life! 


Maternity: Dress  Tee  Turtleneck  Tunic  Skirt


Shoes: Booties   Loafers  Pumps,  Slides  Flats

Accessories: Clutch  Crossbody Bag  Scarf,  Belt  Vest 

Tops:  Cami   Sweatshirt    Short Sleeve   Sweater   V-Neck

Dress Beautifully in Leopard

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 18, 2017

Sleeveless Sweater


Gals, it’s been a few days now of chilly mornings and evenings – I hesitate to say it but I believe Fall is finally here!

Having baby girl in my belly has me warmer than normal.  I’ve taken the extra blanket off of our bed and I don’t wear socks when I sleep anymore.
I worry I may freeze Mr out this winter.

I’ve also been taking advantage of the cooler weather and exercising outside.

This sleeveless sweater is the perfect piece this time of year.  It’s so soft and cozy but not too warm that come lunch time you’re sweating. 

Note: it's not maternity so for the 99% who are readying that don't have a bump keep reading

I prefer sleeveless pieces for these reasons:
  •         I have petite arms and it’s sloppy and annoying to have sleeves hanging over my hands
  •        I work hard on my arms in the gym and like to show them off
  •        Easy to layer
  •        Unrestricted movement
This sweater is designed for such a flattering fit with a turtleneck that isn’t bulky or smothering, a wider shoulder - almost cap sleeve that conceals and helps create an hourglass shape, side slits so that it lays nicely, and cable knit that’s vertical only down the center front (it can add bulk when all over).

I also love the oatmeal color of this sweater – light and neutral to pair with anything. I went with my go-to favorite pants these days in black and continued the neutral theme but in a print with leopard calf hair loafers.
If you do not own leopard calf hair shoes – go get some!  These are soooo comfortable! I love the pointed toe and can wear them with anything. I have a pair of pumps too. 
My love of leopard is fierce – I even have a maternity top and dress in leopard #naturally.

Oh and how about I’m wearing this exact look in real life today! Minus the bracelets – they can sometimes be a bother when working at my desk typing.

AND this sweater is on major sale right now – so you need to have it J


PS for when it really does get cold try layering a fitted white or striped tee underneath – or even a dress shirt.







Sleeveless Sweater  ||  Pants  ||  Leopard Shoes  ||  Handbag & Similar  ||  Bracelet  || 

Dress Beautifully in a Sleeveless Sweater

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 17, 2017

Plaid Season


Plaid Season is the Best Season!  Am I right?  The cool temps of Fall are so refreshing after months of a scorching hot summer.  When I think of fall the colors of the changing leaves, pumpkins, mums and plaid come to mind.

I wouldn't say that I wear a lot of plaid as it's fairly casual but a do appreciate the classic print in moderation.  I work in an office not on a tree lot.  I find plaid tops can be pretty designed in color palettes other than the primary colors.  I have pink and jewel toned plaid button down shirts and feel feminine and cozy in them. 

This top caught my eye for its unique take on the basic top.  Rather than in a button down design it's a pull over with smocking detail on the mock neck and sleeve cuffs. With a growing bump and lady lumps button downs are in maternity styles only these days.  This top has a lady like blouse look to it making it quite pretty and appropriate with trousers or a skirt to work.

I'm grateful I can still take advantage of 'normal' clothing that will transition in and out of pregnancy.

Now pants are another story - elastic has become my friend! But thank goodness you can find designer jeans to fit the bump - I prefer the under belly fit. That over-the-top itchy stuff is uncomfortable to me and won't stay up ... maybe later when she's a bit bigger.

Embrace the season in a pretty plaid top!







Plaid Top ||  Maternity Jeans & Non ||  Booties  ||  Tote  ||  Earrings  || 

Dress Beautifully in Plaid

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 16, 2017

Mamma Monday: Accessorizing the Bump

Happy Monday!  Most Monday's I'm mourning the loss of the weekend and return to the weekday grind but this week I'm refreshed and ready.  

This past weekend was full of firsts as I went camping in the NC mountains with some gal pals from church. See my Instagram for pics. I have never slept in a tent before much less cooked food over a fire.  But this fancy pants of a lady roughed it (there was plumbing) with the best of them.  I've been looking forward to this wilderness escape since we started planning it over the summer and I had more fun that I ever imagined.  We hiked, star gazed and enjoyed the peace in awe of the quiet beauty around us.
We also shared quite a few laughs!

Being pregnant has it's list of firsts, a long list! And they aren't all glowing. I'll say it - I'm not a fan of the physical changes! It's bad enough I throw my guts up on a daily basis and am so tired I feel as though I'm walking around with weights on my eye lids but the expansion of my figure is traumatizing.  That's a bit harsh - how about just foreign and uncomfortable. 

You see, I've been a very healthy fit person my whole life eating extremely nutritious food and killing it in the gym on a daily basis.  I truly mourn the loss of my muscle tone and ability to do high intensity exercises.  I'm still working out as much as I can but the weights aren't nearly as heavy and there are just some exercises that I just can't stomach. 
But for nearly 26 weeks Mr, friends and strangers point out that I'm much smaller than most Mammas at my stage. I know, I'm literally having a pity party but it's all relative.  
I know I'm not the only gal that misses her bikini bod and it doesn't mean I love baby girl any less - I'm just being real gals. 

So I'm going to do my very best to embrace my new figure and that means dressing it beautifully.

Since maternity dressing is so temporary and comes with limited options I find it important to style the ensembles with accessories. There are very few accessories that can not be carried from pre pregnancy - belts are pretty much it.

So here are some of my favorites for my bump or even when I don't have a bump ...




Statement Gold Earrings - I've wanted these for a long time.  If I don't get them soon I'll probably add them to my Christmas list.  I find that statement earrings draw attention upwards to the face and have an elongating effect. In gold they go with everything transforming a simple look into something snazzy.

Silk Scarf- I'm pretty sure I'm going to be bringing this one home.  I'm not a fan of big thick scarves but rather the classic silk ones.  They're lighter weight and less smothering.  I also love the vintage print and colors on this one. Worn long down the body it can make you appear taller and add interest to a solid outfit.

Locket Necklace - I have this one and it holds very special ultrasound pictures in it.  This makes a great gift too.

Fur Vest - I have this one but in pink! I purchased in my normal size and can still zip it - for now.  Mr, my sister and a few gal pals shake their head and express their unsolicited dislike of the pink fur. I don't care I love it but if you're not as forward in your style this burgundy or navy option are more neutral.  It will keep you warm while still leaving your arms free.

Plaid Poncho - for all sizes of gals in a classic simple plaid, it's a piece you will wear for years.  It's like being bundled up in your favorite blanket.  I like that this one is not so bulky and overwhelming. It's also freeing on the arms.  I'll probably get this one too, especially if it goes on sale.  This poncho is nice on days that you feel more comfortable concealed.

Bow Slides - I ordered these a couple weeks ago and love them! I went a half size up.  They remind me of a tuxedo. And though they are a bit fancy I plan to contrast them with distress jeans and a crisp white shirt.  Slides are the key to shoes for pregnant gals.  Bending is just impossible at a certain point so slip ons are a lifesaver.

Ring Crossbody Bag - I'm about to add this one to my wish list.  Ring bags are a blend of jewelry and handbags.  I like that this one has a cross body strap when you don't want to wear it like a bracelet and has an edgy look with studs.  It will be a nice touch to all my girlie pieces. I only worry it's not big enough to hold my essentials but I can't seem to find it in stores to touch.

Your accessories are a great way to express your personality and look put together.  It is hard parting with your old wardrobe but at least you can keep the extras in use!

Dress Your Bump Beautifully with Accessories

XOXO Sarah Louise 

Oct 10, 2017

Mamma Monday: Vivian's Nursery Design

Gals, this week’s ‘Mamma Monday’ post didn’t get posted yesterday – oops.  Forgive me.

The weekend was ROUGH – I was in bed and sick on my stomach ALL day Saturday (I’m constantly telling myself that this baby girl does in fact love me and that I love carrying her - #theStruggleisReal ).  I’m giving up on hoping the sickness with improve but I still battle the frustration of my low productivity levels.  I want to do so much but my body will not let me. Lots of prayer happening!

This week, I want to share with you Vivian’s nursery design.  It was inspired by this Pinterest pic my gal pal showed me last year…


Lavender with pops of tangerine orange.  It was different yet still feminine.  I instantly knew this was the palette for a girl’s nursery. With my own spin on it of course!

Here’s the design I created of what her nursery will actually look like ….


For the walls I chose Sherwin Williams color ‘Inspired Lilac’ a super pale shade of lavender. Lighter is better with paint.

I’ve added pink in the lamp and rug and kept the orange to a minimum with greek key trim on ivory silk drapes, a Hermes decorative box and flecks of light orange in the rug.

The rug is even prettier in person, soft and much lighter in color than online.  It pulls in all 3 colors lavender, pink and orange in a traditional design.

I’m not a big fan of nursery furniture as it is temporary so I opted to incorporate what I have and my traditional taste and am using my antique buffet as the changing table.  It also breaks up all the pale hues with its rich dark wood.

I’m adding touches of gold and glam in the lighting, mirror, pouf ottoman, small side table and frames.

The crib is a classic – just like the one I had as a baby but in white.

The chair swivels and rocks – this piece of furniture is not designed specifically for a nursery. When I found it I felt like I was sitting on a cloud and I seriously wanted to close my eyes for a cat nap right in the store.  For fear of embarrassment I didn’t.  You can choose from over 80 fabrics.  I went with a textured cream. I have plans for this chair to one day be my reading chair in our master bedroom.  

For art I’m adding our Anne Neilson painting of angels, and pieces my Mamma and sister have painted.

FYI I have a slight obsession with Jellycat stuffed animals! She already has 4 J

Everything has been purchased for her room with the exception of ordering the chair and gold pouf.  We hope to begin decorating in the next week now that our living room renovation is almost complete – I need to share that fun project with you!

I can’t wait to share the finished room with you later this month!!!

I hope you like it – check out my Nursery Pinterest board and my Maternity Style Board for inspiration!

Dress Your Nursery Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Oct 3, 2017

Ruffles & Romance


This dress has all the romantic feels.  With it's ruffles, violet mini floral print and flowy wrap design I instantly felt pretty in it.  Even Mr kept telling me just how beautiful I looked in it :)
Speaking of romance, today is 11 years since our first date! That day our lives changed forever, now here we are over 7 years of marriage and baby girl on the way! We are blessed beyond measure!
ok I could go on and on about our love but let's talk about this dress ....

Now, I'm not a fan of cold shoulder design so when I've worn this dress I didn't put my arms through the shoulder ruffles and wore this dress as if it were sleeveless.  Gals, fashion is what you buy, style is what you do with it.  And I'm all about having my own personal style rather than what the stores suggest.  I also removed the fabric sash and replaced with a leather belt.  I like to add texture and the leather adds a touch of contrast to all the feminine elements.

This dress has a higher waist line of thin elastic which makes it perfect for transitioning into maternity.  It's also a faux wrap - meaning the front layer is sewn as an overlay (so no worrying about coverage when sitting or holding your dress together on a windy day!

This dress is perfect for all year just add a layer for cooler temps, such as a denim jacket or sweater.
Trade in heels for booties for a more casual look over the weekend.

You're sure to feel pretty how ever you style it!






Ruffle Floral Dress  ||  Belt  || Pumps  ||  Handbag  ||  Earrings  || 

Dress Beautifully in a Romantic Ruffled Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise