LBD: Day to Night

Versatility is a key element of style.  It's important to be able to utilize your garments in multiple ways so that you not only reap the rewards of your investment but that you keep your looks fresh. 

Fridays are for date nights, happy hours and in my case binge watching the new 'Fuller House' on Netflix.  But if I were going out with Mr or the gals, a LBD is always the right choice.  And since it's just straight up too much work to change into a completely different outfit, wearing a dress that can simply be transformed with new accessories is paramount. 

For day pair with a lady like jacket and modest heels.

For night ditch the jacket and work bag and go for a higher heel and clutch. 

I find that choosing a dress constructed with lots of stretch like this one holds it shape, hugs in just the right places and creates a flattering silhouette.  It's not too showy but does have interest with leather and cutouts at the neckline.  It doesn't take much ladies.  Less is more often more!

Though a LBD is classic and flattering don't limit yourself to a solid dark hue, these styling tips apply to any dress that makes you feel pretty.  

LBD: Banana Republic 

Mid Heel Pumps: Nine West || Jacket: Similar || Handbag: Prada || 

High Heel Pump: Nine West || Clutch: Similar & Here || 

Dress Beautifully Day to Night in a LBD

XOXO Sarah Louise

Ruffles

There's nothing more classic than the contrast of a black and white ensemble.  It's crisp, clean and sharp.  When you're needing that extra umph to tackle the day ahead, a good power outfit can give you that little push to get you on your feet and energized to take on the day.

I'm all about bringing femininity to work wear.  I feel that women are under the impression they have to be plain, simple and dress like the menfolk to look professional.  You can't escape the fundamentals of a tailored jacket, and trousers but you can differentiate with sheath dresses, pencil skirts and blouses with detail.  Don't worry I'm not abandoning my dress shirts but I feel extra pretty in ladylike pieces.  This ruffle blouse does just that.  It's not too fussy and in a solid doesn't distract so it's quite perfect for a dress shirt substitute.  It's also great paired with jeans or even shorts for a casual chic look.

Swap out your dress shirt for a ruffle blouse and I guarantee you won't loose any sophistication but may actually gain some pretty awesome confidence!

Ruffle Blouse: Banana Republic || Grey Trousers: Banana Republic || Blazer: J Crew ||

Pumps: Nine West || Necklace: Similar & Here || Handbag: Prada || 

Dress Beautifully in Ruffles

XOXO Sarah Louise

The Separate Split

Earlier this week I shared with you my maiden voyage in styling a cardigan.  I decided to go all out and purchase the twinset (coordinating shell).  I find that most closets, including my own, are full of separates but I believe it's essential to incorporate matching sets when possible.  It's an effortless way of looking put together.  And if you're afraid of looking too monochromatic a printed scarf, skirt or statement necklace are great ways to add some interest.

While I respect and embrace matchy matchey ensembles I feel that it's important to take advantage of their styling options and utilize them separately.  Optimizing the functionality of your wardrobe is key.  I find that you'd be surprised at just how many looks you can create with a moderate amount of pieces.  Ask yourself, what good is a piece that can only be worn in a single capacity?

I showed you how I styled the cardigan earlier this week.  Today I'm taking this amber shell and pairing it with ivory trousers for a lighter brighter palette and a printed scarf to break up the color block. I love the mix of light and rich neutrals - goes to show you don't have to have bright colors to make a statement.

I'm going to assume none of you are new to these pieces but if you're looking to add to your closet I do recommend this twinset as it's constructed out of light weight wool which is durable and resistant to stretching and fading.

 I must admit I'm pretty enthused about this new-to-me cardigan thing.  My gal pals shake their heads as it's an over worn piece for just about all women and as a collector of classics it's just surprising I haven't taken part.

I have brunch with the gals tomorrow and I'm thinking of wearing the coordinating twin set with a pair of jeans and bright red flats for a pop of color.  Swapping out your trousers or skirts for jeans and flats is the perfect way to transition a week day look to the weekend and still look polished while being comfortable.

Shell: J Crew || Coordinating Cardigan: J Crew || Trousers: Similar ||

Scarf: Ann Taylor || Pumps: Tory Burch || Handbag: Prada || 

Dress Beautifully in Separates 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Bourbon & Blush

This is a first.  I have a twin set in my closet.  With my affinity for classic and timeless pieces  it's ironic, even to myself, that I don't own such a fundamental garment as a cardigan.  I've always chosen blazers over cardigans.  I prefer the structure, durability, and sophistication that a jacket brings.
And now I'm enjoying the softness and movement of the warm wool snug against my skin.

Tip:  To avoid the cardigan cons of stretching, and piling choose a set made of wool or a silk blend.  And invest in this Gleener Ultimate Fuzz Remover to gently remove those pesky fuzz balls. 

I'm guilty of stereotyping cardigans as mature, and frumpy.  The key to avoiding the librarian/granny look is styling. Pair with modern, edgy and streamlined pieces. Avoid old school traditions such as pearls, broaches and overly conservative garments.  Also, split the shell and cardigan up.  They're both layering pieces and can lead to countless outfit options.

Another thing that drew me to this set was the rich amber color.  It's a unique neutral.  I have all the other neutrals covered in my blazers and suiting garments so this addition adds a particular uniqueness.  At first glance it reminded me of a lowball glass of bourbon, something Mr would drink on a date night (I see things that remind me of him constantly, sometimes it in the funniest of ways - there's clearly no limit to how much I miss him).

I paired the cardigan over a soft blush sheath dress and added some contrast with black pumps & handbag. I also accessorized with a modern gold hoop eating.  This color combination is sharp, unexpected and sure to impress at the office.
It's a classic look but I surely don't look mature or frumpy.

If you haven't added this year's Pantone color 'Rose Quartz' to your wardrobe this dress is a pretty piece to start with.  The piping detail streamlines your shape and highlights the waist.
Note:  I purchased in petite, it's designed in a longer length.

Later this week I'll share with you how I styled the matching shell :)

Cardigan: J Crew || Blush Sheath Dress: Ann Taylor || Pumps: Nine West ||

Handbag: Prada || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Bourbon & Blush

XOXO Sarah Louise

Roses

It's Valentine's week!  I'm obsessed with love - Love for God, Mr, family, friends, our country and let's not forget the little loves of fashion, red lipstick, black coffee (it is Monday), lemons, fine paper (I'm all about correspondence) and of course champagne! It's Love that sustains me!

When I think of Valentine's Day the typical comes to mind, flowers, chocolate and date nights.  Sadly Mr and I haven't had but a couple Valentine's Day dates over the past 10 years but we always made up for it in other ways when we did see each other.  I was never one for flowers or chocolate, they die and well chocolate isn't friendly on the waist line.  So he always got creative with his tokens of affection. This year he's on the other side of the world but thank goodness our love knows no distance.

It's funny how gals will use any occasion to style a look.  Valentine's Day is no exception.  Magazines, blogs, store front windows and even Pinterest will all be sharing lovely looks.  Even me.
So here's what I picked to celebrate love, because aren't roses the flower of love? - minus the thorns?

This cropped shell with roses was just the piece.  Since it's still winter I paired with one of it's darker shades, bordeaux, but accessorized with lighter shades of pink.  This look is ideal for both the office and date night.  Try swapping the pencil skirt for skinny black pants or jeans for a more comfortable and casual look.

This Valentine's Day pinks, reds, florals and just your sweet heart will make the loveliest of looks!

P.S. Thanks to my gal pals & their peer pressure I'm seeing more roses than ever before, I'm watching 'The Bachelor' for the second time - I know I've lived under a rock.  Well, honestly I record it, I need beauty sleep for my 5am wake up. I want to quit but it's literally a train wreck you can't look away from!!

Rose Top: Vince Camuto more Rose styles here and here || Skirt: Similar and here || 

Pink Handbag: Tory Burch || Pumps: Cole Haan || Earrings: Honora ||  

Dress Beautifully in Roses

XOXO Sarah Louise

Cozy

What is it about the new year that has us dreaming of Spring?  Honestly, it hasn't even been a bad Winter, not that the South typically has frigid weather.  I believe it goes hand in hand with new beginnings and the fresh start of January.  You're energized and full of aspirations.

Personally, my focus for Spring is on Mr coming home to me! Don't get me wrong I'm super excited for sundresses and sandals but I'm on the other side of the deployment count down (4 months down just a few to go) and everyday that goes by my excitement grows!

But until Spring actually gets here the temps are still chilly and it's nice to have pieces that are chic while still warm, soft and comfortable.

I like the idea of knit toppers like ponchos, vests and jackets.  They're warm like a sweater but can easily be layered for temperature transitions and pair with so many outfits.

I received these as Christmas gifts from both my Mamma and Mr's - they sure do know how to treat a gal and I'm so grateful :)

Snuggle up with a soft topper, have a hot cup of coffee and dream about Spring! But don't forget to give thanks for your many blessings, sometimes living in the moment brings peace.

Tassel Poncho: Similar and Here || Vest: Similar & Here || Wool Jacket: Talbots Similar & Here || 

Dress Shirt: J Crew || Pants: Banana Republic || 

Dress Beautifully in Cozy Toppers

XOXO Sarah Louise

Light & Airy

Light & Airy. This light grey dress is comfortable and has lots of movement with it's straight design and ruffle details along the sleeve and neckline.

Straight dresses aren't my typical but I'm attempting to throw a few into the mix.  I prefer lighter hues and this powdered grey is a perfect light neutral for all year wear.  I wanted to create contrast so I paired with dark accessories, but come spring and summer I think bright blue would pop!
A fur vest is also a great option.

I love swapping pumps for booties.  They're more comfortable and add a modern touch.  I'm obsessed with these calf haired beauties I received at Christmas.  I can't get enough natural texture and gold in my wardrobe so these were a must have (and they're one of my top favorite shoe brands).

Refresh your winter wardrobe with a light and airy look and dream of warmer spring days!

Ruffle Dress: Banana Republic || Calf Hair Booties: Louise Et Cie || Clutch: Similar & Here || 

Dress Beautifully in a  Light & Airy Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise