Cold Shoulder

This shoulder baring top is perfect for summer! The flutter sleeves add the perfect touch of femininity and the strappy design adds just the right amount of sass.

I like this design for several reasons, there’s no need for elastic like you find with off the shoulder tops, the straps offer support and allow for movement and you don’t look/feel so bare and exposed having straps.  The flutter sleeve adds a delicate element and brings a hint of that 70’s style vibe.

I also like that it’s dressy enough for an evening out but is just as chic paired with a pair of distressed jeans.  I paired it with a pair of ivory trousers for a more polished look. 

This top comes in ivory and navy – my two very favorite neutrals.  I pushed myself to go with navy as my white/ivory inventory is off the charts and I’m glad I did!  It’s a nice change to add some darker shades and perfectly fitting with my white jeans. 

I’ll be shimmy-shimmy shakin in this number over this July 4^th Holiday! 

Strappy Off the Shoulder Top: Ann Taylor - More Options || Trousers: Ann Taylor || 

Sandals: Tory Burch & Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in a Strappy Off the Shoulder Top

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: 5 min Face

The 5 min face was the beginning of learning to primp for me and it’s been a practice I’ve continued.  My Mamma taught me how to apply my makeup.  Despite her instruction, I struggled in the beginning and it was embarrassingly a bit loud in my high school years (think bright blush and blue eye shadow ekk!)  because I had not yet matured to the realization that makeup is for enhancing your natural beauty not to be used like paint on a canvas. Over the years I’ve added to my makeup routine with eyeliners, highlighters, primers etc…

Subtlety is key gals.  God made our faces beautiful so makeup should simply define and highlight.

I’ll admit during the work week and for church I put on a full face but now that it’s Summer I like to keep it simple on the weekends and while on vacation.  It’s also healthy for your skin to lighten up on the products.

Mr loves it when I’m more natural.  Most menfolk do.  The more casual your dress, hair and makeup are the more your natural beauty shines!

So here are my 5 favorite products for my 5 minute face:

Foundation

My gal pal introduced me to this foundation and I’m sold for life!  Yes, it’s a bit expensive but it lasts over 6 months and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin.  It’s light weight yet provides great coverage all day.

Blush

This blush is award winning!  It’s a peachy pink with a slight luster giving all skin complexions a perfect rosy cheek.

Brow Powder

Having red locks means that my brows are very light in color.  They’re also very thin.  I believe that eyebrows are very important as they frame the face.  I had a hard time finding a product that would complement my hair color and look natural.  This powder is light and really makes my eyes and face more defined. I use a flat brush to apply into my natural brow adding just a bit of darkening and depth.

Mascara

I’ve been wearing this one for many many years.  I’ve tried so many other and I always come back to this one.  I have found that mascara is a very personal thing for each individual gal. I don’t believe there is a one mascara fits all.  You have to find what works for your lashes.  Think of it like your hair – we all have different elements to work with.  This mascara lengthens and separates.  I don’t really need the volume.  I do not use waterproof as I feel that it is harsh on your lashes and causes more breakage because it’s so hard to remove at the end of the day.

Lipgloss

Another long term staple, this gloss has enough pigment for my liking and stays on the best.  I’m a lipstick gal all the way because I like saturated pigments that last.  I have tiny lips and need all the color I can get.  I also like the purple-ish color.  It’s softer than my go-to classic red and perfect for when I want a more natural look.

Foundation  -  Blush  -  Eyebrow Powder  -  Mascara  -  Lipgloss  

Dress Beautifully in a 5 Minute Face 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Wide Leg & Cropped

Wide leg pants are making a big appearance on the fashion scene but with a shorter twist.  Rather than full length construction forcing us petite gals into sky high heels or a trip to the tailor for hemming, designers are cropping them just at or above the ankle. 

Personally I love this length.  It wasn’t cool when we were younger because it was a sign you had outgrown your pants a.k.a. ‘High Waters’.  This cropped length doesn’t quite show the ankles but it’s perfect for showing off your shoes!  Particularly ankle strapped sandals or booties.

I’m also a fan of a wide leg pant for their slimming effect.  The line of these pants falls straight from the hip down to the hem, disguising the leg and creating a long line on the lower body.  Personally, I’m a bit self-conscious of my lower body/legs and these pants offer more confidence over leg hugging skinnies.  I also feel that I can move easily and are quite cool in the summer heat.

You may have concern that these may have a shortening effect. Combat that by keeping your top shorter like a cropped box top or more fitted.  You want to have a high waist line so maybe opt for a front tuck of your top.  I’m a full 360° tucker a majority of the time #oldschool.

I went with a fitted black tank for a more casual & neutral styling of these tan crops.  Incorporating more black into my wardrobe is on my Summer To-Do list that I shared with you earlier this week.  I know, I know, it’s odd as it’s summer the season of light colors and don’t most gals have the opposite problem of too much black?!  Not me gals, I have very, very little and honestly it’s classy and sharp so there’s no reason not to.  I just gravitate to the ivory and navy for my neutrals.  But let me be clear, I have no intentions of diminishing my inventory of white & ivory pieces!

Go get yourself a pair of wide leg cropped pants.  I promise you’ll be comfortable and chic!

Wide Leg Crop Pants: Banana Republic Similar & Here || Tank: Similar & Here ||

Shoes: Louise Et Cie & Similar || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Wide Leg Crop Pants

XOXO Sarah Louise

Summer To-Do List

Sunshiny Days!  That’s what comes to mind when I think of Summer – and the beach, watermelon, soirees, vacations, lemonade; I could go on and on but most importantly it's about all the fun I can squeeze in with my friends and family!

Yesterday was the first official day of Summer, ( I know I’m a day late posting, life happens) but honestly it’s felt like Summer outside for 2 months now.

So if you know me in ‘real life’ or you’ve been reading for a while, you know that I’m a professional list maker.  It’s a part of my daily life!  It’s how I function in the office and at home in staying organized and productive.  Write it down and cross it off.  I get an accomplishment high off of striking through each and every task. 

I've even tried to use technology/my phone since toting around my planner can be heavy and obnoxious on the weekends. It's just not the same as writing on paper! 

Naturally, every Summer I make a to-do list for all the fun things I want to do.  Life is so busy that it’s easy to lose track of time, so I make a list that reminds me to incorporate enjoyable stuff.

Summers are for making memories.  The kind that are full of belly laughs and sweet moments with the ones you love. 

I found inspiration for some of my to-do’s from other summer lists and incorporated some new-to-me experiences that have me so excited I’m counting the days!  Maybe my list will inspire you :) 

Here’s my Summer To-Do List …

Dress Beautifully While Crossing Off Your Summer To-Do List 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: Snack Attack

TGIF!!! I've never had a Friday I didn't look forward to ...  ok maybe not never but it's very very rare.

I warned you that my 'Friday 5' post would be a bit random but so is life.

It may sound silly but snacks are a big part of my everyday life routine.  Let me first be clear I am NOT a foodie!!! I get little to no excitement when it comes to something yummy; sigh I know it's epically weird and I'm basically a unicorn but I eat for nutrition, fuel and to make my belly stop hurting.

Because I exercise daily I'm hungry every 2-3 hours.  It's rather annoying and inconvenient but I've managed it by always having snacks in my purse, car and in my office desk drawer.

I also try and eat as non processed as possible.  I intake several types of fruit and vegetables every single day.  When it comes to snacks, finding something prepackaged that doesn't contain chemicals and processing is very hard.  So I do the best I can in selecting natural items and ones that contain protein to help fuel my muscles.

So here are some of the snacks I eat regularly ...

Skinny Pop:
aka 'Crack in a Bag'.  Man do I Love popcorn and these yummy kernels will have you shoveling by the handful!  You can purchase it in gigantic bags at the big bulk stores or in individual size bags perfect for taking to work.  FYI the original flavor is my go-to.

Fruit Sticks:
I discovered this snack from one of my mom gal pals.  They're actually manufactured as kid snacks but I find them just as delicious for grown ups.

Jerky:
These dehydrated slivers of meat come in tons of yummy flavors and packed full of protein.  They'll keep you going when you have long stretches between meals.

Nut Thins:
I'm not a cracker person because they're packed full of bleached carbs and unhealthy junk.  These don't contain flour and instead made from nuts so again another snack with protein.  They're crunchy and addicting!

Larabars:
I saved the best for last.  These bars are my jam!  I've been eating them for over 7 years now.  They are made of very few ingredients with absolutely no additives.  The best part is that they literally taste  like dessert!  Lemon is my most favorite but I haven't met one I didn't like.

You can find most of these at your local grocery; stock up so you're ready for the next Snack Attack!

Skinny Pop   Larabar   Nut Thins   Jerky   Fruit Stick

Dress Beautifully and Eat Good Snacks

XOXO Sarah Louise

Tortoise

Tortoise is the name of land dwelling reptiles aka very large turtles. In the fashion world, tortoise most commonly refers to a resin material designed in amber, brown and black, to resemble the shell of the tortoise animal. 

I’ve shared with you many times that animal prints are my preferred prints over graphics because of their neutral colors and because they are natural.  I think of them as God’s art work.  While you can’t really replicate the true intricacy of these prints as they are one of a kind to each animal, like our fingerprints, textiles have come very close to conveying their beauty.

Because I love tortoise accessories so much and wear them on a very frequent basis I thought I’d share my favorites with you.

ALL of my hair accessories are tortoise!  I like to style my mane in a variety of styles. I truly don’t know how gals coif their manes the same way day in and day out #Boring!  I need strong clips to hold my massive locks in place and I also need them to be pretty and discrete.   Gals, it is not appropriate to have pony tail elastics on your wrist (keep them in your purse) or to have brightly colored one’s in your hair(unless you’re exercising – I’m all about bright colors for my sweat sessions).  You want your hair style to look effortless and polished.  Tortoise as well as solid neutral clips & pins that correspond with your hair color do just that.

As for jewelry and other accessories, tortoise print offers a unique texture in a smooth glossy resin as well as a subtle print.  In rich neutral shades they go with everything!  I also find that because tortoise is a blend of brown and black that it’s much softer that just solid darks.

Just for fun, did you know that a tortoises generally have a longer lifespan than any other animal often exceeding 150 years!!

Go accessorize yourself in pieces with the classic tortoise print. 

1.   2.   3.   4.    5.    6.    7.     8.    9.    10.   11.   12.   13. 

Dress Beautifully in Tortoise

XOXO Sarah Louise

Short Suit

Summer is the season for shorts.  Dressing in this Southern heat is all about comfort and keeping cool.  Shorts aren't my favorite as they by nature expose more leg than I'd like.  I choose shorts that are what I call a mid-length.  Not too short and not down to my knees - a 4"-5" inseam is my preference.

Since I'm a dressy kind of gal, I added chic to this causal garment by pairing with a blazer; Creating the 'short suit'.  Typically causal pieces, such as shorts, designed in a nicer fabric takes the piece up a notch.  I like mixing my my work wear and weekend wear garments.  It makes for an stylish ensemble.

I went with a monochromatic palette in crisp, clean white.  I went with a neutral wedge and kept my accessories simple.  Gals, it's better to keep your accessories to a minimum as you want to achieve an effortless look.  Like Coco Chanel said "Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory".

Over styling = gaudy!

Try dressing up your shorts with blouses and blazers for a chic look for weekend brunches, parties or date nights.

Jacket: Ann Taylor || Camisole: J Crew || Shorts: Loft || 

Wedges: Tory Burch || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in a Short Suit

XOXO Sarah Louise

ALL the Pretty!

Color, color, and more color and it doesn't stop there!  This dress has print, beading, ruffles and all the intricate detail you can squeeze into one dress. Oh My!  It's everything a sundress should be, swingy, bright and pretty.  And that's exactly how I felt when I tried it on.

I shared with you gals my new movement to embrace shift and swing dresses here & here.  I must say, I'm having a lot of fun strutting around in these numbers.

There's so much detail in this dress with the elaborate print and delicate beading throughout.  You just can't appreciate it's ornate design through pictures.  I feel that this dress is perfectly pretty for day time, evening and just about any summer soiree.

Because of the array of colors you could pair it with almost any colored shoe or purse.  I chose cobalt here but wore those pink heels from this post to church and the office. To let the dress speak for itself I believe a neutral shoe and handbag would do just that.

Simply put, this dress has all the pretty!

Dress: Anthropologie ||  Blue Heels: Similar & Here || Earrings: Kendra Scott || 

Dress Beautifully in a Colorful, Printed Sundress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: Sweat Session

This edition of my Friday 5 is all about styling for your sweat sessions!  Because this weekend I’m headed to Atlanta with two of my best gal pals to run a half marathon!!!

Just looking at the weather report has me breaking a sweat! It’s going to be a scorching hot weekend.  13.1 miles in Hotlanta has a whole new meaning!!!

“WHAT?!!!”  ‘Are you crazy?!!’ That’s been the reaction I get when I tell people our race is this weekend.  Genuine concern and fear, stricken their faces in sympathy of the torturous run we are going to have in such high temps.

I have to confess, I had a moment of panic this week thinking about how taxing it’s going to be running in that heat.  But I can’t focus on that.  We have trained so hard and have enjoyed the challenge of pushing our bodies.  This isn’t a first for any of us when it comes to half marathons but life is different than it has been in our younger years, as we are all busier in our careers and those 2 gal each have a little. So our sense of accomplishment bears more weight as we balance increasing responsibilities.  Say a prayer for us!

Gals, I believe strongly in sweating almost every day!  Exercise is a passion of mine and something I thoroughly enjoy.  I can’t stress enough just how important it is to take care of your body. And let’s be real, the aesthetic benefits are great too!  Being in good health is a blessing, one you should never take for granted. I love challenging my muscles and strengthening my heart.  There’s an amazing satisfaction that comes with pushing your body beyond what you think you can do. 

Exercise is a personal thing.  I enjoy more weight lifting and plyometrics than I do cardio activities but I make sure I have a balance.  The key is to find what you like and do it!  There’s no magic routine or guidelines.  I will say, you have to do what works for you and what works for your body.  Maybe it’s running, spinning, playing a sport, weight lifting, swimming or yoga (man have I tried to like it but I just can’t embrace the calm!).  Maybe you like classes at the gym or maybe working out to dvd’s in your living room fits best.  Whatever you decide to do, make it a challenge! And do it several times a week – there is always time you just have to make it a priority.

Nobody ever regrets a work out! 

So in styling for your sweat sessions, it’s all about function … ok I’m not going to lie, it’s about looking good too.  Athletic apparel is the fastest and largest growing segment in the retail world.  I see people strutting around in their gym clothes every day and everywhere.  It’s not for me – I believe they are for exercising exclusively and only appropriate outside of those parameters if running quick errands directly after.  Wear real clothes ladies!

Mr picks on me for wanting specific colors and designs, but I see it this way.  If price is the same why not opt for the prettier one?! Right?!!  It makes me feel good to look good, even when sweating!

Always try on and pick pieces that are comfortable, functional and cool.

This is what I’ll be wearing to run the half marathon on Sunday…. 

Top  -  Sports Bra  -  Running Short  -  Running Shoes   -  Earphones

Zipper Sports Bra: 

It’s high impact and full coverage (containment is necessary!).  Lock & Load! I prefer the zippered bras as they are easier to remove when you’re sweaty and sore.

Mesh Tank: 

Because the bra is supportive on its own, I like my tanks loose and light.  The mesh does just that and in a cool design.

Shorts: 

These are new to me as I’ve worn these Nike shorts for 15 years.  I highly recommend them!  The waist band is so comfortable, no rubbing what so ever and they have a zipper pocket in the back and two mesh ones on the side.

Shoes:

 I’ve been wearing these for 15 years also.  I’ve taken the treadmill fit tests several times and still these are the best for my feet when it comes to running.  Wear quality and what’s best for your feet and stride.

Earphones: 
These are amazing!  Upbeat tunes are the key to distract from the pain as well as keep your spirits up, distracting you from being bored.  I catch myself singing and rocking a little when a good jam comes on.

Dress Beautifully for Your Sweat Sessions

XOXO Sarah Louise

Everything's Coming Up Roses

Nowadays you don’t often get the response ‘Everything’s coming up Roses’  -  Meaning life is wonderful, when asking how someone is doing.  Personally I feel it’s a shame.

Note: Peachy Keen is another phrase I like to say J

Now,  I’m going to be transparent with you, I have felt like life is wonderful from the moment Mr returned home to me from his deployment overseas 10 weeks ago.  Life wasn’t less wonderful before and life isn’t free from problems now, but something about being separated from each other has us both looking at life with a grateful heart.

Putting on this swingy dress has me also feeling wonderful.  This is the first year I’ve embraced swing dresses and I’m smitten.  I’ve always worn sheath and a-line dresses because for my body shape a waist seem is the most flattering.  I wanted to highlight my petite upper body and camouflage my lower.  While I still believe these designs are the most flattering, I like that I now have diversity in these easy breezy pieces.

To avoid being swallowed by fabric, there are a couple of things to look for in these trapeze style dresses.  They should in fact be in a trapeze cut – smaller on the top and more voluminous on the bottom – think of a triangle shape. Sleeveless and/or v-neck will elongate and show some skin which balances the shapeless body of the piece. The front hem should fall slightly above the knee; again this balances proportions in showing enough leg.

This dress in fact has all of these elements!  In addition, the print enhances its shape/design with a printed round neckline and triangular color block panels.  And to add beauty on beauty, there are sweet flowers printed throughout.  So how could you not want to swing around and around??!!!

I’ve worn this dress several times and found myself constantly receiving compliments and cool as a cucumber outside in this scorching Southern heat!

Add some swing to your summer wardrobe!

Swing Dress: Anthropologie || Wedges: Tory Burch || Earrings: Kendra Scott || 

Dress Beautifully in a Swing Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Pink. Gingham. Blazer.

So can you have too much Pink? Gingham? Blazers? The answer is no!

When you’re in love with a color, print or style of garment and just can’t resist having multiples, the key is to have variation using elements such as fabrics, textures, accessories, and pairings.

For example, I love blazers and have quite the collection.  I keep it interesting by having lots of colors, prints and fabrics – wool, linen, tweed … stripes, tipped, plaids.  And I keep my styling fresh by pairing with dresses, skirts, jumpsuits/rompers, and causal pieces such as tanks and jeans.  

Shake off the typical work vibe of blazers and top off your weekend casual garb adding sophistication and structure.

Blazers tend to have the ‘boring’ or ‘menfolk’ connotation but in reality they’re very sharp and chic if you ask me.

This blazer is packed full of pink printed fun.  I styled it with a white a-line dress for church a few Sundays ago, with a pair of taupe trousers and cream silk blouse for work last week and here with a pair of distressed boyfriends and a cotton tank.  See, when you invest in classics the styling options are endless. 

Next I’d love to pair it with a romper or play with colors like a purple dress or prints with a striped or floral top.  

Gingham Blazer: J Crew || Jeans: Similar Here & Here || Wedges: Tory Burch ||

Tank: J Crew || Sunglasses: Ray Ban || 

Dress Beautifully in a Pink Gingham Blazer

XOXO Sarah Louise