Soft Neutrals

Today baby girl is 32 WEEKS!!!

Half the time I’m like ‘Woah! time is flying by how am I ever going to be ready?!!’ Then the other half of me is panicked that I can’t survive another 8 weeks!

I will almost always opt for a lighter palette over a darker.  Even in the winter, I find light and bright looks refreshing! Just like snow – that I never ever see because #southernliving.

This sweater is the perfect blend of soft in color and comfort. AND it’s not maternity – so if you do have a bump you’ll probably need to layer a shirt underneath for added coverage.

I went with my normal size because I want to wear it for seasons to come.  And since it’s a looser fit it will be nice for the transition once she’s here.

  

If you’re a rule breaker pair this sweater with white jeans – if not black or blue are good too!

Can I just add that I’m loving my new bag?!! I can’t remember if I shared with you #babybrain that Mr surprised me with it at one of my baby showers a few weeks ago – best baby daddy ever! I have my planner with me and it often has a jacket or sweater in it because I’m constantly shedding due to internal heat waves.

For years I’ve shared with you that this shoe is my ALL TIME FAVORITE EVER!!! I have them in 4 colors black patent, brown croc, red patent and nude patent – they are classic and comfortable.  So much that I’ve resoled 2 pairs over the years.  They’ve been my go to for work & travel and even more so now that my heels are being neglected.

Sweater & Layering Tee ||  Pants - Non Maternity  ||  Shoes  ||  Handbag & Similar  || 

Dress Beautifully in Soft Neutrals

XOXO Sarah Louise

Tweed

Tis the season for tweed!

Thank goodness this number is sleeveless because baby girl has me roasting from the inside out!  I’m not a hot natured gal but these days the colder the better.  Poor Mr is bundled in our house.  I try and console him with the energy savings we will have – he could care less as he shivers.

Tweed has always given me a Jackie O/Chanel feeling and gals it doesn’t get any classier than that!

Seraphine has been one of my favorites for my maternity wardrobe.  I mean, Princess Kate wears it so it was a guarantee I had to have a few pieces.  The dresses are super comfortable and great for work and church.  For the weekend I just pair them with flats or boots.

Later this Winter when it is a bit cooler I can layer a long sleeve tee underneath or a black jacket/sweater over.  This dress definitely accents the bump whereas most of my other dresses are a bit roomier.  One of the kiddos in my Sunday School class that I teach said ‘woah she looks almost ready!’.  It was the first time I had worn a dress that was a bit fitted so they were excited to see that I actually had a growing belly.

If you really want to pile on the class add pearls and/or a broach!

Tweed Dress - NonMaternity & Here ||  Maternity Tights  ||  Pumps  ||

Handbag & Similar  ||  Earrings  ||

Dress Beautifully in Tweed

XOXO Sarah Louise

Mamma Monday: Baby Registry Must Haves

Monday = Back to the Grind.

After a long Thanksgiving break I'm back in the office hustling away missing my couch and those sweet Hallmark movies!

I haven't been as good as I'd like with these Mamma Monday posts but I'm trying gals.  Becoming a Mamma is a first for me but I am blessed to have received so much wisdom to share as well as findings from my own personal journey tackling project baby.

A couple weeks ago I was showered with amazing gifts at two celebrations for me and baby girl so I wanted to share with you my personal registry must haves.

When it comes to your registry you have to make your selections personal to you.  Pick stores that fit your needs as well as your style. For me I knew we would be purchasing all the nursery design/decor pieces, although my Mamma did gift us her crib.
I chose Buy Buy Baby (they have 20% off coupons! & a store here in Charlotte) as well as Amazon.  Who doesn't have Prime?!!! And with so many of those dear to us being out of state, I found this to be the best options.

I primarily registered for 'needed' things but did include some clothes, fun items and blankets because as much as I want to receive boxes of diapers, gals want to gift cute and pretty things so be sure to add some so that they meet your style likes.
Also register for items with a variety of price points.

I'm learning that when it comes to babies there isn't enough!

I have all but 2 of these items and plan to purchase if we don't receive them.

So here they are my Must Haves .....

Bottles - Word on the street is that these are the best for baby's tummy & gals even though 'breast is best' pumping is too and you'll need these for others to help feed baby and if you're back at work.

Sound Machine - NEED!  Mr and I have had this for over 5 years now and it truly makes for peaceful slumber. Sleep is the key to surviving parenthood so get one! Vivian has her own! 

Ultimate Blanket - This was not on my registry but my sweet sister gifted it to me.  I had gifted her one when her son was born.  In fact I've gifted it 5 times this year and who knows how many times since discovering it's greatness many moons ago.  It's soft thick and must have a name embroidered on it! 

Nursing Pillow - I've been told this is a lifesaver when nursing your baby. It helps keep you both comfortable and in a great position. Here's hoping!

Diaper Pail - do I need to explain?  You have to contain the ick! (I say Mr does the outtake and I do the intake - we will see how that goes)  

Stroller - I knew I wanted this before I was pregnant because all my Mamma friends swear by it.  It's pricey but you must must have a good stroller - think of it as having that awful grocery buggy squeaking and frustrating to turn. Nobody has time for that! This one also has lots of cargo space down below.  Now, I specifically registered for this version because it does not come with the bassinet nor does it convert to a double stroller.  This kept the price a bit lower. I don't believe we will use the bassinet often enough to justify (the car seat attaches) and I have friends that have it if I needed to borrow. 

Car Seat & Extra Base - Well it's the only car seat that attaches to our stroller so that was easy.  The extra base is nonnegotiable.  We both need to be able to transport her. 

  

Bassinet - I was lucky and got this from a gal who's baby was older and no longer needed it or else I would have registered for it. It's also another pricey piece but our bed is so very high that I needed one that could adjust. This is going to be a life saver having her sleep beside me for ease of feeding and attempts at sleeping.  The side bends down to easily lift her.

Swaddle - I plan to bind her up like a mummy in these. It mimics how snug she is in my belly and helps keep her asleep by preventing her from moving her arms and legs.

Play Yard - Still need to get this one.  I liked it because it didn't come with attachments that we don't need. It will be essential when visiting friends for her to play and sleep.

Rocker - I wasn't going to register for one but then I heard how many Mammas loved it that I figured why argue with experience. Another item we still need to get.

Diaper Bag - You need something to haul all the baby stuff in! Two ladies from church gifted me this and they didn't understand why I chose black. Well, it hides dirt, matches everything, more discrete, and bottom line, I need Mr to carry it. Ahhh they now understood. 

Swing Seat - I was lucky with this one too - got this from a gal who was done with it! score! It's pricey but again I hear it's a life saver.  

Mammas, when it comes to the expensive things try and find them from other Mammas who are done.  You never know what your baby will like, and who wants to drop tons of money on temporary contraptions you'll use short term?

My Full Registries are here at BUYBUY BABY & AMAZON

Help Others Dress Your Baby's Needs Beautifully with Your Registry

XOXO Sarah Louise

Great Room Renovation

I've been waiting a long time to share this transformation with you gals! Earlier in the year we made the decision to renovate our home to make it more functional for us - and to give us more space since our family is growing.

The house was beautiful when we bought it. It's a traditional mid century ranch home that had been completely updated.  I loved the brick exterior (a must have for us both), original hardwoods throughout (I DETEST carpet) and beautiful crown moldings and details (pocket doors!).  It also had a gorgeous sun room through french doors of the family room with slate flooring and large windows; our favorite spot for coffee dates at home.

One typical element of mid century homes is that they often are designed with a formal living space and a den/family room of a more casual nature.  While I liked the idea of having a fancy room for socials, Mr thought it was a waste of space and made the home choppy.  He was right - we never used the formal room other than hosting ladies bible studies and the occasional shower or dinner with friends.  It was a true dust collector.

The family room housed our fireplace and tv so that's where we spent most of our time. 

So after owning our home for 2 years we pulled the trigger on removing the 16' wall that separated the two rooms to create one big great room! 

Disclaimer: Load bearing walls are expensive and not as simple to remove as HGTV depicts!  Joanna Gaines from 'Fixer Upper' does it all the time but she says very little about the structural engineer required and the enormous costs and contractors needed to bring to fruition.  You just can't believe everything you see on tv.

So here it is gals, our great room!  Just in time for hosting both our families for Thanksgiving!

No renovation reveal is justified without the 'Before' pics.

Below is the Den/Family Room ...

Truth:  I hate hate hate the color grey in home design/decor. And I'm pretty sure I'm the only gal that has these feelings as it is the 'IT' color in all interior design these days.  I find it so sad and refuse to have it in my home so needless to say I was thrilled to have this grey room go! I also found it a challenge when looking for nursery inspiration - I just can't understand grey for such a bundle of joy.

Here is our previous Formal Living Room ...

And just like that the wall came down to big open spaces ...

*I spy Mr Kitty

We had the great room and both the entryway and hallway painted the same color, ordered two matching large sofas, and added recessed lighting.  We kept the trim color cream which isn't common these days but it's all throughout our home and in our plantation shutters so I'm keeping with the traditional color. It's also a softer look for our older home rather than the stark white you see in new construction.

Last year I purchased a custom 18' carpet runner for our hallway and used the remainder carpet from the bolt as the rug for our new great room. It creates a cohesive flow.

I love that with the new tv mounting all the cords and boxes are hidden behind the wall in our coat closet.

Paint color: Sherwin Williams

Couches: Ethan Allen

Rug: Stark Carpet

Dress Your Home Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: All about the Texture

TGIF! The end of this work week is welcomed with open arms! I just have to get through these meetings and my weekly presentations and then I’m free.  It totally sounds like a hate my job but gals, being a sick Mamma while having a demanding career isn’t exactly the happiest of situations but hey, girl bosses don’t cry they push through!

Bonus: I received some sparkle with an unexpected date night with Mr last night – just a casual dinner and some shopping but it was truly nice to spend some time together.

So while we were shopping, I happen to come across a few things that I just have to have.  He just simply shakes his head.

Shopping isn’t as fun when you’re growing a belly but I have next year to look forward to and accessories (shoes, handbags, jewelry) always fit. 

This is the season for texture;  Knits, suede, velvet, fur, tweed, etc…

So here’s what I found to add to my closet …

Taupe Suede Jacket  ||  Red Suede Bootie  ||  Metallic Pleated Skirt  ||

Snake Bag  ||  Lace Cap Sleeve Top  ||

Taupe Suede Jacket:  I pulled the trigger and bought this!  I don’t own a suede jacket and I’m in love with the taupe color.  It will compliment everything.  I went with my normal size – just won’t be zipping it up until next year J

Red Suede Booties:  I didn’t feel like trying them on, but I can assure you I’m going to revisit and more than likely take them home.  I love the bright color and the wearable heel.  Jeans or dresses these red suede shoes will stop traffic!

Metallic Pleated Skirt:  I ordered this one earlier this week.  Slightly silly since I have NO waist to even try it on but I love it and envision myself wearing it all year long! Can’t wait to style it next year.

Snake Skin Bag:  Gals it was love at first sight! Even though Mr just gifted me a designer bag at my baby shower (sharing on Monday) I’m obsessed with this one and it’s #1 on my Christmas list!!! It’s chic, edgy and you know I love all things animal when it comes to fashion.

Lace Top:  I actually stumbled across this one on Instagram.  It has delicate feminine details with the lace neckline and cap sleeves.  It will be nice postpartum since it’s a loose fit but will help me feel pretty as my figure transitions.

Embracing texture will add tons of style to your look!!!

Dress Beautifully in Texture this Season

XOXO Sarah Louise

Bolder the Better

The bolder the better!  Leopard and red are two bold prints and colors that personally I find striking together.  It's complimentary.  If you're not into the bold on bold combo I also find that leopard and red both pair well with pastels - highly unexpected contrast.

Gals, I'm 30 weeks with baby girl tomorrow and I'm feeling it!

Confession:  so sick last night I cried! I know this is a blessing but I literally almost threw up on the cat when I got home from work and thank goodness I made it to the kitchen sink because the idea of having to bathe my cat in my own vomit is traumatizing! And poor Mr, he comes home from long days in the ER to a sad case for a wife.  Not to mention 4th quarter pressures at work with my pending maternity leave is about to break me.  To say I'm counting down is an understatement. 
Sorry to rant but it's my reality - are there any other Mammas out there hanging by a thread like me??!!
I'll spare you my other complaints of largeness, ankle swelling, limited mobility and the struggle to put on my tights!

Again, counting down! I do find that going into her nursery and holding her things adds a glimmer of light to the darkness.  but then I just dash to the bathroom and ...

Tomorrow I'll write a joyful post :)

But hey I'm dressing my belly beautifully!

Leopard Dress - Non-Maternity  ||  Red Jacket  ||  Pumps  ||  Handbag - Similar  ||

Earrings  ||  Cuff Bracelet  || 

Dress Beautifully in Leopard & Red

XOXO Sarah Louise 

Cutie Collar

Can I just share that I started this week on the sweetest note! This past weekend I was blessed with two loving baby showers and I'm still in awe of the kindness generously given to us!  I can't wait to share it with you soon :)
(Last week was consumed with business travel followed by hosting family and friends so I didn't get a chance to post - I promise I'll catch up)

Most Mammas-to-be do not want to invest in maternity clothes and I hear ya! It's temporary and expensive however I know I still want to maintain style while growing.  Another challenging element would be dressing professional in the office - there's no shortage of maternity tees and leggings but try and find suiting and you'll feel like you're hunting for a needle in a hay stack. Trust me - I've done the hunt and had some success that I shared on this post.

I also do not care for all of the super fitted maternity garments, I prefer a looser fit.
Confession: I just can't get comfortable with being bigger.

This dress I love because it's a classic black with cute scalloped white collar.  It's soft and swingy.  I would wear a black dress with a white collar without the bump. I'll have to add black tights now that the temps have finally dropped.
PS This baby girl has me so warm that I'm freezing Mr out in our house!

White Collar Dress - Non-Maternity  ||  Pumps & Here  ||  Handbag & Similar  ||  

Dress Beautifully in a White Collared Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: Fall Bags & Baubles

TGIF! Gals, this has been one of the most jam packed weeks - meetings, business dinners and sooooo much house work now that our renovation is complete! I haven't really shared that with you but we removed a 16' load bearing wall that separated our formal living room from family room to create one big great living space!  It looks AMAZING! We even ordered new furniture.  Now that we have it all put back together (living through a renovation was a mess) we can enjoy the outcome.

It also means that this weekend we are tackling baby girl's nursery.  I've been extra sick this week and Mr's been the Best-Daddy-Ever trying to lift my spirits by surprising me with putting together her crib yesterday and ordering my nursery chair today. #LOVE 

Since clothes are a drag when your expanding by the day, accessories, bags and shoes have become more of a focus. I'm digging a new fall bag and am seriously contemplating this back one with gold studs or the cream quilted one - ALL of the bags below are on Sale #yourwelcome.

These jewelry pieces are also on my list of wants.  I love shiny statement pieces to polish off my looks.  I also am digging black jewelry this season.

Even though the weekend isn't going to as relaxing as I need it to be I do plan on enjoying working on our daughter's room.  Painting and sewing her drapes may seem like work to most but it's all acts of love! #nesting

Geometric Crossbody Bag  ||  Burgundy Tote  ||  Black Studded Bag  ||

Ivory Quilted Bag  ||  Leopard Calf Hair Clutch  ||

Pearl Collar Necklace  ||  Black Disk Earrings  ||  Disc Ring  || 

Black Statement Earrings  ||  Cuff  ||

Dress Beautifully in these Trending Fall Bags & Baubles

XOXO Sarah Louise

New & Navy

You gals know I'm into Navy when it comes to neutrals - well today I'm into a new trimester at 28 weeks, 3rd and final!!! I can see the end! Don't get me wrong I want her to be healthy and grow but being pregnant has been far from fun for me.  I'm ready to not be sick and to enjoy snuggling her sweet little self!

AND I passed my glucose test! I literally said 'Amen' out loud when I heard the results. I could not take another defeat.  I woke up throwing up yesterday morning so getting that nasty drink down was torture at 8am.  But with a lot of prayer, determination and Mr cheering me on holding the barf bag nearby I pushed through.

We heard her strong heart beat at 155/min - music to our ears! We will also get to see her in 3 weeks on ultrasound. I look at all these extra monitoring tests as just another opportunity to see her rather than being stressed. It's all in God's hands anyways.

So, to the topic of interest, this outfit.  I 100% prefer navy over black when it comes to dark neutrals.  I find that a lot of gals struggle with navy outside of summer because they don't want to pair it on top of jeans for fear of being monochromatic with no contrast.  The key is to opt for a lighter wash denim because those white jeans are tucked away for days between Easter and Labor Day - unless you're a rule breaker.

When it comes to maternity dressing I wanted to stay as true to my style as possible but that can be challenging because the options are so limited.  This top spoke my language in a windowpane print.  And it had a unique neckline with more of a peplum design which is very close to what I would like without the bump. It's perfect for the office with trousers but also super cute for weekends with distressed jeans and booties, as you can see.

I topped it off with an ivory jacket I already had to add a dressy element, balancing the jeans.

Prego Pals - we must use as much of our wardrobe as we can, just ignore the inability to button those blazers.

Navy Top - Non Maternity Option & Here  ||  Jeans - Non Maternity Option  ||  Jacket  ||

Booties  ||  Cuff  ||

Dress Beautifully in Navy

XOXO Sarah Louise