Friday Favorites: 5 Things Instead of Shopping

TGIF! It's not just any Friday, it's Black Friday.  Gals, the shopping promotions are on overload. I know you're thinking that's a bit hypocritical for a fashion blogger.  Yes, both hands raised I love to shop but limits are necessary.  I do believe in trying purchase all the gifts you plan to give or at least have a list of what you plan to give completed in November so that you can enjoy the holiday season.  And today is a great day to cross some items off your list at a great price. But let's not let it cloud the day or the reason we gift in the first place, to show love and appreciation.

I LOVE and insist upon purchasing below full price but I find that today the retail indulgence is over the top.

Family is my favorite

So, rather than focusing on accumulating more things, here are 5 delightful things to do the day after Thanksgiving that I promise will bring you more joy than the temporary high of a new purchase:

DECK THE HALLS

I love that we have 3 stocking to hang.

We could always find Scragley underneath the tree hanging out or napping

He truly was a gift!

Remembering the REAL reason for the season in our home.

And it's about time to pull the elf out! She should actually enjoy finding him this year.

Go ahead and go full force into Christmas mode and decorate your home.

I'm a stickler for waiting until after we give gratitude on Thanksgiving.

CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSET

Before the addition of things at Christmas and we start a new year, I believe it's nice to remove items that are no longer needed.  Its a great feelings ending and starting a year on a clean note.

CHRISTMAS CARDS

I absolutely adore sending love through the mail and Christmas cards bring a smile to my face all month long. If you haven't purchased yours yet you can have your mailing list and supplies ready (tape, address labels and stamps)

PLAY OUTSIDE

I raked our front yard this week ... it's now buried again under a blanket of leaves UGH

Afternoon Running with my Sidekick - this hat :)

If the weather allows enjoy the fresh air with some yard work (it's literally raining leaves here), Christmas decorating, exercising or even readying a book while enjoying nature around you.

FELLOWSHIP

Such a fun night out with my sisters last week!

Spend time with your family/friends.  Most folks are off of work and it's a nice time to stop and enjoy quality moments together.  Bust out a board game or puzzle or even just snuggle up with a good movie.

She is proof that you can't buy happiness!

Dress Beautifully Doing the Things that are Priceless

XOXO Sarah-Louise 

Cozy & Comfy

Tis the day before Thanksgiving and everyone's excited for the feast ... except me.  I'm NOT a foodie and find it horrible to put such poor nutrition in your body.  Please don't go and defriend or stop reading this.  I'm just being honest.  I'm a complete anomaly when it comes to food.  I just don't find any joy in eating (Ryan says my taste sense is broken) and feel that food is for the purpose of fueling your body to do it's work and be strong.  I eat very clean and intentional. Sigh but I promised Ryan I'd try to relax and compromise a bit so that Vivian doesn't grow up to be quite as strange as her Mamma haha

What I am excited about is having two days with Ryan home with us, hosting my parents and sister, and enjoying all my blessings with a grateful heart! We are serving filet, grilled vegetables and I will make one of the 2 dishes I can prepare well, apple pie!

What are you going to wear tomorrow?  It's a gathering and you may see folks you don't see often and pictures will probably be taken.

This outfit is perfect for being comfortable and chic at home or for any day this season.  I've worn this sweater at least 10 times since I brought it home. It's technically a cardigan but I don't like cardigans so I wear it all buttoned up as a pull over. I love the chunkiness but that it's not oversized (I prefer my sweaters shorter in length and for the sleeves to be snug so that they don't overwhelm me)
It's so pretty with dressier pieces too like a skirt, trousers or on top of a dress!

Roomy distressed jeans are a staple in my wardrobe for being at home (yes I wear jeans while at home b/c leggings are NOT pants 💯) or running errands. If you want to add a chic touch pair with a little heel and a polished handbag.

Sweater | Jeans | Similar Pumps | Handbag - Similar | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in Cozy & Comfy Pieces 

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: Important Work

Happy Monday Mammas! It's a short week ... eh but do we ever get time off?? Being a Mamma is forever and ever but ideally we get extra hands to help this week.  It's almost Thanksgiving day and while we should always have a grateful heart I believe it's important to stop and reflect on the abundance of undeserved blessings we have and hopefully you get to do that alongside loved ones.

Today didn't go the way I had planned (I'm currently writing this sitting in my bed) but gracious if that isn't motherhood!  Vivian didn't sleep well this morning or during nap due to a cough.  She needed me today. I started to get frustrated with her as I had several things I wanted to accomplish today and I was genuinely looking forward to a long nap.

But she needed me.

What an honor to be what she needed.

Whether you're a Mamma, wife, daughter, sister, gal pal or all of these you are needed!
You have a special purpose in blessing others.
God has you here to do important work and it just so happens it may be within the walls of your home.

This past Sunday at the end of teaching my middle school class we had to go around the room sharing 3 things we were thankful for because it's tradition this week right?! Gals, my eyes filled with tears and my heart nearly burst as several of my students mentioned having me as their teacher.  I don't share this to be boastful in any way but to let you know that even if you don't think you're making an impact you are.  It's not about me but what God is doing through me.

We all do important work loving others!

Dress Beautifully Doing Important Work

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Friday Favorites: Beautiful Baubles

TGIF!  Gals, today couldn't have come any sooner.  Each and every day for the past few weeks has been packed to the rim meanwhile Ryan has been out of town these past two weeks and working every day but 3 this month.  And like every other gal, I break sometimes.  Honestly, I've broken a few times but I try very hard to stop, take a breath and say a prayer of gratitude and plea for patience. I lack the ability to sit still (if you watch my instagram stories you know I'm always doing something) and it can often be a detriment. If you're sharing my sentiments I encourage you to pause and look past the crazy to see the joy all around you! I'll end my pity party here and get on with the fashion portion of this post!

"Jewelry has the power to be the one little thing that makes you feel unique" - Elizabeth Taylor

Jewelry is NOT optional in my opinion.  The only time I'm without earrings, wedding rings or a watch is at the gym or pool. Jewelry adds the sparkle, the shin and finishing touch that makes you feel  just like a Princess.
Fact: You're never too old to dress up and feel like a Princess!

Jewelry is such a diverse element of fashion and there's a style for every gal. Whether you're traditional with a strand of pearls, minimal with dainty pieces, edgy with graphic lines, natural with stones & leather or over the top with rhinestone statement pieces your jewelry let's your personality shine!

I have a little bit of every style in my jewelry box but I primarily wear classic, sometimes vintage, shiny gold pieces and big rings! Despite having teeny tiny hands I love wearing big, dare I say gaudy, rings!

Wear what you like gals and let your personality shine!

Here are some of my favorites for jewelry ....

Gorjana

My most favorite for delicate pieces that are great for everyday and layering.
I wear these gold hoops ALL the time.

Kate Spade
I've been wearing this jewelry since college and I'll never stop! It's beautiful, unique and lasts forever.

Julie Vos
I adore the European style of this jewelry.  The bright gold and colorful gemstones are brilliant.

Honora
I'm a pearl girl forever. Classic and timeless beauties.

J Crew
I've been wearing this jewelry since college too.  From the classics to big statement pieces, they will always make you shine.

Madewell
This jewelry is chic, modern and great for all occasions.
I wear and gift this jewelry so much.

Lisi Lerch
Such fun and festive pieces!

Kendra Scott
Not only is her jewelry beautiful, custom and full of new designs but she's so very generous and philanthropic!

My wedding day pearls - vintage triple strand

Dress Beautifully in Beautiful Baubles

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Rock 'N Roll

Gals, I love leather! I used to tease Ryan telling him that the way to my heart was in fine leather goods.  There's a lot of truth in that! I meant handbags and shoes and he's certainly won me over several times.

Leather as it relates to fashion used to have such a 'bad girl' or 'motorcycle babe' reputation and primarily be used in jackets but today's designs are luxurious and chic! Incorporating leather into feminine designs is sharp. It is a texture I look forward to wearing each Winter.

This sheath dress makes quite the statement.  It's sophisticated enough for the office and chic enough for a night out.  Add a blazer or tweed jacket during the week and statement jewelry with a pair of high heels on the weekend.
Add some fur and you're set for Sunday church service.

Note:  I do wish this dress was sleeveless for layering and movement purposes but since it is actually 'faux' leather it's soft and very easy to move in.

If your going to layer your leather pieces I encourage you to use contrasting textures like a soft sweater or silk blouse.  It balances against the slick/stiff texture of the leather.

BTS: Gracious it was a windy day! 

Leather Dress | Pumps & Similar | Similar Clutch | Earrings | Bangle |

Dress Beautifully in Leather

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: Perfect Match

O Happy Monday Mammas! I know I've told you over and over but Monday's are my favorite!!! I just love the start to a new week - fresh and full of possibilities. 

I started off this week hosting a play date this morning with a new gal pal I met through Vivian's preschool.  Her daughter is in Vivian's class & she's in my MOPS group.  I legit picked her up!  I met her over the summer just at drop offs and pickups during Summer Camp and have just loved her friendly and happy spirit.  Her name is Sarah and a local from Charlotte so I mean she must be fabulous! 

Just like dating finding gal pals can be challenging but have a little courage and don't be afraid to ask for her number :)

You gals know I love dressing myself so having a little girl was double the fun! And since we're two of a kind we should look like it. I don't coordinate our outfits every day but I most certainly give it my best effort on Sundays for church and fun occasions when I can. 

These cozy pullovers are just as precious and perfect as they can be! And practical!

And for my sweet boy Mammas, they come in Navy too.

And don't be discouraged, if you want to match your little boy you go right ahead - twinning isn't just for the girls! 

If you're not totally into the exact replicated pieces just choose the same colors or prints. 

Here are some other Mommy and Me matching outfits ...

Cardigan Sweaters

Lilly Pulitzer has great options HERE

Vests: Mamma & Mini

Pajamas Here Here & Here

Shep Shirt for Mamma & Mini & Bigger Kids

Dress Beautifully in Mommy and Me

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Friday Favorites: Gift Guides

TGIF gals! Brrrrr it has been a frosty week here.  We are missing playing outside but making the best of indoor activities.

If you've ventured out at all in the past few weeks you may have had to check the date because it appears to be December already.  I'm talking about ALL the Christmas in ALL the stores.  It truly starts earlier every single year. I strongly believe that decorating your home should take place AFTER Thanksgiving because stopping to give gratitude with loved ones deserves focus.

However, when it comes to shopping for gifts I do believe that there is great benefit in striving to complete it in the month of November. December is full of fun events and it's important to enjoy them and experience the joy of the season.  It can eliminate pressure and stress to have your shopping completed ahead of time.

Make a list of those you want to buy for and set a budget! Finances are a huge element that should be addressed first.  You should NEVER go beyond your means to bless someone.  The blessings then become burdens and a detriment on you. The recipient would never want that for you.
Gifts are an act of love and gratitude.  Keep that in mind when making your selections.  It is not about the expense but the thought and meaning.

Side note: I personally find handmade and vintage items the most precious gifts! Check out Etsy to find those one of a kind pieces! 

Sometimes finding that awesome gift you know the recipient will love is easy but often it can be difficult.

Some of my fellow bloggers have put together some fabulous gift guides that I'm excited to share!

DO SAY GIVE

Lee writes the most beautiful and encouraging blog! 

She values tradition and manners and most of all loving God and others.

She is my favorite to follow.

She has gift guides for ALL occasions all year long that I'm positive you'll find most helpful.

THE BROKE BROOKE

Brooke loves to share finds that are friendly on your budget. 

She's a new Mamma like me and is great at sharing gifts for littles.

BISHOP & HOLLAND
Another favorite blog I follow. These gals are 100% chic and Southern when it comes to fashion.

TODAY
The Today show has ALL the info on ALL the things!
This guide allows you to break down your search to find just the right gift.

Go get those gifts gals so you can sit back and enjoy the joy of the season!

Dress Beautifully and Gift Joyfully

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Sweater + Skirt + Sneakers = Cozy, Chic & Comfy

Gals, Winter has just crashed our party! Playing outside is our favorite but gracious these cold temperatures have us looking wishfully through the windows.

Sweaters have always come second to blouses and jackets in my wardrobe but the past two years I've found that if I invest in more quality sweaters that have interest I will actually wear them and be warmer. Sweaters were either boring in just solid colors or the material was synthetic so it wasn't comfortable or they were just too casual in design.

I'm loving chunky knits, patterned designs and statement sleeves on sweaters! I've also figured out that I don't like long sweaters but prefer them to hit right at my hips.

Here's how to style them to avoid the predictable pairing of just jeans and boots.

- with a midi slip, pleated, printed or tiered skirt
- over top of a midi dress
- with a mini skirt with over the knee boots
- with a pencil skirt (Tip: either the sweater or skirt is best printed)
- with bright/printed pants

I found this amazing sweater at a local boutique and absolutely LOVE it for its pattern and thick knit.  It almost looks handmade.

I paired it with this tiered skirt that at first glance most would say is just for Spring/Summer. But with this sweater it takes on a Winter feel. Sneakers are styled with EVERYTHING these days and while my style is the farthest from 'Sporty Spice' I'm embracing the comfort it brings!

I wouldn't suggest this look for the office but grab a gal pal and wear it to lunch, shopping or a fun party.

Get creative with your pairings and make the most of your wardrobe!

*The outtakes are my favorite :)

Similar Sweater & Here & Here | Similar Skirts | Sneakers | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in a Sweater, Skirt & Sneakers Combo

XOXO Sarah-Louise