Dress Beautifully: February 2020

Feb 28, 2020

Friday Favorite: Jean Queen

TGIF! This week was anything but typical. I'm still fighting hard against this horrible germ but I can feel small improvements - I can actually mutter sounds even if they do sound like a squeaky mouse but the all night violent cough refuses to leave UGH. I did made it to the gym yesterday for the first time in 6 days and gals it felt so good!

You know what else feels good, when you find a great fitting pair of jeans! Since having Vivian Louise you can now call me the 'Jean Queen'. Outside of church and evenings out I'm in blue jeans Every. Single. Day. My sister was actually laughing because literally I do ALL the things in blue jeans. She even called me out on changing out of my 'nice' jeans when I get home from an outing into my 'toddler approved house jeans'. Several years ago she realized that there is a person who actually chills in their home in blue jeans. That person is me #jeanqueen.

Boyfriend - Distressed Mom - Demi Boot - Straight - Skinny

This picture hopefully showcases the differences in the leg/hem openings of each style.

Now, this doesn't mean I own a bazillion pairs. I have one drawer and less than 10 are blue, 1 pair is black and 1 pair is coated black. Now, when it comes to white jeans I have far too many and I have no apologies about it. I'll share about those as we get closer to Spring.

Gals, jeans are the workhorse of your wardrobe. They are paired with casual cotton tops for home, dressier tops for daytime outings with flats or sneakers and completely jazzed up with sassy tops and heels for evenings. They wear a lot of tops making them versatile and worthy of intentional investment. Meaning, streamline your denim inventory to include functional and flattering pairs!

Tip: I wear my jeans about 4-5 times before washing. I launder them inside out and NEVER dry them. And I always iron out the wrinkles!

Here are the Fab 5 I wear all the time ...

SKINNY

High Rise Skinny Jeans

These are the ultimate skinny jean (in my opinion) because the rise is higher holding you in, the color is darker with shading that adds contour making your legs look long and lean, the fabric has the right amount of stretch for movement but not too much that they loose their shape and slide and super soft with Tencel in them. The length is crucial in a skinny jean. You never want bunching at the ankle so if you find a pair that fits just right but too long - HEM them! Tailors can work magic to keep the original hem style.

I've had this pair for a few years now and they are THE pair when I want to look and feel sassy! Skinny jeans are the perfect style for fun nights out with an embellished top & heels for a more polished and modern look.

They're also great for day with an more voluminous or tunic top to balance the proportions.

STRAIGHT

Vintage Straight Jeans

These are currently my most favorite! And the most flattering on EVERY gal!!! In a higher rise and straight cut they are the most slimming. These have just the tee tiniest amount of stretch and very subtle shading for a classic clean look. They skim the legs unlike the skinny which is like a second skin. This allows for easy movement and is extremely elongating on the legs. I'm petite and super self conscious about my legs and these help me feel confident in how they look. #winner

DEMI BOOT CROP

Demi-boot Crop

These are very similar to the straight with just a tad more of an opening at the hem which is ankle length on this pair. An ankle length jean is hands down the way to go so that you can wear absolutely any pair of shoes you want! Even for boots you don't have to worry about shoving extra fabric in them. The little kick of flair on these is fun, modern and subtle which makes them more of a staple piece rather that a 'here today gone tomorrow' trend.

I also want to add that button front is slimming on the lower abdomen which is a common area of concern for gals. I also think it adds just a little more shine and classic look :)

DISTRESSED MOM

Distressed Mom

Gals, these are my favorite fun jeans. 'Mom' jeans are all the rage! In a lighter wash, higher rise and straight/tapered leg they are basically what your Mamma wore in the 80's & 90's with modern touches.

They're super fashionable right now and not to mention crazy comfortable. I love the higher rise, looser leg and modern distressing. In fact they have a few new rips gifted from Vivian haha. These are a splurge but I was able to find them online for 70% off #winning. Normally I would advise against a wash this light as it isn't as slimming but in this roomier straight design they don't cling to the leg. I've worn these casually and dressed up.

BOYFRIEND

Boyfriend

These are more of a lower rise and much looser fit. They're casual and don't really cling to any part of your lower body. The trick is to have them fit the hips and have the rest a little loose but NOT baggy! That would make you look sloppy and bigger. I would stray away from tops that are super fitted and supper loose because you'll create unflattering proportions. Opt for semi-fitted tops and a loose tuck to add some shape.

Boyfriend jeans are great for day and weekends but I would save them for when you already have an inventory of the more classic jeans in your closet.

Blue Jean Baby!

Here are my tips for scouting out a good pair of jeans:

1. Darker wash with subtle shading - slimming & hides stains #momlife

2. Slight stretch - too much and they loose shape, slide down and too clingy

3. Mid-High rise - holds in place, flattering on your torso, creates small waist line & great for tucking.

4. Back Pockets hit at the bottom of your derriere - too high adds width and lower will flatten

5. Ankle length - allows for any shoe pairing

Dress Beautifully in Blue Jeans

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Feb 26, 2020

White Dress Refresh

Spring is coming! I can feel it or it's just that I'm just so hopeful for warm weather, for flowers to bloom and all the outside fun with Vivian. It may feel like we just celebrated the new year with bright ambitious goals and new healthy habits but I think that life is about constantly working towards being better. Today marks the start of lent - I shared about my plans for this season on Monday's post.

While life is full of fresh starts, your wardrobe can be 'refreshed' too. A monochromatic look in all white can literally be a clean blank look to reset a style rut. It's not void of interest, the sleek streamlined ensemble in itself is interesting because how often do you see someone so bright? Well unless you know me in real life. I wear all white outfits all the time and every time I do I receive so many compliments!

It allows your face, hair and smile to really shine. Now, I do like adding gold jewelry and belts in a lighter shade can really add shape and make the look pop without a harsh interruption.

Since it is still Winter this dress is ivory, but come Easter all the bright whites in crisp cotton are coming out.

Dress Beautifully in All White

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Feb 24, 2020

Turning Less into More

Happy Monday! Gracious I feel like I'm in a all out war against this horrific virus that has me with no voice and ALL night violent coughing for nearly a week now. I'm a fighter but I'm ready for it to be over!

Sunshine with my darling girl yesterday was the best medicine!

We are approaching the season of Lent this week and while this isn't a practice that I grew up participating in nor does my church now (I believe it's more prominent in the Catholic faith) I do find value in it's purpose.

Here's a short summary I pieced together from google ....

Lent is the period of 40 days which comes before Easter in the Christian calendar. Beginning on Ash Wednesday, Lent is a season of reflection and preparation before the celebrations of Easter. By observing the 40 days of Lent, Christians replicate Jesus Christ's sacrifice and withdrawal into the desert for 40 days.

Jesus fasted during his time in the wilderness, and so Christians identify with his suffering by abstaining from particular foods during this time, including meat, fish, milk and egg products.

People have modified this period of fasting with the removal of distractions to gain more focus and prioritize time with God. Having greater intimacy with God is the reward of the sacrifice. His love and one’s salvation are not reliant on denying oneself chocolate or beer, but idolatry stands in the way of worshiping the one true God. These 40 days are set aside to praise and worship the Lord; to read the Bible more, and to pray more often.

I don't know about you but I have plenty of distractions from spending time with God! I also find that there are so many 'thieves' that I allow to take my time throughout the day ... a huge one being the internet & social media.

This year I've decided to fast from shopping for myself for the 40 days. I want to put more focus into time with God and also into projects and in appreciating the abundance of what I have.
This world is drowning us in the idea that we need more more more and new new new when God says He will provide ALL that we need.

I'll be honest, it will not be easy and that's embarrassing for me. I believe it's common for us to take for granted our spending and indulgences when we swipe our cards and click the 'check out' button on our computers. Though I do not exceed the perimeters of our budget, it is resources spent in a luxurious and time consuming way.

This is NOT about loosing or depriving but about gaining and growing!

So here's how I plan to replace this distraction ....

1. Dive deeper into God's Word
I plan on starting a new devotional book (I haven't narrowed it down yet but will share when I do)

2. Complete Vivian's Baby Book
Gracious she's 26 months old and I don't even know where to start! I'm going to tackle 1-2 months a day of organizing pictures and documenting milestones. Then I will begin uploading them into a digital book and online storage. This has been a an ongoing goal but was just so big that I was too intimidated to start.

3. Home Organization
I have already used the Marie Kondo method on my closets (not the first or second time) which really ignited this fast as I realized I have far too much! I'm moving on throughout our home. I've even gathered Vivian's baby items and prepared them for a new home.

4. Read
Rather that going down rabbit trails on the internet or run around visiting stores I'm going to get back into reading books. I did a lot of reading outside last year but put it aside once the weather turned cold.

5. Prepare Our Garden
The season is changing and I'm so excited to be outside preparing to grow delicious vegetables and herbs. Last year was my first time tending a garden. Vivian and I had so much fun every day caring for it.

Let's roll up our sleeves and get to work on realigning our priorities!

My new year's goal was to be more giving and I'm hopeful that this will align just right.

And since this is a fashion blog, let me say that great style isn't about buying new all the time. Using the beautiful pieces that you have in creative ways is what makes great style!

I encourage you to embrace a period of less, whatever that looks like for you, in efforts to gain more!

Dress Beautifully Turning Less into More

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Feb 21, 2020

Friday Favorites: Splurge vs Steal

TGIF! Gracious gals this week has been a doozy! A vicious germ has me down ... well as down as a Mamma can be (we don't get sick days). For the past several nights I've had a violent cough keeping me up and on the couch so that Ryan can sleep. At some point in the middle of the night last night I was coughing so hard I was crying and wishing someone would just take me out back and put me out of my misery. #truth
Oh and due to my sore throat I have no voice at all which has Vivian very very confused.
Bless her heart she's been so sweet and thank goodness hasn't been attacked by this horrific monster germ.

Highlight of the week, our darling gal in pig tails for school!

I've found myself admiring some really pretty designer pieces lately but NOT their price tags. With a little online (and Instagram) searching I've been able to find items that are just as pretty.

Note: I honestly had intentions of sharing a lot more but #germ.
Here are some fun retailers I've been loving lately that carry great designer inspired pieces:
Willow Park Boutique - River Island - Mulberry & King - H&M - ASOS

I've talk to you gals before on this post about the difference between 'replica' and 'resemble' pieces. Replicas are what you would call 'fakes' while designs that are inspired by and simple resemble are a better option in my opinion. They're not a copy cat but of similar style elements.

So here are some designer pieces I admire and pieces that resemble them at a lower price point:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |

Dress Beautifully Whether it be in a Splurge or a Steal

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Feb 19, 2020

Tunic Tune Up

Tunic dress are great for several reasons. They fit every body type, comfortable, cool in the summer, and are versatile for any occasion. The key to making them versatile is styling.

I believe that belts hold a lot of power. They instantly transform a piece and can take a shapeless tunic dress and give it a cinched waist at the snap of a buckle. They also add texture, shine and detail to an outfit. Belts are truly one of my favorite accessories and most of mine are vintage treasures I've collected over the years like this one.

There are belts for every single style. You can go fancy with designer belts, casual with rattan or braided belts, boho with woven and tie belts, cinched with a stretch belt and super shiny with a chain belt. I haven't worn mine in a while and now I really want to put together an outfit with it.

As with your belt shoes can change the look as well, sandals and sneakers will probably be what I wear most and leave the heels for church and nights out.

Tune up your tunic dresses with a belt!

Feb 17, 2020

Hustle for the Muscle

Happy Monday - let's start this week strong!

And maybe a little long, I'm going to try and keep it as condensed as I can but there's so much to say ....

At the start of the year I asked you, my beautiful readers, what you wanted to see on this blog for 2020 and I was so surprised that one of the requests I received most was 'what do I do for my work outs?'. Gals, I'm not a fitness expert however I do LOVE to exercise. I feel accomplished, healthy, strong, de-stressed and it's so much fun.

Exercising isn't a hobby, it's a lifestyle. What I mean by that is, it's not an optional activity. Eating isn't optional, clothes aren't optional .... exercising is as essential as water and nutrients to keep your body physically and mentally healthy.

I take the approach that God created me for His purpose and I want to make sure I take the best care of His creation so I can do His work at my very best.
I also remind myself of those that have physical limitations. It keeps my heart grateful for the blessing of my body especially when I'm down and critical about it.

Exercising is as personal as your style. There's not a one routine fits all and there's certainly not a 'get rich quick' way about it. It takes self-discipline and endurance.

Get Some!

HOW

When it comes to the types of exercise you do I believe it's key to have both cardiovascular (heart rate up at minimum 30 minutes) and weight bearing. I see a lot of people gravitate towards just one.
We NEED weight bearing to increase muscle (key to metabolism), fight against osteoporosis, joint health and to achieve a firm/toned body (muscles are way hotter than skinny).
We NEED cardio exercises to keep our heart healthy, burn fat and increase speed/endurance.

Basically, you can't just be a runner/cycler and you can't just pick up heavy things and put them down. Do Both!

Tip: Find what you like and do it. While running may seem to be the most popular form of cardio it's high impact and if you don't like it you won't enjoy it. Exercise should be enjoyed!
Personally, I adore running but only outside. I'm not crazy about cycling. So I rarely attend a spin class. However I do try and attend one every so often b/c instructors are all different and it's great to incorporate variety. I may just find a class I like.

WHAT

1. Weight Lifting
I love lifting weights, challenging myself to go heavier and making myself stronger.
I use free weights/dumbbells/kettlebells for my upper body and more machines for my lower body due to the amount of weight needed and the ergonomics of the exercises.

2. Cardiovascular
I run outside from 3-6 miles at a time.
I run sprints on the treadmill.
I warm up using the stair climber for ~15mins.
I participate in races every so often and have so much fun!

3. Classes
I attend athletic conditioning, cardio strength, kettle bell, barre/pilates classes and even a cardio dance class every now and then to spice things up.
I've even made a few friends in the classes I attend weekly.

Tip: Pinterest, YouTube and Fitness Blogs are great tools for exercises and tips!

WHERE

I'm 100% gym! I do NOT like working out at home. I like the resources, atmosphere, classes, fellowship and of course the child care that come with our gym. It also has an indoor and outdoor pool along with a splash pad.

Tip: Gyms should be convenient (or you won't go) and fit into your budget.

When I'm not inside the gym I'm outside running, hiking, strolling Vivian or doing landscaping. I incorporate as much outside time as I possibly can!

I know that due to time (jobs, kids etc..) getting to a gym can be difficult so by all means find a spot in your home and sweat!

My at home equipment: Bosu ball, free weights, TRX, medicine ball

Tip: Concentrate on the weekends Friday-Monday and leave the weekdays for rest so that you can concentrate on your work/home life.

There are tons of online resources that can help you reach your goals and some are even free!
Here are some my gal pals recommend: Sydney Cummings, Bikini Body Mommy, Fitness Blender and Kayla Itsines is very popular.

JUST DO IT!!!!!

WHO

Your workouts are yours. Focus on your goals and what challenges you and no one else.
Grab a gal pal and be sweat sisters; report into each other for accountability. If you're not comfortable with that log in your exercise in an app or your planner (I'm old school).
Tracking really helps progress.

I normally wear dark solid leggings but this design make me feel fierce ... and they're on sale!

WEAR

I definitely incorporate style into my sweat sessions but above being fashionable the clothes have to be functional . What I mean is it has to conceal, support and NOT move as I move.
Pieces that meet this criteria can be very expensive.

My Favorite: Leggings, Tank, Fitted Top, Shorts & Here, Bra, Socks & Shoes.

I recommend purchasing throughout the year such as a piece or two each month to avoid a huge receipt. I also believe that you should wear what works for your body and the exercises you are doing rather than what's cute, trending or what others are wearing.

Tip: I wash my workout wear independent of other garments on the delicate cycle and I never ever dry them! This helps them to last so much longer. My guest bathroom's shower rod turns into a hanging rack once a week.

I want to wrap this up (hopefully I haven't lost you yet) and encourage you to take care of yourself so that you can be healthy and energized because that allows you to be available to bless others!

VERY important Note: You can focus on ALL the exercising but if you eat/nourish yourself poorly it's all in vain. #truth

Crossing the finish line of the Hotlanta Half Marathon

Dress Beautifully & Hustle for the Muscle!

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Feb 14, 2020

Friday Favorites: Spring Dresses

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

I plan on smothering my valentines with X's and O's!

This year is our sweetest yet!
Our favorite part wasn't even the date night this year but the precious card Vivian made us at school! She has made the love we have for each other as husband and wife stronger and the love we share as a family grow everyday!

I found such a pretty Spring dress this past weekend and another arrived in the mail on Wednesday and gracious it has me craving sunshine! Since we have several more weeks before it will get here let's be prepared shall we :). Never too early to add some bright cheer to your closet!

Here are some of my favorite dresses for Spring ...