Sep 30, 2024

Handling the Hard

 Throughout my life I've heard the question "how did you get through that" or "I don't' know how she does it". I'm NOT a superhero but I do have God. 

I've had some very challenging seasons growing up, caring for my Mama, living long distance from Ryan, stressful corporate career, enduring a year long military deployment and heart shattering loss. They were all so very very hard.


Ryan has been practicing emergency medicine for a while now working very long hours and mostly nights and weekends ... it has done me in so many times! This past summer he accepted a new position traveling out of state for over half the month. Our thought is it would be less days and more time at home but again more hard. 

These are just a few of life's challenges I'm willing to share here and I know you could share a big list with me. We ALL have hard!

How do we get through? GOD!


We go to Him! 
He will give us strength, patience, endurance, knowledge, wisdom and peace and so much more to put one foot in front of the other. 


Stop over and over throughout your days and give thanks for all things big and small.

Note: the hard time may persist and sometimes for a long time but He is with you, providing for you and protecting you!


When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; Isaiah 43:2


I've had several friends with challenging circumstances lately and even this weekend neighbors without power and the Western side of our state in devastating ruin. You still have hard but so do others.
Pray - there is power in Him.
Give - share your blessings.


I see that throughout my life God prepared me with skills and grew my character to persevere my hard times.

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5: 3-5

Dress Beautifully in the Hard Times

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 27, 2024

Friday Favorites: Trench Coats

 TGIF! With all the rainy weather, today is perfect for sharing the classic trench coat. This is a timeless piece that has a lasting role in your wardrobe. I have a midi length tan trench coat that I've had since I was engaged 16 years ago. It's a quality piece I'll continue to wear for many more years to come.


Now this year I added this CROPPED TRENCH for a sporty, modern look. 

Here are some pretty trench coats ...




also in black & navy


also in khaki & black







Dress Beautifully in a Trench Coat

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 25, 2024

Jumpsuits, Accessorized

 I share jumpsuits all the time because I love them. 

Hear me out, take an a-line maxi dress and make the skirt pants and you have a jumpsuit. Now, I know there is more involved in removing it when you go to the ladies room. It's not even 30 seconds! And if you're like me and rarely drink water, it's not an issue (I actually am trying for real this time to drink more!)

I find the cohesiveness, long line and sleek look jumpsuits have flattering. I like the wide leg pant and versatility of layering.


This navy pinstripe is SHARP! It has the sophistication of a suit and modern playfulness of a jumpsuit.
I added a snake print belt for texture, pattern and add contrast. You could do this with a fun jacket and/or boots. 


I carried my bag as a clutch for a chic and more special occasion look.
For day, grab your shoulder bag.


This all black jumpsuit is great for work, a night out or for holiday events (if you're thinking about that already). I rarely wear black but it is a vey classy palette with endless opportunities to accessorize.
Also, this one is a fabulous price!


I added a vintage Ralph Lauren belt that has a western feel but in black gives a monochromatic look that gives added length. 
I added pattern and texture in my handbag - but still in the same neutral hues. 

I encourage you to use accessories to add interest and elevate a one piece dress or jumpsuit!
And they don't have to 'match' - in fact I find it more stylish when they don't.


Dress Beautifully in a Jumpsuit

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 23, 2024

Welcome Interruptions

 I don't know about you but I plan! I plan my months, weeks, days and even hours with lists on top of lists.

BUT here's the truth - these plans will be interrupted. They will not go as I have designed them to go. 

Something or someone is going to delay or halt my productivity and I've learned it's for good. God has bigger and better plans for my time than I do. He will take my day and use it for His glory when I am open and welcome to it. 

Last week my bestest gal pal of nearly 30 years called me in the mid afternoon and I almost didn't answer it ... but thank the Lord above I did because she needed me and I needed to care for her!

Today in the midst of tasks a dear friend called with a sad heart and my tasks could wait to lift her spirits.


Note: My Sunday School student, Juliet, really enjoys baking.
She made Italian lemon cookies especially for me (lemon is my fav!)
I was tickled to share them with my Mama!

Then as I was getting back on track, my Mama called and said she was close by (she had an appointment and naturally she didn't tell me when I saw her Saturday). So I got myself together and welcomed her into our home with lunch and tea for two!

Putting people over projects is the best priority! 

When we've made our plans and lists ...
First, make sure there's 'white space' on the calendar = room for the unexpected
Then, give it to God to do with it as He will.
Welcome, with discernment (work does have to get done), interruptions ... they just may be a much needed blessing!

Dress Your Day Beautifully Welcoming Interruptions 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 20, 2024

Friday Favorites: Crisp Button Up Shirts

 TGIF! This has been such a FUN week!!! Activities are in full swing not just for Vivian but for me too! I had two events last night and it was wonderful to get gussied up and enjoy time with friends. 

I find that this time of year can be tricky dressing for a day with cool & warm temperatures. 


I love the contrasting collar & cuffs

A crisp button up is a classic option. It pairs beautifully with just about everything, it's sophisticated while also comfortable and is just right for the in-between weather.

Here are some pretty crisp button up shirts ...

STRIPE POCKET SHIRT

BOLD STRIPE

CLASSIC WHITE


also in sold colors


also in stripe


in solid colors & stripes

Dress Beautifully in a Crisp Button Up Shirt

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 18, 2024

STUDS

Studs are the embellishment of the season. I'm seeing them on shoes, clothing and handbags ... And I love it! It adds shine, texture and an edgy look. Metal adds an element of sophistication to an outfit. 


Style Tip - pair casually with a sweatshirt and sneakers

Here are some chic studded pieces ...


I ordered this one!











Dress Beautifully in Studs

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 16, 2024

Million Dollar Smile

 Gals, for the past week I've smiled so big my cheeks are sore. I completed 18 months of Invisalign and now I have the prettiest teeth!


Backstory: I was born without lateral teeth, baby and permanent leaving my two front teeth very gapped. My mother worked very hard to put me in braces as soon as she could. My top teeth were all moved forward to close the gap and reshaped to look like I wasn't missing teeth. 
Fast forward 30 years, a lot of shifting occurred resulting in misalignment and bite/jaw issues. Atheistically they were also not their best.


I can NOT believe I'm sharing this!!!

I find that we all have areas of insecurity in our appearance. My teeth were just one of mine. 
I'm still the same lady on the inside, but gracious I am more confident on the outside. My teeth are also healthier now that my bite and teeth are aligned. 

Note: it's important to know that even with this new confidence, my relationships did not change as they are NOT dependent on my appearance nor possessions. They are built on how we treat each other!

Invisalign or any orthodontic appliance is a commitment and must be in the care of a board certified Orthodontist! Mine was conservative and thorough which is very important. 


I wore my trays 22 hours a day!! I brushed and flossed nearly every single time I ate something.
I carried zip lock bags, toothbrush & floss in my handbags where ever I went. 
I cleaned them every day in RetainerBrite
Having plastic in my mouth was not fun and I was self conscious about it!

Note: It's also a financial commitment! I used our HSA account which helped. 

About half way through I got very antsy to be finished but I'm so proud I stayed the course as it is 100% worth it! Here's a post I wrote nearly a year ago in the midst of treatment where I shared what you're getting in to. 

My tear stained, very happy and proud face leaving my final appointments!

Technology today is far superior to when I originally had braces. If you are considering orthodontics, I encourage you to schedule a consult with your dentist and orthodontist!. 
My dentist played a role too in keeping my teeth clean, healthy and finishing the treatment with some cosmetic work. 

Going forward I have two veneers giving me teeth that look like laterals for the first time in 41 years!
I cried in my car leaving my final appointments!
I have permanent retainers on my top & lower teeth and will sleep in retainers at nighttime for my lifetime. Again, worth it! 


I believe in dressing your outsides beautifully
but remember, know and believe that
dressing your inside beautifully is what shines so bright!

Dress Your Smile Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 13, 2024

Friday Favorites: Flats

 TGIF! The older I get, the more comfort matters to me when it comes to shoes. I have horrendous feet (my friends and family call them hooves) and besides being rough they also have arthritis which can be painful. 



I find flats to be a great transition shoe between the sandals of summer and boots that it's just not yet cold enough for.

Here are some fabulous flats for Fall ...

Note: Sam Edelman is a great brand! Quality leather & construction with a nice price. 


this shoe comes in a variety of leather colors, velvet, corduroy and even mesh (NOT my thing)
I have this gold in my cart!


I've had a pair of these for several years and they are such great quality!
Very similar to high end designer pairs - TONS of color & material options 


this shoe is all the rage - several options 






this shoe comes in a variety of leather colors and fabrics 

Dress Beautifully in Flats

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sep 12, 2024

Short Sleeve Sweater

 Gals, it's not quite sweater weather but it sure is cooler and just right for a short sleeve sweater. 

I like short sleeve sweaters as they're less bulky, great for layering, add texture and add a good amount of warmth (this is the South). 


My sweater is from The Social Shop here in Charlotte

Style Tip: layer sweaters over midi dresses - great for cropped sweaters

Style Tip: If your sweater is longer than you'd like - add a belt to create shape and ideal proportions

Here are some pretty short sleeve sweaters ... 




9 colors


also in ivory


2 additional prints



Dress Beautifully in a Short Sleeve Sweater

XOXO Sarah Louise