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.

NAVY PINSTRIPE JUMPSUIT - BLACK JUMPSUIT

PUMPS - BOOTIES 

Dress Beautifully in a Jumpsuit

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday Favorites: Black for Spring

 TGIF! As you probably know, I rarely wear black but when I do make it with ruffles and puff sleeves pretty please. I believe that's the key to keeping such a dark hue from becoming too heavy.  Feminine details keep the look more fun than formal. 

Sunglasses - Similar Hunter Bell Top

When wearing black I like to try and mimic the chic way Audrey Hepburn styled the classic color. She kept it sleek and youthful. It also helped that her attitude and smile exuded happiness.

Style Tip: Avoid polished accessories such as pearls and rhinestones but rather opt for shiny gold and natural beaded baubles to keep it more casual & modern.

Here are some pretty black beauties for Spring ...

Eyelet Top

Eyelet Dress

Embroidered Skirt

Flutter Sleeve A-Line Dress

Eyelet Sleeve Maxi Dress

Puff Sleeve Collared Short Sleeve Sweater

Linen Midi Skirt

Ruffle Sleeve Top

Button Front Top

Denim Rolled-Sleeve Shirt

Dress Beautifully in Black this Spring

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Friday Favorites: Black Beauties

My Dress

TGIF! It's Halloween Eve and I have some Spooktacular black beauties to share with you.

Let's talk about the color black.  I don't wear it very often because it is so dark and I have a love of all things light and bright which is why white is my most favorite neutral to wear. Black can often camouflage the details of a garment, but it can also be camouflaging on the figure in a flattering way. 

I believe the key to wearing black is all about the fabric and shape of a garment. Dark as it may be it is a sharp classic color making everything else stand out, your face, hair, jewelry and shoes. 

Here are some beautiful black pieces in pretty fabrics and strong shapes:

 

Ruffled Top

#1 on my wish list

Faux Leather Strong Shoulder Top

Pink Floral Ruffle Top

Mock Neck Puff Sleeve Top

also in solid black

Textured Collar Puff Sleeve Top

Also in the prettiest pink

Faux Leather Puff Sleeve Top

Organza Top

such a feminine fabric

Silk Ruffle Collar Top

also in white and fuchsia

Velvet Bow Halter Top

also in bright pink

Lace Trim Tulip Sleeve Top

3 other colors

Eyelet Top

Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

classic - lots of color options

Mini Ruffled Dress

Tie Dye Shift Dress

Flared Mini Dress

Crisp Maxi Dress

I have this in one of the print options

Floral Long Sleeve

Dress Beautifully in Black

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Licorice & Whiskey

When it comes to brown I'm all about the lighter and richer shades, most often referred to as cognac or whiskey.  They're warm and smooth as Mr likes to say.

I find it common to pair neutrals with colors but how refreshing to go all neutral.  Typically I style my neutrals on the lighter side with ivory and tan but with Fall right around the corner I'm craving darker hues and cooler temps!

I eyed this skirt for a few weeks in the store and when a sale promotion rolled around I scooped it up!  I love the color and touch of luster in the fabric.  While the length is slightly longer, hitting right below the knee the vertical buttons down the front create a long line on the body.
Note: These buttons are 'faux' / nonfunctioning so no worries on puckering or pulling when you sit!
Midi lengths can evoke a fear of shortening for most gals.  Keep the hem no longer than the top of your calf and the waist high and you'll find your lower body will actually appear longer.

I challenged myself to incorporate more black into my wardrobe.  That's a big stretch outside my comfort zone as it's the color I wear the very least. This skirt was the perfect piece to pair with black.

Take a break from the rainbow and style your next look with browns and black.

Top: Brooks Brothers & Similar || Skirt: Ann Taylor & Similar & Here || Pumps: Nine West ||

Gold Bangle: J Crew || Handbag: Prada & Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Black & Brown

XOXO Sarah Louise

Crisp Black Shirtdress

The shirtdress is just what it sounds like - a dress version of the button up shirt.  Think of it as feminizing the man’s dress shirt.  Made of crisp cotton and with the traditional curved hem and a touch of modern and casual with rolled sleeves, it’s the perfect balance.

To me this is the picture of polished style.  The style is timeless. The fit is feminine, skimming the body not swallowing or hugging too tightly.  And it’s a blank canvas for endless accessorizing!

I shared with you that my goal was to incorporate more black into my wardrobe and I’m pretty proud of myself for actually braving the darker side.  I started with this eyelet blouse I shared with you last week, and added this dress next.  I stayed within my style perimeters just opted for the opposite of my go-to shade of white.

Confession: I snagged this dress in white a few months ago – I have no shame in multiples when it comes to the classics!

I find that gals instinctively pair black ensembles with black shoes.  Personally, nude shoes are my favorite pairing for black.  It’s not matchy-matchy and because it blends with your skin it doesn’t distract. 

I went with a pair of espadrilles for a more casual and comfortable look.

I did however add color and texture with this statement stone necklace in red & turquoise.  I’ve been obsessed with natural elements when it comes to jewelry lately – stones, leather, sea glass, wood etc…

This dark shirtdress will not only keep you cool in it’s easy cotton design but brings lots of chic to your summer wardrobe!  It’s perfect for the office or weekends with changes to your shoes; pumps, flats, wedges or sandals you can’t go wrong!

Just be sure to also have fun with your accessories on this blank canvas. 

Black Shirtdress: J Crew || Wedges: Tory Burch & Similar || Handbag: Tory Burch & Similar ||

Necklace: Similar & Here || 

Dress Beautifully in a Crisp Black Shirtdress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Camel + Black

Camel and Black, a traditional, neutral and contrastingly sharp pairing. This isn't basic nor is it plain.  I detest those words.  It's classic and timeless.

I find there is great beauty and elegance in a clean and uncomplicated look.

I love prints, embellishments and all the color I can get but it's nice to reset with a clean slate.

I believe that when you are wearing a neutral look that you should add some shine with jewelry and a soft print like animal in a belt, handbag or shoes.  Python is one of my favorites! Keep your jewelry and print in a minimalistic size.

Add some sophistication with camel & black.

Black Turtleneck: Banana Republic - Similar - Similar & Here || Camel Coat: Similar - Similar & Here ||  Jeans: AG - Similar ||  Snake Wedges: Tory Burch || Earrings: Trina Turk ||

Dress Beautifully in Camel & Black

XOXO Sarah Louise