Lighter Side of Leopard

I need not remind you but I'm going to anyways, Leopard is a neutral!  My love of animal prints is no secret - plucking style right from nature so they effortlessly add a bit of fierceness to a look.

So, I know it's Monday and I always post a 'work' outfit but I want to show you more of how I take my 'work' pieces and turn them into modern chic ensembles for outside the office.  I went lighter with this after hours look.  Those 90's trends we rocked as youngsters are coming back and that means lighter denim washes.  I'm ok with it but please for the love of style don't go too far and pick up the acid wash #horror.  I find that most often leopard is paired with darker shades, black, burgundy, jewel tones which is fabulous but I almost prefer pastels and lighter neutrals. So I kept it clean & bright with a cotton crisp shirt, light jeans and added this leopard topper for the fun piece.

I believe that's the key.  Taking 'basics', solid, comfy, go-to garments and adding that one fun piece for the punch.  Whether that's a statement necklace, scarf or in this case jacket. It's the way to avoid a color block of solid boringness.

I did pair with a pump and polished bag but if that's still a little too dressy go with black flats and a crossbody bag.

This look was created from my capsule of 'Closet Classics'.  I've had each of these pieces for several years.
Gals, I can not buy all new outfits every month nor would I ever want to or suggest it.  I believe strongly and feel that I'm constantly writing to you, that investing in quality timeless pieces is far better than a high inventory of short lived trends.

But what about looking modern?  Uh I don't think I look dated. And I'm not saying I don't add to my wardrobe on the regular.  Purchase with intention.  Asking yourself, is this well made with good fabric and construction? Can this be worn in multiple atmospheres? Simply avoid the one time wear/won't be in style next season garments.

Leopard Jacket - Similar & Here || Crisp White Shirt || Jeans || Pumps || 

Tassel Earrings || Handbag || 

Dress Beautifully in a Lighter Leopard Look 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Crisp White Lace

This lace blouse is by far one of the loveliest pieces in my closet.  I was scrolling online and came to a halt when I saw it.  It's even more gorgeous in person!  It arrived and I basically ripped open the package to try it on.  Instantly I knew I'd be wearing it to church that next Sunday.
I couldn't wait to show it to my Mamma too - she of course loved it! We share in our ladylike style.

Oddly enough I'm not a 'lace' person.  I'm extremely prissy and feminine but even when shopping for my wedding gown, lace just didn't tickle my fancy.  I believe that this lace blouse works for me because it's design is that of a dress shirt with it's crisp collar and cuffs.  And y'all know I love a crisp white shirt!!!
It also has the black trim on the delicate scallops, defining the pattern.  I also love that the body of the blouse is completely lined.  I'm not a fan of shear lace because you have to layer a camisole and/or strapless bra and I don't find it to be appropriate for the office, therefore limiting it's wear.
 I like to invest in pieces that can be worn as much as possible.

I've tucked this blouse into a high waisted black pencil skirt so you are missing the scalloped hem. (stay tuned for a casual styling post with this blouse)
I believe that this lace blouse will be fun to wear all year round with endless styling options.  Think of it like a crisp white shirt but a little fancier.  It pairs with everything from skirts to trousers and even jeans. Or layer it underneath a sleeveless dress.

I'm coming around on lace.  It's not just for formal wear or your grandma's table top.  Constructed well and with lining (essential) it can add a whole lot of feminine detail to a look.

Lace Blouse: J Crew Similar and Here || Black Pencil Skirt: Ann Taylor || Pumps: Nine West ||

Handbag: Prada || Sunglasses: Kate Spade || Earrings: Kate Spade Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Lace

XOXO Sarah Louise

Red Hot

In red again.  It's just so fitting this time of year.  I love the look of a sharp red suit, but let's not go stepping on Santa's toes.  Split the pieces up.  I've shown you how to transition a red blazer into the weekend here and how to pair red with unexpected colors here.

Today, it's all about the flaming red pants.  Like I shared in Monday's post, let the bright red shine and be the focus. So I kept my pairings simple but by no means boring!

I couldn't wait to style this crop jacket this season. It's a favorite!  Glen plaid is a classic print and almost always done in the timeless black and ivory wool weave.  Houndstooth is my most favorite print - did ya'll know that?  It's been too long since I've styled houdstooth. Glen plaid is in the houndstooth family, it takes the print into a check/plaid pattern and varies the size of the checks.
This jacket reminds me of something Jackie O would wear and gals, you can't go wrong with the classics! Invest, they will last forever.
And just because they are polished pieces doesn't mean you're stuck wearing them in the office or church.  I top off a blouse, sweater or even denim shirt with this jacket along with my jeans and boots for the weekend.

Even though I added contrasting light and dark neutrals, by also having print in the jacket and pleats in the blouse the look has more interest and texture.  Color blocking is strong and showcases the color pairings, by adding subtle prints and textures your look is softer and the pieces are more complimentary to each other.

So in styling red pants, the sky is the limit. I chose glen plaid. Top them with a plaid button down, denim, or a sweater for a casual look.  Or, opt for a silk, lace or embellished top for a night out. Paired with neutrals or other bright colors, red is going to shine bright in your look.

Don't be intimidates by red pants, they're hot! And with your head held high, strut with confidence knowing you are and look fabulous!

My pieces are from several seasons ago - here are their current versions or similar 

Red Pants: Ann Taylor, Similar and Here || Glen Plaid Jacket: Brooks Brothers, Similar Here and Here || Ivory Shell: Trina Turk Similar and Here || Pumps: Nine West || 

Handbag: Prada Similar and Here || Sunglasses: Kate Spade ||

Dress Beautifully in Red Hot Pants

XOXO Sarah Louise