Summer Blaze

Summer can feel as hot as blazes! But just like I shared with you last week about dressing up a pair of shorts here on this post, you can still stay cool and look chic.

Shorts by nature are casual so when you contrast with dressier tops you create a nice modern balance.

Blazers can often convey a heavier, and sometimes stuffy vibe.  But in lighter fabrics and colors they won't weigh you down but simply add structure and shape to your body/outfit. Not all blazers are created equal, the key is in the details.  Functional cuff buttons allow you to roll up the sleeves for a more relaxed look.

Keep your underpinning loose and airy such as a camisole or cotton tee.  You can showcase even more of your personality with a graphic tee.

Same goes for shorts.  If you're more of a preppy gal opt for colored, printed or striped shorts, if you're more casual/sporty opt for distressed denim and if you are on the classic side of style choose a high waist short in a neutral shade.

Accessorizing with dainty gold jewelry adds just the right sprinkle of shine and doesn't overwhelm the overall look.

Mixing super casual pieces with dressier pieces not only allows for versatility of your wardrobe but presents a modern style that's worth admiration.

Blazer | Cami | Shorts | Pumps | Earrings | Layered Necklaces |

Dress Beautifully in a Blazer & Shorts

XOXO Sarah Louise

Long Vest

Long layers aren't just for your hair style.  Adding long layers to your wardrobe is not only modern and chic it's quite functional and flattering.  I find that longer skimming pieces elongate the body, creating a lean silhouette.  While the sleeveless aspect allows for movement and ease of layering over  an array of garments.

Think of this long vest as a blazer when it comes to styling.  It has the sharpness of suiting but easily paired with jeans and tees for a casual look.

I kept this outfit neutral with a nude camisole and black trousers.

Long Vest & Similar & Here & Here || Black Trousers & Similar & Here ||  

Camisole || Bangle || Heels & Here || 

Dress Beautifully in a Long Vest

XOXO Sarah Louise

Short Suit

Summer is the season for shorts.  Dressing in this Southern heat is all about comfort and keeping cool.  Shorts aren't my favorite as they by nature expose more leg than I'd like.  I choose shorts that are what I call a mid-length.  Not too short and not down to my knees - a 4"-5" inseam is my preference.

Since I'm a dressy kind of gal, I added chic to this causal garment by pairing with a blazer; Creating the 'short suit'.  Typically causal pieces, such as shorts, designed in a nicer fabric takes the piece up a notch.  I like mixing my my work wear and weekend wear garments.  It makes for an stylish ensemble.

I went with a monochromatic palette in crisp, clean white.  I went with a neutral wedge and kept my accessories simple.  Gals, it's better to keep your accessories to a minimum as you want to achieve an effortless look.  Like Coco Chanel said "Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory".

Over styling = gaudy!

Try dressing up your shorts with blouses and blazers for a chic look for weekend brunches, parties or date nights.

Jacket: Ann Taylor || Camisole: J Crew || Shorts: Loft || 

Wedges: Tory Burch || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in a Short Suit

XOXO Sarah Louise