Vibrant

This dress was love at first 'online' sight for it's bright and striking colors. It was winter when it debuted and I was full of energy for a fun and easy dress to wear under the sun.

The print was unique and had an exotic vibe like something you'd see on worldly travels. Clearly that's only happening in our dreams these days. But just because we aren't somewhere far away doesn't mean we can't dress like it. And when we dress for an occasion we feel like we're actually there and that my friends is worth the effort.

While the tiered swing style in a crisp poplin cotton makes this dress easy breezy in a very casual way, the ruffles along the neck and shoulder elevate it to add a touch of sophistication. When informal & formal elements collide it creates a very versatile piece that can be transformed across a multitude of affairs.
It's all up to the details of your styling.  For a dressy event choose heels, shiny jewelry and carry a small handbag like a clutch. For everyday wear, a flat sandal and crossbody bag will have you cute and comfortable.
Plus there's pockets!  Those are universally awesome.

I always, always evaluate the ability of a piece to be adaptable before purchasing.  It's important when investing in your wardrobe that your pieces add value and that means getting worn and in a variety of ways. This dress was a splurge of a gift and I plan to make good on it!

Dress | Sandals | Earrings | Sunglasses |

Dress Beautifully in a Vibrant Dress

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Southern Prints and Patterns

This sweet silk blouse has all the pretty traditional prints all in one.  But not in a mix matched way, rather delicate layers of all the quintessential Southern patterns strategically placed.

The soft magnolia blooms overtop the oh so subtle stripes framed by classic blue toile sleeves captures Southern charm to it's fullest. And these prints are all in my top 5 favorites.
My Grandma had toile wall paper and I've loved it ever since.  Now the magnolia has been my favorite flower always and I can't tell you how often I stare at the magnificent beauty in our front yard.  It even has a pink swing hanging from one of it's mighty branches for Vivian Louise to swing on.

Because this blouse is silk it's light, breezy and cool for the hot temps ahead.  One of my favorite details I neglected to capture are the buttons down the back. I love good details!

I've paired this sweet blouse with trousers for more of a dressy work look, but with shorts and wedges  you'd be pretty and casual for the weekend.

Tip:  When I buy a garment I try and think of all the styling options to make sure it's versatile so that it's not just a wear it once piece.

Printed Silk Blouse | Pants | Handbag | Similar Shoes | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in Southern Silk Patterns

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sweet Carolina Blue

This is it! This jumpsuit in it's Carolina blue gingham is the feel pretty piece for Spring.  I ordered it in February when the skies were sad grey and rainy but the sun is coming out and warming the air and I REALLY want to wear this in real life! 

Made of light cotton it's cool and comfortable.  The halter neck ties in a sweet bow and there's pockets! I won't avoid the truth, because it is a jumpsuit you will have to untie the bow unzip the back and be half naked when you go to the ladies room. Eh details.

The cut is the most flattering. Here's why, the halter neckline has angles that highlight your shoulders showing a little extra skin, elongating the arms and drawing the eye upwards to your face.  It also covers the décolletage which to me is always a good idea (cleavage is tacky!)

The waist band is at just the right spot creating a tiny waistline.  The wide leg pant balances the fitted bodice and creates lots of room for comfort. 

And because the pant is cropped you can wear what ever shoes you want.

I'm clearly in love.  I dressed it up with pumps and a pearl handbag but how cute would a pair of espadrilles or wedges be? Or even flat sandals for dinner and ice cream (at the beach would be best!)

Tip: Your hair is part of styling an outfit and you should always consider the neckline. If it's high put half or all of your hair up and if it's low/showing lots of skin wear it down. Balance. 

Gingham Jumpsuit | Pumps | Handbag | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in this Carolina Blue Gingham Jumpsuit

XOXO Sarah Louise

Ivory Trench

The trench is a timeless piece everyone should own. And not only will you always look classy, it's a wise investment.  Wear it for many many years (and it will keep you dry on rainy days like today).  About 90% of my closet is classic/timeless pieces.  So naturally, in my favorite color to wear, this dress was a perfect addition.

Midi length dresses or skirts are not just for taller gals.  Personally I feel they make me look longer.  And I'm more comfortable in longer lengths.

When we finally get some cooler fall weather I plan to contrast this dress with a modern suede Moto jacket.

I replaced the self fabric sash with a leather belt for added detail and color. And for some print and texture a pair of snake pumps. I always add my own belts to dresses.

I've already worn this dress on a gals night and to church!

Trench Dress | Pumps | Belt | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in a Trench Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Tie Up Top

After a very cold first half of the week I'm beyond excited for temps in the 60's this afternoon.  I'm craving Spring soooo bad! Being cooped up with a newborn makes it worse.  I can't take her out for our strolls when its cold and we both delight in sunshine and outside time.  Now that I'm back in the gym and seeing the return of my figure I'm itching to get into lighter and brighter clothes.

Tie front tops remind me of the 60's and are trending this season.  This one in particular I love because it's in a gingham print (classic) and not only does it have interest in the tie front, it also has buttons down the back - forgot to take a pic of that.  It's light weight to wear as a tee for a causal look but also appropriate for work if paired with trousers or a skirt.

Black and white combo is timeless and sharp.  A very clean palette.  For an extra summer and on trend look, I paired it with these comfy white wide leg jeans.  I bought them last season.  They're super comfy.  The trick for wide leg crop pants to not overwhelm you with volume, especially if your petite like me, is for a high waist design and a shorter or tucked in top.  Also consider a shoe with a heel for elevation.

I added just a hint of color with these blush slides.
I plan to pair these jeans with a sassy top & high heel for date night.

Add a twist to your basic top or tee with a tie front!

Gingham Tie Top & Similar - More Tie Up Tops ||  Similar Wide Leg White Jeans  ||

Slides & Similar  ||  Crossbody Bag  ||  Earrings  ||  Initial Necklace  ||

Dress Beautifully in a Tie Up Top

XOXO Sarah Louise