Friday Favorites: Classic Midi

 TGIF! It's been a packed week with fun, work and lots of organizing! We've had some rainy days and I've been tackling all the closets, cabinets and drawers so that when school starts we and our home are ready.

With the start of school comes all kinds of social occasions: meet the teacher, PTA, bible study and gathering with friends that I know I've missed all Summer.

A neutral midi dress is a versatile piece that is flattering and easy to layer and style.

Causal - sandals or sneakers with denim jacket or cardigan

Dressy - heels, bold jewelry with a small handbag

Fall - booties, sweater or leather jacket

Here are some pretty neutral midi dresses ...

HIGH NECK

also in brown & red - great price!

MOCK NECK

in white & brown

SCOOP NECK

ZIP FRONT

7 colors

V-NECK

COLLARED

ordered! love the navy

Dress Beautifully in a Midi Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

A Little Bootie

Down here in the South just because Labor Day has come and gone Summer's warm weather sticks around.  While some say you should kick those Summer ensembles out of your closet and into storage, I believe in hanging on a smidge longer. There's still plenty of wear left at least for the month of September and with a little styling you can find a middle ground before it's full on Fall fashion season.

 One of my favorite ways of transitioning my outfits from Summer to Fall is with a little bootie.

Pairing mini length dresses with a bootie marries elements of both seasons that's just right! It's a perfect balance of staying cool while dipping your toes into the cooler season.

It's also a very modern and comfortable look. It's a versatile outfit appropriate for dressy occasions like a dinner or night out while still easy enough for lunch with the gals. 

Y'all know I rarely wear black but with a design as cute as this one I'll embrace the darker side of dressing.  The ruffles around the neck and shoulders create such a pretty emphasis on the upper body towards your face, which is best in my opinion.  I love the smocked waist for shape and tiered fun skirt.  

This mini dress is #1 in my book as it's length isn't super short.  I'm only 5'2" if my hair is super big and the nurse doesn't smash it when she measures my height. Even being petite I'm often frustrated at how short dresses are these days. It's not ladylike for the hem to be shorter than your finger tips! #truth

Now, when it really gets chilly a denim or leather Moto jacket will layer beautifully.  You can also add more to your shoe and go with a knee high boot.

So, in a nut shell, booties bridge the gap from Summer to Fall styling when paired with sundresses.

Embroidered Ruffled Mini LBD | Ivory Bootie & Here & Here |

DressBeautifully with a Little Bootie

XOXO Sarah-Louise

LBD Summer Style

TGIF! It's been a hot week here in Charlotte but we've sweated through it with a lot of extra water and smiles because I'd rather be outside playing.

One of the things I'd rather not do, is wear the color black.  It's almost my least favorite color (sad sad gray holds the #1 spot - I refuse to dress or live looking like a prison). As much as I prefer light and bright shades, black is very striking and classic. You don't have to ditch the dark during the hot months. I'm going to show you how mixing in casual light accessories can give your LBD all the Summer vibes.

Tips:
1. A LBD in cotton or linen is best for warmer months - for all the reasons!
2. Coif your hair in a loose, relaxed style.
3. Keep your make up soft and natural and your lip color bright.

Black Dresses - Here - Here - Here - Here - Here

Add a rattan belt.  This not only breaks up the dark canvas but adds a natural & coastal texture.  Bonus: belts enhance your figure in such a flattery shapely way.  This belt is slightly stretchy, allows to you adjust to just the perfect snugness as you just perforate the weave and it comes in several colors (and in just 1-2 days!)

Wedges are a Summer essential for height and easy movement.

Add a Hat.  They make such a feminine statement while serving an essential function of providing cool shade from the sun (no wrinkles for me!). Top off you look with a light straw hat and for fun try swapping out the ribbon for a print/fabric that speaks to you. I promise you'll make a pretty statement at your next outdoor soiree.
You can also hide your hair underneath and avoid styling! Humidity will always win gals.

Espadrilles are my most favorite shoes this year! I'm wearing them constantly.  I've always loved the elegant ties but shied away because of my big ol' ankles.  Not anymore! I'm not letting my body insecurities hold me back (that does Not mean I stop dressing to flatter).

Natural Bags are so popular this year. You can just about find them anywhere. At your next target run, the mall j/k online or you could hunt at your favorite antique shop.  Etsy is like an online version, which is where I found this 70's wood beaded bag. When a trend is a comeback I try and source it from it's origin.

A flat sandal is a favorite shoe pairing for the Summer for its comfort and casual look. The key to styling a LBD in summer is to tone down the formality.  Save the pearls and pumps for the stuffier occasions.
These star wrap sandals are the most comfortable to walk in and they're super cute!

Color and print will most definitely cheer up a dark look. Prints also add dimension and interest against solids.  Love a colored snake bag! Metallics may be one of my favorite additions to any outfit.  I love shiny things (just like my toddler).  These shiny sandals add just the right amount of dressy while still pairing beautifully with a laid back look such a shorts. Jewelry can also act as your something shiny.

Seashell accessories instantly give you those beach vacation vibes. And I don't know who isn't craving a vacation these days!
Here is some pretty shell jewelry to mix in this summer - Here & Here & Here

These gold sandals are my 3rd of 4th pair, I've lost track. I absolutely love them and wear them with everything during Spring & Summer. Available in a ton of colors.

Have a wonderful weekend :)

And stay cool 😎

Dress Beautifully in a LBD this Summer

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Python Purse

Gals, this look bumped the others down on the list to post because I was so excited to share this python purse Mr gifted me for Christmas.  I had posted about it on this Friday 5 Post several weeks back and when it was 30% off for Black Friday I made sure Mr knew about it.

Surprise presents are just rare for us.  So rather than struggle and hunt down something that the other may want we either treat ourselves or send a link via email - so romantic I know. But honestly romance isn't in wrapped presents, it's in the little things like when Mr surprised me with my nursery chair or when he put together baby girl's crib on a day I was super sick at work and sent me a picture.

So back to the purse/outfit, I do believe that when you're wearing solids or color blocking you must add some print somewhere and animal prints are my most favorite! Despite my intense fear of snakes I'm obsessed with snake accessories.  They have a fierceness and expensive look about them.

This dress is obviously maternity - but my vest is not.  I've utilized vests and jackets to add style and variety to my maternity pieces.  Even thought they don't button I find that they still get the style job done and they even help me feel a bit more confident by adding coverage to all my extra curves.

PS #36weeks

Maternity LBD  ||  Vest  ||  Python Purse  ||  Pumps  || 

Dress Beautifully with Python Accessories

XOXO Sarah Louise

Black & Camel

I love the color combination of black and camel.  They're rich neutrals.  I must admit I've never worn so much black in my whole life as I have being pregnant.  First, it's available (maternity options are limited) and second it's slimming/concealing so I'm going with it.

I purchased this vest over the Summer at the Nordstrom anniversary sale and knew it would be great this winter being pregnant to layer.  I officially can not button my coats and have only worn them twice.  Baby girl is a heater!

I really like long vests because they're basically a one size fits all and they make me feel tall (hard to do at 5'2").  They're professional for work and chic with a pair of distressed jeans on the weekends.

Note:  I have to apologize for these not-so-sharp pics - we didn't shoot these at our normal late afternoon time and with bright lighting didn't get the settings right but you get the point.

Oh I almost forgot about these earrings!  They've been on my wish list and I pulled the trigger on Cyber Monday.  I absolutely LOVE them!!!

Black Dress  ||  Vest & Coat  ||  Tights  ||  Pumps  ||  Earrings  || Handbag & Similar  ||

Dress Beautifully in Black & Camel

XOXO Sarah Louise

LBD & The Weekend

TGIF Gals!

Today is the 5th and final day of wearing the same black dress.  What a humbling week it’s been!  My gratitude has grown immensely for the comforts I have in my life.

By simply reading my posts this week you have supported the fight against poverty by raising awareness and for those who have donated, YOU have provided the means for us to make an even bigger impact. THANK YOU!

Today's the day!!

YOU can make a difference by clicking below

Help Fight Against Poverty

If just 10 or 20 of you gave $10, that would add up to a significant amount of money! 

 

5 days, 1 dress, 1 goal – WE are making poverty unfashionable!!!

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are for being casual and comfortable.  To relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor with the ones you love.  To kick back, laugh and celebrate the good and wonderful blessings in your life.  Tomorrow I'm going to be blessing a dear gal pal with a baby shower.  There's nothing more joyful than the gift of life! Amen!

Being casual doesn't mean you loose style.  It's a matter of choosing and swapping.  Choose lighter fabrics and looser fitting garments. Swap pumps, blazers and totes for flats, jackets/cardigans and a crossbody bag.

The easiest formula in going from weekday to weekend is to add denim.  Pair those cute blouses and tops with a pair of jeans and you've got a comfortable and chic weekend look.

I hope you've enjoy this week's series on styling a LBD and maybe gained some inspiration to style your own.  I'd love to hear about it and please send me a pic :)

LBD  ||  Denim Jacket  & Here  ||  Crossbody Bag  ||  Shoes - Similar  ||  Earrings  ||

Dress Beautifully in a LBD & Casual Elements

XOXO Sarah Louise

LBD for a Night Out

Today is day 4 of wearing this little black dress. 

Today's weather is a bit chilly so I added a long sleeve shirt underneath my dress.  Yesterday it was raining all day and I just have to give thanks for the blessing to have rain boots, a waterproof jacket and a closet full of clean clothes to wear.

Over 4,000 children in Charlotte schools are reported homeless. They aren't just wearing the same thing every day, they might also be sleeping in it & they definitely aren't washing it.  Junior League of Charlotte volunteers work with families who are trying to transition out of homelessness so children can have at least the stability of calling something other than a school cubby their "address." Help me turn 1 dress into addresses, by donating  to the JLC HERE

Before I go any further I want to share how tremendously thankful I am for every email read, social media post liked & shared, and for the generosity of family, friends, colleagues near and far who have kindly donated to my page in support against poverty.  ALL of you have warmed my heart but most importantly you've warmed the hearts of those in need! 

YOU can fight this fight against poverty with me by clicking below 

Help Make Poverty Unfashionable

Most of you know that Ryan, my husband, practices medicine in the ER here in Charlotte. So we personally are invested in the health of our community.

Did you know.....

There are almost 100,000 uninsured Children in North Carolina.  Children without health insurance coverage are less likely than insured children to have a regular health care provider and to receive care when they need it. They are also more likely to receive treatment after their condition has worsened, putting them at greater risk of hospitalization.  Through our Healthy Family Initiative, Junior League of Charlotte volunteers ensure that children living in poverty get health, audio, eye, & dental screenings at our health fairs and at our Big Shots Saturdays, over 400 children a year are getting required immunizations to keep them healthy and in school.  Wanna be a Big Shot? Your tax deductible donation helps us keep kids healthy. Donate HERE

For the fourth installment on styling a LBD I'm sharing a night out look.  All you need is a snazzy pair of heels, some statement jewelry and a small handbag.  Because gals, you are off the clock! There is no need to haul around more than the essentials (lipstick, phone, keys and your wallet).  

Speaking of phones, I know we all want to capture those 'I'm all dressed up and not sitting on my couch tonight' pics with our friends but I challenge you to keep the phones down and your eyes up.  Be present with your company & enjoy the conversation.  Everything else will still be there later. I promise. 
That's what 'latergram' and 'about last night' posts are for :)

LBD  ||  Pumps & Similar  ||  Clutch  ||  Earrings  ||  Sunglasses  || 

Dress Beautifully in a LBD for a Night Out

XOXO Sarah Louise

LBD & Florals

Today is day 3 of wearing this little black dress. 

1st things 1st, THANK YOU! To all that have shared my posts and generously donated, I am truly grateful!!!! 

YOU have made a difference!

It's already midweek and getting ready for the day was more simple but surely not as fun.  Same dress again. And this time it has avocado stains on it from dinner last night UGH.  I didn't wash it but fortunately, I do have a washing machine and dryer in my own home, electricity and running water to power them, and income to spare after buying groceries to also purchase detergent. This is not a reality for all in our community.

Yesterday was a busy day.  I wanted to be out and about so that I could share with those at my go-to places all about LBDI and poverty right here at home.  I was able to chat with folks at Home Depot (who knew plants and poverty talk go together), Trader Joe's, and a local bakery.   Today I've got several more places to go spread the word.

For 134,000  individuals in Charlotte falling below the national poverty line access to clean water, clothing and bedding are hard to come by. Can you imagine??!!

YOU can fight this fight against poverty with me by clicking below 

Help Make Poverty Unfashionable

For the third installment on styling a LBD I'm using florals.  Now that it's Spring give me all the pretty blooms.  Adding floral accessories like a scarf, shoe or a light weight topper adds print, color and life to your look.  It balances all the black. When adding florals keep everything else neutral and understated.
I've had this jacket for a few years now and it's truly one of the most beautiful pieces in my closet.

LBD  ||  Floral Topper - Another & More floral options  || Sandals

Dress Beautifully in a LBD & Florals

XOXO Sarah Louise