Friday Favorites: Mini Bags

TGIF! On Wednesday's post I accessorized with a mini bag.  And while they aren't practical from a stand point of carrying 'everything you need', they are super cute. Think of them as a clutch with a handle.  And besides what all do you really need? We are grown gals not babies (I can attest that they do need lots of stuff hence the diaper bag).

So here are some mini bags I find adorable ...

Top Handle Satchel

Sleek and sharp in bright white - Perfect for Spring/Summer & comes with a cross body strap

SPLURGE on this one! 

This Circle Bag is super cute - and I love the color 

Tassel Bracelet Bag - Comes in several colors! 

Blue Studded Bag - a bit edgy!

Quilted with Chain Strap Bag

Dress Beautifully in a Mini Bag

XOXO Sarah Louise

Spring Shoes

While it may only be February the temps down here in the South are giving Spring vibes.  I know it's not going to last and that checking the weather every day is crucial before getting dressed or deciding whether to exercise in doors or out.

Stores are already filling their floors with sundresses, light colors and sandals!  My feet aren't quite ready (I keep my toenails bare during the Winter to let them breathe) I'm dying to ditch the socks and tights.

Here is a round up of spring shoe trends I'm loving (and have already embraced)  ...

Espadrille Flat  ||  Wedges  ||  Pink Suede  ||  Floral - Similar  ||  White Loafer - Similar  ||  

Blue Tasseled Mule  ||  Edgy Ankle Flats  ||  Studded Sandal  ||   Navy Block Heel 

Dress Beautifully in these Spring Shoes

XOXO Sarah Louise

Striped Shoulder Ruffles

This top is an eye catcher.  It blends the off the shoulder trend with a classic crisp blouse.  I've loved showing my shoulders this summer in those shimmy worthy numbers but with this blouse you can wear a regular bra (there's nothing comfortable about a strapless after 4 hours) and it's appropriate for work or weekend.

I love that it mixes fun and flirty ruffles with a classic blue stripe. Like I shared on Tuesday's post I am holding on to lighter color pairings and will move to darker richer shades once Fall's cooler temperatures finally decided to come around. So I paired this blouse with blush trousers and for a touch of sass, leopard calf haired flats.  #leopardisaneutral

Now, I do want to address a potential concern.  Several reviews and gal pals of mine that have tried this blouse feel that it makes shoulders appear too broad.  Yes, this design does add volume and draws attention to the shoulders.  Personally, I have a smaller upper body and larger lower.  If you have a similar shape this can be very flattering. It balances and actually makes your lower body look smaller.  This top is also nice if you are smaller chested.

You know I always share with you alternative styling options for pieces in my writing because while my go-to dressing works for me you may have a different preference.  And I also want to express the versatility of pieces.  It's not a good investment if you can only wear it one way. So one of my loyal readers requested I illustrate other styling options (please keep the comments coming!).

So here ya go ....

Skinny Jeans   Burgundy Pants   Olive Chino   Pencil Skirts   Sneaker   Pumps   Block Heels

Striped Shoulder Ruffled Top & Similar || Blush Pants & Here & Here || 

Leopard Calf Hair Flats & Here & Here || 

Dress Beautifully in Ruffles

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: Fall Bags

Today is a fantastic Friday!!!  For so many reasons I’m extra giddy this Friday – Mr arrives this afternoon and will be in our home forever!  (With the exception of two short visits back to the coast next month to wrap up some Navy business) AND big stuff is happening in my career AND this time next week we will be at our vacation destination!.  Needless to say we will be celebrating and cheering our many blessings this weekend!

Unless you live under a rock you know about the big Nordstrom Anniversary Sale that happens every July.  The sale introduces the upcoming Fall season with select merchandise at a lower price.  This sale is for a limited time and then the price rises back up to its retail price.  It’s a great opportunity to stock up on those normally higher priced items like handbags, boots and coats.

However, I find that it can be a challenge with the current afternoon temps over 100F and no sign of a cool down any time soon to even think about cold weather clothing.

In the past I have taken full advantage of the sale and brought home some great loot.  Over the past couple of years I haven’t had much luck but that may just be because my closet isn’t lacking (not that I’m a hoarder I just tend to purchase quality classic pieces that last and so no need to repurchase).  I also have been concentrating on home décor and our upcoming trip when it comes to spending our extra funds.

I’ve been lusting after a red handbag for over a year now and I’ve finally found ‘The One’ and I’m so close to earning the achievement to warrant such a beautiful treat! Work Hard –Play Hard #Hustle

I also wouldn’t mind adding a fall handbag this season.  One in a darker color and/or texture.

Here are my 5 favorite fall bags from the Nordstrom Sale ….

Black Tote  -  Pinot Crossbody  -  Calf Hair Leopard Shoulder Bag 

Suede Satchel  -  Grey Convertible Tote 

Black Tote:  Classic and Polished. Perfect for the office (files, computer, planner etc. ) and for weekend to hold all your running around essentials – water, snacks, even a change of clothes

Pinot Crossbody:  I’m obsessed with burgundy for fall/winter!! It’s rich and warm and always makes me thing of a big glass of red wine.  This bag is very ‘Chanel’ like and it doesn’t get more classic than that!

Leopard Calf Hair Bag:  When it comes to leopard accessories (bags, shoes, belts) ALL of mine are calf hair.  It’s gives a luxurious texture and construction.  Animal prints are a great way to add interest & print.

Suede Satchel:  Suede is another rich texture for fall/winter.  I’m especially liking suede this season as the 70’s, boho vibes are in full swing. I wouldn’t mind a suede jacket in my closet either. 

Grey Convertible Tote:  I like this tote for its versatile straps.  You don’t see chain very often on totes and I like that these are designed with grommets so that you can wear on your shoulder or crossbody.  Most crossbodys are small so this bag gives you lots of function.

Dress Beautifully with a New Handbag for Fall

XOXO Sarah Louise

Wide Leg & Cropped

Wide leg pants are making a big appearance on the fashion scene but with a shorter twist.  Rather than full length construction forcing us petite gals into sky high heels or a trip to the tailor for hemming, designers are cropping them just at or above the ankle. 

Personally I love this length.  It wasn’t cool when we were younger because it was a sign you had outgrown your pants a.k.a. ‘High Waters’.  This cropped length doesn’t quite show the ankles but it’s perfect for showing off your shoes!  Particularly ankle strapped sandals or booties.

I’m also a fan of a wide leg pant for their slimming effect.  The line of these pants falls straight from the hip down to the hem, disguising the leg and creating a long line on the lower body.  Personally, I’m a bit self-conscious of my lower body/legs and these pants offer more confidence over leg hugging skinnies.  I also feel that I can move easily and are quite cool in the summer heat.

You may have concern that these may have a shortening effect. Combat that by keeping your top shorter like a cropped box top or more fitted.  You want to have a high waist line so maybe opt for a front tuck of your top.  I’m a full 360° tucker a majority of the time #oldschool.

I went with a fitted black tank for a more casual & neutral styling of these tan crops.  Incorporating more black into my wardrobe is on my Summer To-Do list that I shared with you earlier this week.  I know, I know, it’s odd as it’s summer the season of light colors and don’t most gals have the opposite problem of too much black?!  Not me gals, I have very, very little and honestly it’s classy and sharp so there’s no reason not to.  I just gravitate to the ivory and navy for my neutrals.  But let me be clear, I have no intentions of diminishing my inventory of white & ivory pieces!

Go get yourself a pair of wide leg cropped pants.  I promise you’ll be comfortable and chic!

Wide Leg Crop Pants: Banana Republic Similar & Here || Tank: Similar & Here ||

Shoes: Louise Et Cie & Similar || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Wide Leg Crop Pants

XOXO Sarah Louise

Louise

I consider myself lucky to have a ‘double’ name.  Louise is a hand-me-down name from my great grandma, grandma and Mamma.  I’m the 4^th so it means a lot to carry it on. I was also born in the early 80’s where Sarah was on the popular list so it helped to distinguish. Louise isn’t so common, but I love it! Oh and it means ‘Beautiful’ J

So imagine my twinkle when I discovered the shoe line ‘Louise Et Cie’.  Finally my not-so-common double name was famous!  AND the shoes,  A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.!!!

I’m not what most would consider a big shoe person.  I like classic and comfortable.  Compared to most gals my shoe inventory reflects quality over quantity  Salvatore will always be my first shoe love but Louise Et Cie is high on my list of favorites.

These shoes are so well made!  The designs are traditional with a modern twist so they’re sure to last over the changing trends.  One of the defining aspects of this shoe line is that there are plenty of mid height heels.  Personally, I prefer mid heels on my painful feet.  Flats aren’t always comfortable or dressy enough and high heels just plain hurt! I also find that a mid heel height is not only more wearable but very classy.  And I’m keepin it classy everyday!

Remember those pink heeled sandals from this Friday 5 post … I couldn’t resist and ordered them! The brown box was waiting for me when I returned from Memorial Day at the beach. 

I’ve rounded up some of the beautiful shoes from the current Louise Et Cie line for you.

I shop them at Nordstrom, Dillards and Louise Et Cie.

PS.  In case you didn’t know she’s the wife of designer Vince Camuto.

P.S.S. I really want to meet her!

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Dress Beautifully in Louise Et Cie Shoes

XOXO Sarah Louise

Shades of Sugar

I would wear head-to-toe white everyday if I could - I know, broken record, I say that a lot!  But since I'm not a boring gal, I don't, and it goes again the Southern rule of 'no white after Labor Day and before Easter'.

But sometimes I just want a no fuss, monochromatic blank canvass.  Quite honestly I think it's super chic.  The way to pull it off without looking plain is to incorporate texture and slight variances of the color.  My slouchy tee is a linen blend, and in a buttercream while my jeans are fitted in a cotton bright white.  I chose a pair of tan peep toe booties to add richness.

Try a monochromatic look but keep it simple with minimal jewelry and let your lipstick and nail polish add the pops of color.

And remember to squeeze in those summer whites - because August is the Sunday of Summer!

Linen Tee: Loft || Jeans: Loft || Booties: Similar & Here || 

Dress Beautifully in Whites

XOXO Sarah Louise

Drapey

Relax, it's TGIF!

Strut the Streets in a Pair of Lounge Pants that Make you Feel Like You're Still in Your PJ's.

The Drapey Pant Trend has Hit the Stores and I Must Say my Gut Reaction was: Throwback to 'Hammer Time'!  Sometimes what was "Cool" Back-in-the-Day, should Remain Vaulted in Our Memories and Brought Back Just for #TBT Laughs.

However, the Comfort and Toned Down Volume of the Re-Design has me Reexamining this Style.  

Elastic Waist: Allows for Fit but Oh So Casual - Contrast with a Dressy Blouse (A Simple Front-Tuck Highlights Shape Preventing Volume Overload)
Cuff:  Avoid Elastic on the Ankle - Too Exaggerated and gives off a 'Genie in a Bottle' Costume Look. 
Color:  Opt for a Darker Neutral Color - More Sophisticated
Shoes:  For Office - Pumps or Heeled Booties, Weekend - Slip on Sneakers, Night - Strappy Heels

I've Embraced the Trend and Added Another Olive Piece to my Fall Wardrobe.

Have a Fabulous Friday in these Fluid Drawstring Pants! 

Drapey Pants: Loft || Ivory Blouse: Similar || Booties: Louise et Cie ||

Leopard Calf-hair Clutch: Similar ||

Dress Beautifully in Drapey Pants

XOXO Sarah Louise

Olive

Olive.  It's the "It" Shade for Fall ... and There's Nothing Drab About it!

As a Redhead, I Gravitate to Shades of Green; They Compliment Best.  I Particularly Like Olive for it's Softer and Slightly Dull Hue.  But Don't Hesitate to Compliment with Vibrant Colors like Hot Pink.

This Dress has a Very Luxurious Feel in Silk and Feminine Shape with the Defined Waist, Subtle Pleating & Keyhole Neckline.  It Also Incorporates Some Casual Elements with the Dolman Cap Sleeve and Pockets.

The Waist has Hidden Elastic in the Back Creating a Perfect Fit and Shape.

I Kept my Pairings Simple with Carmel Booties and a Long Necklace with Neutral Brown/Green Gemstones and a Patent Cream Handbag for some Shine.  

For Weekend Wear Add Riding Boots and a Leather Jacket and for Date Night I Plan to Change out the Booties for Hot Pink Pumps!

Olive Dress: Madewell || Booties: Louise Et Cie || Handbag: Old Similar || 

Necklace : Belk Similar || Polish: Essie Smokin' Hot ||

Dress Beautifully in Olive

XOXO Sarah Louise

Fall Weekend Uniform

Fall in the South can be Tricky.  We have Days in the 80's and in the 60's.  Our Mornings and Evenings can be 15-20 Degrees Cooler than our Afternoons.  The Key is Comfort Pieces. 

For Weekends During this In-Between Season, I have a 'Uniform': Jeans, Long Sleeve Blouse, Peep Toe Booties and a Hat for Added Chic.  

Layers like a Printed Scarf or Fur Vest Not Only Add Print & Texture but are Functional in Keeping Warm in the Cooler Morning & Evening Hours of the Day.

Jeans are the Ultimate Challenge for Gals but When you Find the Right Pair = Jackpot! 

Personally, I have Bigger Legs than Hips And I'm Petite.  I need Jeans in a Mid-Rise, Curvy Cut with Stretch.  I have Found Brands that Fit and I Stick with Them.  I also Utilize Sales Associates; They know the Cuts and Can Help You Filter through the Piles of Denim.

Cuffing Your Jeans Showcases the Booties and is a More Causal Styling.  

I Adore Hats!  They're an Accessory that Adds a Whole Lot of Personality (and camouflages a bad/dirty hair day!)

I Opted for a 'Fall' Color Palette with Darker/Warm Rose Hues.  

Burgundy Blouse: Old Navy || Jeans: J Crew || Peep Toe Booties: Louise Et Cie ||

Blush Felt Hat: Belk || Polish: Butter London || 

Dress Beautifully for Fall Weekends

XOXO Sarah Louise