Friday Favorites: Blouses Under Dresses

TGIF! Brrrr it's been a cold week.  And a challenge not being able to play outside with Vivian but there's no shortage of laughter inside where it's warm.

Layering in the winter is my favorite way of styling my outfits because it makes the most out of my wardrobe. A majority of my dresses are sleeveless therefore giving me the option to wear all year long with the addition of pieces underneath and over during the winter months. 

One of my signature style moves is layering blouses underneath dresses. I've been doing it for 15+ years! I don't own a cardigan but I do have plenty of blazers to put over dresses. However I find it's a little more comfortable and easier to move around in blouse or dress shirt. 

A versatile wardrobe not only allows for countless pairing/styling options but also maximizes your monetary investment. These blouses and dresses are great on their own but paired together creates another unique outfit. 

Here are 5 examples of ways I've paired blouses underneath dresses ...

Note: I've had these pieces for many years! While the world is drowning us in influences to have new and more, working with what you have is so much better!

I've linked similar pieces below each picture.

Crisp White Shirt | Leopard Dress | Boots

I like a dress shirt buttoned ALL the way up.  It has a sharp menswear look to it.
I think it'd be fun to add a colored broach at the top.

Black & White Blouse | Black Dress | Pumps

Snake Blouse | Burgundy Dress | Pumps

This v-neck blouse aligned perfectly with the dress's but if it didn't the blouse would have more showcase.  Pieces don't have to fit like a puzzle.

Pink Blouse | Blue Dress | Burgundy Booties

These two necklines had the same shape but didn't align just right.  So to fill the space I added a very long layered pearl necklace to break it up. 

Bright Printed Blouse | Ivory Dress | Pumps

The clean ivory of this tweed dress really balances the bold colors and print of the blouse.

Dress Beautifully Layering Blouses Under Dresses

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Pinstripe

A pinstripe is a very narrow stripe typically found in suiting.  Sometimes the stripe is subtle and sometimes, like in this dress shirt, it's nice a bold.  This high contrasting stripe makes a sharp statement , but balanced with the femininity of a bow.

I'm all about dressing polished for the office and staying true to yourself as a woman.  There's no reason that professional has to be boring.  This isn't my only dress shirt with a bow tie neck sash.  I featured this same dress shirt in white on this post.  The great thing about these tailored crisp dress shirts, is that the sash is buttoned underneath the collar allowing you to have style options with or without it.  Sometimes you may want to embrace the secretary vibe and others you may want to play it cool. Either way the stripe will steal attention!

I paired this navy dress shirt with ivory trousers, complimenting the stripe and a camel blazer to warm it up.  This time of year the excitement of cooler temps and changing colors of the leaves has me craving rich warm tones and textures.

And if the bow wasn't enough for your girlish liking, I added a pop of color with a pair of magenta suede heels.

Tip:  Don't limit your dress shirts to the work week, go open collar and pair with jeans for a casual chic look.  Also, if you're one of those gals that struggles pairing navy with blue jeans, try with grey or black denim.

Pinstripe Bow Shirt & Similar || Trousers & Similar || Blazer || Shoes || 

Dress Beautifully in Pinstripes

XOXO Sarah Louise

Pinot & Pleats

Back in the 80's and 90's a dress or skirt that fell below the knee and above the ankle was referred to as 'Tea' length.  Today it's referred to as 'Midi'.  I've see this longer hem line trend grow over the past few seasons but as a petite gal at 5'2" I shied away as I was fearful that the extra fabric would overwhelm.  But it's something that's been tugging at me to try.

I found the perfect skirt!  It has all the right elements.  High waist, light fabric and flattering fit.
In a delicate chiffon fabric and accordion pleats it has ladylike movement (I have to try really hard not to twirl).  The front and back panels are flat, preventing too much volume.  I believe that one of the most important design components is the higher waist.  It creates shape and long lines.

What made this skirt even more beautiful and ideal for me was the ivory color.  It's truly my favorite and the most abundant color in my closet.  And just because Summer is technically over doesn't mean you go dark.  No, you can't wear white shoes, pants or dresses but nothing is more refreshing than the coolness of ivory. It's all year appropriate.  Just swap out your pastels and brights for richer hues like this burgundy blouse.

While it's still warm I'm wearing this skirt with light weight tops but a fitted long sleeve tee or sweater with booties are the plan for a casual look come cooler weather.

Go longer with a midi pleated skirt!

Pinot Blouse & Similar || Pleated Midi Skirt & Similar || Pumps & Similar || Bangle || 

Dress Beautifully in a Pleated Midi Skirt

XOXO Sarah Louise

Light & Leopard

Wait I'm not ready ...

OK, let's do this.  Unless you're a new reader everyone knows I LOVE animal prints.  I'm open to all of the markings on God's creatures but I do have my favorites.  Leopard is at the top of the list.  I know that there are gals out there that shy away from animal prints - I truly have no idea why! They are found in nature, think of them as organic :)

Now, that's not to say that all garments in animal print are worth wearing.  Fabric, color and design all play a role.

This skirt is rather distinct in its fabric but the cut and colors are exaggerated just right.  This skirt is higher waisted as well as a tad longer creating the illusion of height - I'll take all I can get! It also has a self fabric sash to cinch in the waist, extra plus.  Now the print is in a medium to larger size and in bolder colors but the real uniqueness is in the fabric.  It's hard to tell in pictures (trust me I scouted this number out in the catalog and was shocked when I first got to touch it).  It's got a synthetic slick feel, almost like that of a rain coat.  Although I was surprised, I still took it to the dressing room because I believe in always trying on, especially the pieces that make you hesitate. It's the unexpected that become winners. 

Confession:  I originally wanted the dress version but the fit wasn't quite right for me.

Now that Summer is 'technically' over, here in the South the heat lingers for another couple more months, I would suggest pair with a darker shade like burgundy, denim or black.  But in holding on to the wonderful days of Summer, I went with a pastel pink, crisp dress shirt.  These are staples in all colors in my wardrobe. 

Gals, a leopard skirt is a year round garment that not only has style but gives you that fierce vibe you need to strut your best. Go get you one!

Pink Dress Shirt || Leopard Skirt & Similar || Pumps || Handbag & Similar || 

Earrings || Sunglasses ||

Dress Beautifully in Leopard

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: Loafers

The menswear inspired loafer will be one of the sharpest addition to you wardrobe.

Back in the 90's these were all the rage.  Especially with a big block heel.  I strutted around in a pair regularly in high school.  As I slowly see the trends from my teenage years coming back, I do appreciate today's modern approach with sleeker, more feminine designs.

I'm dying to add a pair of loafers to my closet for Fall.  The only reasons I haven't yet is because it's too darn hot to wear right now and they would just be a big tease and I can't decide on which pair.

These aren't just for the office or for pairing with trousers.  They are so chic with skinny jeans or a feminine dress for contrast.  And let's not forget comfortable with their supportive soles and complete toe coverage.

Confession: I Hate toe cleavage.  Probably because I have terrible arthritis in my feet and can't stand  shoe seams to hit my joints but mostly because foot exposure is for sandals.  If you're going to wear a flat go all the way and cover the toes!

So here are 5 loafers I've got my eyes on ...

Shiny Black:  I've tried these on and they're on the very top of my list to purchase.  They're classic, but I believe the biggest reason is the exaggerated pointy toe.  It's elongating and feminine giving you the line of a pump without the pinching and heel.

Gunmetal:  I like the idea of a shiny metallic for a statement.  The layered, perforated fringe and bit across the front ice the cake.  I've tried these on as well and as always this brand never disappoints.  The only thing holding me back on these is they do draw attention to the feet and ankles and those just aren't my best asset.

Fringe:  Nude is my #1 color choice for any shoe.  I love the sleek design and simplicity of this pair.  They're in the running for sure!

Burgundy: I'm not really a red fan, but when it comes to Fall/Winter a rich pinot color is one of my favorites.  It's a neutral and goes with everything.

Two Toned Tassels: These are beautiful!! A perfect blend of masculine and feminine. They come is several two-toned colors but again I love the lighter shades.  I also like the minimal heel.

Choosing a loafer is going to be difficult! Can I have 2 pairs? or 3??  #decisionsdecisions

Shiny Black  -  Gunmetal   -  Fringe  -  Burgundy  -  Two-Toned Tassel 

Dress Beautifully in Loafers

XOXO Sarah Louise

Mod for Pink

Oh Wednesdays we wear pink - ok let's be honest even the most non-girlie of girls can embrace this feminine color.  There's hot pink, fuchsia, pastel pink and the most lightest of lights blush pink.  Pink is a fun color and there's no reason it can't be embraced in a professional setting.  The key is styling.

You want your pink pieces to be polished when wearing to the office.  Tailored structured pieces are best or pair with such. I feel that most gals go dark when it comes to looking professional.  That stigma drives me crazy!  The truth is that lighter shades are equally as powerful and give a clean fresh appearance.

This pink skirt is very structured in a mod design.  I love a good retro vibe! It's higher waisted and flairs just a touch. In this boxy cut and shorter length it's very reminiscent of the '60's (without the go-go boots of course).

For a less playful look I styled this skirt with a crisp sleeveless dress shirt (perfect for this crazy hot weather that seems to be never ending) and topped it off with a camel blazer; grey or navy would look nice too.  This dress shirt actually has purple and pink pin dots throughout but is difficult to see in these pics. Even a subtle pattern adds interest.

For the weekend pair with sandals/wedges and a tank or tee.  Whenever Fall does decide to grace us with it's cooler temps pair with boots/booties and a cardigan/denim jacket.

Note:  I found these large pockets flattering on my hips/thighs.

Sleeveless Dress Shirt: Banana Republic || Pink Skirt: Loft || Blazer: J Crew ||

Pumps: Tory Burch & Similar || Gold Cuff: J Crew || 

Dress Beautifully in Pink

XOXO Sarah Louise 

LBD: Day to Night

Versatility is a key element of style.  It's important to be able to utilize your garments in multiple ways so that you not only reap the rewards of your investment but that you keep your looks fresh. 

Fridays are for date nights, happy hours and in my case binge watching the new 'Fuller House' on Netflix.  But if I were going out with Mr or the gals, a LBD is always the right choice.  And since it's just straight up too much work to change into a completely different outfit, wearing a dress that can simply be transformed with new accessories is paramount. 

For day pair with a lady like jacket and modest heels.

For night ditch the jacket and work bag and go for a higher heel and clutch. 

I find that choosing a dress constructed with lots of stretch like this one holds it shape, hugs in just the right places and creates a flattering silhouette.  It's not too showy but does have interest with leather and cutouts at the neckline.  It doesn't take much ladies.  Less is more often more!

Though a LBD is classic and flattering don't limit yourself to a solid dark hue, these styling tips apply to any dress that makes you feel pretty.  

LBD: Banana Republic 

Mid Heel Pumps: Nine West || Jacket: Similar || Handbag: Prada || 

High Heel Pump: Nine West || Clutch: Similar & Here || 

Dress Beautifully Day to Night in a LBD

XOXO Sarah Louise