Back in Black Pants

Back (we won't discuss how far back) in my college and post college days sleek black pants and a pretty blouse was 'the' go-to look. We wore this outfit to almost everything: work, dinners, nights out etc ...

And then there was a shift swapping out the black pant for dark jeans. 

Now, I typically gravitate to color and softer neutrals like navy and brown but I do appreciate the sharpness of a high contrast palette like black and white. The feminine design elements in the floral print, puff sleeves and tie neck of this blouse softens the outfit. There are very small amounts of color, rust & deep purple) sprinkled throughout that lend to fun pairing options when layering sweaters & jewelry. 

This blouse is light weight and full of modern detail that really do make whatever you pair it with make a snazzy statement. 

I encourage you to give your jeans a break and take a pair of black pants for a spin.

Printed Blouse  & Here | Black Pants | Studded Heels & Here | Handbag & Similar |

Dress Beautifully in Classic Black & White 

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Summer Sophisticate

Style automatically takes a turn for the fun and casual once Summer arrives ... or as is the case here in the South in April when the temperatures get sky high. But tank tops and shorts are rarely appropriate   yet no one wants to feel stuffy this time of year in wool, tailored pieces.

Here's what you do gals.  You opt for a shorter hem line in your trousers but keep the comfortable and cool in a wide leg.  And you add a top in a natural fibers with fun detail, like ruffles.
It's still a put-together look but with a casual vibe.

AND you put this top with a pair of shorts and you're set for the weekend.

Note:  this is technically an off-the-shoulder top but I like it pulled up so I can wear a regular bra, I'm not so exposed/showing too much skin and I don't have those t-rex arms not being able to lift and move.

I added a fun pop of color with turquoise earrings, which are 100% summer!

Handbags can play a big role in your look.  This structured tote is great for weekdays but a rattan basket bag would scream summer!

Ruffled Top | Similar Pants | Handbag | Similar Pumps | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully and Sophisticated in the Summer

XOXO Sarah Louise

Pink & Red

So back in December it was all about Christmas red, well the holidays are over and early as it may be I'm feeling the Valentine's Day love.  Walk into any retail store and the hearts and candies are out.

I started this year off with a phone call from Mr.  Gals, hearing his voice from the other side of the world, even though it's a few times a month, fills my heart so much I'm afraid it may burst.  And even though we won't be together this year for Valentine's Day (that's only happened 1 out of the 10 years together due long distance/military) knowing that I'm almost half way through this deployment and that he's coming home to me this year has me all giddy inside.

So here's a new take on red, pairing with it's sister shade pink.  To many it's a very unconventional color combination but not to me. I'm constantly styling shades of a color together.  It's the opposite of contrasting colors like black and white.  Pink is just a lighter shade of red such is lavender to purple or mint to green.

This red dress coat is classic, timeless and such a bright addition to any outfit. I adore the snaps and bracelet length sleeves - Essential for gals with shorter arms and it allows for freedom to move while also showcasing cuffs, bracelets and watches.
And what about that oversized collar?!! swoon!

To add some print (and warmth) I layered a striped dress shirt underneath my sleeveless sheath dress.
Again, another example of making the most of the pieces of your wardrobe, layering separates for all year wear.

Embrace colors and their sister shades for a fresh new styling palette.

P.S.  I've decide to start including those hilarious outtake shots - because while those barbie like poses are purposeful and the laughs, those are the all natural good stuff.

Dress: J Crew Similar  & Similar || Dress Shirt: Banana Republic || 

Red Dress Coat: Ann Taylor Similar & Here || Pumps: Nine West || 

Earrings: Towne & Reese || Handbag: Prada || Sunglasses: Kate Spade || 

Dress Beautifully in Pink & Red

XOXO Sarah Louise

Red Hot

In red again.  It's just so fitting this time of year.  I love the look of a sharp red suit, but let's not go stepping on Santa's toes.  Split the pieces up.  I've shown you how to transition a red blazer into the weekend here and how to pair red with unexpected colors here.

Today, it's all about the flaming red pants.  Like I shared in Monday's post, let the bright red shine and be the focus. So I kept my pairings simple but by no means boring!

I couldn't wait to style this crop jacket this season. It's a favorite!  Glen plaid is a classic print and almost always done in the timeless black and ivory wool weave.  Houndstooth is my most favorite print - did ya'll know that?  It's been too long since I've styled houdstooth. Glen plaid is in the houndstooth family, it takes the print into a check/plaid pattern and varies the size of the checks.
This jacket reminds me of something Jackie O would wear and gals, you can't go wrong with the classics! Invest, they will last forever.
And just because they are polished pieces doesn't mean you're stuck wearing them in the office or church.  I top off a blouse, sweater or even denim shirt with this jacket along with my jeans and boots for the weekend.

Even though I added contrasting light and dark neutrals, by also having print in the jacket and pleats in the blouse the look has more interest and texture.  Color blocking is strong and showcases the color pairings, by adding subtle prints and textures your look is softer and the pieces are more complimentary to each other.

So in styling red pants, the sky is the limit. I chose glen plaid. Top them with a plaid button down, denim, or a sweater for a casual look.  Or, opt for a silk, lace or embellished top for a night out. Paired with neutrals or other bright colors, red is going to shine bright in your look.

Don't be intimidates by red pants, they're hot! And with your head held high, strut with confidence knowing you are and look fabulous!

My pieces are from several seasons ago - here are their current versions or similar 

Red Pants: Ann Taylor, Similar and Here || Glen Plaid Jacket: Brooks Brothers, Similar Here and Here || Ivory Shell: Trina Turk Similar and Here || Pumps: Nine West || 

Handbag: Prada Similar and Here || Sunglasses: Kate Spade ||

Dress Beautifully in Red Hot Pants

XOXO Sarah Louise