Retro

 I find retro, mid century style so chic, colorful and fun! The rich colors and sharp patterns lend to a look that's bold but also ladylike. 

This a-line maxi in shades of green is interesting with its sleek design, flattering fit and long elegant length. It could easily be a show stopper at formal occasions and casual summer events. A simple heel versus sandal really changes the look.

A clutch for evenings or straw bag for day.

GREEN MAXI DRESS

Dress Beautifully in a Retro Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Old School Cool

It feels like we've gone back in time living that 1950's housewife life cooking, cleaning and raising children since we've been in quarantine.  Eh maybe not exactly because thank goodness we have modern advancements to get us through. As decades have past women, wives, mammas do much much more! Our world keeps turning and growing but I'm ok bringing back some fashion elements from the past.

These plaid shorts have such a retro vibe in the colors and high waisted roomy design. Gals, they are so comfortable and modest.  I've never been one for short shorts, personally I just don't find them flattering or classy.  I also don't like shorts too long since I'm petite and find that 4" is the perfect length for coverage and still making my legs appear as long as possible.

I paired these with a crisp white shirt to play on the vintage look. A denim top, basic tee or tank in any complimentary color would be just as nice.

I encourage you to try paper bag style shorts.  The higher waist and loose leg give you a feminine silhouette and ability to move at ease. I plan to swap out the fabric tie sash with my own assortment of belts.

I'm embracing a touch of old school cool!

Sleeveless Dress Shirt & Here | Plaid Shorts | Wedges & Here | 

Dress Beautifully in Plaid Paper Bag Shorts

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Retro Statement Skirt

Gals, I'm definitely in a separates phase, specifically skirts. I've found myself finding and being drawn to skirts with interesting detail or pattern, like this one I shared 2 weeks ago.

Printed skirts have endless style options and can really allow your personality to shine.
For example: if you're way cooler than I am you can pair the oh-so popular rock band graphic tees (maybe even tied in a knot on the hem) with a tiered midi skirt, or if your style is more on the casual side a chambray shirt or basic tee, and if you're like me, my go-to is a crisp white button up shirt.  The sky is the limit because the skirt already checks off the color and pattern elements of your outfit.

I found this skirt late last year and immediately loved the vintage color, print and style.  I'm all about some retro vibes. The bright pink is an expected color for me but it was the pretty orange in the print that sold me.

I've really grown to adore accents of tangerine orange in my home decor and in fashion.
Orange was an 'it' color in the 70's and then there's the iconic Hermes orange. While I used to hate the color (probably due to insecurities of my red hair growing up), I now find it so fun to incorporate in small doses.  I used it in Vivian's nursery, in a few home decor objects and I even have a bangle and handbag I wear all the time that add such a sweet bright pop to my outfits.

The cut of this skirt in a straight design (very elongating) with a ruffle hem is so unique and feminine. The flattering flat front with center pockets is also a winning detail.

I REALLY wanted to style this with a white button up or ivory blouse but I decided to show you gals something different and wear one of the 3 black tops I own because the reality is I'm the minority in my lack of black.

This skirt can truly transcend all the season with sweaters and boots followed by light tops and sandals in warmer weather.

Puff Sleeve Top | Ruffle Hem Skirt | Booties |

P.S. This would be lovely for a Valentine's Day Celebration!

Dress Beautifully in a Statement Skirt

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Style in Spades

Hey, it's May! Gracious time flies doesn't it?! When it comes to fashion time plays a cyclic role.  We heard our Mammas say when we were young how they dreaded trends coming back around and here I am watching what was cool back when I was young (and much cooler) coming right back on the racks.
And to be honest, I've embraced some of it.  I find that most gals have a period of time in which they gravitate to the fashion.  For me it's definitely 60-70's!

This sundress while classic has it's retro vibes with the brown flowers and belted waist. The exposed zipper, ruffled neckline and racerback keep it modern.  The crisp cotton is cool, comfortable and holds a nice shape.  I also love the midi length! Gives it a touch of the 80-90's.

While this dress alone makes a very pretty statement, it's up to you to add personal style.  At first glance you may think there's nothing left to do since the print and colors are so bold.

Start at the top. Your hair is a great avenue to add style.  Since the neckline is high and the back has interest show them off by pulling your hair back.  And when your hair is back it's an opportunity to highlight your earrings.  I went with shiny gold hoops, but earrings don't have to be big, studs are worth highlighting too.

You could also swap out the belt.  That's one of my favorite ways to add style.

For a little more throwback this vintage brown leather frame bag added the perfect polished touch. I adore collecting vintage accessories (and furniture).  Like I shared above, it all comes back and quality items tend to be timeless. This purse still has the old smell.  Vintage shopping can be time consuming and it seems as though we allocate our time down to the minutes with nothing to spare.  Use it as a time to fellowship with your gal pals.  And don't have huge expectations, finding treasures is often pure luck.  But also be prepared to buy because those treasures are one of a kind.
And don't forget Etsy and Ebay, they are both great online sources.

This dress is made by one of my most adored designers. In fact during a game at my bridal shower (9 years ago this month woah!) one of the questions was 'Who is Sarah Louise's favorite designer?' And it still holds true, Kate Spade. The handbags, clothes, jewelry it's ALL beautiful and amazing quality. The epitome of fun yet classic style! #LOVE

Adore a racerback!  It shows just a little extra skin and shows off the shoulders which to me are one of the pretties features on a lady. And since the dress is longer in length it gives good balance.

Tip:  All gals should have a racerback bra - especially for the warm months.  It's so tacky to have your bra straps showing!!! And I find them to be super supportive.

How about swapping out those dressy sandals for sneakers?!!!  Sneakers with everything is all the rage. Oh, wait it totally was in the 80-90's.  See, I told you it all comes back.  News flash to those that think it's so revolutionary, go check out those rat pack movies and you'll see. I remember thinking my Mamma was so uncool wearing sneakers with her midi dresses.  Honestly, she was just being practical and comfortable.  I fell ya Mamma!

Lavender Flower Dress | Heels | Handbag | Sneakers |

Dress Beautifully in a Retro Style Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

Mid-Century Modern

This Look Incorporates my Favorites:

Color: White/Ivory

Style: Mid Century Inspired 

Cut: Sheath

Print: Leopard (Calf Hair is Best)

Pop: Color & Shine

I Adore Mid Century Fashion,  Defined by the Stylish & Classy Jackie O.

This Crop Top Dress Looks like it Came Right Off the Set of 'Mad Men', And it's in my Favorite Color to Wear,  Naturally it Came Home.

When wearing a Vintage Inspired Piece You want to Pair it with Modern Accessories to Prevent a Costume Look.  I Added Color, Print, & Shine to Complete the Look.  

This Necklace is a Favorite for it's Simplicity and it Reminds me of the One Joan Wears on Mad Men.

You could Definitely Call this Dress an Illusion as it Looks like 2 Pieces.  The Copped Top Layer is Flattering Because it Hits High, Right Below the Rib Cage Creating a Small Waist Line. 

Dress: Banana Republic Outlet Similar & Here || Handbag: Marshalls (old) Similar ||

Leopard Calf Hair Pumps: Brooks Brothers Similar ||Necklace: Stella & Dot || 

Sunglasses: Target || Polish: Butter London || 

Dress Beautifully in a Crop Top Dress 

XOXO Sarah Louise