Dress Beautifully: shell

Sep 12, 2016

Well Suited

You're always sure to look sharp in a suit but what I've noticed is that the suit has diminished in the work place. Business casual is the 'new' standard for work place dress code. While it's so nice to mix and match bringing more color, prints and designs to the office there's something empowering about tailored wool and crisp dress shirts.

But a suit doesn't have to be boring, and no gal wants to look masculine either. For this look I went lighter with a soft grey and bright white dress shirt. Rather than the typical matching jacket I opted for shell vest. My favorite element is that this blouse comes with a detachable neck tie that's adds the right touch of femininity tied in a bow. But you can always keep it classic and skip the sash,

These 3 pieces are timeless foundation garments. You can wear theses grey trousers with blouses and sweaters of all colors and patterns. The shell can be worn alone, over blouses or under jackets and cardigans. And it's not just for trousers or pencil skirts, it's super chic with jeans. This crisp dress shirt literally goes with everything! These are the garments that are the building blocks for a classic wardrobe.

Bow Blouse || Shell || Trousers || Pumps || Handbag & Similar ||

Dress Beautifully in Suiting

XOXO Sarah Louise

Feb 19, 2016

The Separate Split

Earlier this week I shared with you my maiden voyage in styling a cardigan. I decided to go all out and purchase the twinset (coordinating shell). I find that most closets, including my own, are full of separates but I believe it's essential to incorporate matching sets when possible. It's an effortless way of looking put together. And if you're afraid of looking too monochromatic a printed scarf, skirt or statement necklace are great ways to add some interest.

While I respect and embrace matchy matchey ensembles I feel that it's important to take advantage of their styling options and utilize them separately. Optimizing the functionality of your wardrobe is key. I find that you'd be surprised at just how many looks you can create with a moderate amount of pieces. Ask yourself, what good is a piece that can only be worn in a single capacity?

I showed you how I styled the cardigan earlier this week. Today I'm taking this amber shell and pairing it with ivory trousers for a lighter brighter palette and a printed scarf to break up the color block. I love the mix of light and rich neutrals - goes to show you don't have to have bright colors to make a statement.

I'm going to assume none of you are new to these pieces but if you're looking to add to your closet I do recommend this twinset as it's constructed out of light weight wool which is durable and resistant to stretching and fading.

I must admit I'm pretty enthused about this new-to-me cardigan thing. My gal pals shake their heads as it's an over worn piece for just about all women and as a collector of classics it's just surprising I haven't taken part.

I have brunch with the gals tomorrow and I'm thinking of wearing the coordinating twin set with a pair of jeans and bright red flats for a pop of color. Swapping out your trousers or skirts for jeans and flats is the perfect way to transition a week day look to the weekend and still look polished while being comfortable.