Geometric

A bit of a break from your usual florals can refresh your warm weather style.  The feminine and colorful nature of petal prints will always be a go-to smile maker. However, adding some contrast to such a softness keeps your looks from going stale and predictable.

A geometric design is a striking way to do just that! The lines of the pattern are sharp and crisp, and in this colorful dress design, a sure show stopper.

I saw this dress a few months ago but gracious it was a splurge.  It went on sale just in time for my recent birthday and was gifted to me by my mother-in-law.  It was such a treat!
The cotton is so light and the shorter flared skirt is so sassy.  You don't need much jewelry, practically any neutral handbag will compliment and you can make this look as casual or dressy as you like with sandals or heels.

Long sleeved short flared dresses are a strong trend this year. While I typically prefer sleeveless and longer hems I'm branching out of my comfort zone and embracing these proportions.

This dress gals is what I'll be wearing for my first night out with Ryan or my gal pals ... I'm not going to be picky on who goes first :)

Dress & Here & Here | Sandals | Earrings

Dress Beautifully in Geometrics

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Vibrant

This dress was love at first 'online' sight for it's bright and striking colors. It was winter when it debuted and I was full of energy for a fun and easy dress to wear under the sun.

The print was unique and had an exotic vibe like something you'd see on worldly travels. Clearly that's only happening in our dreams these days. But just because we aren't somewhere far away doesn't mean we can't dress like it. And when we dress for an occasion we feel like we're actually there and that my friends is worth the effort.

While the tiered swing style in a crisp poplin cotton makes this dress easy breezy in a very casual way, the ruffles along the neck and shoulder elevate it to add a touch of sophistication. When informal & formal elements collide it creates a very versatile piece that can be transformed across a multitude of affairs.
It's all up to the details of your styling.  For a dressy event choose heels, shiny jewelry and carry a small handbag like a clutch. For everyday wear, a flat sandal and crossbody bag will have you cute and comfortable.
Plus there's pockets!  Those are universally awesome.

I always, always evaluate the ability of a piece to be adaptable before purchasing.  It's important when investing in your wardrobe that your pieces add value and that means getting worn and in a variety of ways. This dress was a splurge of a gift and I plan to make good on it!

Dress | Sandals | Earrings | Sunglasses |

Dress Beautifully in a Vibrant Dress

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Splurge Styles

Happy Weekend!  Sorry I missed yesterday, but as always I have the best excuses.  Vivian's grandparents have been visiting us this week and we've been having a ball! Splash pads, museums, libraries and park playing.  It's been such a joy to share these amazing experiences with them :)

Yesterday this Mamma got to escape and be a lady who lunches and shops with my best friend.  I decided to take the time to do things I rarely can do since having baby girl/ things she doesn't make a good companion for.

This casual classic look will be posted next week!

So we hit up some of our favorite boutiques.  Shopping at these small stand alone shops can be time consuming since they're stand alone and require driving around but I love it for the experience and all the unique and pretty finds.
AND there's the girl talk and fun of trying things on together.

Don't get me wrong I still love the big box stores and the prices they can offer.  But the older I get and the more my style refines, I find that I truly adore the uniqueness some designers can offer. However the price can be steep!

Here are some splurge worth designers I'm lusting over that you can find in boutiques or I like shopping them on Net-a-Porter & ShopBop. And let's be real, I'm shopping the sale section!!!

Tip: Try Amazon too!

Ulla Johnson

I got this dress for a steal on sale and ADORE it!  These pieces are super expensive so if you find one you like I suggest scooping it up on sale.  End of season is the time to hunt.

Love Shack Fancy

My best friend introduced me to this designer.  I love the ruffles, layers and delicate cotton lace of these designs.  And in cotton breezy fabrics they're comfortable.  Personally I think they'd be great with boots to stretch into fall.  I was soooo lucky to find this midi dress on epic sale and my size was the only one left #winnerwinner
I think the short dresses are so cute but I'm more comfortable at knee length or longer.

Misa

I love the prints and ruffles on these pieces.  I was a bit disappointed when I tried on this dress that it was far too short! But I'd be thrilled to wear a midi length.

Rebecca Taylor

One of my absolute favorites!  I wore one of her dresses for my birthday, a girls night and our family pictures.  I love the ruffles and statement details she puts into her very feminine designs. You can find her at major department stores, boutiques and even at high end Marshalls (I found a sweater there last year!).

Petersyn

I just recent discovered this designer at a boutique and love the tiny floral prints and girlie accents.
I brought home this top (on sale)

BB Dakota

This one is much more reasonably priced with just as much modern detailing. I added this top to my closet and have my eye on this sweater.

Dress Beautifully in Splurge Pieces

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Golden Goose - 5 Reasons to Splurge

Gals, I'm here to share with you the superstar of sneakers made by GGDB (Golden Goose Deluxe Brand). Unless you live under a rock you've seen and heard all about these 'IT' sneakers. And if you haven't no judgement because until now you've been saving yourself money. I say that because these sneakers are a splurge!!!

You gals know I'm not a casual gal so sneakers aren't my thing, unless they're my running shoes and I only wear those while running or at the gym. But Mamma life has me embracing the more comfortable side of style.

So why in the world are these so sought after? And why the high price tag? And are they even worth it?

Well I'm here to tell you why ...

1. Quality - these sneakers are made with high grade leather throughout in Italy. And we all know the Italians make the BEST shoes. They are also hand finished. 

2. Unique - Each shoe is distressed and finished by hand so no two are alike.  And yes I said distressed. Just like the ripped jeans you wear, you can also strut in sneakers that are scuffed up a bit.  Think of them as already broken in.

3. Comfort - They are constructed with a thick and slightly wedged insole that's epically comfortable.

4. Style - These sneakers are designed with the brand's signature star along with bold colors, textures and even glitter! Definitely not your average sneaker.  And with all the fun designs not only can you find a pair that suits your personality. And these sneakers look just as chic with dresses and skirts as they do with jeans and loungewear.

5. Limited Editions - New styles are released each month of very limited quantities. And they sell out quick!  Personally, if I'm going to spend a significant amount of money on something, I don't want to be wearing the same style/color as 10 of my gal pals. This also means you have to move quickly when you find just the right pair. At least that's what I did. 

I always consider cost per wear when I make a purchase and I'm getting my money's worth on these! I've purchased shoes in the past and they get worn a handful of times.  I've said this to you gals many times - I'd rather spend more on quality and style and have fewer items. 

I chose these 'superstar' sneakers with a bright metallic purple snake embossed toe/tongue and a darker purple suede star. I also liked the grey shoelaces (even though I think it's the most hideous color in the world) they won't show dirt. 

Here are the best places to shop GGDB sneakers : 

Nordstrom, Revolve, Shopbop, Net-A-Porter, & Farfetch

Dress Beautifully in a Pair of Golden Goose Sneakers

XOXO Sarah Louise