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 

Black & Blue

Black and Blue - there are no battle wounds in this look.  In fact it's a very smooth confrontation between Summer and Fall.

This time of year can be tough.  All the cool weather designs are hitting the store floors with sweaters, jackets, jeans and boots. But the temps outside are still blazing.  This leather skirt is light weight and in flirty pleats and a shorter hem line you're not going to be a puddle when you step outside.  I paired it with a bright blue silk blouse to lighten the look.  I kept my heels open and a tad edgy to go with the leather vibe.

Now in the upcoming months I plan to pair with dress shirts, sweaters and for a the weekends a simple tee and denim jacket.

Tip:  When I go to purchase a garment, while in the dressing room once I've confirmed the fit is good, I go through pairing options that I already have in my closet.  This method ensures it will get the wear for the money.

Blue Top: Madewell & Similar || Pleated Leather Skirt: J Crew ||

Strappy Heels: Similar & Here || Earrings: Kendra Scott || Gold Cuff: J Crew || 

Handbag: Prada & Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Black & Blue

XOXO Sarah Louise 

Ready Set Reds

Red is a powerful color.  It's bold and bright and grabs attention.  According to the old song 'Lady in Red' men love a gal in red.  I have to say I agree, it's my red hair that grabbed Mr's attention :)

I want to talk about pops vs continuity.  There's the concept of styling where one element of color is added to a neutral look.  It showcases that one element of color such as shoes, statement jewelry or handbag.

I prefer continuity, where the elements flow throughout the entire look.  Today's look is all about a stream of red.  Now, the shades of red are not all the same which creates depth and interest.  I'm not a matchy matchy gal.

I also like to mix my casual and dressy pieces.  It's more unexpected and a great way to balance out your wardrobe.  This tweed jacket with it's gold buttons is very ladylike while the striped muscle tank  in stripes is very casual.  The jeans are polished in a dark wash while still casual in nature paired with my super shiny shoes in bright patent leather create a nice mix.  These shoes are my MOST FAVORITE shoe design!!! I have this shoe in patent black and brown croc (these shoes are a post all in themselves - stay tuned).

The reds, textures and prints in this look all compliment each other creating a continuity of reds amongst themselves.

Rather than one element of color in your next look, try going more cohesive tying in a color throughout.

Striped Muscle Tank: Madewell & Similar & Here || Jacket: Similar & Here ||

Jeans: Banana Republic || Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Reds

XOXO Sarah Louise