Basic Baubles

I feel like every gal has their every day jewelry pieces that they go to when accessorizing their looks.
Statement pieces are just that, a statement.  Wearing a large ornate bauble should be occasional because you want your smile and/or outfit to be the focus.  Not the glare of rhinestones.
They also tend to be very trendy so don't go investing a lot into those 'it' pieces.

There's also that gal that wears the same 2-3 pieces every. single. day. no matter the occasion or outfit. They take them off in the evening and put them right back on in the morning. Sigh, I have a few friends like that. But hey, you do you.  Personally, that's no fun and too simplified for my taste.

I find that it's a sentimental element behind those every day pieces.  That's the case for me.

Mr gave me my 'mrs' necklace in the airport following our wedding day.  I wear it almost everyday because being married to him is my greatest blessing.

My watch is also extremely meaningful.  Following Mr's return from his deployment in the Middle East he shared with me that he wanted to gift me something to honor my strength, sacrifice and his absence (truthfully I rarely felt strong but flattered he thought so).  I was thinking a handbag and that's where he took me to shop first.  Then when leaving the store he said I want to take you somewhere else, I have something different in mind.  I was somewhat disappointed as I was digging a new bag. I will never doubt him again! He took me to 'our' jewelry store, where we get everything.  I've been wanting this watch for years but assumed it would be later in life when I would actually have it.

He looked at me, held my hands and said I want you to have this and remember the time apart and that I will always come home to you.  That at all times near or far we are always together. sniff sniff
Without hesitation I said ok and forgot all about that handbag.
This piece I wear every. single. day. On in the morning and off at night, repeat.

I pair this diamond tennis bracket with my watch fairly regularly with the exception of when I'm wearing knits.  It can easily pick a sweater.  My watch doesn't have diamonds on it as I wanted to keep it classic and understated, letting the gold shine for itself so adding the bracelet add some sparkle and a layer.  I tend to have at least 2 pieces on my wrists, it's not as lonely haha.

Studs are the way to go when it comes to earrings.  They're not heavy causing distress on your ears. Typically designed in fine metals and don't get tangled in your mane.  They also don't distract from your face but rather add a bit of enhancement. Pearls or diamonds, you can't go wrong.

Now, the best piece EVER are my wedding rings.  They are my FAVORITE! I've been married for close to 7 years and I still stop and stare at them all the time.  Yes, they are exquisite, but they are also a symbol of our vows and eternal love for each other. #sappy
Fun Fact: My engagement ring is from the 1920's.  I love that it has a story and the mystery of the woman or women that wore it fascinates me!

'Mrs' Necklace || Watch - Similar || Tennis Bracelet || Pearl Studs || Diamond Studs || 

Dress Beautifully in Your Every Day Jewelry 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Lady in Red

It's the month of LOVE!  Valentine's Day is in 2 weeks and while I'm not super into the lovie dovie day I'm 100% into love.  Even if I wasn't blessed to have my great love, I believe that we are all called to love one another more than ourselves.

A Lady in Red = Hot. Red is bold and striking and will most certainly grab attention.  It doesn't mean you have to look promiscuous.  Dressing modestly is classy and more attractive.  It shows that you have self respect.

Shockingly I realized that I didn't have a red dress in my closet!  I used to, but after some thought, I realized that I had gifted the one I had to a gal pal who loved it and really wanted a red dress.  I also realized I don't have a red top or skirt.
I came to the conclusion that my red mane that I wear everyday checks that color box. Oh wait, I do have a couple pairs of red shoes .... AND there's this handbag I'm dying to have (gotta reach those goals)

So, when I saw this dress and with the upcoming love day on my mind I decided to give it a try.

It's fantastic! With lots of stretch and those little side peplums (instant tiny waist)  it creates a flattering silhouette and freedom to move.  The longer hem line is also nice to create a long line on the body and how awesome are the front vent pleats?!! Typically those are in the back of the dress but I'm digging the unexpected design. I also love the cut in shoulders.
Note: You will need to wear a racerback bra and problem solved - whew thank goodness because strapless is avoided at all costs.

This dress while smokin hot is just as appropriate for the office especially with it's longer length - but I would recommend a blazer and a pump.

Red Dress - More Options & Here || Heels  || 

Dress Beautifully in a Red Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

January Musings

First, I can't believe we're already one month into 2017! The last day of January is one of my favorites because it's a good measure of where you are in reaching your new year's goals.  If you're struggling already, give yourself some grace and just keep trying!
Today is also a favorite because it's Mr's birthday!!! (If you follow along on Instagram you'll see his handsome face and the cake I made for him ... if you know me in real life you know I struggle with all things culinary, sigh the things we do for love)

I thought I'd round up some of the finds/trends I'm loving from the past month.  I window/online/magazine shop a lot of things but gals I'm living in real life and I can't have it all nor do I want to!

So sometimes I wait for a sale/promotion, sometimes I like it and move on, sometimes I just keep
wishing and sometimes I go for it!

Here ya go ...

1.  ||  2.  ||  3.  ||  4.  ||  5.  ||  6.  ||  7.  ||  8.  ||  9.  ||  10. 

1.  I need another white top like I need a hole in the head! I didn't purchase but I love the grommets and tie sash. I fully acknowledge I have an addiction to white tops #sorrynotsorry I have no intentions to change.

2. Distressed hem jeans are trending huge and I love them! I actually purchased these and have worn them now 3 times in the past 4 days! My favorite part is that they aren't distressed on the leg.  Keep the interest simple.  

3. Pink is just pretty.  I love the retro vibe of the peplum and sleeve ruffles.

4. Slide mules are the 'IT' shoe of the season.  I love that these are unique in their blush suede and bow design.  Naturally they are from one of my favorite designers.

5. I love small studded earrings. Simple, classy and fitting for my small ears.  These are more modern than my go-to pearl & diamond studs.

6. This perfume is lovely! I recently got a nice size sample and have been wearing it over and over.  I haven't changed my perfume since high school so I'm surprised to find a scent that grabs my scenses.

7. Stripes! Sharp and nautical.  These have me wishing Spring would hurry up and get here.

8. This mustardy gold skirt has clean lines and an unexpected neutral.  I may pull the trigger if it goes on sale but in reality I have soooo many skirts.

9. Silk scarves are so my jam.  Some may believe they're too midcentury old school but I find them to be elegant and timeless. A sweet way to swap out your necklace and add print.

10.  THIS BAG!  It's been on my wish list for several months now.  I'm lusting after it fiercely! But, I have a goal I must reach before she's mine #hustle

Dress Beautifully in These January Finds

XOXO Sarah Louise

Pretty Pleated Sleeves

Ditching the solids for details. Sure, a classic blue striped dress shirt and navy trousers is very sharp and complimentary BUT adding a fun pleated cuff and a subtle windowpane pattern = style!

Let's start with the dress shirt shall we. It's all about the sleeves.  And let me just tell you, it has been and will be, all about the sleeves for style trends this year.  Off the shoulder, bow tie cuffs, cold shoulder, bell/flair cuffs .... Sleeves are the 'It' detail.  Pleats are as classic as the stripes on this dress shirt and replacing the standard barrel cuff adds a fun feminine detail.
I was a bit nervous that they would be too long and aggravating when trying to work on the computer but to my surprise they fold back and don't infringe.

Windowpane is a favorite of mine when talking prints for suiting.  It's clean, graphic and more subtle and simple than a plaid or check pattern.  In fact, you should treat it as a solid as I did for this look. Technically both pieces have a print, but because the windowpane on the pant is so subtle they compliment each other while adding interest.

Both of these pieces should come into your wardrobe after the 'non' detailed pieces.  Once you have your staples that when you start adding embellishments and prints.

And of course you should have fun and mix them together :)

Pleated Cuff Dress Shirt || Windowpane Trousers || Pumps || Handbag || 

Dress Beautifully in Pretty Sleeves

XOXO Sarah Louise

Athleisure

Athleisure.  What does that mean anyways? Sounds like some word made up for marketing purposes.  Well it is; sorta.

According to wikipedia it 'is a trend in fashion in which clothing designed for workouts and other athletic activities is worn in other settings, such as during work, casual or social occasions.'

spot on.

Now, I'm sticking to my strong belief that gym clothes are for exercise only and not appropriate elsewhere. But I am softening a bit and incorporating some casual and relaxed pieces into my weekend wear.

Gym clothes are NOT everyday clothes! They are meant for exercising, by all means do that daily.  I believe it all began when gals started wearing yoga pants as pants because they were stretchy. It's lazy, sloppy and unflattering! Stop reading if you must but leggings of any sort are NOT pants.
Only underneath a tunic/shorter dress with your derriere concealed is it acceptable.
Honestly, it's more effort to squeeze into those tights than it is to step into a pair of pants.

Think of it as wearing an evening gown to the grocery store - situationally inappropriate!

Off my soap box and onto what is appropriate for a casual and comfortable dressing...

These track pants with their soft, flat-front elastic waist and tailored leg incorporates elements of comfort with the style of a dress pant.  (wearing them as such in a later post!)

A semifitted tee/tank in a solid color or with a cute quote that shows your off your personality = Yes.  An oversized t-shirt you got for free at some promo event = Fail.

Add a light weight sneaker, denim jacket and cross body or tote bag and you're ready to go.

More options: a duster cardigan, field or bomber jacket, quilted vest, slip on sneaker, sandal and scarf

Please don't opt for: fleece jacket, heavy running sneaker, tight tank exposing undergarments and cleavage, or flip flops

It's all about the pant when it comes to athleisure wear.  You're basically swapping out your jeans or if you're guilty of wearing leggings/yoga tights (repent now) for a loose but tailored lightweight pull-on pant.

I'm obsessed with this pair! They literally look like dress pants. Flat front so no bunching or added volume around the hips, skimming yet roomy leg and ankle length with no elastic hem (ew).
These are perfect for ALL - even those gals that are expecting or post pregnancy.  It's a hard time for dressing but these make it easy.

Go get yourself a pair of these pants - I wear them at least once a week #truestory.  They define go-to.

Track Pants || Tank || Denim Jacket || Sneakers || Crossbody bag || 

Dress Beautifully in Athleisure Wear

XOXO Sarah Louise