Ivory Trench

The trench is a timeless piece everyone should own. And not only will you always look classy, it's a wise investment.  Wear it for many many years (and it will keep you dry on rainy days like today).  About 90% of my closet is classic/timeless pieces.  So naturally, in my favorite color to wear, this dress was a perfect addition.

Midi length dresses or skirts are not just for taller gals.  Personally I feel they make me look longer.  And I'm more comfortable in longer lengths.

When we finally get some cooler fall weather I plan to contrast this dress with a modern suede Moto jacket.

I replaced the self fabric sash with a leather belt for added detail and color. And for some print and texture a pair of snake pumps. I always add my own belts to dresses.

I've already worn this dress on a gals night and to church!

Trench Dress | Pumps | Belt | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in a Trench Dress

XOXO Sarah Louise

In-Between

Gals, it's officially Fall AND it's starting to actually feel like it! Ok it's still warm but I'm not in danger of heat stroke when I go for a run. While we are all itching for sweater weather I don't foresee it happening for another several weeks, at least for us here in the South.  But I'm ready for a change in my wardrobe. So, here we are, a way to transition from Summer to Fall for the in between weather.

The top says warmer weather, (well actually all year because you can layer over) the plaid pants say cooler temps and the booties say it all in a Summer shade but Fall/Winter design.

So here you have it, a look that bridges the seasonal gap.

This top I've had for several years, it's a favorite I wear all year long. And it's subtle stripes make its perfect pairing even with this plaid - think of it as lines on top of lines. Also, the blue in the top brings out the bits of blue in the plaid.

These pants in the paper bag waist, wide leg design are all the rage and I'm cool with it because they're super comfortable and make your waist look super small.

Now, the booties.  I'm normally a rule follower but as y'all know I'm obsessed with white so to limit my wear of the bright clean neutral to the days between Memorial Day & Labor Day feels like a punishment. So as I'm writing this I'm wearing white jeans and thinking of when I can strut these new booties out. They are the softest leather and the white actually has a hint of cream to it so perfectly acceptable.  Shoot I'll just call them winter white and all is good.
The kitten heel is just right for a dressier shoe without all the discomfort.

Now if you wanted to make this look more casual - swap the button front with a comfy t-shirt or sweater. And swap the booties for a ballet flat.

Work with what you have gals!

Plaid Pants | Striped Shirt | White Booties |

Dress Beautifully in the In-Between

XOXO Sarah Louise

Not so Basic

Gals, 'Basic' is a trending word to describe something/actions that is mainstream/popular or just 'plain'.  Well I don't like either word .... I prefer simple or classic.

From a glance this outfit is 'basic' but let me assure you it's far from ordinary.

My go-to is a white top.  I have countless.  I got it from my Mamma, and Grandma. Paired with jeans and flats, it's effortless, comfortable and more than just classic - it's classy!

The trick to avoid looking 'basic' is to keep the pieces modern and with detail.

Now I know this post is taking a focus on the white top and jeans look but I have to take a turn and share with you the AMAZINGNESS that is these skinny jeans!  Gals, I actually feel and look skinny in them.  I do not have skinny legs and these jeans make them look longer and leaner.

They are a higher rise, which can be hard for me because I have a super short torso ... my hips and ribs are just a couple inches apart. But these are just perfect and allow for shorter tops. The coloring and softness just right.  I promise you will LOVE & LIVE in these jeans. Go now and get a pair!

PS If you bring in an old pair of jeans you can get $20 off a new pair :) #yourwelcome

Now the white top, it's a button up with a collar but the modern detailing is in the tiers. Not Basic.
It's super soft and easy to wear casually with jeans or with dress pants/skirts.

Side Note: For my fellow nursing Mammas it's perfect!!

Oh, I can't forget to talk about these flats.  They were included in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale back in July and sold out almost immediately during the pre-sale.  I took Vivian Louise to the mall during the sale to give it a peak before I ordered online and sure enough to my surprise there was a pair of these flats on the table.  I quickly checked the size and it was a 6!  I slipped my foot in and score!  Next thing I know I was at the register.  These shoes were pricey so I had to take advantage of the sale.
The pointed toe, front slit and d'orsay design is chic and polished. Also leg lengthening!

White Shirt (xxs) | Jeans (25) | Flats (tts) |

Question, do you gals want sizing??  I've never included it but wonder if it would be helpful.

Dress Beautifully in the Classics 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Paper Bag Pants

Raise your hand if you want an outfit that whittles your waist! It's high time you get yourself a pair of paper bag waist pants.  Let me explain.  The name is deceiving, there's nothing plain or unattractive about these pants.  It is simply used to describe the cinched waist like that of the bag.  The waist is higher and often has a fabric tie sash.  This highlights the smallest part on your body.

The legs tend to have more volume so I suggest pairing with a fitted top and always tuck in to highlight the tee tiny waist these pants will give you.

And not only do they flatter, they're extra comfortable! 

I swapped out the sash for a contrasting belt.  It adds texture, color and acts as an accessory.

These pants are timeless, just look back at Audrey Hepburn! So I kept my blouse and pumps classic.

PS Baby girl has me on Target runs weekly and like every other gal who steps into the 'danger zone' (that's what I call it because the amount of things you bring home and money you will spend on each run is dangerous #truth) I came home with more than diapers and baby food, such as these pants! 

Paper Bag Waist Pants & Similar & Here | Similar Shoes & Here | Top | Belt | 

Dress Beautifully in Paper Bag Waist Pants

XOXO Sarah Louise

Skirt of Many Colors

Well gals, Summer is coming to an end (kiddos went back to school Monday) and Labor Day weekend is just days away. So, it's about darn time I get back to blogging!

As much as I love sharing style with you, I've loved soaking up baby Vivian Louise way more ... and she pays in kisses, snuggles and smiles that take up her entire face!
I'll share an update on baby girl (you really should watch my Instagram stories, you'll find everything we're up to there) very soon.

PS She's 8 months old today! I might have cried on our stroll this morning, it was our last one in her bassinet. Moving up to the big girl seat tomorrow.

I thought for this post I'd incorporate my signature favorite, a crisp white shirt and all the colors in this striped midi skirt.

In my personal opinion, you can't go wrong with a crisp white shirt (nor can you have too many!)
It brings a level of sophistication and class to your look.  It's also comfortable (cotton) and will always be in style. It's the perfect balance to this rainbow striped chiffon skirt.

This skirt is one of those everything pieces.  It goes with everything all year long.
Top it off with just about any color or any style ... cami for a night out, button up for the office, sweater for cold, denim for the weekend ... you get the point.
Oh and don't forget shoes: sandals, heels, booties etc...

The waist is elastic so it's perfect for tucking and fit.
Also, the longer length is chic!

I hope you've had a wonderful summer and are as jazzed as I am to start fresh and get back to it (whatever 'it' is for you).

Crisp white shirt | striped midi skirt | heels | handbag |

Dress Beautifully in a Rainbow of Colors

XOXO Sarah Louise