Iced Velvet

'Look but do not touch' My Mamma used to say that to us kids all the time whenever we were out shopping or at someone's home. I can't tell you just how many times I've told Vivian not to touch something in our home this week alone! It's hard not to reach out and feel shiny and soft things.

Prime example, I immediately had to feel this velvet blazer when I saw it hanging there in all it's soft glory. Velvet is such a luxurious fabric!  I always think about those green velvet drapes Scarlett had turned into a gown in the movie 'Gone with the Wind' (it's my favorite of all time!). It's thick, warm, plush and has a subtle luster to it that's so rich.  I'd love to have a velvet couch one day.  But until then I'll stick to garments in my closet.

A velvet blazer is sharp and serves as a functional layer in keeping you warm this season.

I adore the long sleek cut of this blazer and especially in lighter colors.  Pastels in the winter create an 'iced' look that lightens in a typically darker time of year.

For the office it pairs beautifully over dresses, skirts and trousers but I love transitioning it in a more casual look with jeans.  You could even swap the blouse for a basic t-shirt and add flats.  The structure creates a pretty shape and will having you looking put together.

Snake Print Blouse | Velvet Blazer | Jeans | Pumps | Similar Handbag | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in a Velvet Blazer

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Personalized Presents

Happy Monday Gals!  Gracious this season is so much fun.  I've been listening to traditional Christmas music as I go about my days.  Which is NOT the norm for me.  I've generally been a 'bah humbug' kind of gal but sure enough having sweet Vivian changed all that.  And now I'm all holly jolly!

Down here in the south, we believe if it's not moving monogram it!  We love having our initials on EVERYTHING!  It's better that way.

Fun fact: when I got married my last name initial didn't change so all of my monogramed items are still enjoyed.

Gifting a personalized item is special, it evokes thoughtfulness and intent.  It makes the recipient feel set apart and that they are a unique person to you.

Here are some personalize presents that are pretty and good for all year occasions ....

Travel Jewelry Case

I adore this company you can personalize so many things Handbags, Scarves, Jewelry and keepsake baby items like this hairbrush set I gave Vivian last year.

Initial Necklace

I love these because with just one letter it's ready instantly rather than waiting on customization.

More options here

Classic Monogram Necklace
I received this one year for Christmas and will cherish it forever!
Tons of jewelry options here!!!

Birthstone Earrings

If you're not into 'letters' you can gift birthstones or favorite colors.

I'm obsessed with these earrings!

Coasters

I love the pearl and gold in these!

Monogram Mug

You can't go wrong!

Monogram Door Knocker

A great gift for a family who has it all.

Initial Blanket

Available in 3 sizes and custom colors

Pet Socks

For your crazy cat pals ... I'm gifting these to Ryan in his stocking

RIP Scragley 😿

Custom Silhouette Art

More custom wall art options HERE
These are great for grandparents!

Hand Painted Plate

This can be used or hung on a wall as decor

This is one of my most favorite Etsy shops!!!

I ordered Vivian this little purse & placement for Christmas.

As your hustling around trying to find the 'perfect' gift - personalized items may just be the ticket!

Also consider finding the perfect gift and taking it to a monogram shop for personalization or jewelry store for engraving. 

Men love initials too.  Ryan has personalized belts, buckles, golf club covers and bags.

Dress Your Gifts Beautifully with Personalization

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Friday Favorites: Pretty Pretty Blouses

TGIF! The Christmas season is in full swing! Carols are playing, lights are twinkling and shoppers are bustling. And I mean bustling (I live just a couple miles from the mall the crowds and traffic are high).

Highlight of our week .... Vivian's first pigtails!!!!

I've been so excited for this hair moment.  

This time of year there's a lot of sweaters and 'holiday' pieces on the racks.  While I love cozy knits and sparkles they're only relevant for a season.  A pretty blouse can give you versatility throughout the year. Paired with jeans for more casual events or skirts and festive pants for dressy occasions.

Pink Floral Blouse

PS A little puff on the sleeve is my absolute favorite detail for a touch of femininity :)

Here are some pretty blouses I love that will pair beautifully all year!

Floral Blouse

Pastel Shimmer Blouse

Ruffled Blouse

Mint Beaded Blouse

Victoria Blouse

Lace Blouse
Comes in several colors

Pink Floral Blouse

Bow Blouse

Side Bow Tie Blouse
Comes in several colors

Satin Halter Blouse 

Floral Ruffle Blouse

Shimmer Floral Blouse

Have a blessed weekend!!!

Dress Beautifully in Pretty Blouses

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Party Pants

One of my most favorite designers Kate Spade said 'Live Colorfully'.  I happily comply.

It's typical during holiday season to see lots of sequins, beading, velvet, satin and dark colors.
Personally I like making a bold statement by shining in bright colors.
These pieces also have more versatility in styling throughout the year

These hot pink wide leg pants sit higher on the waist which make me feel like I have long legs - that's a big deal for a petite gal! It's also great for tucking in tops or come Spring/Summer pairing with a cropped length top.
Note: These pants are not super long, I was able to wear just a mid heeled pump and no hemming! 

Since it's cooler weather I chose a balloon sleeve top, which I'm obsessed with.  A puffed sleeve with a snug cuff is a design element that was all the rage in the 80's and I'm thrilled that it's back! For me, I have super narrow shoulders and small arms so I like the added volume to balance my shape since I'm slightly bigger on the bottom.

I kept everything else neutral so that these party pants shine! But I'm looking forward to pairing with a fun printed top.

So much wind beneath my mane!!!

Balloon Sleeve Top | Hot Pink Pants | Pumps | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in Party Pants

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Finish Strong

Happy Monday Gals! A new start to the week and it's the start of the last month of the year.  It can be the most wonderful time of the year and the most busy!  There's so much to do (decorate, shop, wrap ...) and so many shindigs! And for a lot of folks there's traveling.  Not to mention the end of 4th quarter push at many jobs.  It's safe to say everyone has full calendars in December.

She LOVES dressing up! Just like her Mamma :)

I get so much enjoyment seeing her in costumes!

Rather than wait until the new year to start strong in your goals I encourage you to finish strong on the goals you started this year.  Or even set goals for this last month so that you enter 2020 in the best way!

'Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today' 

Here are 5 ways I'm going to finish strong in 2019:

1. Focused Fitness

I exercise on a daily basis but I'm going to kick it up a notch and go hard this month with focused weight training.  Just like the last leg of a race I'm going to sprint it out!

2. Guarded Nutrition

This time of year is full of parties with heavy foods and lots of desserts.  I am extremely disciplined and eat as clean as possible but I often feel pressured to indulge at events or when gifted sweet treats. While trying to be polite I am creating stress and upset for myself if I partake.  So I'm going to exercise kind manners and avoid/decline the treats.
Tip:  I often eat a salad or light meal prior to events so that I can easily avoid harmful foods.

3. Tidy Home

'Spark Joy' in your closets and cabinets by removing unwanted items. I did a wardrobe cleaning on Saturday and it was very refreshing.  My desk is next followed by the insane amount of photos on my phone/computer I want to organize! I despise clutter and enjoy seeing emptiness in the storage places of my home. Enter into the new year clean!

4. Execute a New Skincare Regiment

I have to admit I'm not as strict with my creams and serums as I should be. Especially since I'll be 37 sooner than I'd like.  It's a shame because those products are expensive and make a difference.  I know that having things where you can see them helps them to be utilized but I absolutely despise items on countertops so I'm going to have to work really hard to pull out my vanity drawer and take the time to apply as directed.

5. Correspondance

Send some snail mail to dear friends.  While I adore sending out Christmas cards to loved ones near and far, I'm going to go a little extra and catch up with hand written letters.  It could be catching up on the year, sending encouragement or just a friendly reminder of your care.

Dress Beautifully and Finishing 2019 at Your Best

XOXO Sarah-Louise