Friday 5: Tropical

It’s finally Friday!  Those were my first thoughts when I opened my eyes this morning. It’s been a short week following the 4^th of July Holiday but it’s been super busy in and outside the office.  But the time did surely pass quickly and there was certainly some fun scatter throughout the crazy.

It has been so hot & humid these past few weeks that I said to a gal pal ‘it feels like we live in a tropical rain forest’.  Every year it seems as though the Summer temps get higher and higher. You’d think after living in NC my entire life these scorching conditions wouldn’t phase me but I assure you I start glistening after just 5 mins outside the AC.

Tropical palm prints bring brightness and thoughts of a relaxing escape. They take you to a place far, far away even if it is just in your mind.  Ditch reality and treat yourself to a daydream in paradise!

If you can’t actually go to a tropical island embrace the next best thing and dress like you are.  Maybe even drink a fruity drink to top it off.

Here’s some tropical printed pieces sure to make you feel almost as nice as it would to be in a tropical place J

 Green Leaf Dress   -   Navy Halter Midi Dress   -   Pink Palm Dress 

Off the Shoulder Dress  -  Navy Palm Trapeze Dress 

Dress Beautifully in Tropical Prints

XOXO Sarah Louise

Black Eyelet

So one of my goals from my Summer To-Do List was to incorporate more black into my wardrobe.  I have more white and ivory than anything else.  I have to stay true to what I like and be confident in my personal style but I also feel it's equally as important to embrace items and styling that isn't your typical.  Most gals don't have a shortage of black more like an overload.

I didn't make it easy on my self choosing the season of heat to bring on dark pieces. However, I find it quite chic to wear black in the Summer. The key to incorporating this ebony hue is all in the fabric.  Linen, Poplin, Cotton and the loveliest of all, eyelet.  Eyelet is a light weight fabric containing holes that are finished with embroidery.  These 'holes' are often designed in graphic or floral patterns.

I have to confess, I didn't scout this top out on my own.  One of my gal pals was wearing it a few weeks ago and I knew at first sight I had to have it too.  Naturally I surround myself with fashionable friends.

Let me just share the details that make this number a top favorite. The mixed media of cotton and eyelet, the cut-in design at the shoulder, crisp collar, the high waisted eyelet peplum, the scalloped hem, the eyelet back and a whole lot of sass in the see-through waist and back.

I went with contrast and paired it with bright white skinnies but I think this weekend I'll go with a pair of denim cut off shorts.

Tip:  A black racer back bra is the perfect undergarment to compliment the transparency of the eyelet.

You can absolutely go dark with your summer pieces but do so in light weight feminine fabrics to avoid melting!

Black Eyelet Top: Madewell || Jeans: Loft || Espadrille Wedges: Tory Burch || 

Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Black Eyelet

XOXO Sarah Louise

Silk & Shoulders

I've decided that this year is the Summer of shoulders! While shorts and tanks will always be a go-to in dressings for hot sunny days, showcasing your arms and legs have taken a back seat to shoulders.

Off the shoulder and even one shoulder tops, dresses and rompers are center stage and I couldn't love it more! The shoulders are universally an attractive feature on us ladies.  You're not as exposed as strapless designs while still showing off the neck, décolletage and it also draws the eye upward to the face and smile and that's where you want the attention :)

Crisp white cotton is on the top of the list of classics.  This dress combines both the coolness of cotton and the trending shoulder baring design. You can also pull the neckline up to cover the shoulders for a more modest look.  I wore it this way to work a couple of weeks ago.

Silk scarves are something I've been collecting for over 10 years now.  I prefer vintage and have hunted some beautiful treasures over the years.  Silk scarves were huge in the 60's through the 90's worn on your handbag or around the neck and/or shoulders.  Personally, I'm happy to see these printed squares making a come back!

Adding the scarf around your neck breaks up the exposed shoulders and adds fun color and print. Try replacing your typical baubles with an unexpected silk scarf.

FYI: These lace up shoes are amazing! Super comfortable with a block heel and soft suede.  They come in several colors.  A few of my gal pals have gone and purchased and love them as much as I do!

Off the Shoulder Dress: Banana Republic (Sold Out) Similar || Shoes: Vince Camuto || 

Silk Scarf: Vintage Similar Options ||

Dress Beautifully Showing off Your Shoulders

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday 5: Stripes

TGIF!!! That’s the first thing I say on Friday mornings on my daily call with Mr on his drive to work. 

Side Note:  I can’t wait to have him home for good and I can say it first thing when we open our eyes in person!

July 4^th is pretty much my favorite holiday!!! Right after Easter, because let’s be real nothing compares to the sacrifice on the cross.  But the sacrifice of the men and women for our country is one of utmost honor.  What a blessing to live in a free country where we are afforded such privilege!!

Growing up my family did it up big for the 4^th of July.  There were hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill, lots of red white and blue decorations, always an angel food cake with berries and my Uncle Jeff manning the fireworks.  There’s something so magical about twirling sparklers in the dark!

Once I met Mr, 10 years ago WHAT?!!, we made it a tradition to celebrate at the beach.  Salty Toes and Sandy Kisses J

And since he’s been a US Naval Officer the past several years it’s been extra special.

This year we’re taking a turn from our tradition and bringing the party inland to our home in the Queen City.  We will be toasting America with our friends and I couldn’t be happier.

So finally to this Friday’s 5, I’m sharing stripes because stars aren’t for fashion but best used for wishes. 

Stripes are classic, a bit nautical and will never steer your wrong when it comes to style.

I scouted these striped pieces from J Crew.  I own the shorts and have my eye on the skirt (it’s now 40% off so it may be just the push I need to bring it home).  The dress is a forever piece.  I have a few striped dresses so no need for more.  The one piece swimsuit is so super cute, but I’m just not ready to give up my bikinis – check back in 5 years.  This off the shoulder top, if you don’t have one yet, is so pretty.  I have it in white but see no need to have multiple of the same style considering they are casual/weekend only and won’t get enough wear to justify. 

Chanel your patriotic spirit by adding stripes to your look this weekend and/or America’s signature colors red, white & blue.

FYI:  I’m wearing this red white and blue ensemble today – in case you ever wonder if I really do wear what I blog about.

      Swimsuit  -  Top  -  Dress  -  Shorts  -  Skirt 

Dress Beautifully in Stripes

XOXO Sarah Louise

Cold Shoulder

This shoulder baring top is perfect for summer! The flutter sleeves add the perfect touch of femininity and the strappy design adds just the right amount of sass.

I like this design for several reasons, there’s no need for elastic like you find with off the shoulder tops, the straps offer support and allow for movement and you don’t look/feel so bare and exposed having straps.  The flutter sleeve adds a delicate element and brings a hint of that 70’s style vibe.

I also like that it’s dressy enough for an evening out but is just as chic paired with a pair of distressed jeans.  I paired it with a pair of ivory trousers for a more polished look. 

This top comes in ivory and navy – my two very favorite neutrals.  I pushed myself to go with navy as my white/ivory inventory is off the charts and I’m glad I did!  It’s a nice change to add some darker shades and perfectly fitting with my white jeans. 

I’ll be shimmy-shimmy shakin in this number over this July 4^th Holiday! 

Strappy Off the Shoulder Top: Ann Taylor - More Options || Trousers: Ann Taylor || 

Sandals: Tory Burch & Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in a Strappy Off the Shoulder Top

XOXO Sarah Louise