Blaze

Blazers aren't just for the office. They elevate a weekend/casual outfit to a put-together chic look.  Personally, I don't wear cardigans (I own less than 5) but have a large inventory of blazers in a variety of fabrics and prints.  Blazers are my go-to for layering because they are structured, durable and sophisticated.

Pairing blazers with a pair of jeans and a basic t-shirt polishes a casual outfit.  And while the temperatures have cooled down, it's not quite cold enough for a coat so a blazer is great for layering.

I've noticed that blazers are making a big appearance on the retail racks so scoop yourself up a neutral one and I promise you'll find yourself wearing it on repeat.

Tip:  Look for functional cuff buttons which will allow you to roll up the sleeves.

Blazer & Similar & Here | Jeans | T-Shirt | Similar Pumps | Similar Handbag |

Dress Beautifully in a Blazer

XOXO Sarah Louise

Bold Collaboration

Gals, I dare say it's starting to feel like Fall!  This past weekend I traveled to the mountains with the ladies of my church for a relaxing and refreshing retreat and to my surprise when I came home the cool air seemed to follow me back.

PS missed my baby girl something fierce (according to my sister who took care of her she missed me more!) but Mammas it is necessary to to get away and care for yourself every now and then :)

PSS If you are a nursing Mamma (I'm down to morning and night #freedom) this dress will accommodate.

Now, I'm sale shopper (why in the world would you pay full price?!) so when J Crew was having 40% off a couple weekends ago I shopped. I'm loving velvet for Fall/Winter, it's rich and soft and I love leopard all year round so a collaboration in a classic wrap dress design creates the perfect stand out dress!

The leopard is in a pinkish hue, which I find to be prettier than the standard yellow.  I normally detest sleeves but this cap sleeve gathers at the shoulder giving it a bit of structure and femininity.

If you've been reading this blog for any length or time, or know me in real life, you know it is very rare to see me in a dress above the knee.  I made the exception because it is a winter dress and I'd be pairing it with boots and tights. I also feel that with holiday parties approaching a shorter hem will be fun.

But don't get me wrong I'm also wearing it to church - it's all about styling!

I really want a velvet top and/or blazer but haven't found the right ones at the right price.
Stay tuned.

Sidenote: I did just purchase a velvet piece for our new home! It's been a process getting settled but I promise to share soon.

Velvet Leopard Dress | Boots | Clutch | Earrings |

Dress Beautifully in Velvet & Leopard

XOXO Sarah Louise

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