Sara Kate Styling

Bright & Affordable Wall Art

2017-08-15T04:15:00.000-07:00

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7

Considering the fact that I recently moved (in addition to the fact that I'm in real estate), I've been thinking a lot about interior decorating lately.

For those of you that know me, it will come as no surprise when I say I am planner when it comes to decorating. And when I say planner, I'm not just talking about lists and price comparisons. No... I'm talking full blown inspiration boards in Photoshop, link after link of options, lists of back up options, color wheels. It's a bit much really. But hey! At least I know my weakness right?!

That said, now that I feel I've gotten the "bones" of my interior decor figured out - meaning all major furniture has now been purchased - I've started selecting the statement pieces. And man am I loving some modern art right now, but they can be so pricey!! So, for both my reference and yours, I've compiled a list of my favorite, AFFORDABLE art vendor, with colors and styles that make my heart happy.

What's your interior design weakness?

Cloudy Day Cardigan

2017-07-17T03:00:00.000-07:00

Floral tank {last month, but from Hallelu} // Long cardigan {old}

White skinny jeans // Beige heeled sandals $30 // Drop crystal earrings $15

Accordion purse // Mirrored sunglasses

I absolutely love a good print, but as I've gotten older I've become increasingly more picky about the ones I actually add to my closet. When I saw this one at Hallelu, I felt like I'd found the perfect one! It is subtle, and flirty but still mature. Don't you agree? Florals are my go-to patterns. What are yours?

Out Takes!

2017-04-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

Original post here.

With all of the good, we all know, there comes some bad. So my annual "Out takes post" post is back and better than ever. This has always my favorite post of the year because it ties everything together... Most importantly, though, it shows that you can work hard, but that you should never take yourself too seriously.

For your viewing pleasure haha. Happy April Fools!

Crisp White

2017-03-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

White lace dress // Cross body saddle bag {old, similar here & here}

sandals $30 {similar here} // Earrings {old, but love these options}

It's officially spring! Cue the bird chirping, y'all, I am excited for this weather! (We won't talk too much about it though, don't want to jinx it!)

Dressing for spring is simple... Just break out a new white item and pair with with one of your staples from this past winter. (In this case, my burgundy bag.) This ties the look together and makes it feel relevant without jumping in full fledged into full summer mode.

What's your go-to spring outfit move?

Nautical Stripes

2017-03-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

Striped flowing peplum blouse {only $25!} // Dark wash bell bottoms {similar} Nude chunky heel sandals $30 {similar here} // Statement earrings {$15}

Metallic gold envelope clutch {old similar here & here}

With warmer weather on the way and many of you headed to spring break soon, I figured what better way to take back the blog than with a nautical inspired look!? I've always been a fan of a simple navy and white combo, so when I saw this adorable, ruffled peplum top I knew it was the perfect way to transition into warmer weather. I love how classic this look is!

Speaking of classic, if you are looking for a new go-to sandal... This is the one! It goes with everything, is sleek and elegant, and can be dressed up or down. Highly recommend you add it to your closet!

Happy Monday!

Winter Blues

2017-01-31T03:00:00.000-08:00

Striped button up {old} // Tulle layer skirt c/o

Blue suede shoes {old, almost identical here} // Raw cut stone earrings

I am going to keep it short today, but just wanted to say a quick thank you. I apologize it has taken me so long to get back on the wagon, but thank you for bearing with me patiently and for stopping back by! I promise I have a lot of exciting things planned and I look forward to showing you guys some fun new content!

I hope your year is off to an amazing start!

Snow Day!

2017-01-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

Turtleneck sweater {similar} // Pom pom scarf c/o {only $4!!!}
Dark wash skinny jeans // Duck boots {old, similar here $30}
Accordion bag {in store only} // "Kiss Me" Mug
Dainty ring // Thick glimmer ring

I may not be the biggest fan of the cold in general, but y'all, I am a snow bunny through and through. Nothing makes me more excited than snow flakes in a weather forecast!! There's something so picturesque about cozying up in the cold with a chunky sweater and a great cup of coffee (in an adorable mug, of course), right?!

I hope you guys had fun in the snow and were able to get some good sledding in!

Merry Christmas!

2016-12-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

Plaid button up top {back in stock!} // Utility Jacket

Size zip sweater {similar here} // Dark wash skinny jeans

Chandelier earrings // Red pointed toe shoes {old similar here & here}

To my favorite people - Thank you for all of the love and support over the past year. I hope you all have a very merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve Outfit

2016-12-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

Plaid button up shirt {Also loving} // Pleated maxi skirt {$35}

Metallic gold pumps {old, also loving} // Chandelier earrings // Bangle

Photos by Sharon Bui

Office party, check. Tacky sweater party, check. Now... What to wear to Christmas Eve dinner and church service?

Pleated skirts have been a major hit this year the holiday season is no different. After all, what's better than being able to twirl the night away? I love the color and fit of this one, plus is super budget friendly!! What are you guys wearing for Christmas Eve?

Table for Two: Christmas

2016-12-14T03:28:00.001-08:00

Table Setting:

Bead rim plates // Napkins // Gold flatware // Glasses {Goodwill}

Marble serving tray // marble bowl // Jingle bells // Decorative vase filler balls Cone tree // Red shimmer candle // Red velvet cake pops {in store only}
Mini faux boxwood garland {in store only, in dollar section}

Look:

Cream cable turtleneck sweater // Dark wash skinny jeans // Booties
Earrings // Lip Gloss {order via Facebook Message}

Christmas Tree Detais: Angelhare Forest

Pictures taken by Sharon Bui

Welcome to my new series, Table for Two!

What is it and why did I start it?

Well to be honest y'all, I've recently been experiencing some major blogger burn out. Over the past couple of months I haven't been able to find my motivation to blog. I don't find time to post like I used to, when I do find time I don't feel like it and when I do post I'm not excited. So I took a step back and realized that it was because needed to refresh my content!

Since I love styled table settings, I figured what would be a great way to work in new content!

The Table for Two series will be posted once a month, in collaboration with the Chatham Street Wine Market, that will show you exactly that... Table setting ideas for a table of two. The idea is simple, you don't have to host a huge party to have great decor. Instead it's quite the opposite. Let's celebrate the little things and make time with loved ones even more special.

Hope you enjoy!

(Side note - You guys have got to check out this lip gloss!! It is completely smear proof and is perfect for the holidays! FB Message Angie for details.)

Christmas Cozy in Zaful

2016-12-08T05:44:00.000-08:00

Plaid dress {similar here & tons of options here} // Long grey cardigan c/o

Camel booties {via Charming Charlie but sold out, similar here & here}

Wrap choker c/o {similar for less}

Is there anything better than a quick holiday retreat? A couple of weekends ago I took a day trip to visit a friend in a different part of the state and I swear it was better than any present. Do you ever feel like that? It seems like the older I get the more I appreciate spending time with people more than I do receiving material items.

Anyway, the trip was the perfect mix of North Carolina weather. It was cool, but sunny and had the slightest breeze. So I paired this plaid dress with a long cardigan from Zaful and was good to go! The look was perfect for brunch, sight seeing and so much more!

Holiday Casual

2016-11-29T05:57:00.000-08:00

Plaid top {sold out, almost identical here & here} // Dark wash skinny jeans

Metallic gold pump {sold out, but LOVING these with bows!!} // Large scarf

Chandelier statement earrings {30% off with code MERRY30}

Just a quick post today as we get holiday ready in style! But can I just say how much I love a good plaid!? The perfect flannel can be a game changer, right?!

Black Friday Gift Guide

2016-11-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! On this day, and every day, I am so incredibly luck for so many things. And you guys are certainly one of them. Thanks to all of you for your constant support. I wish you all the best this holiday season!

Above are some of my favorite gift ideas for the season and below is a list of some amazing black Friday deals! You guys better tell me what you end up getting!

J.Crew - 40% everything

BaubleBar - 35% off everything

Target - 30% clothing, shoes & accessories (40% off decor)

Gap - 50% off everything

Talbots - 40% off everything

Charming Charlie - 40% off jewelry

Casual Holiday Ready

2016-11-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

Off the shoulder wrap top c/o // Black ripped skinny jeans c/o {in size S}

Black notched booties {sold out, similar here & here}

Long choker necklace c/o {cheaper version here} // Studded handbag c/o

Photos by Sharon Bui

Well y'all, you ever have one of those moments where you realize, long after wearing something, that you did it completely wrong. Whelp. That would be me. I went to link this top just now and realized that I in fact completely put it on wrong! Now, in my defense... It was a classic mix up. This top comes as one long, scarf-like piece that is wrapped around the body and definitely is best worn following checking the reference picture. The great news is, though, it can be worn multiple ways! ha!

Not a complete fail though... These jeans! I have been wanting a pair of black jeans for some while now and am completely in love with these! They are so chic and make every outfit look more fierce. I can't stop wearing them!

I don't know about you guys, but I am definitely getting in the holiday spirit!! I simply can't wait for Thanksgiving!

Styling Blanket Scarves with Zaful

2016-11-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

Plaid Zaful blanket scarf in green c/o {$9} // Artisan Eiffel Tower Stud Earring

Chunky cowl neck sweater {old, similar here & here} // A-line skirt c/o
Knee high heeled boots {similar here & loving all of these}

Photos by Sharon Bui

Scarves are my favorite accessories for every season, but especially for fall and winter. They are cozy, warm and tie every outfit together. Plus, they make the best gifts! When I was shopping on Zaful the other day, I couldn't help but notice all of the amazing blanket scarves they have. There are pieces for every outfit! Stock up while you can!

Choker Sweater

2016-11-10T05:19:00.000-08:00

Choker sweater c/o // Distressed skinny jeans c/o

Blue grey mirrored sunnies {similar here & here} // Hair Extensions c/o

Sam Edelman lace up pumps in nude c/o

I am all about the choker trend, as I am sure you can tell from this post and this post. That said, my favorite look this season is when a sweater or dress comes with it's own choker! It all matches and looks so well put together and chic. I simply can't get enough. How do you guys feel about that style of look?

Working Out with Dragonwing

2016-11-07T03:30:00.000-08:00

All products here!

Let's be real, ladies. Who really looks forward to putting on a sports bra? Getting into comfortable clothing, yes. But putting on a bra that practically suffocate you? No way!! Well ya'll, I have found a game changer!!

When I was introduced to Dragonwing girlgear, their Racer Seamless Sport Bra was one of the first products I tried on... To say it is one of the most comfortable pieces of clothing I have ever tried on would be an understatement! This bra is comfortable, supportive but not suffocating and OH SO soft!! Made out of the finest yarns, this knit is something I simply can’t get enough of. Not only that, but the cami is made of Italian performance fabric. The back and shelf bra are silver infused mesh which insure coolness and breathability.

Pair Dragonwing's Racer Seamless Sports Bra with the Racerback Cami and the Chill Weight Capri {styled previously here} for the most comfortable, high performance workout look!

- About the look above -

Fit: I wear XS in pretty much all athletic clothing of this nature. Since I am currently wearing their girls sizing, I am wearing a Medium in all products shown.

The medium bra is currently available, but the Cami and extended sizes of the Racer Seamless Sports Bra are part of the Kickstarter... We need your support to pledge and share!

Check out their Kickstarter here!

Business Casual with Banana Republic

2016-11-02T03:00:00.000-07:00

Long-Sleeve Bow Cuff Shirt // Black Skinny Ankle Jean

Artisan Eiffel Tower Stud Earring // Artisan Crystal Chateau Necklace

Chunky Duster Cardigan {loving this one & the shape of this one}

Black Stacked Booties

Finding work appropriate clothing can be so difficult! You want the pieces to fit well and are modest enough for the office, but still have enough flare to be stylish and exciting. Which is exactly why I love Banana Republic. Not only are their pieces staples, but they are also perfect for business-chic women on the go!

The older I get, the more transitional pieces matter. Because I am no longer shopping for a given event… I’m shopping for life! I need to be able to wear something to work, make a quick adjustment and head to dinner and then throw on another layer and run errands.

Take thistop, for example. Looking for a casual look? Add some denim bottoms and you are ready for a business casual workday. Dress it up with some jewelry for dinner and then throw on a chunky cardigan for a more casual ensemble!

Need to dress it up a bit more? Take that same top and then pair it with one of their classic skirts. Layer the look with a nice pull over cardigan and then polish the look with a clutch.

I’m telling you guys, you simply can’t go wrong! (Hit to all my younger readers, start your professional wardrobe now so it’s not as daunting later.) Happy shopping!

This shop has been compensated by Banana Republic in connection with Tidal Labs.

All opinions and content are mine alone.

Oversized Sweater Style

2016-10-19T05:33:00.002-07:00

Wrap choker c/o {similar for less} // Gold statement earrings

Off the shoulder sweater c/o {out of stock, similar here & here}
Charcoal leggings // Over the knee socks
J.Crew boots {old, similar here}

Y'all, there's a hint of coolness in the air! 'Cue the fall wardrobe!! It doesn't matter if it's 80 degrees in the middle of the day, it's 60 in the morning. haha. Am I wrong? I'm pretty sure this is what all girls are currently thinking. With the sign of the slightest cool weather, I am breaking out the sweaters and boots!! What can I say, though, fall is my favorite season!

This fall, my two must-haves are cozy sweaters and chokers in case you can't tell by last week's post)! There's just so many options! I believe you can never have too many of either.

Quilted Vest for Fall

2016-10-12T04:22:00.001-07:00

Blue plaid top $16 // Blue Quilted vest {old from Zara, similar here & here}

White skinny jeans {old, many options here} // Faux leather bag

Wedge booties {similar here & here} // Gold statement earrings

Spiked bracelet // Bracelet c/o // Charms c/o

In case you can't tell by this post, I am loving quilted vests paired with plaid shirts! The mix and match options are endless and the look is so easy to recreate. Just a quick post today, but if you are looking for new fall flannels, you can shop some of my favorites here!

How to Style a Long Choker Necklace

2016-10-10T03:00:00.000-07:00

Long yellow cardigan c/o {sold out, tons of similar options here}

Lace up ribbed dress // Wrap choker c/o {similar for less}

Gold statement earrings // Chunky heel booties {old, similar}

Spiked bracelet // Bracelet c/o // Charms c/o

Hi All! I can't apologize enough for the delay in posting. Last week life got a little unexpectedly crazy and I just needed to take some "me" time. I know you guys understand how that goes, but thank you regardless for your patience.

Chokers are all the rage this season and I am completely sold on them! They make every look more fierce and definitely add a little va va voom. I love the style of this one because of it's length. I can wrap it according to what I'm wearing and leave it hanging (as shown) or knot it in the front so the two strands hang together! How do you guys feel about the choker trend? Yay or nay?

Casual Chambray

2016-09-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Embroidered chambray dress // Long heathered gray cardigan {similar}

Maroon lace up flats {other colors here & a cheap version here}

Rectangular gold watch // Gold bar sunglasses {similar}

Stud bag {old, similar}

For some reason this Thursday is feeling like a Monday to me... So much to do an not nearly enough time! Good thing the weekend is near!

Long cardigans are my jam. I love how cozy they can be and they are the perfect layering pieces. {Do I say that about too many things? Sorry. I like layers!} Pair them with another one of this season's hottest trends, lace up shoes, and you are fall ready!

You've probably heard, but I have a giveaway running! If you haven't entered, now is the time!! {Entry form below!}

The Perfect Distressed Skinny Jean

2016-09-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

White high neck crop tank {$6!! Other colors here}

Distressed skinny jeans // Nude lace up pumps // Saddle bag {more here}

Blue stone arrowhead earrings // Blue necklace {old, similar} //

Rectangular gold watch // Gold bar sunglasses {similar}

I've always been a fan of the distressed boyfriend jean, but finding one that's the right fit can be so challenging. Obviously they need to be a little loose, but in general, they should still fit well. That's why I'm so obsessed with these distressed skinny jeans! They fit perfectly!!

Also, can we please note... This top is currently on sale for only $6. Literally going to buy one in every color right now.

Happy Tuesday and if you haven't yet, be sure to enter my current giveaway with Dragonwing!! (Linked at the bottom of this post.)

Cali Chic with Dragonwing

2016-09-25T03:00:00.000-07:00

Black Strappy Dragonwing School to Sport Bra {M}

Dragonwing Chill Weight Capri {M} // Blue plaid boyfriend flannel

White vans // Blue mirrored sunglasses {old, similar} // Monogram necklace

Gold rectangular watch // Spiked bracelet

Although I love to get dressed up I, along with most of my friends, am also the type of person that lives in leggings. If I am running errands or have a busy day, leggings. If I’m headed to the gym or getting coffee with a friend, leggings. If I’m working from home… You get it, I practically live in them! That said, though, I am extremely picky about the quality of the athletic clothing I purchase. Not only does it need to be soft and durable, but the fabric needs to be thick, high quality and long lasting. Dragonwing girlgear is exactly that.

Founded for girls that give it their all on the field and court, Dragonwing was established to empower girls of all ages. Sign up below for their awesome giveaway so one of you can rock the look and empower your active lifestyle with a $150 gift card from Dragonwing girlgear!!

- About the look above -

Fit: I wear XS in athletic clothing of this nature. Since I am currently wearing their girls sizing, I am wearing a Medium in both the strappy School to Sport Bra and the Chill Weight Capri.

Enter below for your chance to win $150 in Dragonwing apparel!
Win a $150 Gift Card to Dragonwing girlgear

J.Crew Utility Jacket

2016-09-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

Striped top {old, similar here & here} // Army green utility jacket

YMI Dark wash skinny jeans c/o {also loving these & these}

Faux leather tote bag {$37} // Duck boots {$20}

Gold rectangular watch // Spiked bracelet // Bangle c/o

Extensions c/o // Essie polish in Butter Please

In North Carolina, you know it's officially fall when the rain comes. It's been raining for days now and you know what... I am perfectly OK with that! This rain has finally brought us some slightly cooler weather. Plus, it's giving me a chance to bust out one of my favorite pairs of fall shoes, my duck boots! Us southern gals tend to live in these boots, because not only do they go with everything, but are oh-so functional!

Speaking of of items to live in, this J.Crew utility jacket is a must! I purchased the navy version last year {see styling example here} and just recently got the military green color, as well. It's such a great layering piece!

What are your go-to fall products?!