Sweet Southern Prep

An Alex Mill Afternoon, Fall Outfits & a Few Good Finds

Ashley Brown — Sat, 17 Oct 2026 23:02:04 +0000

Charleston in October is funny. One minute I’m wearing a sleeveless dress, and the next I’m leaving a pop-up with a fall jacket. Between that, a few cozy looks, some beauty products on my counter, and a couple of little finds, my camera roll is full. So I’m putting it all in one place—with the shopping links, of course!

I went to an Alex Mill pop-up at The Cooper, which has quickly become one of my favorite spots lately. The views of the water are beautiful, and I just love the whole vibe. It was the perfect setting to spend an afternoon looking at pretty clothes and catching up with friends.

The brand itself has such a fun backstory! Alex Mill was founded by Alex Drexler, whose dad is Mickey Drexler, the former CEO of J.Crew. I even got to meet Alex himself at the event, which was very cool.

I wore this green striped dress, and yes, you’ll be seeing my new jacket on repeat! It’s the sort of easy, classic piece I can throw over a dress now and pair with jeans as the weather cools off. Exactly what I want for fall.

Also worth mentioning: Sophie James Wine! I love discovering a female-run business, and this one is family-owned, too. The wines are made from organically farmed grapes and have zero grams of sugar. More importantly, the one I tried was delicious! I also felt good the next morning—of course, that’s my personal experience, not a hangover-free guarantee.

A Few Looks I Wanted to Share

First up, this patterned maxi that does all the work for you. Just add simple heels and you’re ready. Wearing an XS.

And how cute is this quilted patchwork jacket? It makes even the most basic outfit feel a little more special.

Absolutely loving this Panthers rugby top, a true preppy vibe while cheering on my favorite team. Wearing a small. Lots of other NFL teams too.

The olive Alo look is another easy one—I’m very much here for comfortable pieces that still feel pulled together. Ribbed Cropped Top // Sweatpants

I know y’all remember the UGG slippers we’ve all owned. I still have them but felt like i wanted something different this season. And they’re the comfiest. So I’m an 8/8.5 and went with a 7.5 in these. I love the cozy trim with a striped top and these jeans. // Earrings

This monogram tote is such a fun one.

Black // Brown // Cropped Jeans // Ripped // Dark Denim // Olive Cropped

Chiffon Top // White Cardi // Pink Bag (only $11) // Burnt Sienna Cardi // Gingham Top // Sheep Cardi

Grey Crewneck // Velvet Jacket // Wheat Cashmere Sweater // Blue Stripe // Olive Stripe // Rollneck Sweater

Little Things I’ve Been Loving

Wheeler’s going to be Athena for Halloween. She’s always been a big fan, so I was gifted jewelry from this brand and I knew immediately I wanted to gift this to Wheeler. She hasn’t taken it off since I gave it to her. // Clasp Necklace // Mini-Charm

Absolutely in LOVE with this Leave-In Cream. I apply it after I shower and it makes my hair oh so soft. Honestly obsessed!

I tried this Dewy Recovery Mask the other night and slept in it. I can attest that it is truly worth it. Woke up to the most glowy skin. Highly recommend.

After having my tried and true BeachWaver for almost ten years, it finally died last month. This one I tried last week and it does just as well, and is half the price. Love it so much!

Hope y’all are having a great weekend! The weather has definitely turned here. It literally dropped ten degrees today from this morning until later in the day. Always curious if it’ll stay. Considering we already had our “False Fall” a few weeks ago, we shall see if it sticks around this time.

The post An Alex Mill Afternoon, Fall Outfits & a Few Good Finds first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

A Few Things I’m Loving Lately

Ashley Brown — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 14:55:21 +0000

A little roundup of things I’ve been loving, trying and eyeing lately. Nothing too serious today – just a few good finds, a little beauty, a little tennis and a blanket I’m obsessed with.

LOLA BLANKET

I truly didn’t expect to love these blankets as much as I do, but they’re just amazing. So soft and cozy and exactly the kind of thing I want on my bed and couch. Doesn’t matter the season, I will seriously use these year round. Code: SWEETSOUTHERN35 will get you 35% off.

SKINCARE I’M TRYING

Sweet Chemistry // Aramore

A couple of skincare products currently living on my counter. I’ve been testing them out for over a month and have absolutely fallen in love with both. Not only does it make my face feels so good when I apply it, the benefits are an added bonus.

Saltyface

This one was fun because you can actually SEE the difference. One leg with Saltyface, one without. I’m always a fan of anything that gives me a little color without looking too orange, and this was surprisingly easy.

QUICK LIFE LATELY BREAK

In completely unrelated news, I went back to taking barre and I was quickly reminded how much I love these classes. I really need to get back into a routine. These leggings continue to be my favorite. Have them in so many colors.

TENNIS THINGS I HAVE MY EYE ON

And now for the section that’s probably the easiest way to get me to spend money: tennis clothes.

This bag continues to be one of my favorite tennis things. It actually holds what I need without feeling giant.

Loving these dresses so much, especially the back. Green or blue? I can’t decide! And there aren’t that many left. The green one is on sale!

I also loved this one so much…

…that I ordered it in the newest color.

A very random post today. Y’all know I’m always up for suggestions, so feel free to share in comments what you’d like to see…beauty, fall clothes, gift ideas?

The post A Few Things I’m Loving Lately first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

New Fall Finds I’m Very Into Right Now

Ashley Brown — Sun, 04 Oct 2026 18:46:10 +0000

My closet is finally starting to look a little more like fall, even if Charleston hasn’t fully gotten the memo yet.

A few new things have come in lately, so instead of a giant roundup, here are the pieces I’m actually wearing and loving right now.

LOOK 1

Cardigan

This cardigan might be my favorite of the bunch. The little contrast trim and gold buttons make it feel more special than a basic cardigan.

LOOK 2

Cardigan

This one is the easy throw-it-on-with-jeans sweater. Cozy without feeling enormous.

LOOK 3

Striped Cardigan

Stripes forever. This one feels very classic without feeling too preppy.

LOOK 4

Classic White Tee

Possibly the least exciting item here and probably the one I wear the most. A really good white tee is surprisingly hard to find.

LOOK 5

Aqua Sweater // Jeans // Shoes

This is exactly the kind of easy fall outfit I reach for over and over. The sweater color is so good in person and I love it with simple denim and these little booties. Comes in lots of other colors too. For these booties in particular, they’re a great staple, just make sure you order an entire size down. They run very big.

LOOK 6

Heart Sweater // Jeans // Flats

Okay, this one is just FUN. The little hearts make it more playful than your basic sweater. And y’all know I don’t own much black in my closet.

A Couple of Dresses Lately…

Brown Smocked Maxi (15% off: SWEETSOUTHERNPREP)

Floral Dress

Pink Floral Dress

This dress is so pretty for dinners, showers or anything where you want to look pulled together without trying too hard. The color and embroidery make it feel extra special. Use code: SSP15 for 15% off.

That’s the fall lineup for now! Hopefully y’all love these as much as I do. Tell me which look is your favorite – and if you ever need help finding something for an event, I’m always happy to help!

xx, Ashley

The post New Fall Finds I’m Very Into Right Now first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

Logan’s 15th Birthday!

Ashley Brown — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 18:20:39 +0000

Fifteen. HOW??

We celebrated Logan’s birthday, exactly how he wanted…his besties, the beach, and lots of snacks, games and no complicated plans. The weather was absolutely incredible! It ended up being one of those simple days that was just really, really good.

The boys spent hours swimming, playing games, eating and the best part, zero phones.

And this right here was really all I wanted for him. A day surrounded by sweet friends who geniunely enjoy being together. Since graduating middle school, they’ve split into two high schools, so it’s even more special when they get back together again for times like these.

We got this game during covid and it’s still our fave.

Sweet sisters came to celebrate.

Sweet Vaughn, my little animal lover, always exploring.

My sweet Shmogan, the funniest, kindest kid with the biggest heart. Always making us laugh, always willing to help and always making sure everyone feels included.

Happy 15th, my Sweet Logan Bear!

OUR BEACH FAVES

Shade // Coolers // Beach Bag

We absolutely LOVE these beach chairs!

MY BEACH LOOK

Sunnies (only $15) // Swimsuit (under $30)

The post Logan’s 15th Birthday! first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

Life Lately: College Visits, University of South Carolina + All The Things

Ashley Brown — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 18:40:26 +0000

Another weekend, another college visit. Every one of these feels a little more real than the last. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. We went from 90s in Clemson the weekend before, to starting with high 50s in Columbia that reached a cool crisp 70 for most of our day.

Got her some new gear.

We went into the day wanting to see as much as we could and really get a feel for campus life. I was so impressed! South Carolina really does have a beautiful campus with gorgeous trees and green space. Since it’s located in the city, I wasn’t expecting it to look like this at all.

I’m trying very hard not to give many opinions unless asked at this point, but it’s been very easy with Wheeler. She’s so good about sharing her feelings during this process and talking things through with me, to which I’m very grateful. Love watching her take it all and get excited about her next chapter.

Sherpa // Leggings // Shoes // Fendi Bag (Vivrelle Borrow)

Absolutely loving this new sherpa. It came in the day before we left and I thought I wouldn’t be wearing it for awhile, but when I saw the weather forecast for our trip, I was excited to wear it. Runs true to size. Wearing a small. Use code: SWEETSOUTHERNPREP for 15% off your order.

Such a fun day with my girl. And yes, I’m fully aware that I’m going to be emotional through this entire college process. If you read my last Substack, I’m definitely having all the feels. But I knew it was coming.

More life lately coming this week because I’ve taken 4000 photos in a matter of a week and have so much more to share. If you know me, you probably aren’t that surprised…

The post Life Lately: College Visits, University of South Carolina + All The Things first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

Our Girls’ Weekend at Clemson: College Tour, Game Day + All the Orange

Ashley Brown — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:50:56 +0000

Well, our Clemson weekend is officially in the books! And it ended up being so much more than just a football weekend. We packed so much into a couple of days – campus touring, eating, shopping, walking a 67 miles haha, tailgaiting, football and just getting to have some girl time together.

We started Friday with a campus tour, and Clemson really is just so beautiful.

One thing I loved about doing an actual tour versus just walking around ourselves was getting a much better feel for what everyday student life is like. We walked through campus with the BEST tour guides (current Clemson students), saw where students spend their time and got to hear things you might not get from looking at a college website.

It was a fun albeit HOT (90+ temps) day on campus, but definitely made the whole college thing feel a little more REAL. More on that in a minute…

After the tour, we headed into town to shop and grab a bite to eat. We loved True Orange. Probably our favorite shopping spot there.

We had lots of restaurant recs from you and had our hearts set on Evolve but it was just too crowded, so we headed over to Tiger Tavern and loved it. The BLT was our fave!

It was extra crowded for Parents Weekend but we loved it, especially that they were playing my Tar Heels. I’ve had many of y’all ask why I cheer for UNC AND Clemson. I was raised a Tiger (my mom went there) and then went to UNC. So I’ll forever be conflicted when they play each other.

I’ve had this Anthropologie dress since 2006! Crazy! But my necklace is new.

Well, sadly I forgot to pack the dress I was going to wear to the game. Left it hanging on the door. Whoops. Thankfully I had this as my backup. It was what I’d packed to wear to the gym at the hotel that morning and never went to the gym, so it worked out.

My friend Courtney and her family always hosts the best tailgates at Clemson. Loved her skirt.

The energy was so much fun and getting to experience all of it with my girls made it even better.

Wore this necklace as my hint of Carolina blue. It’s becoming my go-to necklace I wear often. Goes with everything.

But there was another part of this weekend that I haven’t really talked much about yet. Because somewhere between touring campus, talking about majors, dorm life and watching Wheeler walk around campus…it hit me. This isn’t something we’re talking about doing someday anymore. We’re actually doing it.

Want to keep reading?

I recently started sharing more over on Substack, too. Think of it as a little extension of Sweet Southern Prep – the same everyday life, favorites and finds with a little more of the personal side of things mixed in. Some posts are completely free and usually what you’ll see here on the blog, and paid subscribers get a little more of the behind-the-scenes, honest life stuff I don’t always share here or on Instagram.

Continue reading on Substack…

Hope y’all have a fabulous weekend!

The post Our Girls’ Weekend at Clemson: College Tour, Game Day + All the Orange first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

Life Lately: Tennis, Teenagers + Fall Favorites

Ashley Brown — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 15:02:40 +0000

Life lately has felt like such a fun whirlwind that I feel like every time I get on here to share photos and attempt a catch-up with y’all, I get so overwhelmed with what to share that I keep procrastinating. But not anymore! I’m back and plan to capture and share much more often than I have in awhile. Nothing huge or earth-shattering, just lots of little moments that somehow make the days feel very full.

Wheeler painted her senior parking spot and I just love her creativity. She knew she wanted to have Curious George and bees! The top says STAY CURIOUS.

Vaughn and I pulled an all-nighter for Pokemon’s 30th Celebration Drop. We were only 19 back when the store opened and scored so much! Still can’t believe we stayed awake the whole time. Vaughn said it was a night he’ll never forget!

The girls have been living their best lives at all the football games. Last week it was USA-themed. Effie’s part of student council and works on the field for every game.

Super random but this dip from Trader Joe’s is delish!

I also thought this portable charcuterie board was genius!

And this beautiful glass pumpkin will take you all the way through Thanksgiving.

I truly wish we had discovered these beach chairs sooner. They are incredible! Like everything you’ve ever thought of for a beach chair, rolled into one.

My tennis team is going to States for Combo in a few weeks! I haven’t been to a state tournament in forver, and I can’t wait to get there and compete!

These tennis grips are amazing. Only $12 for 15 and they work so well.

We are HUGE Dancing with the Stars fans and so excited the newest season started. So far I can’t get over this year’s talent. My top picks are Ezra and Maura.

And a few recent looks + little things I’ve been loving lately…

Recently got this tennis necklace and it’s quickly becoming an everyday piece. Love that it’s so thin and dainty, yet durable too. 20% off, use code: AB-20

Wore this dress to church last week. It’s a great Fall dress and just so flattering. Runs a little big. Sized down to an XS. // Heels // Bag

Necklace – perfect colors for Fall.

Another great dress for Fall. Would be cute with boots later this season when the weather cools. 15% off: SSP15 // Flats

Some new jewelry I’ve added to my rotation lately. Earrings // Tennis Necklace (20% off: AB-20)

This sapphire ring is stunning! 20% off: AB-20

Closing out this post with this comfortable denim top in Air Kisses Wash. Love the weight and wash so much. It runs big. Sized down to an XS.

And that’s a little bit of life lately! It feels so good to be sharing these everyday catch-ups again. I’ve missed them more than I realized.

Next up, I’ll be sharing our Clemson weekend with the girls – and that one may be a little more personal. This whole college season is starting to feel very real over here.

Thanks so much for being here and following along. As always, I hope these little glimpses into our everyday life give you some inspiration, make you smile or remind you to soak up the little moments in your own. After all, that’s what life’s all about!

The post Life Lately: Tennis, Teenagers + Fall Favorites first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

The Gifting Cabinet: What I Always Keep on Hand

Ashley Brown — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 16:32:25 +0000

For birthday parties, teens, teachers, hostess gifts, you name it! The perfect spot to grab a last-minute “I need a gift” moment.

Yesterday, I finally cleaned out my gifting cabinet. I shared the photo above on Stories and asked if anyone else keeps one stocked with gifts for all those last-minute occasions. Turns out, most of y’all said you need one.

With four kids, there always seems to be something – a birthday party I forgot about last-minute, a teacher I want to thank, a hostess gift, a friend’s birthday, a new baby…

Having a handful of gifts already tucked away has saved me more times than I can count, so I thought y’all would enjoy having a spot like this too.

And if I find something I absolutely love that’s giftable, I’ll buy more than one. One to gift now and then one to gift later. And I try to keep these gifts pretty universal for someone to receive, rather than making it specific like something with sizing, specific decorating style and/or skincare.

So if you’re starting your own, here’s what I’d put in it…

⸻

FOR THE GIRLS

1. Custom Bag Charm Bead Kit

2. Stuffed Animal Bunny

3. Watercolor Paint Set

Jewelry is always a great idea for girls too.

⸻

TWEEN + TEEN GIRLS

1. Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm

2. Sleep Mask

3. Crystal Baguette Hoop Earrings

You could even put the sleep mask + lip product into a little gift bag together.

⸻

HOSTESS

1. Glass Napkin Rings Set

2. Glass Candle Jar

3. Portable Charcuterie Board with Clear Lid

If you need a little extra, add a bottle of wine.

⸻

TEACHERS + COACHES

1. Anything by Touchland Mist

2. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

3. Yeti Rambler

Even a simple gift card to their favorite place is an easy grab.

⸻

GIRLFRIEND / SISTER / MOM

1. Freshwater Cultured Pearl Hoops

2. Jewelry Travel Case

3. Bell Sleeve Plush Robe

⸻

NEW BABY + NEW MOM

I want something for baby + something for Mom.

1. Bamboo Swaddle

2. Stripe Mini Blanket

A food-delivery or coffee gift cards are great ideas too.

⸻

HOUSEWARMING

1. Bath Towel Bundle

2. Charcuterie Board

3. Beaded Trinket Dish

⸻

NEWLYWEDS

1. Adventure Challenge Couples Game

2. Softest Blanket Ever

Loving these earrings just for the bride too.

⸻

I’m definitely not saying you need to buy everything that I shared in this post and turn a cabinet/drawer/closet into a mini department store. Haha. But it’s good to have a few of each.

If I were to add a few more additions, I’d toss in some gift bags, tissue paper, ribbon and $10 and $25 gift cards to have on hang to grab.

Just remember every time you use one, make sure to replace it.

Trust me, your future self will thank you! Saves you so much time and money. Growing up, my mom always had one and I thought it was such a smart idea. So I guess the apple doesn’t fall far.

Feel free to suggest any great gift ideas you have that I can add. Would love to have more recommendations!

The post The Gifting Cabinet: What I Always Keep on Hand first appeared on Sweet Southern Prep.

My Current Discount Codes

Ashley Brown — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 14:40:42 +0000

All of my current discount codes in one easy spot! I’ll keep this list updated as new codes are added or others expire, so bookmark this post and check back anytime you’re shopping.

I hope this makes it a little easier to find all of my codes in one place. Happy shopping!

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Sweet Southern Prep!