There’s something timeless about Laura Gallagher’s approach to style, a love for beautiful things that never feel overly precious, and a belief that getting dressed, decorating a home, and raising a family can all be done with a little more beauty and intention. A wife and mom of three, Laura brings her background in fashion merchandising and interior decorating into everything she creates, blending Southern charm with coastal ease and a distinctly classic point of view.
As the founder of Southern Gall, Laura has created a world inspired by the traditions and effortless elegance of the South, with touches of vintage Palm Beach and New England charm woven throughout. Her style is rooted in pieces that feel collected, livable, and timeless, proving that a beautiful life doesn't have to be complicated.
In this edition of Living In Detail With, Laura shares her approach to classic style, the pieces she reaches for season after season, and the details that make fashion, home, and everyday motherhood feel a little more beautiful.
1.) What does "classic style" mean to you, and how does your definition evolved over the years?
To me, classic style is about choosing pieces that transcend trends and still feel beautiful years from now. I’ve always wished I had my grandmother’s closet to pull from, those special, timeless pieces that carry a story with them. As I’ve gotten older, that has really changed the way I shop. I’m much more intentional about building a “forever wardrobe” filled with quality pieces I truly love, with the hope that one day my own granddaughter might cherish them and want to wear them too.
2.) What's one wardrobe staple you'll never stop wearing, no matter the trends?
Pearl studs, a classic Jack Rogers sandal, and a crisp white button down, I don’t think I could choose just one! They’re pieces I’ve worn through so many seasons of life and will continue to reach for no matter what’s trending. They can be layered and styled with everything from skirts and dresses to denim, and they truly transcend decades. There’s something about those simple, timeless staples that always makes me feel polished and beautiful.
3.) Which All In The Detail pieces feel most like your style, and where would you wear them?
The Frederica linen dress and Regina rattan bag immediately felt like me. They’re effortlessly beautiful and feel special without being fussy, which is exactly what I look for when adding pieces to my wardrobe. I love the timeless silhouette, beautiful block print, and natural texture of the rattan. They’re pieces I can see myself reaching for again and again, from lunch with girlfriends to a summer dinner or a warm weather getaway.
4.) How would you style your favorite AITD pieces for a Southern summer gathering? I’d keep it effortless: the Frederica linen dress, the Regina rattan bag, a classic pair of sandals or espadrilles, simple gold jewelry, and a beautiful sunhat finished with grosgrain ribbon. Southern summers call for pieces that feel light and comfortable, but I still love looking polished and put together.
5.) What's one item you will always pack for a Southern weekend getaway?
A versatile dress that can do more than one job. Something I can wear with flat sandals during the day and then add a pretty shoe, jewelry, and a great bag for dinner. I'm always trying to pack lighter, so pieces that can take me from day to evening earn their spot in my suitcase.
6.) What's one purchase you've made that instantly elevated your wardrobe?
A beautiful, unique handbag, especially one that isn’t instantly recognizable. I love carrying something that makes someone stop and ask, “Where did you get your bag?” There’s something special about discovering a piece that feels a little unexpected and uniquely yours. To me, those are the pieces that elevate a wardrobe and make personal style feel truly personal.
Laura Gallagher | @justasoutherngall | shopsoutherngall.com
