FPF: The Bubble Necklace

On September 28, 2012September 28, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit Ideas6 Comments

If you don’t know what a bubble necklace is yet, then you must be living under a rock (sorry, but true!). Thanks to the original JCrew version, which came out 2 years ago, the bubble necklace has taken the fashion world by storm and is now a staple across fashion blogs, boutiques, and wish lists across the world. And it isn’t hard to see why. It is a fun, easy piece that is a simple way to spice up an outfit or add a pop of color to any ensemble. It is one of those things that goes with everything, and makes any outfit that much better. Which is why, of course, everyone either wants or has one-including myself (if you hadn’t noticed)…

Yellow Bubble Necklace: JCrew via eBay (be careful going this route!! lots of bad fakes out there)

Purple Bubble Necklace: Ily Couture (great quality-I highly recommend)

Red Bubble Necklace: H&M (old)

Ivory Bubble Necklace: The Poke A Dot Shop

The good news is now that the bubble necklace is so popular, you can pick them up for a fraction of the JCrew price tag. Below is a list of options if you are looking to purchase your first one, or add another color to your collection:

JCrew $120-$150

The Poke A Dot Shop (sold out right now-but keep checking back) $15.99

Ily Couture $49.00

Amour Boutique $28.00

The Red Dress Boutique $42.00

Basil The Cat (on Etsy) $50.00

Good luck and happy shopping!! AND, happy weekend!!!

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Pleats to Meet You

On September 27, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love pleats. They are sweet, and whimsical, and romantic, and most importantly, satisfy my inner five-year-old craving to still wear tutus. And as I’ve said before in many posts, one of my favorite things in fashion is the combination of something sweet (like pleats!) paired back to something edgy. So when my mom found this skirt at Nordstrom Rack when she was visiting, I knew it was perfect. The pleats, the soft fabric, the pretty gold waist band, the studs-so many of my favorite things all rolled into one little skirt that is perfect for work or play!

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Cardigan: Nordstrom Rack (old)

Tank: H&M

Skirt: Nordstrom Rack (old)

Necklace: The Poke A Dot Shop

Watch: Michael Kors

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Sunnies: Guess via TJMaxx

Shoes: Chinese Laundry Love me (old)

I love that my mom found this skirt for me. Even though I am a grown up, she still knows my taste and never ceases to amaze me with her great fashion finds-pretty sure I owe her a debt of gratitude for my love for fashion.

Happy almost weekend, dolls!

Polka Dots!

On September 26, 2012September 26, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I’ve had a thing for polka dots for as long as I can remember. And so, of course, I couldn’t be happier that they are all the rage this season. In fact, as I am writing this post, I am even wearing a pair of polka dot pants. And if that isn’t a declaration of my love for them, then I don’t know what it is. I mean really, polka dots pants? Shut the front door. So if you follow this blog, consider yourself warned-polka dots are going to be a common occurrence this fall. I just hope you like them as much as I do!

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Polka Dot Top: Lulus.com (sold out)

Belt: Mossimo for Target (old)

Necklace: JCrew (last summer)

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Skinny Jeans: Gap (these are the BEST ever)

Cognac Pumps: Boutique in Florence, Italy

Confession time. I did something in this post that I can’t remember the last time I did…I tucked in my shirt! Lol. With the popularity of skinnies and tunics, I guess the practice of tucking shirts went by the wayside for me a long time ago (well with the exception of tucking shirts into skirts, that I do all the time). And while I have to say that at first it felt fairly foreign to show my entire zipper and a belt, now that the initial shock has worn off, I actually really like the look. And since the trend is moving in this direction, I guess that is a good thing!

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Thank you for your support!

Fashion Obsession

On September 24, 2012September 24, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

Every once in a while I stumble upon a fashion find that I love so much, I may or may not become slightly obsessed. The last time it happened was when Rebecca Minkoff first came on the scene in a big way with her studded Devote tote. The Hills was at its peak and when LC started carrying the black version with the gold rivets, I knew I had to have one. So, I saved up all my money and treated myself to one for my birthday. And boy did that bag get a lot of use. In fact, it still makes me happy every time I open up its dust bag and take a little peek. I guess that’s what we call nostalgia.

And maybe it’s purely coincidence, or maybe I just happen to have a thing for black pieces with gold embellishments, but I am pretty sure my new Vince Camuto gold spiked heels are going to be my next fashion obsession. It was love at first sight when I spotted these pumps at a Macy’s in Detroit a couple of weeks ago. I was shopping with my mom and my aunties and thought they would think I was crazy for trying them on-they are after all, completely covered in little gold spikes from heel to toe. But the vote was unanimous and we all fell in love with them on the spot. And looking at these photos, it’s not hard to see why-they are definitely a pretty darn special pair of shoes.

Instagram Filter: Sutro

Blazer: H&M (last fall)

Black Tee: Victoria’s Secret Pink Essential V-Neck (best tee’s EVER!)

Snakeskin Shorts: Rachel Roy (sold out)

Ring: House of Harlow

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Clutch: Michael Kors via TJMaxx

Sunglasses: Guess via TJMaxx

Shoes: Vince Camuto

I know that we’ve already established the importance of adding a colored blazer to your wardrobe this fall, but it should also be noted that a spiked or embellished pair of shoes should also be a must on the wishlist. And now that I am finished mourning the passing of summer, I can officially get excited about my fall shopping and start checking things off my wishlist-like a pair of spiked pumps for one. Hooray!

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

FPF: Sublime Glow

On September 21, 2012September 21, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite ProductsLeave a comment

Alright, moment of truth: everyone looks better with a tan. I hate to say it, but it’s true. Now I’m not talking a Jersey shore tan, but rather just a little bit of color to give your skin a healthy glow and put some color in those cheeks. But over the years, as we have become increasingly more aware of the extensive damage the sun causes, sunscreen is now a must and tanning beds are absolutely out of the question. So what is a gal to do during the long winter months to fend off that pasty white skin that will inevitably overtake all of us?

Unfortunately, the only option is a self-tanning product. Now this stuff can be messy, and smelly, and streaky, and leave your palms and nail beds bright orange if you aren’t careful. And in my opinion, most of the tanning products that I have tried are just too much of a hassle to even be worth it. But a couple of years ago I discovered L’Oreal Sublime Glow lotion, and this product is incredible. It is an actual lotion that enhances your natural skin tone leaving with you just a hint of a tan. It also has a bit of shimmer to it creating radiant looking skin that is never, ever orange or streaky. I use this product everyday, winter or summer, and really don’t think I could ever go without it. Plus, it smells great and doesn’t have that funky odor that most tanning lotions have.

Instagram Filter: Toaster

L’Oreal Sublime Glow Lotion: available at CVS, and some other local retailers, but it can be really tough to find, so another good place to look is Amazon or eBay)

L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Tinted Tanning Lotion: available at most grocery stores, CVS, and Walgreens

I really can’t say enough positive things about this lotion. It is absolutely fantastic. And when I am feeling like adding a little more color to my skin, I mix the Sublime Glow Lotion with the Sublime Bronze Tanner for just a bit more intensity. I have to warn though that when using the Sublime Bronze alone, it can get a little streaky, and tend to rub off around the ankles after a good workout. But when mixed with the lotion, it works perfectly. So if you are looking to fend off that white winter skin, while giving yourself a healthy and radiant glow, then these are the products for you! Let me know if you have any questions.

Happy weekend everyone!

Pumpkin Spice

On September 20, 2012September 19, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

I love all things fall, and I especially love all things pumpkin. In fact, I finally caved and had my first pumpkin spice latte of the season last week, which always signifies the “official” start of fall for me. And while it’s still too warm for cozy sweaters and boots, it is just cool enough in the evenings that lightweight sweaters and pumps will suffice. So when I was recently perusing my closet for something to wear, I couldn’t help but to put the below outfit together in honor of my declaration of the beginning of fall…

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Sweater: JCrew

Skinny Jeans: Gap

Chain Necklace: ArdenB (similar, similar)

Earrings: The Icing

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Clutch: Frye (similar)

Pumps: Jessica Simpson Waleo

So while a colored blazer should be at the top of your fall wish list, an embellished pair of pumps or flats should also be pretty darn close to the top. There are so many fun shoes out there this season from fun animal prints, to jewel encrusted detailing, to spikes (my favorite!), to florlas-lots, and lots to choose from. So just be sure and choose something! An interesting pair of shoes is not only fun, but also a great way to add interest to an old or simple outfit!!

Green With Envy

On September 18, 2012September 19, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I’ve always had a thing for kelly green. It is such a pretty color and of course reminds me of my Irish heritage (small as it may be). So needless to say I’ve been a wee bit disappointed the last few years that the only chance I’ve had to wear it is in celebration of St. Patty’s day. Well fortunately, that is all changing this season, because ladies and gentlemen, kelly green is back. And with a vengeance.

I’ve been seeing a lot of shades of wine and bordeaux this fall (which I am really excited about), and of course the tried and true jewel tones. But perhaps the one thing I have been the most pleasantly surprised by is the expansion beyond teals and into the realm of kellys and emeralds. So when I was checking out the H&M in downtown Seattle a couple of weeks ago and spotted this fabulous blazer in such a gorgeous shade of green, I knew it had to be mine.

Instagram Filter: Rise

Blazer: H&M (recent) similar, similar

Mirror Print Top: H&M (recent)

Jeans: Gap Jeggings (on sale!)

Sunglasses: House of Harlow via Nordstrom Rack

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelet: Oia Jules

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Earrings: Judith Bright Lolita Earrings

Handbag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Supersonic

Nude Pumps: Steve Madden similar

Perhaps the thing that excites me the most about this blazer (besides its delicious color) is the fact that it goes with so many things in my closet. I gravitated towards a warmer weather look in this outfit (it is still in the 80’s here, after all!), but I can’t wait to pair it back to cozy grey sweaters, lacey cream blouses, and knee-high cognac boots. I’m telling you ladies, if there is one thing that should be at the top of your fall wish list this season, it is a colored blazer.

Happy Wednesday!!

P.S. My site is currently undergoing some construction-more to come in the near future!! But in the meantime, thank you for your patience and also please note that my domain has changed to:

http://www.alldolledupblog.com

But don’t worry, you can still access the site through the original web address!!

My Favorite Boyfriend

On September 17, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I have had a few boyfriends in my lifetime-some who were okay, but for the most part, well, not so much. 🙂 And while in hindsight I think I might have been in love with the idea of being in love in my younger years, I have come to learn over time that (besides my darling husband) there is only one boyfriend I’ve had in my life that has never let me down. And that my friends, is my favorite boyfriend jeans. Yes, you read correctly, my favorite boyfriend jeans.

Truth be told, I have had a long-standing love affair with boyfriend jeans-I just can’t get enough. And maybe it’s because I know I am going to have to put them away in a couple of months, but lately, I cannot stop wearing them. They are truly one of those pieces that not only go with a myriad of items from flip flops and tanks, to sweaters, to t-shirts, to oxfords, but they feel like home every time I slip them on. And as of late, my favorite (and go-to) look is to pair my boyfriend jeans back to a menswear inspired button-down and minimalistic jewelry, topped off with the girliest, most feminine shoes I can find in my closet. An unexpected combination that works perfectly together and never, ever lets me down.

Instagram Filter: Brannan

Buttondown: JCrew (recent)

Cyrstal Necklace: SLC Farmer’s Market

Bracelets: Tiffany an Co., H&M, Forever21, Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors via ShopBop (old)

Boyfriend Jeans: Rich and Skinny via Nordstrom Rack (old)

Shoes: Nine West via Macy’s (recent)

This is one trend that I sincerely hope never goes out of style. The comfort and versatility of boyfriend jeans makes them incredibly easy to style and a must have for any closet. So remember, ladies, men will come and go, but a great pair of boyfriend jeans is forever.

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

FPF: Urban Decay Makeup Setting Spray

On September 14, 2012September 14, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products5 Comments

I had never tried a makeup setting spray until about two years ago when I was checking out at Sephora and the gal helping me convinced me to trade in some of my points for a sample of Urban Decay’s All Nighter. I was skeptical at first and assumed that spraying a liquid mist on my face would make me oily in my t-zone or be drying, creating a tight and uncomfortable feeling. But she assured me I would love it, and boy was she right.

Urban Decay’s All Nighter is like magic in a bottle. After applying your make up, you simply hold the bottle about a foot from your face and spray lightly 3-5 times. It actually feels quite refreshing but dries quickly and without a trace, and locks your makeup perfectly in place ALL DAY LONG! I have combination skin and normally get a little oily around my t-zone so always found myself having to retouch my make up during the day. But now that I have found this spray, that is no longer the case. I can go to work all day, and then out to dinner and drinks and not once have to touch up my make up. This stuff is seriously amazingly, and I might even go as far as to say life changing-well, as far as makeup goes!!! 😉

Instagram Filter: Rise

Urban Decay Makeup Setting Spray: All Nighter (regular formula), Dew Me (for dry skin), and DeSlick (not pictured, for oily skin)

You can find these sprays at urbandecay.com, your local Sephora or Macy’s or anywhere that carries Urban Decay makeup.

A few weeks ago, I wanted to put my All Nighter to the test, so I picked up a sample bottle of the Make Up Forever Makeup Setting Spray when I was in Sephora. And I have to say that I was really disappointed. It felt wet on my skin, didn’t dry quickly, I was oily by lunch time, and I had a really bad break out after using it for a few days. I am sure it works great on some skin types, but it just wasn’t for me. So if you are looking to try a make up setting spray (aka a miracle in a bottle), then definitely give Urban Decay’s All Nighter a try!

Happy weekend, dolls!

The Motor City

On September 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Uncategorized2 Comments

I was born and raised in Montana, but both of my parents are from the Motor City which is where the majority of our family still resides. And last weekend, I was blessed to have the opportunity to head back to Detroit to spend a few days with extended family and celebrate my beloved grandmother’s 90th birthday. I don’t get to Michigan nearly as much as I would like, so every moment I was there was a moment cherished.

My grandma is quite a special lady and we had a beautiful celebration of her wonderful life and the lady that she is. The doorbell rang non-stop while I was there with packages and beautiful flower deliveries, the phone rang off the hook, and the outpouring of love was palpable. It was a really special thing to be a part of and the opportunity of time spent with not only my grandma, but my aunties, uncle, cousins, and parents was priceless. Here are a few pictures from her birthday party. Can you guess which one is my mom? 😉

Instagram Filter: Amaro

Dress: American Eagle (last winter)

Leopard Belt: Express (in stores now!)

Black Cardigan: Nordstrom Rack (recent)

Gold Charm Bracelet: Juicy Couture

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Shoes: Chinese Laundry Love Me (oldies, but goodies)

One of my favorite parts of the weekend was spending a couple of hours going through old photos with my Grandma Thelm. It was a beautiful walk down memory lane and I loved seeing how beautifully women used to dress (the tailoring was immaculate!), images of my grandma as a gorgeous, young professional working in downtown Detroit, the tale of a love lost in war, stories of my grandpa and his fascinating family, photos of my mom and her siblings as kiddos, and perhaps my favorite was the realization that my crooked dimples are exactly the same as my grandma’s-which makes me now love them that much more. All in all, it was a weekend full of memories that will be cherished for a long, long time to come.