Neutral Layers

On May 14, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized6 Comments

Sometimes dressing to go out in the evening can be a bit tricky this time of year. The days are warm enough to get away with tanks and tees, but the evenings cool down just enough to ensure that some sort of jacket or layer is necessary. And while I love blazers and cardigans (of course), it gets a little boring to always fall back on one of those options. So what else is there?

In the fall, my go to layering piece is usually a black leather jacket. I don’t have a super “girly” style, so I love the idea of pairing a rough-and-tumble piece back to something a little more sweet. But alas, my black leather jackets feel a little heavy for this time of year, which got me thinking. What about a neutral colored leather jacket? Something a little lighter to fit the season?

Well thank goodness for my job! I was at a meeting in one of my stores, and just happened to see it-a neutral colored, shrunken lamb leather jacket. And I knew on the spot it was the perfect piece to add to my collection to give me a fresh new layering option for cool nights out on the town. And even more than that, it’s a jacket that will also be perfect when summer fades to fall…

Cat Eye Sunglasses: Jessica Simpson via Ross

Gold Hammered Earrings: Street Vendor in San Francisco

Leather Jacket: Guess via Macy’s (sold out online)

Chiffon Flower Petal Top: Bohme (SLC Boutique)

Belt: American Eagle

Red Skinnies: Else by Joe’s Jeans via Macy’s (sold out online)

Tortise and Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom

Bracelets: Tiffany

Leopard Wedges: Aldo (sold out online)

And while it was a little bit of a splurge, I am so happy I decided to add this jacket to my wardrobe. I have already gotten a lot of use out of it, and know that I will continue to do so once the summer months have passed and fall is upon us. Black is always in, but neutrals are a great way to change things up and an excellent staple to pair back to pretty much anything, including red pants and leopard shoes! 🙂

Happy Monday!

Happy Mother’s Day!!

On May 13, 2012May 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Uncategorized2 Comments

I have the best mom in the world. I know everyone always says that, but I really do. My mom is my rock and my biggest supporter. She has believed in me throughout every moment of my life and has been there, stead fast, through all of the decisions I have made-both good and bad. She is my role model, me hero, and my best friend. And today, I am especially grateful for her and all that she has done and continues to do for me.

I have also been incredibly blessed by my wonderful mother-in-law. When I met Justin 7 years ago, not only did I find the love of my life, but with him came a pretty amazing family that welcomed me with open arms. I am so lucky to have DiAnne in my life. She is one of the kindest, most generous, and fun people that I know. I am so blessed by her and all that she does for Justin and me. And I am grateful to her every day for raising the sweet son that I am lucky to call my husband.

So to both of my moms on this special day, happy, happy Mother’s day. I love you both very much and couldn’t ask for two better ladies to have in my life.

Happy Day!!!

Favorite Product Friday: SpyHop!!!

On May 11, 2012May 11, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

Ok, ok, so this post isn’t really about a favorite product this week. Instead, it is actually about one of my favorite non-profit organizations here in Salt Lake-SpyHop. My hubs and I attended their annual spring fund-raiser last night, and I was so inspired, I just had to share about it with all of you!!

So what exactly is SpyHop? It is an incredible organization in our community that supports and empowers youth in the arts and media (a cause near and dear to my heart as I was very involved in the arts in high school and a vocal performance major in college). A very good friend of ours is the Director of Development at SpyHop and invited Justin and I to attend an event a couple of years ago. I was so blown away by and impressed with the kids that I saw presenting and speaking in front of hundreds of people, that I knew I had to be a supporter. Here is the mission statement directly from their website to give you a better idea of exactly what they are all about:

Spy Hop Productions is a nonprofit youth media arts and educational enrichment center located in the historic Art Space district of downtown Salt Lake City. Our purpose is to empower youth to express their voice and with it create a positive change in their lives, their community, and the world. Our mission is to encourage free expression, self-discovery, critical thinking and skilled participation via the big screen, the airwaves, and the web.

How cool is that? Makes me wish I could go back in time and become involved as a youth! And even more interesting, SpyHop isn’t some crazy acronym, or a made up name, it is, in fact, a real word (who knew?):

SPY • HOP (v): The act in which a dolphin rises above the water in order to navigate and determine its position in relation to other members of the pod. 2. To look ahead. 3. To tune in.

The event we attended last night was all about raising funds to support these kids in their endeavors. We got to see them get up and pitch their ideas (short films, documentaries, music aspirations, apprenticeship opportunities, etc.) and then the audience was able to bid on the various programs and projects. There were so many incredible ideas in need of funding that we couldn’t pick just one this year, so we chose a few to support including their music program, a film about music therapy, and a documentary chronicling heroine use among high school teens in the SLC. And I am happy to report that all of the projects and programs received the full funding they needed last night to turn dreams into reality. And as supporters, we will get to see the end result and view the final projects next fall at an event called Pitchnic.

And of course it wouldn’t be a complete post if I didn’t share with you what I wore, and a few pictures from our evening (including guest speaker Ty Burrell-aka Phil Dunphy from Modern Family- and he was HYSTERICAL!!!)!!

Dress: RACHEL Rachel Roy via Macy’s

Military Jacket: Forever21

Feather Earrings: The Icing

Clutch: Michael Kors via TJMaxx

Bracelets: Tiffany

Gold and Tortise Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Shoes: Chinese Laundry Love Me (I know I wear these all the time, but they are SO comfy!)

I really can’t tell you enough how incredibly inspired I was last night by these talented youth, their creativity, and the poise and boldness they showed in their ideas and aspirations. It takes a lot of courage to stand up in front of that many people and they all did it flawlessly. And it wasn’t just the kids, last night. I was also incredibly inspired my community and their dedication to supporting this incredible cause.

Please feel free to visit the SpyHop website to learn more. You can also make a donation if you wish to be involved or a supporter from afar. Every dollar counts-especially in a time where today’s youth really need us to rally around and support the arts in our communities.

And a special thank you to Larissa Trout for getting J and I involved. I can’t wait to see all of the projects presented to us last night in their completion in the Fall.

Happy weekend!!!!

I Heart Yellow

On May 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas5 Comments

Yellow is my favorite color. In fact, when I got married, I wanted to put my bridesmaids in yellow dresses. But lucky for them, I was a couple years ahead of the yellow trend and they got to wear tangerine instead. 😉 But it is the one color I have always been drawn to for as long as I can remember (surprisingly, I had a falling out with pink after my pink and purple phase in kindergarten and only started loving it again in recent years). I wore yellow in my senior pictures, attended a University where our colors were black and gold, but the gold was often translated into yellow, had yellow flowers and decor at my wedding (my hubby also wore a yellow vest with his tux), and even have a bright sunshine yellow Marc Jacobs computer bag that I carry with me everyday for work.

And since yellow is one of the “it” colors of the season, that certainly makes my little heart very happy. BUT, yellow is not for everyone. It is one of the most difficult colors to wear and the brightness of it often scares people away (understandably so). So how can you incorporate yellow into your wardrobe this season? Through accessories, of course! And I think every gal should purchase something yellow in anticipation of summer, whether it be a belt, a necklace, a fun pair of shoes, or a handbag, you just have to go for it. Fashion is, afterall, all about taking chances and stepping outside of your comfort zone, right?

Cardigan: JCrew

Skirt: Francesca’s (recent)

Sunglasses: Calvin Klein via Sunglass Hut at Macy’s

Shoes: Chinese Laundry LoveMe

Yellow Bubble Necklace: JCrew via eBay (be careful if you go this route-LOTS of bad fakes!!!!)

Yellow Belt: Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

I feel like I should add a disclaimer to this post, some kind of warning so that you can all prepare yourselves to see A LOT of this necklace. I actually bought it in anticipation of my birthday to wear to a celebration dinner at my favorite restaurant with friends tomorrow night, but couldn’t wait to wear it and have already gotten significant use out of it since its arrival. For me, it is the perfect yellow accessory. In fact, I had to stop myself from wearing it again today. 🙂

And as a side note, thank you all so much for the birthday love and wishes. I had a really incredible day and am so grateful for all that everyone did for me-particularly my hubby who made me feel like an absolute princess. I am truly blessed!

Happy Birthday…to me!

On May 8, 2012May 8, 2012 By all dolled upIn Uncategorized2 Comments

I dreaded my birthday last year-absolutely dreaded it. I turned the big 3-0 and it hit me like a ton of bricks because for some silly reason, I honestly never thought I’d ever really leave my 20’s behind . My 30’s had always just kind of dangled out there somewhere in front of me-the years where I would really settle down, start a family, and try to find a balance between work and play-all of which are fine. But the part I really dreaded was that 30 would somehow usher in some sort of stale mate and my life would suddenly become boring and old.

But I am happy to report that as I turn 31 years old today, even though I have a few more wrinkles than I did in my 20’s (mostly caused from a lot of laughter, and maybe a little sun damage), my life is by no means boring. In fact, I can truly say that I am loving my 30’s and this wiser, more responsible version of myself. I am still silly, on occasion a little wild, and 99% of the time happy-go-lucky. But more than anything I am incredibly content-both with where I’ve been, and where I’m going. The Lord has blessed me with much in my life and perhaps now that I am a little older, I am able to fully appreciate all that I have been given and worked hard to achieve and not take a single moment for granted. Life is precious and often fleeting. So instead of dreading the aging process that is, of course, inevitable, I am going to embrace each day and be thankful for every moment that I am able to participate in this beautiful thing we call life.

And so, on this day of the anniversary of my birth, I leave you with a little stroll down memory lane…

Me, as a little tiny babe. Crazy!!!

What my dad would do when left alone with me. I still love to fly fish.

Halloween. This one cracks me up.

Aspen Extreme called, and they want their fanny pack back.

Me and some of my besties from childhood.

Riding elephants through the jungle in Thailand.

The day I became Mrs. Justin Doll. The best day of my life.

Catching my first Yellow Fin Tuna in Mexico.

Corona Arch, Moab. One of my favorite places-clearly. 😉

Me and my best friend. ❤

My first 1/2 marathon. And maybe my last.

130 miles on my road bike (in ONE day) supporting Camp-Make-A-Dream. One of the best things I do all year.

My 30th birthday celebration in Vegas.

So I’m off to celebrate, well really to work, and THEN to celebrate. Can’t wait to share outfit pics and stories from my birthday weekend with all of you-we’ve got some super fun things planned.

And thank you to everyone for all of the support-I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog more than you could possibly know.

Black+Navy

On May 7, 2012May 8, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Outfit Ideas, Watches3 Comments

The rule stating that you can’t wear black and navy together no longer applies. And thank goodness, because half of the time I can’t tell them apart anyway. And thus, mixing black and navy together has become one of my favorite color combinations as of late. Black on black always feels awfully dressy to me (especially on days when I know I am going to be sitting at my desk all day), so adding a navy top or blazer back to a black pant or skirt is a great way to tone things down a notch and bring that element of “casual” into “business casual” attire.

Navy Blazer: Express (recent)

Grey Ruffle Blouse: Express

Black Skinnies: Gap

Necklace: Tiffany, my personal charm collection

Watch: Michael Kors via Macy’s

Bracelets: Tiffany, Macy’s, H&M

Ring: Saundra Messinger via Sundance Catalog

Pink Pumps: Jessica Simpson Waleo via Macy’s

In addition to loving black and navy together, I also LOVE pink and navy together, hence the pink shoes to tie it all together. And while black and navy are a perfectly acceptable combo, it is important that there is enough of a contrast between the two so that people can tell you are wearing black and navy and not wonder if one of your pieces is a poorly cared for, faded black garment. Oh, and one more very important thing, if you are wearing a suit (girl or guy), this is one instance where you don’t want to mix black or navy. Try and keep your suiting pure (same color jacket and pants)-it looks more classy and chic that way.

Happy Monday!!

Fave Product Friday: Dry Shampoo

On May 4, 2012May 8, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Uncategorized4 Comments

Happy, happy Friday everyone! Friday is always my favorite day of the week, but I feel especially excited about its arrival this week as I spent the last few days on the road for work-which is always fun, but totally and completely exhausting. So I am so looking forward to kicking back and enjoying a weekend away with my hubby in the town where we first met, beautiful Bozeman, Montana.

But before I head off to revisit all of our old stomping grounds, I wanted to share with you about dry shampoo. I am LOVING this stuff, I mean seriously LOVING it! I have heard people talk about it for years, but when my hairdresser told me to give my hair a break and not wash and style it everyday, I needed a good alternative-and fast. Enter: Bumble and Bumble dry shampoo.

This stuff is awesome for so many reasons: it smells great, gives my hair amazing volume, covers up my roots when I am in between colorings, and even works great as an extra volume booster on days when I do wash my hair. It has become an everyday staple for me.

But recently, when I realized I was out of it late one evening before heading out of town for a work trip, my only option was to run to the grocery store and pick up a cheap substitute to hold me over. I randomly purchased the new Suave Keratin version, not really thinking much of it. But I have to tell you, I am now a convert. I like the smell better, it lasts longer, and is about 1/3 of the price. And even though there is a drastic price difference, they both work equally as well, in my opinion. So from now on, I am going to save a little cash-ola and go with the Suave dry shampoo-my husband will be so proud. 🙂

Proof once again that you can look like a million bucks without spending it. 😉

Happy weekend!!!!!!

P.S. If you have dark hair, the Bumble and Bumle might be a better choice since you can purchase it in different colors to match your locks. The drugstore versions works great for blondes, but might look a little powdery on brunettes. And you definitely don’t want that!

Colored Skinnies

On May 3, 2012May 3, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas, TJMaxx, Uncategorized4 Comments

Since I obviously love color, it should come as no surprise that I also love the whole colored denim trend. However, I have found it to be a struggle fo find the colors I want in the brands that I love, or a color that I love in a brand that fits. And I would even go so far as to say that generally most of the colored leggings and jeans that are out there are very ill-fitting (especially if you have any curves at all-which I do).

So with that, I am happy to announce that I have finally found an incredible denim resource with a great selection of colored skinnies, denim skinnies, and super cute denim bootcuts. They are figure flattering, comfortable, don’t sag in the booty (like A LOT of brands out there), and are actually affordable. Almost seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? But rest assured, I tell you, because it most definitely is not!

The brand is called Else and it is a more affordable extension of the Joe’s jeans line (retailing for around $68 each), made exclusively for Macy’s. And really, how great is that? All of the awesome fit properties and the quality of Joe’s for almost half the price. I love them so much, I have picked them up in a dark denim wash, black(which are great for work), red, purple(seen here), and my new favorite color that I just can’t get enough of…

Pink Aviators: Steve Madden c/o TJMaxx

Striped Shirt: BarIII c/o Macy’s

Spearamint Pants: Else Denim c/o Macy’s

Pink Shoes: Jessical Simpson Waleo c/o Macy’s

Pink Necklace: Thai Pan Trading Company (local Utah store)

Bracelets: Tiffany, Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

So if you are in the market for a great fitting, high quality pair of skinnies, definitely check out Else at your local Macy’s or online (stocks and colors are pretty picked over right now, but a new delivery should hit within the next week or two). I am absolutely thrilled with mine and wanted to give them some blog love so that you all could be in the secret too. And please feel free reach out to me with any questions you might have about the brand or the fit, and I would be happy to help!!

Happy shopping!!

Workin’ 9 to 5

On May 2, 2012May 2, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

I love the movie Nine to Five, and I especially love Dolly Parton (I am a country girl, after all). I however, am incredibly fortunate that I am able to do something I love everyday. So even though I don’t quite share the same sentiments as the movie, I love it anyway (especially the theme song!!!). I am also in the fortunate position that I don’t have to wear a suit (or skirt and tights) to work everyday-thank goodness!! But my dress code is business casual, which presents challenges all of its own.

I mentioned a few posts back that I have to wear black when I visit my stores (typically two days a week), but on my office days, I can wear whatever colors I choose. And since my office days are mostly spent behind my computer, it is important for me to not only obviously fulfill my dress code requirements, but to be comfortable (and stylish, of course) at the same time.That said, I wanted to share a couple of staple items I have added to (or distorted in) my closet that have allowed me to attain success in achieving all of the above. .

1. Skinny Ponte Pants: Best. Invention Ever. They are much thicker and obviously more appropriate than a legging, and while the finish of the fabric gives them a dressy feel, they are still incredibly stretchy and as comfy as your favorite sweats.

2. Jersey Blazers: I LOVE blazers. You could actually say I am obsessed with them. And the jersey version that is out there right now is a huge win in my book (H&M has a ton of cute ones in lots of fun colors). They are comfy and stylish, yet totally appropriate for the business casual dress code. I also get a lot of cross over use with them and wear them out on the weekends as part of an outfit or as my jacket.

3. Boyfriend Shirt: Again, comfort rules supreme here. Such a great staple that is comfortable and casual but can be dressed up with a great pair of shoes or some really fun accessories-a great blank canvas that can be styled a lot of different ways.

Pink Blazer: H&M (recent)

Blue Boyrfriend Shirt: H&M (recent)

Ponte Pants: Express (recent)

Shoes: Vince Camuto c/o Macy’s

Necklaces: Tiffany, Personal Collections, Monogram (gift from my mom)

Bracelets: Macy’s, Tiffany

Moonstone Ring: Suandra Messinger for Sundance Catalog

Watch: Micael Kors c/o Macy’s

Handbag: Michael Kors c/o TJMaxx

So there you have it. A look that is work appropriate, simple and easy, comfortable, and still stylish (thanks to great shoes and accessories), And now that I’m dressed for success and ready to face the day, I suppose it’s time for me to pour myself a cup of ambition and accomplish some great things today. Happy Hump day everyone! Looking forward to starting the back end of the work week and inching closer to the weekend!