The Fab Four

On August 14, 2012August 14, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas7 Comments

When I look back on my summer wardrobe, there are four specific (fabulous) pieces that really stand out to me. Pieces that I not only wore more than just about anything else in my closet, but that will also all transition perfectly into my fall wardrobe. And good thing! Because I’m not ready to let go of any of them yet.

When J and I were in Montana on vacation, I was too busy playing all day everyday to ever save myself much time to get ready for evening fun. So most nights, I found myself rushing to get ready and throwing outfits together without much thought and absolutely zero rhyme or reason. And on one such night when getting dressed for dinner with our dear family friends, I just happened to throw on all 4 of these favorite thing at the same time-which is perhaps why I am so pleased with the results of this outfit!

So what are these fab four pieces?? Drum roll please!!!

1. Bubble Necklace: If you follow this blog you know how much I love my bubble necklace. And understandably, I am not alone in my obsession. This necklace is such a fantastic way to add a pop of color to any outfit and brighten up an other wise boring or mediocre ensemble. AND because of its popularity, there are now many sites offering a version similar to the original JCrew but for a fraction of the price. (check out these great finds here, here, and here)

2. Gap Skinny Jeggings: I LOVE these jeans. You can see them in just about any post where I am wearing pants. I have them in black and in a dark wash denim and both have become my go-to jeans, even with a closet full of cute bottoms. They have enough stretch that they are incredibly comfy, but don’t bag out and keep their shape all day long. The length is great, not too short, and not too long and bunchy at the ankles, and the fabric is the perfect density-not too thick and not too thin. AND Gap has them in store and online again. Check them out here.

3. DV by Dolce Vita Jude Wedges: These wedges are the best. They are incredibly comfy, a great height, and look really great on the leg with jeans or with skirts (check out yesterday’s post to see them with a skirt!). Dolce Vita actually had these shoes in their higher end line last year (the Jade) and because of their extreme popularity, created a version for their DV line this year at a little more affordable price. And right now many sites and stores have them on sale, so you can get a great deal on them (here, here, and here). Plus they look great with tights too (I also have them in red suede and can’t wait to wear them through the fall/winter!).

4. Denim Vest: Oh my love for this little denim vest just keeps going strong. Not only do I love it with dresses, and tanks, but I also love it over long sleeves. You can see some other ways I’ve styled it here, here, and here.

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Denim Vest: Macy’s (similar, similar)

Chiffon Top: H&M (recent)

Skinny Jeans: Gap Legging Jeans

Bubble Necklace: Ily Couture

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelet: Oia Jules

Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Cognac Wedges: Dolce Vita Jude

Even though I don’t want to see summer go, I’m already starting to get the urge to start layering, wearing boots, and shopping for fall. But this post is a good reminder that as we move from season to season it is always good to take stock and evaluate what you already own in your wardrobe and find pieces that you can transition (just like my fab four) so that you aren’t creating duplication and unnecessary repetition in your closet, all the while saving yourself some money!

Mixology

On August 13, 2012August 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love mixing stripes together! It is one of my absolute favorite looks-well, that and mixing stripes and polka dots. And while it might seem counter intuitive, it is more do-able than one might think. The only thing to keep in mind is some sort of contrast, whether it be in color, size, or direction.

When I bought the below skirt (which you can also see here), I didn’t just buy it because of my fondness for stripes, but because I also knew it would be a great base piece that I could use to create a variety of looks. And even though I always seem to gravitate towards creating more nautical looks with this skirt, I have gotten quite a bit of use out of it. But it occurred to me last week that one thing I hadn’t tried was pairing it back to a striped top. And because of its wide stripe, I knew it would be an excellent candidate to pair back to my favorite mini-stripe one-shoulder top. Slightly nautical, yet playful and fun-the perfect outfit to keep me cool on a super hot evening here in the SLC.

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Mini-Striped Top: Wet Seal (old)

Striped Skirt: H&M

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors

Earrings: The Icing

Belt: Mossimo for Target

Striped Cross Body Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC

Shoes: Dolce Vita Jude

And not only do I love mixing stripes, but I also love a good one-shoulder top or dress. It is one of my favorite silhouettes-such a fun, yet refined look. It always makes me feel a little extra glamorous and is a good way to step up a look without really putting forth much extra effort-anything that shows a little extra shoulder is a winner in my book!

Happy Monday!

FPF: Bobbi Brown Pale Pink Blush

On August 10, 2012August 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products7 Comments

Confession time. I love the Bachelor/Bachelorette franchise. Not because I actually believe in the process, but because I love the sheer entertainment of it. Plus a lot of the women on the show have fabulous style and makeup and so the added fashion element makes it that much more interesting for me to watch. Enter Dana Weiss of Possessionista. If you haven’t heard of the Possessionista, then you are really missing out. Dana is a fabulous blogger who finds all of the items we covet on TV and on our favorite celebrities and shares with her readers what they are and where we can find them (plus she is down right hilarious). And that my friends, is how I discovered my adoration for Bobbi Brown’s Pale Pink Blush.

When Emily Maynard and Michelle Money were on Bachelor Brad’s season, not only did their makeup always look flawless, but they were both always sporting a gorgeous pop of bright pink blush on their cheeks-making me want to recreate that look with my makeup. And thanks to the Possessionista, I was able to track down their little beauty secret and I have been a convert ever since.

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Blush: Bobbi Brown Pale Pink (available at Nordstrom, Macy’s, Sephora)

Oh how I love this little blush. Even though it is called Pale Pink, it is actually a bright pink and is my secret to brightening up my face when I am feeling tired, a tool I use when I’m doing my make up for night out and need a little extra “oomph”, looks terrific when I’m not wearing much for make up at all, and is perfect to layer with my favorite bronzer. And while it might come in a tiny package, it sure can pack a punch (it’s extra pigmented so lasts a long time). Plus it is one of those perfect blushes that goes with just about any skin color and be worn with warm or cool tones. Truth be told, I don’t think I could survive without it in my make up bag. So if you are looking for the perfect pink blush, or something new to change up your makeup routine, look no further than this fabulous Bobbi Brown blush!

Happy weekend everyone!!

I’m on a Boat

On August 9, 2012August 14, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

One of my favorite things about the summer is spending time on the water. I love boating, swimming, fishing, rafting, floating on floaties, going to the pool-if there is water involved, you name it and I am there. And while I used to just throw on an old sundress or t-shirt over my bathing suit for the to and from, this summer I have actually been having more fun with it and putting forth a little more effort with my water excursion apparel. And with that, here are some of my current summer must-haves for all things water related (in addition to a fantastic bathing suit, of course!):

1. Neon Cut-Offs: I love cutoffs, always have, always will. But this year, I have been really quite enamored with all of the bright hues available. The below neon yellow shorts from American Eagle are my current favorite-nice and bright and not too short.

2. Off-the-shoulder Tee: While a t-shirt is a super easy thing to throw on over your bathing suit, an off-the-shoulder tee gives you a bit of a sexier, more fashion forward look, while still boasting all the comforts of a t-shirt. I also love how it shows some shoulder and part of your bathing suit when you are covered up

3. A Fedora: I love to get sun on my face, but now that I am getting older and have become much more diligent about protecting my skin, I like to have a hat with me to throw on to give my face (and hair) a break from the sun and heat. Plus its a great way to cover up messy hair!

4. A cute beach bag: I LOVE a good beach bag. And the below Saltbox tote has been going strong as my go-to tote for the last couple of years. Not only is it a really heavy, durable canvas that can withstand a lot of wear and tear but it’s also super bright with a cute, fun pattern. Plus it’s big enough to hold my sunscreen, beach towel (and my husband’s), a book, some snacks, a big bottle of water, and my hat (when I’m not wearing it).

5. Sunglasses: Obviously a no-brainer, but so important to protect those peepers while out on the water. Plus it’s a great way to add some style to your ensemble!

Instagram Filter: Lo-fi

Black off-the-shoulder tee: American Eagle (last summer)

Neon Yellow Shorts: American Eagle (this summer)

Gold Hammered Earrings: Street Vendor in San Francisco

Sunglasses: Calvin Klein via Macy’s

Fedora: Macy’s (recent)

Medallion Tote: Saltbox via Sundance Catalog

Flip Flops: Dini’s Los Angeles (a cute company that adds embellishments to Havianas)

I also love to wear fun earrings with a bathing suit. Something about it feels very glamorous and oh-so-Beyonce to me. I’m not sure I could quite get myself to the point of ever wearing heels with a bathing suit, but earrings I can do. I have also seen lots of gals layer necklaces with bathing suits, which is a cute look, but one I have yet to try. Maybe that will be in order for our Vegas trip this fall.

P.S. Below are a few of my favorite bathing suits from this season-all by Roxy. I always have a hard time finding bathing suits that I think fit really well and all of these do. Plus they are great quality and come in a variety of styles and prints.

Watercolors

On August 8, 2012August 7, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

It’s no secret I love prints of all colors, patterns, and variations. They are such a fun and easy way to add interest to any outfit. Plus, with the recent acceptability to mix prints of all kinds, they lend to creating endless outfit combinations in your closet.

One of my favorite places to find a good print is at H&M. Since specific patterns don’t tend to stay on trend for very long periods of time, I don’t typically like to invest in them, but rather prefer to pick up inexpensive and fun prints that I can play with for a time and easily let go when they have run their course. Such is the case with the below top. While I have lots of great prints in my closet, I don’t have any watercolor prints, so knew it was a perfect addition to my closet the moment I saw it. I love how feminine this top is and that it is one of those great hybrids that I can wear for work or play. Plus, it’s just long enough that I can tie it at the waist if I so desire!

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Watercolor Top: H&M (recent)

Black Ankle Skinnies: Gap

Neon Yellow Necklace: Forever21 (recent)

Charm Necklace: Personal Collection

Silver Watch: Michael Kors via Macy’s

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Earrings: The Icing

Pink Studded Bag: Rebecca Minkoff

Pink Shoes: Jessica Simpson Waleo via Macy’s

In addition to being pretty, and feminine, and versatile, I also love that this top is a very unique multi-color ombre-essentially it goes with just about everything. So when you are out shopping for prints, try to look for something similar to this top that will not only allow you to be creative, but will also function as an easy piece to accessorize and pair with multiple items in your closet.

Happy Wednesday!

Back in the Saddle

On August 7, 2012August 7, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas4 Comments

I am finally back from vacation, and boy was it an amazing one. J and I headed up to my hometown in Montana to spend a week-a tradition we have kept since we first started dating 7 years ago. We so look forward to it every summer and this year definitely did not disappoint. We spent the week biking and boating and floating and fishing and laughing with family and friends. In fact, it seems like it all went by in the blink of an eye and I hate that it’s over. So to drown my sorrows, today I will share a glimpse of one of our vacation days.

One of our favorite things to do every year when we go back to Montana is to spend time in Whitefish. It’s a cute little resort town at the base of Big Mountain and the head of Whitefish Lake. Not only is it quaint and loaded with good restaurants, bars, and shops, but it’s where we got married and will always hold a special place in our hearts (plus it’s always just plain fun). So on the only day of our vacation where it was too cool to be out on the water, J and I decided to go on a lunch date in Whitefish and walk around the cute downtown. And what better outfit to put together than my favorite JCrew shorts and new JCrew mini gingham button down-a preppy look that was just summery enough, while keeping me warm and colorful on a cool summer day…

Instagram filter: Hefe

Hot Pink Mini Gingham: JCrew Factory (recent)

Purple Shorts: JCrew Factory

Neon Belt: Macy’s

Yellow Bubble Necklace: JCrew via eBay (be careful buying these on eBay!!!)

Earrings: The Icing

Neon Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac

Sunglasses: Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Bracelets: Oia Jules via Etsy

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Flats: Target (old)

With so many trends to love this summer, one in particular that I have been really drawn to lately is tying my shirts. While I always love a tunic, tying a shirt gives you another way to wear the items in your closet and is a great way to change up your look. And since this was a daytime outfit, I did layer a tank under my button down so that I wasn’t showing any skin. For an evening look however, I would definitely tie my shirt without a layer underneath so that I am showing just a sliver of skin. But the good news is, either way of wearing this trend is perfectly acceptable. So if you haven’t tried trying one of your shirts yet, think about testing it out this week. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Hope you are all having a wonderful week!!

Vacation

On July 31, 2012 By all dolled upIn Uncategorized4 Comments

I haven’t taken a vacation since I started my new job with Macy’s last September. Between living in San Francisco for 4 months and getting into the swing of things with my new position when I got back to the SLC, time has been flying. So I have to say that I have been looking forward to our annual week in Montana even more than usual this summer. And so far the trip has been amazing-perfect weather, a podium finish in a challenging bike race (for Justin), time on the road bike (for me), and LOTS of laughs with family. And since I haven’t worn much besides my spandex and a bathing suit since we left the SLC last Friday, I don’t have any outfit posts as of yet, so thought instead I would share with you some of the highlights of our trip so far.

Gorgeous morning for Justin’s big race, the Butte 50

I snuck in some miles on my road bike while J raced-Highway 2 from Butte to White Hall is GORGEOUS!

It was a successful day! Despite a major mechanical (broken derailer), J still managed to finish, and in 3rd place. Pretty darn awesome.

So proud of J!

Driving into the Flathead from Missoula-so pretty!

We hit Flathead Lake for a dinner and cocktail cruise immediately when we got into town Sunday afternoon. I love this pic of J-totally anticipating the cold water. Lol. But it actually wasn’t that bad.

Beers+water+summer=perfect.

Happy girl!

My favorite place in the world-Glacier National Park

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a swimmer! Charlie is only 6lbs and was a little fish at the lake yesterday swimming and retrieving sticks. Tiniest swimmer. EVER.

This is our happy place. We LOVE it here.

So glad he loves Montana like I do…

Another perfect day.

Hopefully I will be back with more outfit posts tomorrow. But for now, I am enjoying a coffee on my parent’s big front porch, taking in the pretty views, and gearing up to hit the lake (again!)!!

Hope you are all having a wonderful week.

Casual Glam

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

For those of you that aren’t familiar, I mentioned in an earlier post that Park City is a pretty casual yet glamorous mountain town-a fabulous hybrid that makes it very easy to navigate wardrobe wise (minus a fluctuating temperature). Really, pretty much anything goes from a one shoulder dress, to a little lace skirt, to a hoodie and jeans. In PC, the choice is all yours. And because let’s face it, most of what we dress for in life is often times more casual than not, (even though we sometimes wish we could be more glamorous), I have a favorite item that I am always on the hunt for that foots the bill for both.

So, what it is?! It is a flowy racerback tank with a shirttail hem-my perfect go to top for a casual or glamorous look. Now don’t get me wrong, I love flowy tops just as much as the next person, but let’s face it, they are hard to wear and often times terribly unflattering. However a racerback brings it all in at the top and defines your shoulders and waist before falling to its widest part. And to further create a more flattering look, I especially love a racerback in tandem with a shirttail hem, eliminating the box cut which gives the top (and you!) a little more shape and flare. Plus the combo looks great back to skinnies or shorts making it an incredibly universal piece-which is of course why I love it so much. And with that said, here are a few things I look for when on the prowl for one of these shirts:

1. A Fun Color-something that is bright and interesting on its own, say back to a pair of cut offs, but something that would also look great with a pair of skinnies and heels and some fun jewelry

2. A Dressier Fabric-in today’s post, the silhouette of my top is incredibly casual, but it is made from a rich silky fabric that makes it feel perfect for evening with the right accessories

3. Length-I like these tops to be a little long, but not tunic length. They need to be just long enough that they work with skinnies, but short enough to wear with shorts

4. Strap Width-this summer I have been into skinnier racer back straps. They still aren’t the norm so it makes this simple top feel a little more special and differentiated-even if you are only wearing it with flip flops and jeans

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Tank: Forever21

Skinny Jeans: Gap (check in store-they are legging jeans)

Flower Necklace: TJMaxx (recent)

Chain Necklace: Macy’s (recent)

Bracelets: Oia Jules, Tiffany and Co., Thailand

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Orange Lipstick: MAC Morange

Shoes: Chinese Laundry (oldies but goodies)

I feel like I have been all over the place (literally) during the month of July. Summer is flying by and I feel like I’ve barely had time to take it in and enjoy. But the good news is, J and I are heading off on vacation tomorrow and traveling back to Montana for bike races and to see family and get some serious time in on the water. It’s a summer tradition and I couldn’t be more excited!!! Now I just need to get myself home from Idaho tonight to do some serious unpacking, laundry, and then pack myself up again. I’m not especially looking forward to that part, but what’s on the horizon will definitely make it worth my while!

Hope you are all having a fabulous week!

The Planner In Me

On July 24, 2012July 24, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

I am a planner, both personally and professionally. And when I have fun or important events on the horizon, I most definitely like to plan my outfits ahead of time. In fact, I found the dress I wanted to wear on our 5th wedding anniversary before we had even made plans! And while I knew we would ultimately do something where I would be able to wear it, my plan was solidified when we booked a condo on Main Street in Park City for the weekend. And even though a big storm came through the evening of our anniversary, the sun came back out and the temp rose just enough for me to get away with this hot pink one shoulder BCBGMaxazria dress. And thank goodness, because I didn’t pack any other options!

Dress: BCBGMaxazria via Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Oia Jules, Thailand, Macy’s, Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Shoes: Michael Kors via Dillards

I mentioned a few posts ago that I got an amazing deal on this dress, and I did. Let’s just say that Nordstrom Rack came through for me for me once again. My pink dress was originally just shy of $300, but I found it at the Rack for $34.99. (my jaw about dropped when I saw the price tag). And not only that, but I recently saw the same dress at the BCBGMaxazria outlet for over $200. So if you haven’t already been let in on the secret, I am here to tell you that with a little patience and time spent sorting through the racks at Nordstrom Rack, you can almost always find incredible name brands pieces for a fraction of the price. Everytime I take a shopping trip there, it tends to be well worth my time. So while I adore my dress for it’s rich fabric, gorgeous pink color, and one shoulder styling, perhaps the purchase price trumps all on this one. 😉

Sunday Funday

On July 23, 2012July 23, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

One of my favorite things about Park City is summer Sunday afternoons. Main Street is always filled with people brunching and sipping cocktails, the market is vibrant and fun, and there is a different band or musician playing every few blocks. It is the perfect setting to make you feel like you are far, far away from the real world and the hustle and bustle of the city-life is just a little slower up there which always makes me feel like home.

And so, after an amazing weekend celebrating our anniversary, J and I obviously decided to spend our last day on Main Street taking in the scene, relaxing, and just enjoying the last few hours of our weekend getaway. And because it was such a special weekend for us, I got a little more dressed up than I normally would for a Sunday in PC. But none-the-less, my black lace skirt, neon tank, and feather earrings still felt perfect for the occasion. And while of course I love lace, I am feeling especially pleased with the purchase of this black lace skirt. Initially, I thought it would be a piece that I would only use for more dressy occasions, but I am loving that it is also possible to dress it down with the right accessories. It’s always important to have pieces in your wardrobe that can serve multiple purposes and this one is a great example. And as an added bonus, it will be an awesome transitional piece into Fall (not that I’m ready to start thinking about that yet!)…

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Black Lace Skirt: American Eagle (recent)

Neon Coral Tank: American Eagle (recent)

Cognac Belt: Mossimo for Target (old)

Feather Earrings: The Icing

Beaded Bracelets: H&M

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Silver and Gold Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom (recent)

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Neon Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC via Bloomingdales

Gold Aviators: TJMaxx (old)

Gold Flats: Target (oldies, but goodies!)

It always seems to me that the things we look forward to the most are often the things that go by the quickest. I hate that it has to be like that, but am so grateful for such a fun weekend and for all of the amazing memories we now have to add to our arsenal! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend too.