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!

Mix Master

On April 29, 2012April 29, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Outfit Ideas, TJMaxx6 Comments

Not only do I love mixing colors, but I also LOVE mixing prints-particularly stripes or polka dots back to florals. It feels so fresh and so new to me-just like spring. And who doesn’t appreciate spring???

That said, this might come as a shock, but when I first laid eyes on these (AH-mazing!) shoes, I was on the fence about buying them. I adored them, no doubt, but was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to wear them very often, or that they might be a “one hit wonder”. So I gravitated towards the gray and black version thinking they were still fun (kinda) and definitely more practical. BUT when I went to check out, the fabulous sales clerk steered me in the right direction and said it wouldbe an atrocity if I didn’t purchase the blue and pink version. And I guess all I needed was a little validation, because those were the ones I took home. And it was definitely the right choice!!!

Polka Dot Silk Top: Nordstrom (recent)

Pink Tunic: H&M

Skinny Jeans: Gap Jeggings (sold out online)

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: Got Beauty (local SLC boutique)

Earrings: TJMaxx

Cat Eye Sunnies: Guess c/o TJMaxx

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Macy’s

Bracelets: Macy’s, H&M and Tiffany

Surprisingly, I have gotten quite a bit of wear out of these fun shoes. They really do go with a lot, largely in part because it is acceptable to mix prints with stripes and polka dots (which it should be!). And while I bought them when I was living in SF this fall, I am confident that they are going to get far more love from me during the warmer months of spring and summer. Not only do they make my outfits fun, but they are one of those pieces that make me feel extra special every time I wear them-add that extra little kick in my step, if you will. And as a self-proclaimed shoe addict, I can definitely appreciate that!

Favorite Product Friday: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide Eyeliner

On April 27, 2012April 27, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Uncategorized10 Comments

I rarely wear eye shadow, but I LOVE eyeliner and wear it almost every day. I have light eyes, and think it really helps define them so that they don’t disappear into my face. So of course I have tried a lot of different eyeliners over the years and was in fact a fan of MAC for a long time (I still have one that I use, which you can see here). But a couple of years ago when I kept seeing Urban Decay touted as the best black eyeliner in several of my favorite fashion magazine (including Allure and Glamour), I knew I had to try it. And I have to tell you, once I tried it, I never looked back.

Black is a little harsh for my coloring so the first color I tried was Stash (a greenish/gold) and it wasn’t just the gorgeous color that won me over, it was the product as a whole. 24/7 Glide is the softest and creamiest liner I have ever used-no pressing or stretching of your lids to get a nice even application. And because it goes on so soft and so easy, I was initially concerned that it would smudge or melt away during the day, but that was not the case at all. This liner lasts, and lasts, and lasts. It doesn’t smear or fade away-it looks exactly the same when I take it off at night as it does when I put it on in the morning. And while I probably shouldn’t admit this, I have had several lazy nights where I have slept in my make up (yikes!) but wake up with it looking exactly the same as it did the day before. And perhaps even more amazing than that, despite its staying power, it comes off easily with eye makeup remover or face wash in the shower.

I can’t express enough how much I love this eyeliner. And not only is the product itself fabulous, they offer so many colors which range in a spectrum from wild to natural. In fact, my mom and aunties now use these liners, as does my sister-in-law, lots of my friends, and several of my co-workers. And everyone I know who has tried this product is now a convert too. So if you are looking for a new eyeliner, this is truly the one to try. People ask me all the time how I am able to keep my makeup looking the same throughout the day (without any touch ups), and this little liner is just one of my many secrets.

Happy weekend!

P.S. My favorite colors are: Stash, Oil Slick, Demolition, Bourbon, and Crash. There is also a 24/7 Glide Eyeshadow pencil which I have not tried, but it gets rave reviews. Check out reviews for both products here and here.

This or that?

On April 25, 2012April 27, 2012 By all dolled upIn Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas, Watches2 Comments

Sometimes I come up with different variations of outfits, and while most of the time I typically gravitate towards one more than the other, sometimes I find myself perched a top a fence and can’t decide which one is the winner. Hence was the case a few days ago when I was getting ready for work. Because I work for Macy’s, I have to wear all black when I visit my stores, which is typically two days a week. So when I am in my office (we do have a business casual dress code), I try to wear color as much as I possibly can.

That said, let me preface by saying that if you take one thing away from this blog today, let it be the fact that turquoise and coral are ALWAYS a winning combination. Always. The question I had however, is because the two colors are so saturated and warm (and perfect together), would it be possible to add another hue to this combo? And while I might still be on the fence as to the definite answer to this question, I am kind of thinking that the answer just might be yes. So after trying out a very safe coral, turquoise, and black combo, I decided to get a little wild and try my turquoise and coral back to…RED!!

Silk Blouse: Forever21

Turquoise Cardi: H

Black Jeans: Gap Always Skinny

Red Jeans: American Eagle

Shoes: Steve Madden c/o o.co outlet

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Macy’s, World Market

Ring: Deco Fox (etsy)

Turquoise Necklace: BasiltheCat (etsy)

Cateye Sunglasses: Guess c/o TJMaxx (recent)

In the end, I went for safe and wore the version with the black pants to work. BUT, if I were going to try this look again for the weekend, or a night out, I would definitely choose the red. The more I look at the colors together, the more I like them, and the more I like them, the more I love that I can put so many colors together and be on trend!!! It ‘s also a great bonus to be able to come up with multiple outfits using essentially the same pieces. Maybe it really is true that less is more-well at least in an instance like this. 😉