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!

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!!

All Dolled Up

On July 20, 2012July 20, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized2 Comments

I remember getting engaged like it was yesterday. Justin whisked me up to Park City on a surprise weekend getaway and got down on one knee in a hot air balloon high above the Wasatch Front. It was exciting and romantic and truly one of the best moments that I’ve had in my life. I also remember our wedding day (the day I officially became all “Dolled” up-yes, my married name is Doll) like it just happened last summer. It was such a perfect day filled with family and friends and overflowing with love and the promise of forever (not to mention that we were married at the most gorgeous venue we could ever have dreamed of). So it seems absolutely crazy to me that tomorrow is our 5th wedding anniversary. I guess what they say really is true, time flies when you’re having fun.

For those of you who know me well, it will come as no surprise that I always get a little sentimental around this time every year and spend a lot of time reflecting on our lives and our journey thus far. And I have to say that this year as I think about all we have been through (an extended backpacking trip to Thailand, a gang shooting, multiple moves, the loss of our beloved dog, job promotions and changes, countless adventures, and a HUGE home renovation project-to name a few of the highlights), I think the word that best sums up the last 5 years for me is grateful. I have been so blessed by Justin and feel so fortunate that I get to spend my life with a man who is kind, funny, loves to smile, loves his family, loves me, an incredible athlete (who pushes himself to new limits all the time), my biggest supporter, my best friend, my love, and a man who gives his all in everything does and constantly pushes me to be a better and stronger person both mentally and physically. He’s also pretty easy on the eyes. 🙂

So in honor of this milestone in our lives, I wanted to take a little stroll down memory lane and share some of my favorite wedding photos with all of you-through the lens of Instagram, of course!

**All photos by Sonya Burgard Photography**

In honor of our 5 official years together, we are heading up to Park City for the weekend to do a little relaxing and of course a lot of celebrating. I am so looking forward to reflecting on all of the memories we have made thus far, and of course making some more.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

P.S. I can’t wait to do an outfit post about the dress I got to wear to our anniversary dinner! Not only is it beautiful, but I also got an amazing deal on it-like really amazing. Stay tuned!!!! 🙂

FPF: Anything from Etsy

On July 13, 2012July 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products5 Comments

I wanted to take today to share with you my undying love for Etsy. I have known about the site for several years, but for whatever reason was always a little hesitant to take the plunge and purchase anything. But a couple of years ago when my girlfriend was preparing for her wedding and started picking up all sorts of cute things from Etsy (her clutch, bridesmaid gifts, jewelry, etc.), I knew it was the site for me. And since then I have purchased lots of jewelry. cute prints, and fabulous decor for my home. And not only have I never been disappointed with a purchase, but I love that it is a means for me to support local artists across the globe. I also revel in knowing that the things I am buying are typically one of a kind and made by hand with love-which of course makes each item that much more special. So with that (drum roll, please!), below are a few of my all-time favorite Etsy purchases…

Turquoise Necklace by Basil The Cat

Druzy Ring by Deco Fox

Chain Bracelet with Heart by OiaJules

Gold Plated Monogram Necklace by Keti Sorely Designs

Hot Pink Druzy Ring by amandalynneLUXE

State Prints by Rooted in Paper

I’m not going to lie, writing this post makes me want to lose myself on the Etsy site for a few hours to do a little treasure hunting. So if you haven’t tried Esty, spend some time on their site this weekend and take a look-they really do have something for everyone. And in addition to all of the fabulous Esty shops mentioned above, below are a few of my other favorites who are all definitely worth checking out:

Bridger and Madison: modern baby items from sensory blankets, to quilts, to burp cloths-way too many cute things to list!!

MakeupbyBella: chain Bracelets and Necklaces

outoftheblue: vintage modern jewelry

Whimsical Details: recycled jewelry and decor

Elizajay Charm: acrylic monogram jewelry

BeMe Jewelry: Turkish Jewelry (FABULOUS cocktail rings)

Hands Full Creations: purses, clutches and accessories (REALLY cute chevron clutches!)

Enjoy! And have a happy, happy weekend, dolls!!

Favorite Product Friday: Michael Kors Watches

On June 29, 2012June 30, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, TJMaxx, Uncategorized, Watches12 Comments

I am obsessed with Michael Kors watches-and surprisingly by default. When white watches started getting popular a few years ago, I was on the hunt for a Marc Jacobs version and happened to stumble on a silver Michael Kors watch with a crystal clear band on ShopBop that I knew was “the one”. I ended up asking my hubby to get it for me for my birthday, and he did! And I have been in love ever since.

And while yes, MK watches are pricey, I can attest that they wear incredibly well, are very durable, stylish, and not only that, but a watch is a classic piece you will wear everyday and keep in your collection for a very long time.

You have probably noticed that I am almost always wearing a Michael Kors watch in my daily outfit posts-I simply can’t get enough of them. And lately my outfits don’t quite feel complete unless I am wearing one-usually with an arm party of bracelets. Although I have to say, I still check the time on my iPhone. 🙂

And here’s a tip, if you are looking for an MK watch and don’t want to pay full retail price, check your local TJMaxx and Nordstrom Rack. I have found 3 of my 5 Michael Kors watches at the Rack for under $100 and often see them at TJ too, but normally in the men’s section, so don’t forget to look there!

Happy weekend everyone!!

Favorite Product Friday: Conundrum

On June 15, 2012June 15, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Years ago, when I began my career in the fashion inudstry at a little boutique in beautiful Bozeman, Montana, I learned two vital pieces of information that remain relevant in both my professional and personal life to this day.

The first came from the owner of the boutique who was wildly successful, but hardly ever wore anything from her store. Curious, I asked her why one day and she was kind enough to let me in on the secret to her success:

If you want to be a successful buyer, the first rule of thumb is that you NEVER, EVER buy for yourself. Success as a buyer comes from understanding your customer and how current trend in the relevant marketplace applies to them.

And let me tell you, I have used this little nugget of information throughout my career and truly believe that it is what has helped me gain success and notoriety in my industry.

And the second valuable lesson I learned during my time there is that Conundrum is the BEST wine EVER. I received a bottle as a gift from my manager, and since the first sip that passed through my lips, I have yet to waver in adoration and LOVE for this amazing white table wine.

co·nun·drum/kəˈnəndrəm/Noun: A confusing and difficult problem or question.

Why is such an amazing wine called Conundrum you might wonder? I promise that once you try it, you will understand. This wine is truly the perfect blend of California white grapes; not too sweet, not too dry, not too tart, not too anything but perfection. It is so refreshing and delicious on the palette, you won’t know whether to serve it with dinner, enjoy it for cocktail hour, have a glass by the pool, or share a bottle with friends over lunch. So how to resolve the conundrum that is Conundrum? Make it your perfect wine any time-I promise you will not be disappointed!! And if you have yet to taste this fabulous wine, try and incorporate a glass into your weekend plans-I have a feeling one you taste it, you will be hooked. Just like I am.

🙂

Happy weekend!!!!!!!

Favorite Product Friday: bareMinerals Pretty Amazing Lip Color

On June 8, 2012June 8, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products1 Comment

We all know colored lips are all the rage right now. From hot pink, to orange, to red, lips have become a fun vehicle to add a pop of color to any ensemble. And because I am a gloss girl (you can read about my adoration for Chanel lip gloss here) and always tend to gravitate towards a nude, glossy lip, this has been a hard trend for me to embrace-and not based on look (I love wearing a bright lip), but rather on comfort (I hate how drying lipstick can be!). That said, I have tried several lipsticks, specifically MAC and L’Oreal, based on my favorite fashion magazine and blogger recommendations, but I didn’t fall in love with any of them. So when a consultant at the bareMinerals counter recently tried to convince me to try their new Pretty Amazing lip color, I agreed-solely because I was sold on the gorgeous shade of red she was offering.

And boy am I glad that I gave it try! This product absolutely lives up to its name. It is a hybrid between a gloss and a lipstick so while it has a fully pigmented color, it isn’t drying, and has the creamy texture of a gloss but it isn’t sticky. The precision applicator allows for you to apply without a lip liner (which is how I use it) and its staying power is down right impressive. Plus the colors are vibrant and beautiful. Pretty Amazing, right?

So if you are looking to try a bright lip for the first time, or if you are looking to try a new product, this is the one ladies. Strength (red), Ambition (fuchsia), and Moxie (baby pink) are my favorite shades as far as brights go, but they have some fantastic nude and neutral shades as well. Plus they look great when you layer a gloss over them. Chanel is still my number one choice for gloss, but I also like the bareMinerals Moxie and Buxom glosses too.

Tip: I put on chapstick (yes, I am 5 and still use Lip Smackers) before I apply anything to my lips, whether it be a gloss or a lipstick. It helps the product go on more evenly, and makes it more comfortable on the lips thus extending the wear.

Summer is the perfect time to rock those bright lips, and now that you have insight to such a great product, there is no excuse not to try this hot trend-so get out there and dress up those beautiful kissers!!

Happy weekend dolls!!

P.S. Let me know if you have any questions or if there is a specific product or part of my beauty routine that you would like me to blog about on Favorite Product Friday. 🙂

Favorite Product Friday: Skinny Belts!!!!

On June 1, 2012June 1, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized6 Comments

Since this was a short week (which by the way felt like one of the longest weeks EVER), and I only got around to one true outfit post, I thought I would make this Friday’s Favorite Product post a bit of a hybrid. That said, today I want to talk about skinny belts.

I have never been a huge belt person, but because of my obsession with TLC’s What Not to Wear, Clinton Kelly planted a little bug in my ear many years ago: you always want to accentuate the smallest part of your waist. Seemingly a no brainer, but tougher than you would think given the current trends-all those long, flowy tops which are not particularly easy to wear. But about a year and a half ago, I discovered J’s Everyday Fashion and noticed she was putting belts back to just about every outfit and a little light went off in my head. What better way to accentuate the smallest part of your waist than with a belt??? Duh!! At that moment, I started collecting belts here and there and find that I now wear them all the time. And not only are they a great way to feel thinner by accentuating your waist, but because they are available in so many colors and styles, they are a fabulous accessory and a great way to add a pop of color to any outfit.

Striped Top: H&M (recent)

Skirt: BCBGMaxazria (last summer)

Sunnies: Guess via TJMaxx

Earrings: The Icing (recent)

Necklace: Basil the Cat via Etsy

Pink Skinny Belt: Cotton On (recent)

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Shoes: Overstock.com (old and cute, but horribly uncomfortable) 😦

You can also check out some other examples of how to wear skinny belts here, here, here, here, and here.

One word of caution. Be careful of the width of the belt. Sometimes the wider the belt, the less it does for your figure. I find that skinnier belts seem to work better and be more flattering. But have fun and play around with them to figure out how to make belts best work for you. Just remember to make sure you accentuate the smallest part of your waist to achieve the most flattering look!!

Happy weekend and Happy June!!!!

Favorite Product Friday: NightLight International Jewelry

On May 25, 2012May 25, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Uncategorized3 Comments

Each year Human Trafficking generates the largest volume of revenue in the world, second only to the drug trade. It is a more profitable industry than the buying and selling of illegal arms and it is estimated that more than 2.5 million people are trafficked over state lines and between coutnries around the world each year. It is a scary and horrifying pandemic that is not receiving the attention it should. But in all of this darkness, there is light-pillars of hope and organzations who are banding together to stop the buying and selling of people and give those that have fallen victim hope and a chance at a new life. One of these organizations is called NightLight International. It is a not-for-profit run by an increidlbe American woman who felt called to move her family to Thailand and dedicate her life to not only rescuing people from the sex trade but giving them an alternative way of life. Here is the mission statement from their website:

NightLight’s mission is to do “whatever it takes” to effect change within the global sex industry. Our local offices build relationships with victims of commercial sexual exploitation and those who are at-risk and provide hope, intervention, rescue, and assistance by offering alternative vocational opportunities, life-skills training, and physical, emotional, and spiritual development to those seeking freedom. NightLight builds support networks internationally to intervene and assist women, men, and children whose lives are negatively impacted by the sex industry.

One of the skills that the women learn when they become involved with NightLight is jewelry making. And it is through the selling of this beautiful jewelry that they are able to sustain this program that has helped so many. Having spent several months traveling through Thailand and seeing the hideous monster that is the sex trade firsthand, it is a cause very near and dear to my heart and one that I love to support. Below are some photos of a few of my favorite pieces of jewelry that I have picked up from NightLight. But there are many, many more gorgeous necklaces, earrings, and bracelets on their website-so plesae make sure to visit and spend some time browsing. The quality is incredible, the beads and stones used are top notch, and in purchasing this jewelry you are making it possible for someone to create and sustain a life outside of slavery.

Another great way to shop is fair trade. And there is an incredible website called Ten Thousand Villages that is chalk full of jewelry, home decor, gifts, etc. from all around the globe. Here are a few of my favorite things I have recently picked up from them…

*The bracelet and gold earrings are from Ten Thousand Villages and the shell earrings are from NightLight*

You can see me wearing this necklace here.

Memorial Day weekend is always a big shopping weekend. There are so many good sales and bargains which are seemingly impossible to pass up. But maybe this year, we should all think twice about where we are spending and consider supporting one of these incredible organizations. It might be a small gesture, but we really can make a difference.

Happy Holiday Weekend!

Fave Product Friday: Hobo International Belinda

On May 18, 2012May 18, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products2 Comments

It’s no secret that I am a deal huntress. I love a good bargain and have a hard time paying full price for things. Perhaps it’s the thrill of the chase, or perhaps it’s due to my profession-working as a buyer I know what things really cost. But there are certain things that I will occasionally splurge on, and usually those things seem to fall into the handbag category. In fact, I just used some of my birthday money to purchase this little number from Rebecca Minkoff-and I am so excited for it to arrive!!! It will be the perfect summer bag/clutch for warm evenings when we ride our vintage cruisers out for dinner and drinks, or when we hit the farmers market, or pack up our picnic basket to catch an outdoor concert.

Another piece that I will not only get good use out of this summer, but also year round (pretty much 365 to be exact), is my Hobo International Belinda wallet. And this really might just be one of my favorite purchases EVER. In fact, I have used mine so much over the years, my original Belinda has been on it’s last leg, but was fortunately replaced with this gorgeous new version for my birthday (thanks mom!!). And while it might sound silly, I have to say that I would truly be lost with out this wallet. It keeps me organized, has room for all of my “stuff” (and then some!), and transitions perfectly from a wallet to a clutch. When I am in a hurry and don’t want to carry a purse, I can just grab this out of my bag, throw in a lip gloss and my iPhone and I am SET. The patent finish also makes it dressy enough for weddings or a night out on the town. It really is the perfect piece. A splurge that is WELL worth it.

You can purchase one of these beauties here, here, or here.

I know it might seem like a lot to spend $110 on a wallet, but I have to say that before I found the Belinda, I was constantly buying wallets every couple of months for $20-$50 a pop. And now that I have found the Belinda, I have only had 2 new wallets in the past 3 years. So the way I see it, it all evens out.

One word of caution. Be wary of the lighter colors in the Belinda patent. Even though I adored my yellow wallet, there is a transfer issue and it picked up colors from items in my bag over the years that don’t come off. So I would advise going with a darker color (which is why I went with black this time around). You can also try the Lauren, which is really similar-just a touch smaller and leather vs. patent.

Happy weekend!!