Let It Snow…

On December 18, 2012December 18, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

The snow is falling here in the SLC and even though I have enjoyed our warmer-than-normal temperatures this year, I am more than ready for it. With Christmas just around the corner, it wouldn’t feel right if everything wasn’t blanketed in a gorgeous layer of snow. Plus, I am ready to start wearing my winter coats!! I wrote this post a couple of weeks ago about investing in a colored coat this year, and of course black is classic and always a must. But I have also found that a camel coat is a fantastic piece to add to your wardrobe. It tends to be a little more casual and looks great with boots and sweaters, but can still be dressed up for any occasion. I purchased mine on a whim at Forever21 last year while I was living in SF, and I still can’t get over how often I wear it…

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Camel Peatcoat: Forever21, similar, similar, similar

Green Sweater: Gap

Plaid Button Down: JCrew

Jenas: AE Hi-Rise Super Skinny

Watch: Michael Kors

Bag: Anne Klein

Boots: Vince Camuto

I love that this outfit is festive without being too overdone. I think it’s perfectly acceptable (and even encouraged!) to wear red and green during the Christmas season. My only word of advice is not to pair the colors too literally. My green sweater is more of a spring green than a Christmas green, and my red button down has a lot of navy in it, balancing the two. So while it’s still a red and green combo, it doesn’t feel forced or make me look like a Christmas tree.

And don’t forget to come back tomorrow for my final Gift Pick installment of the season!! I will be sharing my finds for under $100-perfect for all you last minute shoppers out there!

Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree…

On December 17, 2012December 17, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas, UncategorizedLeave a comment

I love attending Christmas parties. The festivities and spreading of cheer create such a palpable joy in the air and there is so much to celebrate and be thankful for. But I also love Christmas parties because they give me the perfect excuse to wear…SEQUINS!! And while I think sequins are acceptable all year round, there is just something that makes them extra special during the holiday season…

Instagram Filter: Walden

Striped Buttondown: JCrew, similar

Sequin Skirt: American Rag for Macy’s (check in store), similar, similar, similar

Leopard Belt: Express

Tights: Hue

Jeweled Earrings: INC for Macy’s (check in store!), similar

Monogram Necklace: Keti Sorely Designs

Watch: Michael Kors

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Pumps: Nine West

J and I attended a White Elephant party this weekend and had a fabulous time. It was nice to share an evening of laughter with friends that are very dear to us. With the unimaginable events that unfolded in Newtown, CT on Friday, I am reminded more than ever this holiday season to be grateful for the abundant blessings in my life and to hold to tightly to the ones I love. My heart and thoughts and prayers are with the heroes and angels who lost their precious lives that day, and also with all of those who survived or have been touched in one way or another by this horrendous tragedy.

God bless you Newtown, Connecticut.

Another Day, Another Dot

On December 13, 2012December 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas, UncategorizedLeave a comment

I write a lot about mixing prints, but another fun fashion trend to try is mixing the same prints together. And really, it’s a pretty simple thing to do. All you have to do is make sure one is larger than the other, and that the colors compliment each other. You can also check out a post I did on mixing stripes here.

Instagram Filter: Amaro

White Polka Dot Button-Down: JCrew

Navy Polk Dot Sweater: JCrew

Black Skinnies: American Eagle Hi-Rise Super Skinny

Watch: Michael Kors

Bag: Anne Klein, similar

Shoes: Jessica Simpson Waleo

I didn’t intend to do so many posts with polka dots this week, but unwittingly, that seems to be what has happened. But the good news is, tomorrow’s post will be polka dot free. So please make sure to stop by and check out my favorite gift picks under $50. Only 12 more shopping days until Christmas!!!

Afro Circus

On December 11, 2012December 11, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas7 Comments

Whenever I put on polka dots, which seems to be pretty frequent these days, the Afro Circus song from Madagascar always seems to pop into my head. And if you’ve ever heard that song before, you’ll understand why I think it’s safe to say I’m as crazy about polka dots as Chris Rock.

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Chambray Shirt: American Eagle, similar

Long Sleeved Stripe Shirt: Macy’s, similar

Black Vest: Old Navy, similar

Black Skinnies: American Eagle Hi-Rise Skinny

Pearl Necklace: JCrew

Polka Dot Gloves: Target

Boots: Aldo Farmar, similar

I’ve always been a glove girl. But when I was doing some Christmas shopping at Target a couple of weeks ago and spotted these adorable polka dot mittens, I knew I needed to give them a try. And boy am I glad that I did! Not only are they incredibly comfy and cozy, but their sherpa lining kept my hands surprisingly warm at J’s final Cross race of the season on Saturday. Which also proved to be a very snowy and blustery day. I think it’s finally safe to say that winter has officially arrived in the SLC!!

Mix Master

On December 10, 2012December 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I saw a segment on Good Morning America last week about mixing prints and it left me feeling totally and completely confused. And in addition to feeling confused about the general purpose of the message, it also left me feeling sad because mixing prints can be oh-so-fun and easy too. If you just stick to a few basic rules, mixing prints is something anyone can do!

So with that said, if it’s your first time mixing prints or you consider yourself a beginner, try starting off with just two. Polka dots and stripes are a great compliment to each other and a simple place to start. Also consider the ground color of each print. A black base goes well back to a print with a white or brighter base, and smaller prints go well with larger prints. Contrast that complements, if you will. And if you are feeling unsure about mixing colors, a concoction of simple black and white always does the trick…

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Blazer: H&M, similar, similar

Striped Top: BarIII, similar, similar

Polka Dot Skirt: Cotton On, similar, similar, similar

Leggings: American Apparel

Leopard Belt: Express

Chain Necklace: Macy’s, similar, similar

Rhinestone Necklace: JCrew

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelets: Aldo

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Boots: BCBG, similar

Leopard is another easy print to mix. In fact, I consider leopard to be somewhat of a neutral and find it goes back to just about anything-especially polka dots and stripes. And of course because I have a hard time going without any color, I paired this look with a bold burgundy lip to add that little extra pop.

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

Sun Drenched

On December 4, 2012December 4, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I know that the general rule of thumb when blogging is to share clear, clean photos. In fact, I am already stepping out of the strictly-adhered-to-norm by using Instagram and my iPhone to write this blog instead of Photoshop and my SLR. And even though I try my best to share the clearest of photos while still integrating everything fantastic about Instagram, truth be told, sometimes I am more drawn to the creative than the clear. And so, today I share these photos with you. Because really, how often do you get to soak up this much sun in the month of December????

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Mixed Media Jacket: American Eagle (sold out online, but check in store), similar

Pink Sweater: JCrew Factory

Jeans: American Eagle Hi-Rise Super Skinny

Heart Pendant: Tiffany and Co.

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors

Sunnies: Steve Madden via TJMaxx, similar

Cross Body Bag: Betsy Johnson

Boots: Nine West Vintage America

I have to share with you how amazing this mixed media jacket is. If you follow this blog at all, you understand that I am quite fond of surplus and leather jackets. So when I saw this number at American Eagle, a perfect combination of two of my favorite fall fashion trends, I was pretty sure they made it specifically for me. So I obviously had to buy it. 😉 And besides being incredibly comfy and stylish, it is also lightly insulated-which means I will be able to wear it a little longer than my other surplus jackets this winter. Hooray!

P.S. Here’s a little clearer shot of the jacket, just because it is so amazing!!

Primary

On December 3, 2012December 3, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I love my red skinny jeans. In fact, I’ve found over the last year or so that despite their vibrant hue, they are just about as versatile as blue jeans. And in addition to going with just about anything, they are also just plain fun. Especially when mixed with the unexpected-like neon and snow leopard.

Instagram Filter: Rise

Snow Leopard Shirt: JCrew, similar, similar

Red Skinnies: Else by Joe’s Jeans

Sunburst Necklace: House of Harlow

Neon Belt: Macy’s, similar

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Gold Bracelet: Oia Jules

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Shoes: Aldo for Nordstrom, similar, similar

I love mixing primary colors together-there is just something so refreshing and simple about the combination. It’s sort of like going back to the basics. But a word to the wise, when mixing primary colors, limit yourself to two at a time. Otherwise, you might end up looking more like a finger painting project you did in the 1st grade rather than a fashionista.

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

Walking In Memphis

On November 29, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I have always wanted a pair of blue suede shoes. Maybe it’s because I lived in Tennessee and have a deep love for the south, or maybe it’s my adoration for Marc Cohn, but for years they have been at the top of my wish list. So needless to say, I was absolutely thrilled when I stumbled upon this perfect pair. And I swear they make me extra happy every time I wear them. The only thing that could make them any better is if they were on my feet ten feet off of Beale.

Instagram Filter: Amaro

Moto Jacket: BarIII, similar

Neon Buttondown: Gap

Jeans: American Eagle

Large Chain Necklace: Macy’s

Crystal Necklace: JCrew Factory

Long Chain Necklace: Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors

Handbag: Olivia+Joy

Blue Suede Shoes: Nine West, similar, similar

I hope you all are having a fabulous week. I feel like I blinked and it’s Thursday already. Working in the fashion industry, this time of the year is especially crazy for me. And all I know is my feet are more anxious for the weekend than I am at this point. Maybe this holiday season will drive me to wear flats. Maybe. 😉

Winter White

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

It’s a relief to me how even fashion rules with seemingly the most staying power always, at some point, seem to find themselves overturned. Take for example, pantyhose. I can’t tell you how happy I am that I no longer have to wear them with skirts and dresses. Or at all, ever again. I mean really, thank goodness!!!!

Another such rule that I am happy to say no longer applies, is not wearing white after labor day. And while I don’t find myself wearing white all that often in general, it makes me happy to know that I can wear white pants (LOVE them with cognac boots), white dresses, or white skirts any time of the year I would like. And besides, with all of the white stuff that accumulates during the winter months, why not match your outfit back to the elements every now and again?

Instagram Filter: Walden

Polka Dot Sweater: Forever21

White Ruffle Skirt: BCBGMaxazria, similar, similar

Leopard Belt: Express, similar

Bubble Necklace: Ily Couture

Sunnies: Marc Jacobs

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelets: Forever21

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Clutch: Michael Kors

Black Suede Shoes: DV by Dolce Vita, similar

We are having an unusually warm fall, so I am trying my best to wear my pumps as much as I can before I am confined to boots once the snow starts flying. And this season, I keep finding myself drawn to anything with a wedge. As I am sure you can imagine, the majority of my shoes are pretty high, but I have found that the wedges in my collection definitely provide a more comfortable fit. And while I’m not one to trade fashion for comfort, wedges are a great example of how you can appeal to both.

Holiday Dressing

On November 26, 2012November 26, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love planning outfits for the holidays. In fact, I already know what I’m wearing on Christmas Eve (which also happens to be my absolute favorite day of the year). But truth be told, Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday to dress for because it’s the only holiday where it’s perfectly acceptable to wear your stretchiest pants and be totally casual. And so, this year, in true Thanksgiving fashion, I opted to wear my favorite grey t-shirt, stretchiest legging jeans, and go-to wedge boots for a lovely dinner with friends. But because I was feeling festive and wanted to dress things up just a little, I also added fun accessories and a cute (but comfy)Rachel Roy twill jacket to complete my look. And let me tell you, a cute and stylish jacket (much like a fantastic pair of shoes) is a super easy way to dress up any outfit-a little secret weapon in your closet, if you will!

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Hunter Green Jacket: Rachel Rachel Roy, similar, similar, similar

Grey T-Shirt: Victoria’s Secret Pink Essential V-Neck

Skinny Jeans: Gap, similar

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Spike Bracelets: Aldo

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Monogram Necklace: Ketti Sorely Designs

Large Pendant: Stella and Dot Leona (ON SALE!!!!!)

Sunnies: Target

Leopard Cross Body Bag: Betsy Johnson

Wedge Boots: Steve Madden Brix, similar, similar

I still can’t believe another Thanksgiving has come and gone. Why is it that the things we always look forward to the most always seem to pass us by the quickest? But on the bright side, I can now officially put up my Christmas decorations, play Christmas music to my little heart’s content, and even eat Christmas cookies for breakfast if I feel so inclined (don’t judge). It really is the most wonderful time of the year, isn’t it?

Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving!!