Splash! (of color)

On May 16, 2012May 16, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Outfit Ideas, Steve Madden, Watches6 Comments

Do you remember the movie Splash? Oh my gosh. It was one of my FAVORITE movies back in the day. And what about Mannequin??? I loved that one too. In fact, my corporate office is in an actual Macy’s store and when I come into work in the morning before the store opens, I always think of that movie as I walk through the dark sales floors. And when I reflect on movies like Mannequin and Splash and other ’80’s favorites (remember Labyrinth?), the thing that stands out in my mind is the infiltration of colorful clothing and make up (and of course cheesy story lines) into just about every aspect of the films. 🙂 And while you would never catch me wearing shoulder pads (my shoulders are wide enough as it is!), I can more than appreciate the colorful influence the ’80’s are having on our current trends, which leads me to the point of this post-BLAZERS!!!

Blazers are a must have, in general, but especially this season. And not only are they a must have, but they are the perfect way to add a splash of color to your wardrobe. I am in love with the colored denim trend, but it isn’t for everyone. Blazers, however, cast a much wider net, and with stores like H&M and Forever21 offering so many in such a wide variety of colors for under $40, they are an easy addition to any wardrobe. I have picked up a few colorful blazers over the last few months (you can see some of them here, here, here, and here), and they have quickly become a staple in my closet for both work and play due to their versatility-I just can’t get enough. So if you are fearing the colored denim trend, pick up a colorful blazer instead!

Cobalt Blazer: H&M (similar, similar, similar)

Orange and Pink Silk Top: Francesca’s Collections

Black Crop Skinnies: Gap 1969 Always Skinny (similar)

Pink Shoes: Jessica Simpson Waleo vai Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors via Macy’s (similar)

Bracelets: Tiffany

Cocktail Ring: Etsy (seller no longer active)

Sunnies: Jessica Simpson via Ross (similar)

Orange Clutch: Steve Madden via Macy’s (sold out)

There aren’t many rules when it comes to adding a colored blazer to an outfit, almost anything goes. Just make sure your undertones are similar (in my outfit, the orange is a warm tone, but the pink has a blue undertone, allowing for all 3 colors to work especially well together). And a word to wise, it’s also important to make sure your color combinations don’t make you look like your favorite sports team. I LOVE orange and cobalt together, but I don’t want to look like a Broncos fan (nothing against the Broncos), so the addition of the pink shoes and the pink stripe in my shirt are a great way to get rid of that potential association.

Feel free to let me know if you have any questions!! And please remember to “like” me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter. You can also follow me on Instagram: AisAllDollUp, and on Pinterest: Abby Doll

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Thank you SO MUCH for your support!!

Fashion Star Finale!

On May 15, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas, Steve Madden, TJMaxx, Uncategorized, Watches1 Comment

I was so excited when I learned of the inception of Fashion Star and have thoroughly enjoyed it every Tuesday night since its premiere. The mentors are terrific, the designers are fantastic, and as a buyer myself, of course I especially love the buyers! In fact, I was even privileged enough to spend some time with Caprice in LA when I first started working for Macy’s. And let me tell you, she is just as pretty and fabulous in person as she is on TV!

So of course, having followed along with the designers on their journey thus far, I am so excited to see how the finale unravels tonight! Although each person left is incredibly talented, I can’t help but find myself rooting for Kara. She is sweet, and humble, and her sense of style rocks!! I think she is the perfect candidate to design lines for H&M, Saks, and Macy’s. But even though I’m rooting for Kara, Orly was my season favorite, so in honor of her, I wanted to pay tribute by wearing the AH-mazing lime blazer she debuted last week, and of course top it off with some jewelry from Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow…

Blazer: Orly Shani for H&M

Black Silk Cami: Express

Snake Skin Liquid Leggings: Nodrstrom (old)

Heels: Steve Madden

Necklace: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Tortise Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Tiffany, Macy’s, Word Market, H&M

Sunnies: Guess via TJMaxx

So while I can’t wait to see if my girl Kara is announced as the very first Fashion Star, tonight will also be a bit bittersweet as I say goodbye to one of my favorite guilty pleasures. Guess I better start figuring out something new to do on my Tuesday nights!

Good luck Kara!!!

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!

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!

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!!

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!

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. 😉