Rachel Roy for Macy’s

On April 23, 2012April 23, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, I LOVE it when designers team with up with various retailers to create more affordable lines for us regular folk. In fact, I relish the opportunity to buy from these style icons without breaking the bank (or having some serious explaining to do to my hubby). And while most of the time these special collections are a one time only deal, Macy’s has been able to create a partnership with Rachel Roy and carry her line RACHEL Rachel Roy ALL YEAR LONG. And if you haven’t checked it out yet, you need to, because it is absolutely fabulous.

In fact, when I first started working with Macy’s last fall, I discovered their Impulse division (Macy’s boutique/fashion shop which features designer and trend clothing), and then, within Impulse, Rachel’s line. And let me tell you, I have been a big fan of both ever since. Rachel’s prices are reasonable, the fabrication and colors she chooses are gorgeous, and her style is classic and chic-appealing to a very wide audience. I have collected several of her pieces over the last few months and have been nothing but impressed with each one. So when I saw this little bird dress on sale at our new store in the City Creek center over the weekend, I knew it had to be mine.

Dress: RACHEL Rachel Roy c/o Macy’s

Cardigan: H&M (recent)

Belt: American Eagle

Shoes: Steve Madden c/o O.co outlet

Earrings: Target (old)

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Style & Co. c/o Macy’s and H&M

I think that what I especially love about this dress is that it is essentially a blank canvas. I kept it pretty simple for this look adding a bright pink belt for a pop of color, but already have a lot of other ideas in mind of different ways to style this dress for future ensembles. In fact, I have a hunch it is going to be one of my favorite pieces this spring/summer. It isn’t very often you find a piece that can be dressed up for a wedding, or dressed down (with flats) for the farmer’s market, but this dress definitely fits the bill. And with that, make sure and check out Rachel’s line on macys.com, or if you have Impulse at a Macy’s near you, head into the store to try a few things on. Friends and Family starts on Wednesday and the entire store will be 25% off, so it’s a great time to add some Rachel to your collection!!!

Happy Monday!

Let’s Talk About Leopard

On April 19, 2012April 23, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I LOVE animal prints (and when I say love, I mean LOVE). As I have talked about in previous posts, they can be a great neutral due to their grounding colors, but because they are a print, they also have the ability to create an element of interest and creativity. As a matter of fact, I use them frequently in both home decor and in fashion. But the print that has really drawn me in as of late is leopard-and even more specifically, leopard shoes. I have actually collected a small assortment of them over the last couple of months, and due to the variation in style and color, I use each pair for different intents and purposes (you can catch a peek of a couple of them in my shoe closet shown here).

So when my best gal pals were visiting a couple of weeks ago and I picked up a fun new yellow blazer on our marathon shopping spree, I knew immediately it would look amazing with a pair of boyfriend jeans and (of course) sky-high leopard heels. And one thing you will find if you follow this blog, or look at my Pinterest boards, is that I am a sucker for the mix of a beat up baggy jean with a more sophisticated heel and blazer. In fact, when you combine all of these things together, there are a very wide breadth of occasions where an outfit like this would be appropriate: brunch, errands, lunch date, a movie, or even a casual dinner with the hubby or friends. Spunky, yet casual and sophisticated-definitely right up my alley. 🙂

Blazer: Forever21(recent)

Gold Foil Striped Top: JCrew (last fall)

Boyfriend Jeans: Rich and Skinny c/o Nordstrom

Leopard Shoes: Steve Madden c/o Macy’s

Necklace: H&M (last summer)

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Macy’s, H&M, and World Market

One of the reasons that I picked this specific leopard shoe to complete this outfit over any of my other options is because the tone of this particular leopard shoe is very warm and compliments the warm tone of the yellow blazer and gold foil stripes on my top. Some of my other leopard shoes were too cool in their coloration to work with this look. So with that taken into consideration, the possibilities of what you can do with leopard are not only pretty endless, but a whole lot of fun.

A Stroll Down Memory Lane

On April 18, 2012April 23, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized2 Comments

I was a really, really good little girl-and that is not an exaggeration. In fact I was often teased by my peers and called a goody-goody-two-shoes, a brown-noser, and the teacher’s pet (which was probably true). And of course it all seemed so horrible at the time, but in hindsight, I am proud that I was indeed all of those things growing up!! However, none of us are perfect and I of course had my challenging moments, just like any other kiddo.

In fact, my beloved grandma loves to tell a story about me when I was in the 3rd grade and visiting her in Detroit with my family. She and my mom had taken me shopping, and while I have always been opinionated about what I like to wear, for whatever reason, that opinion reached a fever pitch during this particular outing. My grandma wanted to buy me a Polly Flanders dress-white with pink and lots and lots of ruffles and smocking. She and my mom thought I looked ADORABLE in it and both ranted and raved in the fitting room about how excited they were for me to have it. I, however, was not convinced. And so, when my mom left the fitting room, my grandmother said I looked her squarely in the eyes and said “You can buy that dress for me, grandma, but I won’t wear it.” And oh the drama that ensued. To this day, my grandmother still laughs as she relives the shock she felt when her sweet little Abigail uttered those defiant words to her. But in the end, as I was a spoiled first-born grandchild and had previously done no wrong, ended up getting the dress that I wanted that day-a purple dress with white polka dots, and some really cute leggings to match. And as a budding fashionista who knew what she wanted from a very young age, it ended up being one of my favorite outfits during my 3rd grade era. So when I was at the Rack a couple of weeks ago and saw this cute polka dot number, I knew I had to have it in memorandum of that infamous day…

Sunglasses: Cole Haan c/o Nordstrom Rack

Dress: c/o Nordstrom Rack

Leopard Belt: Express (still in stores!)

Mustard Cardigan : H&M

Leggings: c/o Nordstrom Rack

Shoes: Jessica Simpon c/o Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Macy’s

Necklaces: Tiffany, and my personal collection of charms

Many people reflect on defining moments in their life and as I look back, I can’t help but think that maybe the incident with my grandma and the Polly Flanders dress was perhaps my defining fashion moment. But whatever the case, I still love polka dots-so am thrilled that they are back with a vengeance this season. And as you may recall, I talked about chambray being one of the new neutrals of the season a couple of posts back, well, leopard is the other-which is why I selected a leopard belt to accessorize this dress. It might seem busy, but leopard really goes with anything due to its neutral coloration. Plus a leopard scarf, belt, shoe, or bag is a really great way to spruce up an outfit without having to put forth much effort.

Here’s to dressing in what makes us happy!!

P.S. Click on the “Follow Me” link on the right nav to receive email updates alerting you to new posts!!

Date Night!

On April 17, 2012April 24, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I have a lot of what I like to call “Vegas” dresses. You know, the ones that are short, and colorful and perfectly appropriate for a night out at Tao (but few other occasions). And I also have a lot of fab sun dresses, which of course are a little more on the conservative side, but lots of fun, none-the-less. And every year, when I start to feel that spring fever set in, I want nothing more (besides a tan), than to pull all of these fun little numbers out of hiding for the season. But alas, the temperatures are far to cool, and I am far to old to be strutting around in barely-there dresses this time of year. So what is a girl to do?

Fortunately, this is an example of where mixing medias can come in pretty handy-particularly the willingness to combine sweet and tough trends together (which is one of my favorite combos). I like how it not only balances out the soft and sweet by giving a hint of edgy-ness, but also creates an element of surprise and a look that is a little out of the norm. So for a recent date night with my hubby, I pulled out one of my favorite red, ruffle-y dresses and decided to forgo my go-to blazer and pumps, and instead paired it back to a beat up leather jacket, tights, and some pretty special booties for a look that’s a little more rock-and-roll.

Dress: Forever21 (recent)

Leather Jacket: H&M (fall)

Earrings: Arden B (last summer)

Tights: HUE c/o Macy’s

Booties: Kelsi Dagger Rosabella $199 (some available on eBay and Amazon in limited sizing)

And while I love how the look turned out (as did my hubby), I am so looking forward to ditching the jacket and tights and enjoying warmer temperatures. But for now, at least I have a means to enjoy all of my fun little dresses while not blinding anyone with my pale winter skin. 😉

A Little Bit Country

On April 16, 2012April 16, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

I was born and raised in Montana-the land of the big sky. And my childhood was filled with lots of outdoor adventures, horseback riding, and country music (of course). In fact, I can still remember when I got my first pair of Wranglers and cowboy boots-it was a proud day. And when I was old enough to leave the nest, I headed off to Vandy to not only attend college, but to position myself in the heart of downtown Nashville to pursue my dream of being a country music singer. And later, when I left Nashville behind to chase a career in fashion, I met and married a boy from good old North Dakota, whose family calls me “Dead Eye” due to my performance on the shooting range. So, even though these days I work in the retail industry and live in a big city, I think it’s pretty safe to say that I’m definitely a country girl a heart. In fact, the other day, as I was singing “Mountain Music” at the top of my lungs, slappping my knee and stomping out the beat in the front passenger seat while running errands with my hubby, J looked over at me laughing and said maybe I was beyond just plain old country and actually have a little redneck in me. And I have to tell you, I think he might be right!

So, who could possibly be more excited that western shirts are making a comeback this year? You guessed it, this girl! I love a great chambray shirt with snap buttons down the front and have for as long as I can remember-so of course have been quick to add a couple to my collection this year. But lucky for all of you city slickers out there, this year’s chambray shirts stretch far beyond country. They are stylish, easy, and fun. And when I was purusing Pinterest a couple of weeks ago patiently waiting for a flight, I spotted a gorgeous image of a gal wearing a chambray shirt with a big tulle skirt and I knew that it was the perfect look for this country girl…

Chambray Shirt: American Eagle $39.50

Tulle Dress: American Eagle (sold out)

Belt: Mossimo for Target

Boots: Jessica Simpson c/o TJMaxx

So not only is chambray one of the obvious “it” trends for the season, it is also one of the new neutrals for the season. You can dress it up or dress it down, and wear it with skirts, dresses, shorts, or pants-really pretty much anything (remember this post when I paired mine with skinnies, pearls, and neon?). In fact, you can even wear your chambray shirt with jeans. But a word to the wise, just be sure that there is enough contrast in color between your top and bottom. Even though chambray is in, the Canadian Tuxedo still is not. 😉

Oh-la-la-leopard!

On April 12, 2012April 12, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love the springtime in the SLC. The weather is typically gorgeous and warm and it is the greenest we ever see it here in the desert. But like spring in any city I’ve ever known, the weather can sometimes be a bit volatile. As was the case last Friday when we went from 80 one day to a blizzard the next!! And so, even though I should have probably packed away my fur vest about a month ago, I decided to wear it one more time in honor of an April snowstorm. And what better way to rock it than with leopard and red pants??!!

Vest: Macy’s

Leopard Blouse: Macy’s

Red Pants: American Eagle

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Macy’s

Bracelet: H&M and Tiffany

Black Cocktail Ring: Flea Market in Florence (one of my best purchases-EVER)

Black Pumps: Chinese Laundry

And in hopes of that being our last snow in the valley for the year (and those are high hopes), I have officially packed away all of my fur vests for the season. And while I will miss them, I am pretty excited to get back into sundresses, flowy tanks, maxis, and sandals. So pretty, pretty please, stick around this time, would you spring???

Long Time Coming…

On April 10, 2012April 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I have been wanting to start a fashion blog for what seems like forever, but I was always too busy, or too nervous, or had some other all-too-convenient excuse present itself and thus, I ignored that little voice in my head and heart and all of the urging of co-workers and friends. But this year, when the clock struck midnight and I was thinking about what adventures I wanted to take in the coming year, making this blog a reality was at the top of my list. And so, here I am 3 months and 28 posts later, and FINALLY ready to announce myself and my little project to the world!!

And what better way to “officially” kick things off than by showcasing not one, but TWO of my favorite trends for the spring and summer season: pastels and neon (yes, together). Now, there isn’t any denying that I am a HUGE fan of color, but if you would have asked me a year or so ago if I would ever pair neon and pastels together, I might have told you no. But lately, I have absolutely no hesitation and the surprising mix of the two is one of my favorite current trends. In fact, when I first put this outfit together, I actually paired it back to red pants (and I LOVED it!), but in the end, decided that I wanted to share a more realistic version of how to mix the two that would be easier, and not quite so intimidating to recreate, especially for those of of you who might be experimenting with a lot of these wild colors for the first time…

Sunglasses: Marc Jacobs c/o Nordstrom Rack

Necklace: JCrew

Bracelets: World Market, and H&M

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

Black Cocktail Ring: Flea Market in Florence

Clutch: Michael Kors c/o TJMaxx

Cardigan: H&M (recent)

Peach Blouse: Forever21 (recent)

Neon Yellow Belt: Macy’s (in select stores)

Skinny Jeans: Gap (sold out on line)

Neon Pumps: Aldo for Nordstrom Capecoral Pump $89.95

And with that, I hope you will join me and follow along as I share my favorite trends, all I am continuously learning working in the fashion industry, and tips and tricks for looking fabulous on any budget. I am also looking forward to sharing more photos and stories from our crazy home renovation, arts and crafts projects I tackle from time to time, and of course great food and drink ideas that I am often inspired by through other incredible bloggers, and of course, Pinterest.

So cheers to this new and exciting adventure-I know I am excited and hope you are too!!

He is risen…

On April 9, 2012April 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

Easter is one of my very favorite days of the year. I love getting dressed up in pretty florals, indulging in lots of candy, the feeling that spring has finally arrived, eating lots of yummy food, spending time with family and friends, and more than anything else, remembering the real reason we celebrate the day and counting the many, many blessings that I have in my life.

So with that, I thought I would share a glimpse of my day, from the cute hi-low skirt I wore to church, to the pretty flowers blossoming all over my yard, capped off by a pretty fantastic evening with friends!

Black tee: JCrew Oulet

Hi-low skirt: c/o Macy’s (available in select stores)

Leggings: American Apparel

Necklace: Etsy c/o Basilthecat

Shoes: Aldo c/o Nordstrom Capecoral Platform $89.95

Sunglasses: Steve Madden

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: World Market

Belt: American Eagle

iPhone Case: Kate Spade c/o Nordstrom

My hubby had to work during the day on Sunday, so I was on my own for photos. And even though I spent most of the holiday flying solo before topping things off with a fun evening with friends, it was a beautiful day to sit back, relax, and reflect on how incredibly lucky I am. Happy Easter and Happy Spring!!

I Have Nothing to Wear…

On April 3, 2012 By all dolled upIn Michael Kors, Nordstrom Rack, Outfit Ideas2 Comments

Even though I have a closet full of clothes I adore, I constantly find myself standing dumbfounded in my closet looking at the clothes hanging all around me and thinking this one particular, very loud thought-I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR. And if I’m being totally honest, I should probably tell you that this is such a common occurence, it has almost become a part of my morning routine. And while in theory it might sound crazy, I know I am not the only one out there that suffers from this problem. In fact, it just so happens to be a widely regarded fact that we wear 30% of our clothes 70% of the time. And a lof ot you are probably thinking, what??? How can this be? But when I really stop and think about all of those early mornings when I’m at my least creative, and standing frustrated in my closet, I always tend to gravitate towards what I know already works, which most likely isn’t something that I’ve picked up recently. So in all reality, it actually does make pretty decent sense.

And that, my friends, is why I am so grateful for Pinterest and all of the incredible fashion bloggers out there. All of their beautiful images and terrific outfit ideas are really helping me to step my style up a notch and look at my closet with a new-found creativity. I am starting to wear more of what I own (although, as I am sure you notice in my posts, I am still a creature of habit), and am really working on pushing myself out of my comfort zone. In fact, I looked to one of my favorite fashionistas, J, over at J’s Everyday Fashion to garner inspiration for this outfit bright and early on Monday morning when I couldn’t come up with anything on my own…

Sunglasses: Steve Madden (last summer)

Sweater: H&M (sold out in stores)

Cobalt Pants: American Eagle $49.99

Leopard Shoes: Aldo (sold out in stores and online)

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: H&M (recent)

Pink Handbag: Rebecca Minkoff c/o Nordstrom Rack

So thank you to all of you visionaries out there, espeically you: J, Kendi, Emily, Brooklyn Blonde, Kitties+Couture, The Day Book Blog, Pinterest, and many, many others, for your continued inspiration and amazing outfit ideas. Even though I work in fashion, and am constatnly bombarded by trends and terrific images, I hold all of you in incredibly high regard and am grateful for all of the great ideas you have given me and look forward to more to come!!

Blossom (and The Hunger Games)

On March 26, 2012March 26, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Has anyone else out there seen the new Old Navy commercial complete with Blossom AND Joey???? I saw it the other day and not only did I love the throwback to one of my favorite classic TV shows, but I was totally inspired by the vibrant colors, floral prints, and all things spring showcased in the ad. So much in fact, that I decided to throw together this bright and cheery outfit to go to church, run errands, and catch a showing of the Hunger Games with some of my favorite gals on Sunday…

Cardigan: H&M (recent)

Striped Tank: H&M (last summer)

Floral Scarf: Francesca’s $18 (recent)

Purple Jeans: Else by Joe’s Jeans exclusively for Macy’s $68.00 (post to come!!!)

Boots: Aldo Farmar (sold out)

Watch: Michael Kors c/o Macy’s

Bracelets: Tiffany

To be honest, I was totally on the fence about these purple jeans at first, but now that I have worn them, I am really loving them! In fact, yesterday when I was out and about, I literally had several people stop me to ask where I’d found them. And not only are they cute, but they are way comfy too. They were the perfect choice to wear to a movie, and didn’t bag out in the bootie after sitting for a couple of hours. And speaking of the movie, The Hunger Games was FANTASTIC!!! I adored the books, and never like screen adaptations as well as their novel counterparts, but I just loved this movie. The casting was spot on and much of it (of course there were a few exceptions) was just as I had imagined. If you haven’t read the books or seen the movie, I highly recommend both. Oh, and Team Peeta all the way!!!