Giddyup

On October 1, 2012October 1, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I LOVE a great chambray shirt. And perhaps even one step better is a great chambray shirt with a western flare. Maybe it’s my Montana roots that draw to me to this particular trend, or maybe it’s my current obsession with button-downs, but I can’t stop wearing them. Plus it doesn’t hurt that it’s one of those on-trend items that is a hybrid of fashion and comfort-something that doesn’t happen nearly as often as it should!

Instagram Filter: Amaro

Cowboy Chambray Shirt: Forever21

Black Skinnies: Clavin Klein

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Necklaces: Tiffany and Co., personal collection of charms

Silver Watch: Michael Kors

Aviators: Jessica Simpson via TJMAxx

Bag: Steven by Steve Madden Bluuna

Animal Print Pumps: Jessica Simpson (same shoe but solid color)

Another great thing about chambray shirts is that you can style them a multitude of different ways. Not only do they look great back to black and animal print, but they also look great with cognac boots and accessories, colored denim (I especially love them with red skinnies), and, of course, tucked into sweet skirts for a flirty and edgy feel. They are a great fall staple and I highly recommend adding one to your closet if you haven’t already.

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Fashion Obsession

On September 24, 2012September 24, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

Every once in a while I stumble upon a fashion find that I love so much, I may or may not become slightly obsessed. The last time it happened was when Rebecca Minkoff first came on the scene in a big way with her studded Devote tote. The Hills was at its peak and when LC started carrying the black version with the gold rivets, I knew I had to have one. So, I saved up all my money and treated myself to one for my birthday. And boy did that bag get a lot of use. In fact, it still makes me happy every time I open up its dust bag and take a little peek. I guess that’s what we call nostalgia.

And maybe it’s purely coincidence, or maybe I just happen to have a thing for black pieces with gold embellishments, but I am pretty sure my new Vince Camuto gold spiked heels are going to be my next fashion obsession. It was love at first sight when I spotted these pumps at a Macy’s in Detroit a couple of weeks ago. I was shopping with my mom and my aunties and thought they would think I was crazy for trying them on-they are after all, completely covered in little gold spikes from heel to toe. But the vote was unanimous and we all fell in love with them on the spot. And looking at these photos, it’s not hard to see why-they are definitely a pretty darn special pair of shoes.

Instagram Filter: Sutro

Blazer: H&M (last fall)

Black Tee: Victoria’s Secret Pink Essential V-Neck (best tee’s EVER!)

Snakeskin Shorts: Rachel Roy (sold out)

Ring: House of Harlow

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Clutch: Michael Kors via TJMaxx

Sunglasses: Guess via TJMaxx

Shoes: Vince Camuto

I know that we’ve already established the importance of adding a colored blazer to your wardrobe this fall, but it should also be noted that a spiked or embellished pair of shoes should also be a must on the wishlist. And now that I am finished mourning the passing of summer, I can officially get excited about my fall shopping and start checking things off my wishlist-like a pair of spiked pumps for one. Hooray!

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

FPF: Sublime Glow

On September 21, 2012September 21, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite ProductsLeave a comment

Alright, moment of truth: everyone looks better with a tan. I hate to say it, but it’s true. Now I’m not talking a Jersey shore tan, but rather just a little bit of color to give your skin a healthy glow and put some color in those cheeks. But over the years, as we have become increasingly more aware of the extensive damage the sun causes, sunscreen is now a must and tanning beds are absolutely out of the question. So what is a gal to do during the long winter months to fend off that pasty white skin that will inevitably overtake all of us?

Unfortunately, the only option is a self-tanning product. Now this stuff can be messy, and smelly, and streaky, and leave your palms and nail beds bright orange if you aren’t careful. And in my opinion, most of the tanning products that I have tried are just too much of a hassle to even be worth it. But a couple of years ago I discovered L’Oreal Sublime Glow lotion, and this product is incredible. It is an actual lotion that enhances your natural skin tone leaving with you just a hint of a tan. It also has a bit of shimmer to it creating radiant looking skin that is never, ever orange or streaky. I use this product everyday, winter or summer, and really don’t think I could ever go without it. Plus, it smells great and doesn’t have that funky odor that most tanning lotions have.

Instagram Filter: Toaster

L’Oreal Sublime Glow Lotion: available at CVS, and some other local retailers, but it can be really tough to find, so another good place to look is Amazon or eBay)

L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Tinted Tanning Lotion: available at most grocery stores, CVS, and Walgreens

I really can’t say enough positive things about this lotion. It is absolutely fantastic. And when I am feeling like adding a little more color to my skin, I mix the Sublime Glow Lotion with the Sublime Bronze Tanner for just a bit more intensity. I have to warn though that when using the Sublime Bronze alone, it can get a little streaky, and tend to rub off around the ankles after a good workout. But when mixed with the lotion, it works perfectly. So if you are looking to fend off that white winter skin, while giving yourself a healthy and radiant glow, then these are the products for you! Let me know if you have any questions.

Happy weekend everyone!

Pumpkin Spice

On September 20, 2012September 19, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

I love all things fall, and I especially love all things pumpkin. In fact, I finally caved and had my first pumpkin spice latte of the season last week, which always signifies the “official” start of fall for me. And while it’s still too warm for cozy sweaters and boots, it is just cool enough in the evenings that lightweight sweaters and pumps will suffice. So when I was recently perusing my closet for something to wear, I couldn’t help but to put the below outfit together in honor of my declaration of the beginning of fall…

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Sweater: JCrew

Skinny Jeans: Gap

Chain Necklace: ArdenB (similar, similar)

Earrings: The Icing

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Clutch: Frye (similar)

Pumps: Jessica Simpson Waleo

So while a colored blazer should be at the top of your fall wish list, an embellished pair of pumps or flats should also be pretty darn close to the top. There are so many fun shoes out there this season from fun animal prints, to jewel encrusted detailing, to spikes (my favorite!), to florlas-lots, and lots to choose from. So just be sure and choose something! An interesting pair of shoes is not only fun, but also a great way to add interest to an old or simple outfit!!

Green With Envy

On September 18, 2012September 19, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I’ve always had a thing for kelly green. It is such a pretty color and of course reminds me of my Irish heritage (small as it may be). So needless to say I’ve been a wee bit disappointed the last few years that the only chance I’ve had to wear it is in celebration of St. Patty’s day. Well fortunately, that is all changing this season, because ladies and gentlemen, kelly green is back. And with a vengeance.

I’ve been seeing a lot of shades of wine and bordeaux this fall (which I am really excited about), and of course the tried and true jewel tones. But perhaps the one thing I have been the most pleasantly surprised by is the expansion beyond teals and into the realm of kellys and emeralds. So when I was checking out the H&M in downtown Seattle a couple of weeks ago and spotted this fabulous blazer in such a gorgeous shade of green, I knew it had to be mine.

Instagram Filter: Rise

Blazer: H&M (recent) similar, similar

Mirror Print Top: H&M (recent)

Jeans: Gap Jeggings (on sale!)

Sunglasses: House of Harlow via Nordstrom Rack

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelet: Oia Jules

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Earrings: Judith Bright Lolita Earrings

Handbag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Supersonic

Nude Pumps: Steve Madden similar

Perhaps the thing that excites me the most about this blazer (besides its delicious color) is the fact that it goes with so many things in my closet. I gravitated towards a warmer weather look in this outfit (it is still in the 80’s here, after all!), but I can’t wait to pair it back to cozy grey sweaters, lacey cream blouses, and knee-high cognac boots. I’m telling you ladies, if there is one thing that should be at the top of your fall wish list this season, it is a colored blazer.

Happy Wednesday!!

P.S. My site is currently undergoing some construction-more to come in the near future!! But in the meantime, thank you for your patience and also please note that my domain has changed to:

http://www.alldolledupblog.com

But don’t worry, you can still access the site through the original web address!!

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!

Wicked

On September 10, 2012September 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas5 Comments

A couple of weekends ago, my sweet hubby surprised me with tickets to go and see the off-Broadway rendition of Wicked. And being the musical theater geek that I am (let’s just say I went to both choir and musical theater camp in the summers growing up), I was beyond ecstatic. The singing, the dancing, the bright lights, and the incredible talent all coupled with a fantastic storyline is my definition of the perfect night.

Without hesitation, J and I both dressed up for the occasion. I went with a simple ensemble of black and white and he with a blazer, button down, and jeans. But during intermission when I was waiting in line to use the restroom and people watching (of course), much to my surprise, I noticed many people weren’t dressed up at all (seriously people, SWEATS???!!!). So this obviously got me thinking, when it is it appropriate to dress up? I know that as a society we don’t hold tight to many rules when it comes to fashion and dressing up anymore, but there is a little old-fashioned piece of me that still believes there are certain events that one should dress up for and I think these events (at least for me) are the following:

The theater
The symphony/orchestra/chorale/etc.
Church
Weddings
Showers (baby, wedding, luncheon etc.)
Work (depending on your job, put a little effort into it if you are able!)
Parties, or big events
Charity Events

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

One Shoulder Dress: BCBGeneration via Macy’s (last fall)

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Cocktail Ring: Saundra Messinger via Sundance Catalog

Clutch: Nine West via TJMaxx (old)

Earrings: ArdenB (old)

Shoes: Michael Kors

I love a chic black and white ensemble-it is one of my all-time favorite looks. And as we move into fall, black and white is going to be more popular than ever. In fact, when I went shopping over Labor Day weekend, there was hardly any color in my bag when I came home-if that’s any indication! But one of the great things about black and white is the ease of adding a pop of color. For my theater look, I threw on a bright red lip and red nails which gave me just enough color to balance my simple black and white dress and accessories.

But I am dying to know, what do you all think about dressing up for specific events and special occasions?

Versatility

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

One of my favorite things to do when looking in my closet is to pick a piece that I have already worn and challenge myself to completely re-style it giving it a totally different vibe and look-almost making it feel brand new again. So often times when I’m shopping, I try to select pieces that I know will be quite versatile and that I will be able to get a lot of use from. And when I saw this simple navy and white striped maxi at Macy’s back at the beginning of July, I knew it had potential to be worn a plethora of different ways, and no doubt has become one of the pieces in my closet that I have gotten the most use out of this summer. You can see how I styled it for a night of music at Sundance Resort in this post. And below, a totally different look for a morning at the farmer’s market-slightly dressed down with a fedora and my tried-and-true denim vest.

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Maxi Dress: Macy’s (still available in some stores, similar)

Jean Vest: Macy’s (sold out)

Fedora: Macy’s (Young Men’s Section and still available in most stores)

Neon Yellow Bag: Steven by Madden via Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors via ShopBop (old)

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Silver Key Necklace: Tiffany and Co.

Longer Necklace: My personal collection of charms

Sunglasses: Rocawear via TJMaxx

Sandals: Steve Madden via Macy’s (similar)

So I hope you all had a wonderful Labor Day weekend. Minus a little rain, a broken air conditioner, and an adventurous bike ride in the rain and hail (which was actually pretty exciting!), J and I had a fantastic holiday weekend. We grilled out, finished our deck, played lots of games (glad to know I can still beat him at tennis, if nothing else!), hit the farmer’s market, shopped, watched movies, and I even snuck in some reading and a little more shopping on my own. And I have to say that with the schedule I have been keeping as of late, it was pretty incredible to just slow down and relax for a couple of days. And the only thing better than a three day weekend? A two day work week! I am off to Detroit on Thursday morning to celebrate my Grandma’s 90th birhtday. I can’t wait!!

100th Post!!

On August 28, 2012August 28, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

Today marks my 100th post on the All Dolled Up blog! It seems crazy to me that I’ve not only been able to come up with that many outfit ideas to share with all of you, but even more so that I decided to take on this project just a few short months ago. It has been such an incredible journey thus far and I am truly loving every minute. I have learned so much about myself but more importantly have been incredibly blessed by the outpouring of love and support I have received from friends, family, and my readers, who now also feel like my friends. And it all makes me incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to share my love of fashion with all of you. So thank you to each and every one of you who takes the time to sit down and read my blog. You are appreciated far more than you know.

Today’s post is about two of my very favorite things: feather earrings and sequins. Both are great transitional pieces into fall, but what I really love about them is unexpectedly pairing them together-something sweet and girly back to something more boho and far less refined. An easy look that was made for a night on the town, or an end-of-summer outdoor concert.

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Sequin Top: Express (last summer, but they have many similar styles in store and online now!)

Skinny Jeans: The Gap (in store now!!!)

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Charm Bracelet: Juicy Couture via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Feather Earrings: The Icing (last summer), Macy’s (recent)

Gold Metallic Handbag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier (my gold version was a limited edition, but they always offer this bag in lots of great colors and some sort of metallic usually comes out around the holidays)

Shoes: Guess via TJMaxx (thanks Kendi for introducing me to these shoes!!)

Truth be told, sometimes I feel a little silly writing a fashion blog when there are so many important and pressing issues going on in our world-it makes me feel a little frivolous. But at the same time, we all want to feel good about ourselves and confident in our skin, and a huge part of that can come from the way we dress and put ourselves together. So if I can help even one person out there feel a little better about themselves or more confident when making shopping or fashion decisions, then I am doing my job. I truly believe that women of any shape, size, or budget should all have the ability and the tools to look and feel their best.

Thank you again for all of the love and support! I’ve got some exciting things in the works that I can’t wait to share with all of you!

Dress Up

On August 27, 2012August 27, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

Call me old-fashioned, but there are certain events in life which I believe are completely acceptable (and in my personal rules of fashion, necessary), to dress up for. And not only are they are acceptable (or necessary, in my case), but they also pose as a fantastic excuse to pull something super cute out of your closet that you don’t get to wear very often.

Such was the case over the weekend when I was able to help host and attend a baby shower for one of my dearest friends who is expecting a baby girl in late September. It was a fabulous celebration full of wonderful ladies, lots of laughter and love, and lots and lots of pink. And not only that, but it was also the perfect occasion to wear my favorite dress which hasn’t gotten nearly enough love from me this summer.

Dress: RACHEL Rachel Roy via Macy’s (still in stock in stores!)

Sunglasses: House of Harlow via Nordstrom Rack

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Charm Bracelet: Juicy Couture via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Cocktail Ring: Macy’s

Clutch: Hobo International Belinda via Nordstrom

Shoes: Mia via DSW (last summer)

This dress is yet another example of why I love Rachel Roy so much. Her line for Macy’s is chic, beautiful, fits incredibly well, and its affordable. So if you haven’t tried any of her pieces on yet, I highly recommend heading to your local Macy’s and checking out the new fall line. I’m pretty sure you won’t be disappointed. 😉