Seasonless

On February 11, 2013February 10, 2013 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas5 Comments

If you would have asked me a couple of years ago if I would ever consider wearing bright pink pants in the middle of the winter, I probably would have told you no. I also probably would never have imagined that I would own jeans in every color of the rainbow either. But I suppose that is one of the many things that I love about fashion. Even though trends tend to be cyclical, each season is always full of so many elements of surprise, constantly pushing us out of our comfort zones and willing us to try something new…

Instagram Filter: Amaro

To say that I am totally and completely smitten with this JCrew sequin polka dot shirt would be an understatement. In fact, I’m finding I have to limit how much I wear it (you can see it featured in another post here). Don’t you just love pieces that are not only incredibly versatile, but also make you feel extra special every time you wear them?

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

Teen Spirit

On January 21, 2013January 13, 2013 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

Oh, the ’90’s. NOT my favorite era in fashion. Maybe it was because I was an angsty teen trying to navigate my way through junior high and high school, or maybe my sense of style was a little more girly than grunge (thank goodness for Clueless!!). But I must say that I am enjoying revisiting certain pieces made famous during that decade-specifically flannels. Not only are they comfy, but they are super cute and look fantastic back to fun jewelry, boyfriend jeans, and a great pair of pumps. A little grunge glam if you will. Which in my book, is hands down much better than just plain old grunge.

Instagram Filter: Nashville

I hope you all are having a great start to your week. And, of course, staying nice and warm. January is, after all, perfect flannel weather!

Happy Monday!!

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. 😉

Drop It Like It’s Hot

On October 29, 2012October 29, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized1 Comment

Drop. Waist. Dresses. I am absolutely LOVING this look. It is so fresh and such a welcome update to all of the trends we have been seeing as of late. They are fun, flirty, and a fall must-have if you love to wear dresses (like I do). And given my penchant for mixing sassy and sweet, I knew the combo of leather and chiffon made this dress a must have for my fall wardrobe…

Instagram Filter: Hefe

Drop Waist Dress: The Limited (ON SALE!!!!), similar long-sleeve version

Long Sleeve Shirt: DownEast Outfitters

Sunglasses: Target (old)

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Spike Bracelets: Aldo

Clutch: Michael Kors via TJMaxx, same clutch in python

Studded Shoes: Vince Camuto

The only challenge with drop waist dresses this time of year is finding something to wear over them. I tried several blazers and different jackets with this dress, but none looked like quite right. So I ended up settling on wearing it with a plain long-sleeved black tee underneath, in true jumper fashion. But I am looking forward to playing around with it and coming up with more ways to style this piece. Perhaps a starched white blouse underneath will be my next concoction. Hope you all had a wonderful weekend.

My very cute, and very funny little dog, Charlie, kept photo-bombing my blog photos this weekend. What can I say? She loves shoes. In fact, when she was a puppy my favorite heels somehow always became her favorite chew toys (NOT good). But since we share a love for fashion, I figured I’d let her make her first cameo in today’s post! 😉

Polka Dots!

On September 26, 2012September 26, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

I’ve had a thing for polka dots for as long as I can remember. And so, of course, I couldn’t be happier that they are all the rage this season. In fact, as I am writing this post, I am even wearing a pair of polka dot pants. And if that isn’t a declaration of my love for them, then I don’t know what it is. I mean really, polka dots pants? Shut the front door. So if you follow this blog, consider yourself warned-polka dots are going to be a common occurrence this fall. I just hope you like them as much as I do!

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Polka Dot Top: Lulus.com (sold out)

Belt: Mossimo for Target (old)

Necklace: JCrew (last summer)

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Skinny Jeans: Gap (these are the BEST ever)

Cognac Pumps: Boutique in Florence, Italy

Confession time. I did something in this post that I can’t remember the last time I did…I tucked in my shirt! Lol. With the popularity of skinnies and tunics, I guess the practice of tucking shirts went by the wayside for me a long time ago (well with the exception of tucking shirts into skirts, that I do all the time). And while I have to say that at first it felt fairly foreign to show my entire zipper and a belt, now that the initial shock has worn off, I actually really like the look. And since the trend is moving in this direction, I guess that is a good thing!

P.S. Don’t forget to like me on FB and follow me on twitter! Just scroll down a little further and you will find the links at the bottom of this page! You can also find me on Instagram: AllDolledUpBlog

Thank you for your support!

Three’s Company

On August 16, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas6 Comments

When I was decorating my house (the fun part that finally came after the intense remodel), my mom shared the wisdom with me that everything looks better in sets of three. And, of course, through trial and error, I found that she is right (which of course she always is). So if you have the chance to come to my house, or check out posts I have done on home projects, take a look and you will find that all of my decor is done in sets of three, or in odd numbers-a terrific little secret to decorating that I have not only applied in my home, but also to fashion. Which of course brings me to the point of today’s post-color blocking.

Color blocking was HUGE this spring and summer and the trend is going to keep going strong into Fall. Hooray!!! Being the color person that I am, that makes me oh-so-very-happy. But one of the questions I am asked the most often is how to put together a color blocked look. And fortunately, the answer is pretty easy. Just like decorating, all you need to do is keep in mind the number three. I think most people gravitate towards putting together two colors when creating one of these looks, but three is really the way to go. And the easiest way to put together three colors (which anyone can do!) is to pick a solid color top, a different color solid bottom, and yet a different color solid shoe. Just make sure the tones of the color compliment each other and you will be set. And as you get more comfortable with color blocking you can also use your three colors in different ways, like I did below…

Instagram Filter: Amaro

Neon Purple Top: American Eagle (recent)

Blue Skirt: H&M (recent)

Neon Pink Belt: Macy’s

Neon Pink Chain Earrings: H&M

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Chain Bracelets: Oia Jules, Macy’s

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Neon Pink Bag: Rebecca Minkoff via Bloomingdales

Nude Patent Shoes: Jessica Simpson via Nordstrom Rack

One of the things I love the most about this color blocked look is the mix of warm and cool tones. I love the coolness of the blue skirt and purple top back to the pop of a warmer neon pink. This outfit would also be great with yellow accessories, or neutral accessories and neon yellow shoes. And not only is this a look that just about anyone can put together and with pieces you most likely already own, it’s also going to be a great way to sneak those neons and bright colors that we all love into the fall season!

Casual Glam

On July 26, 2012July 26, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

For those of you that aren’t familiar, I mentioned in an earlier post that Park City is a pretty casual yet glamorous mountain town-a fabulous hybrid that makes it very easy to navigate wardrobe wise (minus a fluctuating temperature). Really, pretty much anything goes from a one shoulder dress, to a little lace skirt, to a hoodie and jeans. In PC, the choice is all yours. And because let’s face it, most of what we dress for in life is often times more casual than not, (even though we sometimes wish we could be more glamorous), I have a favorite item that I am always on the hunt for that foots the bill for both.

So, what it is?! It is a flowy racerback tank with a shirttail hem-my perfect go to top for a casual or glamorous look. Now don’t get me wrong, I love flowy tops just as much as the next person, but let’s face it, they are hard to wear and often times terribly unflattering. However a racerback brings it all in at the top and defines your shoulders and waist before falling to its widest part. And to further create a more flattering look, I especially love a racerback in tandem with a shirttail hem, eliminating the box cut which gives the top (and you!) a little more shape and flare. Plus the combo looks great back to skinnies or shorts making it an incredibly universal piece-which is of course why I love it so much. And with that said, here are a few things I look for when on the prowl for one of these shirts:

1. A Fun Color-something that is bright and interesting on its own, say back to a pair of cut offs, but something that would also look great with a pair of skinnies and heels and some fun jewelry

2. A Dressier Fabric-in today’s post, the silhouette of my top is incredibly casual, but it is made from a rich silky fabric that makes it feel perfect for evening with the right accessories

3. Length-I like these tops to be a little long, but not tunic length. They need to be just long enough that they work with skinnies, but short enough to wear with shorts

4. Strap Width-this summer I have been into skinnier racer back straps. They still aren’t the norm so it makes this simple top feel a little more special and differentiated-even if you are only wearing it with flip flops and jeans

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Tank: Forever21

Skinny Jeans: Gap (check in store-they are legging jeans)

Flower Necklace: TJMaxx (recent)

Chain Necklace: Macy’s (recent)

Bracelets: Oia Jules, Tiffany and Co., Thailand

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Orange Lipstick: MAC Morange

Shoes: Chinese Laundry (oldies but goodies)

I feel like I have been all over the place (literally) during the month of July. Summer is flying by and I feel like I’ve barely had time to take it in and enjoy. But the good news is, J and I are heading off on vacation tomorrow and traveling back to Montana for bike races and to see family and get some serious time in on the water. It’s a summer tradition and I couldn’t be more excited!!! Now I just need to get myself home from Idaho tonight to do some serious unpacking, laundry, and then pack myself up again. I’m not especially looking forward to that part, but what’s on the horizon will definitely make it worth my while!

Hope you are all having a fabulous week!

The Planner In Me

On July 24, 2012July 24, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

I am a planner, both personally and professionally. And when I have fun or important events on the horizon, I most definitely like to plan my outfits ahead of time. In fact, I found the dress I wanted to wear on our 5th wedding anniversary before we had even made plans! And while I knew we would ultimately do something where I would be able to wear it, my plan was solidified when we booked a condo on Main Street in Park City for the weekend. And even though a big storm came through the evening of our anniversary, the sun came back out and the temp rose just enough for me to get away with this hot pink one shoulder BCBGMaxazria dress. And thank goodness, because I didn’t pack any other options!

Dress: BCBGMaxazria via Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Oia Jules, Thailand, Macy’s, Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Shoes: Michael Kors via Dillards

I mentioned a few posts ago that I got an amazing deal on this dress, and I did. Let’s just say that Nordstrom Rack came through for me for me once again. My pink dress was originally just shy of $300, but I found it at the Rack for $34.99. (my jaw about dropped when I saw the price tag). And not only that, but I recently saw the same dress at the BCBGMaxazria outlet for over $200. So if you haven’t already been let in on the secret, I am here to tell you that with a little patience and time spent sorting through the racks at Nordstrom Rack, you can almost always find incredible name brands pieces for a fraction of the price. Everytime I take a shopping trip there, it tends to be well worth my time. So while I adore my dress for it’s rich fabric, gorgeous pink color, and one shoulder styling, perhaps the purchase price trumps all on this one. 😉

Feathers and Lace

On July 17, 2012July 17, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

Last week was a tour of small town America for me. I spent the better part of the work week in Casper, WY visiting one of my stores only to come back to the SLC and turn around and head straight to Beaver, UT to cheer my hubby on in the Crusher (an insane mountain bike race in the Tushar mountains). And while it was a fun event and my hubby did amazing, I couldn’t have been happier to get home to the SLC on Saturday evening and sleep in my own bed! I also couldn’t have been happier when my hubby suggested that we head out to a fun dinner on Satruday night to celebrate his stellar performance.

And truth be told, after a week in small towns, I was feeling pretty casual, so decided it was a perfect opportunity to wear my cute white lace top (first mentioned here) back to some skinny jeans, and finished the look with feather earrings to create a bohemian cool feel-which was fitting for our evening and my mood.

White Lace Top: INC via Macy’s

White Tank: H&M

Skinny Jeans: Gap (sold out online-but check our local store!)

Flower Clutch: Coach (last summer)

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelet: Oia Jules via Etsy

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Feather Earrings: The Icing (last summer)

Cat Eye Sunglasses: Rampage via TJMaxx

Gold Wedges: Steve Madden via Dillards (recent)

As I said in my previous post about lace, it really is a perfect summer piece. Whether you prefer it in shorts, a skirt, a top or in color or neutrals, you really can’t go wrong. And not only is it of course “on trend” this summer, but lace is timeless and something you can hold onto in your closet until it comes back around again-which it always does.

My New Vest Friend

On July 12, 2012July 12, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas4 Comments

Ok, ok, if you haven’t noticed already, I am completely obsessed with my denim vest. To be honest, I didn’t really think these would ever make a come back, and I definitely didn’t think I would ever be so enamored with them if they ever did. BUT, I suppose stranger things have happened! And so with that, here are a few reasons why I love it so-an ode to my denim vest if you will:

1. It’s denim, and denim rocks

2. It’s an easy way to change up an outfit

3. It’s the ideal piece to layer over a maxi or sundress, and goes with just about anything (with the exception of same-colored denim bottoms, of course)

4. It’s the perfect way to dress down that dress that is just a little too dressy for normal wear

5. The frayed edges give it little edge making it the perfect partner for something super sweet (like lace!)

6. It reminds me of the ’80’s (pretty much the best decade ever)

7. The cropped styling makes it super flattering as it hits at the smallest part of your waist

8. It’s not just a piece of clothing, it’s also an accessory

Denim Vest: Macy’s (recent) similar here, here, and here

Chartreuse Lace Dress: Cotton On

Belt: Mossimo for Target (old)

Bracelets: Gold w/ Heart oiajules via Etsy, Gold with Pink Macy’s (recent)

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Caged Wedges: Crown Vintage via DSW (last summer)

So not only did I want to give a shout out to my denim vest in this post, but I also wanted to tell you how HAPPY I am that we now have Cotton On in our market. Cotton On is an Australian based company that my little brother introduced me to years ago when my family was visiting him in Australia. And let me tell you, I fell in LOVE with it while we were there. So when it recently came to the states, I was ecstatic. I guess you could say that Cotton On is similar to H&M, but a little more on the hipster side-a beachy, cool Australia feel, if you will. And not only that, but the prices are fantastic, they have tons of great color (my lace dress above came in about 5 other colors) and lots of really fun accessories. So if you have one near you, make sure and check out-it will be well worth your time. And don’t forget to pick yourself up a denim vest if you haven’t already-it will no doubt become a go-to summer staple in your closet.

And good news! The weekend is almost here!! 🙂 Happy Thursday, everyone!!

P.S. Don’t forget to “like” me on FB, and follow me on Twitter and Blog Lovin’ (all just a click away to your right!). You can also find me on Pinterest: Abby Doll, and on Instagram: AisAllDolledup