Seeing Spots

On October 23, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized7 Comments

Two black and white outfit posts in a row-now that’s saying something for a girl who loves color like I do. And contrary to how I thought I might feel, I have found the black and white trend to be quite refreshing this season. So considering this and my penchant for snow leopard prints (which you can read about it here) it’s no surprise that this dress caught my eye on a recent H&M trip. A hybrid of leopard and polka dots all wrapped up in black in white? How could I resist.

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Dress: H&M (recent) similar; Vegan Moto Jacket: Macy’s similar, similar; Double Wrap Belt: DownEast Outfitters similar; Necklace and Ring: House of Harlow; Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack; Sunglasses: House of Harlow via Nordstrom Rack; Pumps: Boutique in Italy similar

As I noted in yesterday’s post, J and I headed on a road trip to Montana this past weekend so J could ride in the annual Rolling Thunder cross race in Missoula. It is a weekend we look forward to every year, not only because of the terrific event, but because we get to see family and friends while we are there. And this year, of course, did not disappoint. J had a podium finish in one of his two races, I snuck in some time with girlfriends (including meeting one’s little boy for the first time!), and most importantly, we were blessed to spend the weekend with J’s dad, and his brother and his wife (who just moved to the neighborhood where these photos were taken!!). It was a long drive home on Sunday, but the weekend was well worth the trip.

Avenge Me!

On October 15, 2012October 15, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas7 Comments

I have to say that I felt like a princess at the opera on Saturday night. The last time I wore a formal gown was on my wedding day, so it was pretty exciting to have such a fun excuse to get so dressed up. Plus, as I said in this post, as a student of classical music, the opera is very near and dear to my heart so I could not have been more thrilled to attend. And the event did not disappoint. Il Trovatore was simply fantastic. The cast was incredible, the story was captivating, and the passion and drama were palpable. Even my hubby enjoyed the performance and promised me that he would go again (which is no small feat!).

And of course, the dress. I gave you all sneak peek last week as to what it looked like off the rack. And while it was pretty in its original state, it wasn’t quite the dress for me. But the price was right (incredible, actually), and I knew with a few changes that I could make it my perfect dress for such an honorable evening. And I must say, I could not have been happier with the way it turned out!

Dress: Betsy Adams via Macy’s

Earrings: ArdenB (old) similar, similar

Bracelets: Macy’s, Target

Clutch: H&M (recent), similar, similar

Shoes: Michael Kors, similar, similar

After our red carpet appearance, we were asked a series of questions as we posed for additional photos for an upcoming issue of Utah Magazine. And one question that was asked of us was whether or not we recommend the opera, and if so, to who. My initial thought was that the opera is not for everyone. However, after our experience on Saturday evening-from a lovely dinner, to an exciting walk on the red carpet, to an absolutely fantastic show, to all of the amazing fashion filling the charming Capitol Theatre, I have to say that I would recommend the Utah Opera to anyone. It was an incredible experience and I absolutely can’t wait to go again. So thank you to Sara Neal and the Utah Opera for extending such a lovely invitation to me. You have found yourselves a lifelong fan.

Saturdays in the Park

On October 9, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love Saturdays in the Fall. My hubby races Cyclocross (a hybrid sport of mountain biking and road biking), and I look forward to getting out the cowbell and our SLR each weekend to cheer him on and snap photos of him for a change. It’s so nice to be out in the crisp fall air and have the opportunity to see so many different parks and areas around Utah that we normally wouldn’t get to explore!

This past Saturday brought us up to beautiful Ogden for race day. And while most races are in the morning and you can normally find me straight from boot camp running around the course in my LuluLemon gear and tennis shoes, this was an afternoon race so I actually had to wear real clothes for the occasion. However, I found myself a bit stumped as to what real clothes I could wear both to the race and then directly out for beers with friends following. I seem to have an easy time getting super dressed up or being super casual, but it’s the in between that I always find to be a struggle. So I did what any strategic thinking fashionista would do and I pulled out my favorite grey tee, my most comfy skinny jeans, my best worn in boots (with just enough of a heel that I could run around but not feel frumpy), and then threw on some fun jewelry and a leopard cardi for some spunk. And I have to say, it ended up being the perfect outfit for a casual, fun fall day.

Instagram Filter: Amaro

Grey Tee: Victoria’s Secret Pink Essential V-Neck Tee (these are THE BEST!)

Leopard Cardi: H&M (last year) similar, similar, similar

Skinny Jeans: The Gap

Monogram Necklace: Keti Sorely via Etsy

Long Gold Necklace: Macy’s

Stone Charm: Stella and Dot

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Charm Bracelet: Juicy Couture via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Neon Bag: Steven by Steve Madden

Gold Aviators: Steve Madden via TJMaxx

Cognac Boots: Aldo Farmar (last fall) similar

Neon was all the rage this past summer and will continue to be an important trend through the end of 2013. And while it does pose to be a bit more challenging, it is perfectly acceptable to layer it into your fall and winter wardrobe. When I bought my neon yellow bag a couple of months ago, I actually bought it with fall in mind. I knew it would look fantastic back to both grey and cognac and would be a great and simple way to add a pop of color to more earthy, cool weather looks. How would you style neon back to your fall neutrals?

Oh Baby

On October 8, 2012October 8, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

It kind of feels like all of my friends are having babies, and that’s probably because, well, they are (some are even on their 2nd or 3rd!!). And so, I suppose I have reached the age where it is no longer about weddings and bachelorette parties, but more so about new family additions and baby showers. But as long as these new life events involve parties, then that is fine by me!

That said, I love a good excuse to host friends in our home. Whether it is for dinner, game night, or a party, you usually don’t have to ask me twice. So when one of my dear friends announced she was expecting, I was thrilled to be afforded the opportunity to co-host a shower at my house in her honor. And it was a fantastic baby shower, if I do say so myself. We had a lovely group of ladies, TONS of delicious food and sweets, and the mom-to-be received some beautiful presents. We even played Mad Libs, and each created a hand-made onesie for the new babe. It was a lovely afternoon and I feel blessed to have been a part of the celebration. And it gave me the excuse to take the tags off my new hi-lo maxi skirt that I have been dying to wear…

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Skirt: BarIII via Macy’s (sold out online but still available in select stores that carry Impulse) similar

Striped Top: H&M (last year, but they sill have it in their basics department) similar, similar

Monogram Necklace: Keti Sorely Designs via Etsy

Rhinestone Necklace: JCrew

Long Necklace: Macy’s, similar

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Belt: Mossimo for Target

Cognac Pumps: Boutique in Florence, Italy (similar)

It doesn’t seem like that long ago that I did this post about pairing navy and mustard together. And it looks like I am holding true to my word that it is a color combination that always works-no matter the season. But something about the rich golden color of this skirt makes it feel so perfectly suited for fall-maybe because it’s the color of autumn leaves. And in addition to it’s gorgeous color, maxi skirts are perfect transitional pieces between seasons. I can’t wait to come up with other fun ways to style this one over the next couple of months! Hope you all had a lovely weekend!

FPF: Gold Cuffs

On October 5, 2012October 5, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I rarely wore a watch until a few years ago when J got me my first Michael Kors as a birthday gift. And now I find that I am stuck in the rut of wearing a watch every single day. So when I started seeing big gold cuffs on the runway and all over fashion magazines a few months ago, I knew it was a trend that I not only loved, but also one that would help me add some variety to my wrist fashion!

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Gold Cuffs: H&M (this summer) similar, similar

One shoulder top: The Limited (this summer)

Skinny Jeans: The Gap

Clutch: Michael Kors via TJMaxx

Nude Pumps: Steve Madden (old)

And while I know arm parties are all the rage (yes, I LOVE them too), I am really digging having the option to change things up and rock a completely different look. Wearing two big cold cuffs is a bit bold and a bit Grecian, but a whole lot of fun. Plus it will be a great way to dress up plain tees and sweaters during colder months.

Happy weekend everyone! I am so excited that it’s FINALLY here!!!

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!!

Change in the Air

On August 20, 2012August 20, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I hate to admit, but I can already feel it. Fall is starting to creep into late summer afternoons, the mornings and evenings are a little crisper, and long, lazy, sunlit summer nights are growing noticeably shorter each day. And while I adore fall, I can’t help but grieve the passing of summer every year. But, fortunately, in what could only be described as a coping mechanism fueled by my subconscious, I am suddenly gravitating towards richer colors and earthy pieces, and craving layers, scarves, and boots-a few of my favorite fall things.

So when I was packing to spend this past weekend in Sun Valley with one of my best friend’s from college, I knew that I wanted to bring pieces that still felt like summer but that were easy to layer in anticipation of an even more palpable feeling of fall in the air. And I couldn’t find anything more perfect in my closet than the below maxi dress-strapless with a high slit, but casual in fabric and print, neutral in color, and the perfect companion for a cardigan or dark denim jacket to keep me warm on chilly August evenings in one of my favorite mountain towns…

Instagram Filter: X-Pro II

Dress: Bar III via Macy’s

Large Gold Cuff: H&M

Gold Chain Bracelet: Oia Jules

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Necklaces: Macy’s

Turquoise Cocktail Ring: Sundance Catalog

Cat Eye Sunglasses: LuLus

Gold Sandals: Mossimo for Target (old)

So while I will no doubt continue taking advantage of the warm weather and summer fashion for as long as I possibly can, pieces like this maxi will continue becoming increasingly more appealing-summer in style yet fall in their coloring making them easily transitional from this season to the next. Perfect hybrid pieces to fill the spaces in between…

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!

Watercolors

On August 8, 2012August 7, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

It’s no secret I love prints of all colors, patterns, and variations. They are such a fun and easy way to add interest to any outfit. Plus, with the recent acceptability to mix prints of all kinds, they lend to creating endless outfit combinations in your closet.

One of my favorite places to find a good print is at H&M. Since specific patterns don’t tend to stay on trend for very long periods of time, I don’t typically like to invest in them, but rather prefer to pick up inexpensive and fun prints that I can play with for a time and easily let go when they have run their course. Such is the case with the below top. While I have lots of great prints in my closet, I don’t have any watercolor prints, so knew it was a perfect addition to my closet the moment I saw it. I love how feminine this top is and that it is one of those great hybrids that I can wear for work or play. Plus, it’s just long enough that I can tie it at the waist if I so desire!

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Watercolor Top: H&M (recent)

Black Ankle Skinnies: Gap

Neon Yellow Necklace: Forever21 (recent)

Charm Necklace: Personal Collection

Silver Watch: Michael Kors via Macy’s

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Earrings: The Icing

Pink Studded Bag: Rebecca Minkoff

Pink Shoes: Jessica Simpson Waleo via Macy’s

In addition to being pretty, and feminine, and versatile, I also love that this top is a very unique multi-color ombre-essentially it goes with just about everything. So when you are out shopping for prints, try to look for something similar to this top that will not only allow you to be creative, but will also function as an easy piece to accessorize and pair with multiple items in your closet.

Happy Wednesday!

Sunday Funday

On July 23, 2012July 23, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

One of my favorite things about Park City is summer Sunday afternoons. Main Street is always filled with people brunching and sipping cocktails, the market is vibrant and fun, and there is a different band or musician playing every few blocks. It is the perfect setting to make you feel like you are far, far away from the real world and the hustle and bustle of the city-life is just a little slower up there which always makes me feel like home.

And so, after an amazing weekend celebrating our anniversary, J and I obviously decided to spend our last day on Main Street taking in the scene, relaxing, and just enjoying the last few hours of our weekend getaway. And because it was such a special weekend for us, I got a little more dressed up than I normally would for a Sunday in PC. But none-the-less, my black lace skirt, neon tank, and feather earrings still felt perfect for the occasion. And while of course I love lace, I am feeling especially pleased with the purchase of this black lace skirt. Initially, I thought it would be a piece that I would only use for more dressy occasions, but I am loving that it is also possible to dress it down with the right accessories. It’s always important to have pieces in your wardrobe that can serve multiple purposes and this one is a great example. And as an added bonus, it will be an awesome transitional piece into Fall (not that I’m ready to start thinking about that yet!)…

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Black Lace Skirt: American Eagle (recent)

Neon Coral Tank: American Eagle (recent)

Cognac Belt: Mossimo for Target (old)

Feather Earrings: The Icing

Beaded Bracelets: H&M

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Silver and Gold Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom (recent)

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Neon Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC via Bloomingdales

Gold Aviators: TJMaxx (old)

Gold Flats: Target (oldies, but goodies!)

It always seems to me that the things we look forward to the most are often the things that go by the quickest. I hate that it has to be like that, but am so grateful for such a fun weekend and for all of the amazing memories we now have to add to our arsenal! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend too.