Primary

On December 3, 2012December 3, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I love my red skinny jeans. In fact, I’ve found over the last year or so that despite their vibrant hue, they are just about as versatile as blue jeans. And in addition to going with just about anything, they are also just plain fun. Especially when mixed with the unexpected-like neon and snow leopard.

Instagram Filter: Rise

Snow Leopard Shirt: JCrew, similar, similar

Red Skinnies: Else by Joe’s Jeans

Sunburst Necklace: House of Harlow

Neon Belt: Macy’s, similar

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Gold Bracelet: Oia Jules

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Shoes: Aldo for Nordstrom, similar, similar

I love mixing primary colors together-there is just something so refreshing and simple about the combination. It’s sort of like going back to the basics. But a word to the wise, when mixing primary colors, limit yourself to two at a time. Otherwise, you might end up looking more like a finger painting project you did in the 1st grade rather than a fashionista.

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

Gingham Style

On November 19, 2012November 19, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

Oh how I love to mix different textures and prints together. And currently topping my list right now are polka dots back to, well, pretty much anything. And while I have been trying to shield you all from my out-of-control addiction to polka dots, I think I may be on the verge of needing an intervention. Seriously. I am out of control.

But the good news about polka dots is that they play a very similar role to stripes. Meaning, you can pair them back to just about anything. And while polka dots and stripes are one of my all time favorite combos, lately I am becoming a huge fan of polka dots and plaids. Now normally when mixing prints a general rule of thumb is to mix something bigger with something smaller. But, of course, as you can see below, there are exceptions to every rule. And I have to say that I am loving my mini polka dot sweater back to my hot pink gingham button down…

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Mini Polka Dot Sweater: Forever21

Pink Gingham shirt: JCrew Factory

Skinny Jeans: Gap

Heart Pendant: Tiffany and Co.

Long Necklace: Personal Collection of Charms

Watch: Michael Kors

bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Sunnies: Calvin Klein

Neon Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC

Wedges: Aldo Terina (ON SALE!)

Our weekend went by so quickly. Even though it was packed full of events and fun outings, I almost feel like I blinked and now it’s Monday again. This time of the year always really flies by for me-I just wish the weekends would slow down a little. Sheesh.

Here’s to an abbreviated work week!

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!

Panthera Uncia

On October 4, 2012October 4, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

When I was in the 5th grade, we had to select, study, and write a report on an endangered animal. And given my love for all things animal print, it should come as no surprise that I picked the Snow Leopard. Even at an early age, I suppose I was able to appreciate the beauty of this cat and the gorgeous pattern of its coat. So when I was in JCrew a couple of weeks ago and saw these incredible Snow Leopard print pants, not only did they remind me of my 5th grade project a lifetime ago, but they inspired me to have them. Printed pants are all the rage this season, and I figured what better way to rock them than by paying homage to one of my favorite animals!

Instagram Filter: Sutro

Knit Blazer: Express (old) similar, similar

White Tee: Forever21 similar

Snow Leopard Print Pants: JCrew (on sale!!)

Sunglasses: Guess via TJMaxx

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Chain Necklace: JCrew (recent)

Pink Shoes: Nine West via Macy’s (lots of fun colors to choose from!)

Printed pants. I suppose you either love them or you hate them. I, for one, love them but recognize that they are not the easiest trend to pull off. So I will share a little tip I have found to work in my favor when trying them out: the smaller the print, the more flattering. So if this is a trend you are feeling brave enough to try, start with smaller leopard prints, polka dots, or even smaller floral or ditsy prints. These will be much more flattering to the figure than larger, wider prints that can create an illusion making you look bigger as well. And one more tip, which is a general rule of thumb in fashion, darker colors are always more flattering.

Here are some great options if you are on the prowl (pun intended!) for some cute printed pants this fall season:

Else (by Joe’s Jeans) Polka Dot Pants (I own the black version of these and will do a post about how to style them in the near future!)

Else (by Joe’s Jeans) Leopard Print Jeans (ON SALE!!!)

American Eagle Polka Dot Jegging (super cute, but run small so buy one size up!)

American Eagle Tie-Dyed Skinny Jean

The Limited Floral Skinny Jean

JCrew Cafe Capri Jacquard Dot Pant

JCrew Cafe Capri in Safari Cat (ON SALE!!)

JCrew Cafe Capri and Art Polka Dot (ON SALE!!)

Happy hunting!

FPF: The Bubble Necklace

On September 28, 2012September 28, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit Ideas6 Comments

If you don’t know what a bubble necklace is yet, then you must be living under a rock (sorry, but true!). Thanks to the original JCrew version, which came out 2 years ago, the bubble necklace has taken the fashion world by storm and is now a staple across fashion blogs, boutiques, and wish lists across the world. And it isn’t hard to see why. It is a fun, easy piece that is a simple way to spice up an outfit or add a pop of color to any ensemble. It is one of those things that goes with everything, and makes any outfit that much better. Which is why, of course, everyone either wants or has one-including myself (if you hadn’t noticed)…

Yellow Bubble Necklace: JCrew via eBay (be careful going this route!! lots of bad fakes out there)

Purple Bubble Necklace: Ily Couture (great quality-I highly recommend)

Red Bubble Necklace: H&M (old)

Ivory Bubble Necklace: The Poke A Dot Shop

The good news is now that the bubble necklace is so popular, you can pick them up for a fraction of the JCrew price tag. Below is a list of options if you are looking to purchase your first one, or add another color to your collection:

JCrew $120-$150

The Poke A Dot Shop (sold out right now-but keep checking back) $15.99

Ily Couture $49.00

Amour Boutique $28.00

The Red Dress Boutique $42.00

Basil The Cat (on Etsy) $50.00

Good luck and happy shopping!! AND, happy weekend!!!

P.S Don’t forget to keep scrolling down so you can “like” me on FB and follow me on Twitter! You can also find me on Instagram: AllDolledUpBlog

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!

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!!

My Favorite Boyfriend

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

I have had a few boyfriends in my lifetime-some who were okay, but for the most part, well, not so much. 🙂 And while in hindsight I think I might have been in love with the idea of being in love in my younger years, I have come to learn over time that (besides my darling husband) there is only one boyfriend I’ve had in my life that has never let me down. And that my friends, is my favorite boyfriend jeans. Yes, you read correctly, my favorite boyfriend jeans.

Truth be told, I have had a long-standing love affair with boyfriend jeans-I just can’t get enough. And maybe it’s because I know I am going to have to put them away in a couple of months, but lately, I cannot stop wearing them. They are truly one of those pieces that not only go with a myriad of items from flip flops and tanks, to sweaters, to t-shirts, to oxfords, but they feel like home every time I slip them on. And as of late, my favorite (and go-to) look is to pair my boyfriend jeans back to a menswear inspired button-down and minimalistic jewelry, topped off with the girliest, most feminine shoes I can find in my closet. An unexpected combination that works perfectly together and never, ever lets me down.

Instagram Filter: Brannan

Buttondown: JCrew (recent)

Cyrstal Necklace: SLC Farmer’s Market

Bracelets: Tiffany an Co., H&M, Forever21, Macy’s

Watch: Michael Kors via ShopBop (old)

Boyfriend Jeans: Rich and Skinny via Nordstrom Rack (old)

Shoes: Nine West via Macy’s (recent)

This is one trend that I sincerely hope never goes out of style. The comfort and versatility of boyfriend jeans makes them incredibly easy to style and a must have for any closet. So remember, ladies, men will come and go, but a great pair of boyfriend jeans is forever.

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

Navy+Mustard=LOVE

On August 21, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

Navy is what we call one of the new neutrals. Like black, it goes with everything from brights, to neons, to jewel tones, to other like neutrals. It is a great staple to have in your wardrobe and because of its ability to be mixed with many different colors lends itself to creating countless different looks. But one color in particular that navy works especially well with, and in fact, one of my favorite color combinations of all time, is the pairing of navy and mustard.

No matter the season, no matter the trend, navy and mustard always work seamlessly together. Summer or fall, winter or spring, this is a color combination that always works, is easy to create, AND looks great on everyone…

Instagram Filter: 1977

Striped Tank: H&M (recent)

Mustard Skirt: JCrew (last summer)

Red Bubble Necklace: H&M (last summer)

Gold Love Bracelets: Forever21

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Cocktail Ring: House of Harlow via Nordstrom

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Double Wrap Belt: DownEast Outfitters

Wedges: DV by Dolce Vita Jude via Macy’s

And in keeping with the theme of thinking summer while preparing for fall, mustard and navy is another prime example of something you can wear now, and wear later. In fact, my very favorite way to wear mustard and navy is with a dark pair of skinny jeans and tall pair of cognac boots-but I’m obviously not quite ready for that yet!

Hope you are all having a fabulous week!!

Mixology

On August 13, 2012August 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love mixing stripes together! It is one of my absolute favorite looks-well, that and mixing stripes and polka dots. And while it might seem counter intuitive, it is more do-able than one might think. The only thing to keep in mind is some sort of contrast, whether it be in color, size, or direction.

When I bought the below skirt (which you can also see here), I didn’t just buy it because of my fondness for stripes, but because I also knew it would be a great base piece that I could use to create a variety of looks. And even though I always seem to gravitate towards creating more nautical looks with this skirt, I have gotten quite a bit of use out of it. But it occurred to me last week that one thing I hadn’t tried was pairing it back to a striped top. And because of its wide stripe, I knew it would be an excellent candidate to pair back to my favorite mini-stripe one-shoulder top. Slightly nautical, yet playful and fun-the perfect outfit to keep me cool on a super hot evening here in the SLC.

Instagram Filter: Hudson

Mini-Striped Top: Wet Seal (old)

Striped Skirt: H&M

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors

Earrings: The Icing

Belt: Mossimo for Target

Striped Cross Body Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC

Shoes: Dolce Vita Jude

And not only do I love mixing stripes, but I also love a good one-shoulder top or dress. It is one of my favorite silhouettes-such a fun, yet refined look. It always makes me feel a little extra glamorous and is a good way to step up a look without really putting forth much extra effort-anything that shows a little extra shoulder is a winner in my book!

Happy Monday!