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.

L.O.V.E.

On October 22, 2012October 22, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

Does anyone else remember that Ashley Simpson used to have a music career (outside of her lip synching debacle on SNL)? I had completely forgotten until I saw this shirt hanging on the rack at one of our Macy’s stores. And like a tidal wave, the bubbly lyrics and catchy tune of L.O.V.E. came flooding back to me and I knew the shirt had to be mine. 😉

But in all seriousness, and aside from my forgotten love for the younger Simpson’s bubblegum pop, I have been obsessing over graphic tees all fall. They are fun, catchy like your favorite pop song, and have the potential to add a little sass to any outfit while boasting the comfort of a t-shirt. And not only that, but in addition to obviously being great with jeans, they work well with blazers and cardis, colored and printed skinnies, and even skirts and leggings. Just another fab item to add to your wardrobe helping you to create endless outfit possibilities!

Instagram Filter: Amaro

LOVE Tee: Material Girl via Macy’s (sold out) similar, similar, similar

Grey Cardi: Old Navy

Black Ponte Pants: INC via Macy’s

Heart Necklace: Tiffany and Co.

Long Necklace: Personal Collection of Charms

Watch: Michael Kors

Sunglasses: Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom Rack (last summer)

Handbag: Coach (last fall)

Boots: Kenneth Cole via TJMaxx (recent)

I actually wore the above outfit on a road trip to Montana this past weekend. It was comfy and cute, and an easy transition from 8 hours in the car straight to dinner with family and friends. The only thing I had to do was change my shoes. I wore the black boots pictured above for dinner, but wore my Uggs in the car to keep me comfy and warm. And although sometimes tough to create, I often love outfits that can transition from one event to another the best. The older I get, the less time I feel like devoting to changing my clothes throughout the day so I’m always a huge fan of items that make things easier. So if you are on the hunt for a great graphic tee, H&M and Forever21 are always a great place to start and should both have plenty of options at affordable prices!

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

The One That Got Away

On October 16, 2012October 16, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas4 Comments

I have been on the hunt for a great leopard bag for quite some time now-ever since I fell in love with one and made the mistake of not buying it. And while I thought my wish list was pretty simple (nothing too expensive, versatile animal print, and big enough to schlep all of my stuff to and from the office and on errands around town), apparently I was wrong. And so, after looking high and low with absolutely no luck, I had all but given up. That is until I spotted it during a recent store visit-the one that got away.

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Polka Dot Tie Top: Macy’s (on sale!!!)

Grey Tank: ArdenB (old)

Skinny Jeans: The Gap, similar

Sunnies: Jessica Simpson

Heart Necklace: Tiffany and Co.

Long Necklace: My personal collection of charms

Watch: Michael Kors

Leopard Bag: Steven by Steve Madden (on sale at 6pm!)

Cognac Boots: Aldo Farmar, similar

I think perhaps what originally drew me to this bag, and ultimately led me to purchase it is its coloring. Because it has a lighter base and lots of different shades of tan, cognac, and brown, not to mention some very subtle black detailing, it is one of those pieces that will go with just about anything in my closet. I couldn’t be more excited to have found it again (and for such a great bargain!), and know that I am going to get a lot of use out of it this season!!

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.

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!

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!!

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. 😉

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…