Mix Master

On December 10, 2012December 10, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I saw a segment on Good Morning America last week about mixing prints and it left me feeling totally and completely confused. And in addition to feeling confused about the general purpose of the message, it also left me feeling sad because mixing prints can be oh-so-fun and easy too. If you just stick to a few basic rules, mixing prints is something anyone can do!

So with that said, if it’s your first time mixing prints or you consider yourself a beginner, try starting off with just two. Polka dots and stripes are a great compliment to each other and a simple place to start. Also consider the ground color of each print. A black base goes well back to a print with a white or brighter base, and smaller prints go well with larger prints. Contrast that complements, if you will. And if you are feeling unsure about mixing colors, a concoction of simple black and white always does the trick…

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Blazer: H&M, similar, similar

Striped Top: BarIII, similar, similar

Polka Dot Skirt: Cotton On, similar, similar, similar

Leggings: American Apparel

Leopard Belt: Express

Chain Necklace: Macy’s, similar, similar

Rhinestone Necklace: JCrew

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelets: Aldo

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Boots: BCBG, similar

Leopard is another easy print to mix. In fact, I consider leopard to be somewhat of a neutral and find it goes back to just about anything-especially polka dots and stripes. And of course because I have a hard time going without any color, I paired this look with a bold burgundy lip to add that little extra pop.

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

Sun Drenched

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

I know that the general rule of thumb when blogging is to share clear, clean photos. In fact, I am already stepping out of the strictly-adhered-to-norm by using Instagram and my iPhone to write this blog instead of Photoshop and my SLR. And even though I try my best to share the clearest of photos while still integrating everything fantastic about Instagram, truth be told, sometimes I am more drawn to the creative than the clear. And so, today I share these photos with you. Because really, how often do you get to soak up this much sun in the month of December????

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Mixed Media Jacket: American Eagle (sold out online, but check in store), similar

Pink Sweater: JCrew Factory

Jeans: American Eagle Hi-Rise Super Skinny

Heart Pendant: Tiffany and Co.

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors

Sunnies: Steve Madden via TJMaxx, similar

Cross Body Bag: Betsy Johnson

Boots: Nine West Vintage America

I have to share with you how amazing this mixed media jacket is. If you follow this blog at all, you understand that I am quite fond of surplus and leather jackets. So when I saw this number at American Eagle, a perfect combination of two of my favorite fall fashion trends, I was pretty sure they made it specifically for me. So I obviously had to buy it. 😉 And besides being incredibly comfy and stylish, it is also lightly insulated-which means I will be able to wear it a little longer than my other surplus jackets this winter. Hooray!

P.S. Here’s a little clearer shot of the jacket, just because it is so amazing!!

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!

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. 😉

Winter White

On November 27, 2012November 27, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

It’s a relief to me how even fashion rules with seemingly the most staying power always, at some point, seem to find themselves overturned. Take for example, pantyhose. I can’t tell you how happy I am that I no longer have to wear them with skirts and dresses. Or at all, ever again. I mean really, thank goodness!!!!

Another such rule that I am happy to say no longer applies, is not wearing white after labor day. And while I don’t find myself wearing white all that often in general, it makes me happy to know that I can wear white pants (LOVE them with cognac boots), white dresses, or white skirts any time of the year I would like. And besides, with all of the white stuff that accumulates during the winter months, why not match your outfit back to the elements every now and again?

Instagram Filter: Walden

Polka Dot Sweater: Forever21

White Ruffle Skirt: BCBGMaxazria, similar, similar

Leopard Belt: Express, similar

Bubble Necklace: Ily Couture

Sunnies: Marc Jacobs

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Bracelets: Forever21

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Clutch: Michael Kors

Black Suede Shoes: DV by Dolce Vita, similar

We are having an unusually warm fall, so I am trying my best to wear my pumps as much as I can before I am confined to boots once the snow starts flying. And this season, I keep finding myself drawn to anything with a wedge. As I am sure you can imagine, the majority of my shoes are pretty high, but I have found that the wedges in my collection definitely provide a more comfortable fit. And while I’m not one to trade fashion for comfort, wedges are a great example of how you can appeal to both.

Holiday Dressing

On November 26, 2012November 26, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit IdeasLeave a comment

I love planning outfits for the holidays. In fact, I already know what I’m wearing on Christmas Eve (which also happens to be my absolute favorite day of the year). But truth be told, Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday to dress for because it’s the only holiday where it’s perfectly acceptable to wear your stretchiest pants and be totally casual. And so, this year, in true Thanksgiving fashion, I opted to wear my favorite grey t-shirt, stretchiest legging jeans, and go-to wedge boots for a lovely dinner with friends. But because I was feeling festive and wanted to dress things up just a little, I also added fun accessories and a cute (but comfy)Rachel Roy twill jacket to complete my look. And let me tell you, a cute and stylish jacket (much like a fantastic pair of shoes) is a super easy way to dress up any outfit-a little secret weapon in your closet, if you will!

Instagram Filter: Lo-Fi

Hunter Green Jacket: Rachel Rachel Roy, similar, similar, similar

Grey T-Shirt: Victoria’s Secret Pink Essential V-Neck

Skinny Jeans: Gap, similar

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Spike Bracelets: Aldo

Gold Watch: Michael Kors

Monogram Necklace: Ketti Sorely Designs

Large Pendant: Stella and Dot Leona (ON SALE!!!!!)

Sunnies: Target

Leopard Cross Body Bag: Betsy Johnson

Wedge Boots: Steve Madden Brix, similar, similar

I still can’t believe another Thanksgiving has come and gone. Why is it that the things we always look forward to the most always seem to pass us by the quickest? But on the bright side, I can now officially put up my Christmas decorations, play Christmas music to my little heart’s content, and even eat Christmas cookies for breakfast if I feel so inclined (don’t judge). It really is the most wonderful time of the year, isn’t it?

Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving!!

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!

Furry Goodness

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

I love the fur vest trend. I mean really love it. Which, of course, should come as no surprise given my adoration for my jean vest (which I pretty much wore out this summer). Maybe it’s because vests are easy and work back to just about anything, or maybe it’s because I was a teenager in the ’90’s kind-of-a-thing. But either way, vests are a fantastic way to take an outfit up a level and make it look like you really spent some time putting yourself together. In fact, when I initially was getting dressed to take photos for this post, I had planned on just wearing the pretty mint chiffon blouse all on its own. But solo, it looked a little too simple and (I hate to say it) boring for a blog post. So even though I didn’t plan it this way, I am really loving the pretty pastel back to some furry winter-white-goodness, capped off with another one of my favorites, cognac accessories!

Instagram Filter: Sutro

Chiffon Blouse: Forever21

Fur Vest: H&M (last year), similar

Skinny Pants: The Gap

Sunglasses: Marc Jacobs (via Nordstrom Rack)

Heart Necklace: Tiffany and Co. (extra large heart)

Long Necklace: Personal Collection of Charms

Watch: Michael Kors

Shoes: Boutique in Florence, Italy, similar

So I have to share that my hubby is really not a fan of this vest. In fact, he was so surprised when I wanted to wear it for a blog post that I had to explain to him how fashionable fur vests are. But fashionable or not, he still isn’t buying it. And so with that, I think it’s safe to say we can add fur vests to the list of things that men just don’t understand. 😉

What do you all think about the fur vest trend??

Rock Your Vote

On November 6, 2012November 6, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

When I was a freshman at Vanderbilt University and George Bush and Al Gore were running against each other for President, Al Gore held his democratic campaign party in downtown Nashville on election night. It was exciting to be in such close proximity to a piece of the election and my friends and I were even on MTV in an interview for Rock the Vote. It was also the first year I was able to vote in a presidential election. It was a big deal for me to be able to vote back then, and twelve years later I am still grateful to the have the opportunity. We are afforded so many freedoms in this country, one of which being the right to use our voices and exercise our right to vote. So please get out there and cast you vote today. It is a privilege that we should all be so lucky to take advantage of.

Instagram Filter: Walden

Dark Red Pants: Else by Joe’s (exclusively at Macy’s)

Chambray Shirt: Forever21

Leopard Scarf: H&M (last year) similar

Earrings: Target, similar

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Cognac Pumps: Boutique in Florence, Italy, similar

Instead of red, white, and blue, today’s look is red, leopard, and blue. A fall take on a summer patriotic look, if you will. But in all seriousness, this is one of those outfits that is a go-to fall uniform for me. Red and chambray look great together, and the leopard gives it a bit of spunk, which I love. The red jeans and chambray shirt would also look great with leopard shoes, or cognac boots instead of pumps back to the leopard scarf.

Happy election day!!! Now get out there and rock your vote!!!

I Heart Shoes

On November 1, 2012November 1, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas2 Comments

It’s no secret that I love mustard and navy together. A perfect combination, if you will (which you can read about here and here). And on top of a great color combination, nothing makes me feel better when getting dressed in the morning than putting a few of my favorite things together-which of the moment are a great blazer, anything striped, and as always, a fantastic pair of shoes. Because shoes, at least for me, make everything that much better.

Instagram Filter: Hefe

Mustard Blazer: INC via Macy’s

Striped Top: H&M (old), similar

Skinny Jeans: Gap

Earings: Target

Watch: Michael Kors

Spike Bracelets: Aldo

Necklace: Macy’s, similar

Bow Pumps: Kelsi Dagger via TJmaxx, same shoe

I love shoes. Nothing completes an outfit for me like a fabulous pair of kicks. Maybe it’s because I have spent my career as a shoe buyer and designer, or maybe it’s my destiny, but shoes are and always will be my favorite fashion accessory. And as crazy as it might make my husband (sorry J!), I just can’t help myself . Pretty sure I’ll be a shoe collector for life.

Hope everyone had a happy and safe Halloween!