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!

Back in the Saddle

On August 7, 2012August 7, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas4 Comments

I am finally back from vacation, and boy was it an amazing one. J and I headed up to my hometown in Montana to spend a week-a tradition we have kept since we first started dating 7 years ago. We so look forward to it every summer and this year definitely did not disappoint. We spent the week biking and boating and floating and fishing and laughing with family and friends. In fact, it seems like it all went by in the blink of an eye and I hate that it’s over. So to drown my sorrows, today I will share a glimpse of one of our vacation days.

One of our favorite things to do every year when we go back to Montana is to spend time in Whitefish. It’s a cute little resort town at the base of Big Mountain and the head of Whitefish Lake. Not only is it quaint and loaded with good restaurants, bars, and shops, but it’s where we got married and will always hold a special place in our hearts (plus it’s always just plain fun). So on the only day of our vacation where it was too cool to be out on the water, J and I decided to go on a lunch date in Whitefish and walk around the cute downtown. And what better outfit to put together than my favorite JCrew shorts and new JCrew mini gingham button down-a preppy look that was just summery enough, while keeping me warm and colorful on a cool summer day…

Instagram filter: Hefe

Hot Pink Mini Gingham: JCrew Factory (recent)

Purple Shorts: JCrew Factory

Neon Belt: Macy’s

Yellow Bubble Necklace: JCrew via eBay (be careful buying these on eBay!!!)

Earrings: The Icing

Neon Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac

Sunglasses: Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Bracelets: Oia Jules via Etsy

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Flats: Target (old)

With so many trends to love this summer, one in particular that I have been really drawn to lately is tying my shirts. While I always love a tunic, tying a shirt gives you another way to wear the items in your closet and is a great way to change up your look. And since this was a daytime outfit, I did layer a tank under my button down so that I wasn’t showing any skin. For an evening look however, I would definitely tie my shirt without a layer underneath so that I am showing just a sliver of skin. But the good news is, either way of wearing this trend is perfectly acceptable. So if you haven’t tried trying one of your shirts yet, think about testing it out this week. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Hope you are all having a wonderful week!!

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. 😉

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.

All Dolled Up

On July 20, 2012July 20, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products, Outfit Ideas, Uncategorized2 Comments

I remember getting engaged like it was yesterday. Justin whisked me up to Park City on a surprise weekend getaway and got down on one knee in a hot air balloon high above the Wasatch Front. It was exciting and romantic and truly one of the best moments that I’ve had in my life. I also remember our wedding day (the day I officially became all “Dolled” up-yes, my married name is Doll) like it just happened last summer. It was such a perfect day filled with family and friends and overflowing with love and the promise of forever (not to mention that we were married at the most gorgeous venue we could ever have dreamed of). So it seems absolutely crazy to me that tomorrow is our 5th wedding anniversary. I guess what they say really is true, time flies when you’re having fun.

For those of you who know me well, it will come as no surprise that I always get a little sentimental around this time every year and spend a lot of time reflecting on our lives and our journey thus far. And I have to say that this year as I think about all we have been through (an extended backpacking trip to Thailand, a gang shooting, multiple moves, the loss of our beloved dog, job promotions and changes, countless adventures, and a HUGE home renovation project-to name a few of the highlights), I think the word that best sums up the last 5 years for me is grateful. I have been so blessed by Justin and feel so fortunate that I get to spend my life with a man who is kind, funny, loves to smile, loves his family, loves me, an incredible athlete (who pushes himself to new limits all the time), my biggest supporter, my best friend, my love, and a man who gives his all in everything does and constantly pushes me to be a better and stronger person both mentally and physically. He’s also pretty easy on the eyes. 🙂

So in honor of this milestone in our lives, I wanted to take a little stroll down memory lane and share some of my favorite wedding photos with all of you-through the lens of Instagram, of course!

**All photos by Sonya Burgard Photography**

In honor of our 5 official years together, we are heading up to Park City for the weekend to do a little relaxing and of course a lot of celebrating. I am so looking forward to reflecting on all of the memories we have made thus far, and of course making some more.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

P.S. I can’t wait to do an outfit post about the dress I got to wear to our anniversary dinner! Not only is it beautiful, but I also got an amazing deal on it-like really amazing. Stay tuned!!!! 🙂

Pencil Me In

On July 19, 2012July 19, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas4 Comments

I love a great pencil skirt-perfect for the office and super flattering. I would even go as far as to wear one for an evening out on the town with a cute strapless top, graphic tee, or one shoulder blouse-it really is one of those universal styles that just about anyone can wear. But one thing I’ve not ever really given a lot of thought to is the pencil dress-equally as flattering and easy to wear, and even perhaps a bit more versatile. And with dresses currently being my favorite go-to pieces in my closet this summer, this silhouette has suddenly found its way to the top of my “love” list.

And it was all inspired by this dress that I found at the JCrew Factory store in Park City earlier this summer. As soon as I saw it, I immediately knew it would be the perfect day-to-night piece to add to my closet. Because of the pencil styling, long length, and black and white stripes, it is perfectly appropriate to wear work with a cardi or blazer (even on days when I have to wear all black!), but also transitions seamlessly into an evening look with some fun accessories and bare shoulders. This is one of those pieces where I would definitely buy it in multiple colors if I could. Too bad that isn’t an option…

Instagram Filter: Valencia

Dress: JCrew Factory

Black Cardi: Nordstrom (recent)

Pink Necklace: Thia Pan Trading Company (local Utah store)

Skinny Belt: Cotton On

Gold Bracelets: Forever21, Oia Jules

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Sunglasses: Steve Madden via TJMaxx

Shoes: Steve Madden via Overstock.com Outlet Store

Truth be told, I was originally drawn to this dress in neon pink-the only other color they had available. But unfortunately, they were sold out in my size. *sigh* And search as I may, I haven’t been able to find it anywhere-leading me to believe that perhaps it just wasn’t meant to be. But because I can’t quite get the other color version out of the back of my mind, it felt only natural to accessorize my black and white version with pink accessories. As close as I’m going to get, so I guess I’ll take it. 😉

Happy Thursday-the end is in sight!

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.

Come Sail Away

On July 16, 2012July 16, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

Perhaps it is the result of living for so many years in the South, but I have an on-going love affair with embroidered shorts. Whether it’s critters, or sea animals, or boats, or anchors, or dragonflys, I just love the color contrast and cute preppy factor. For men, or women (and even kids!), they are always a winner in my book. In fact, I just bought my hubby a pair of pale blue JCrew chino shorts with bright blue whales and also snagged the below peach shorts with little orange sailboats for me. I mean really, can you get much cuter???

Orange Featherweight Sweater: JCrew Factory (recent)

Peach Sailboat Embroidered Shorts: JCrew (recent)

Yellow Bubble Necklace: JCrew via eBay (BE CAREFUL when buying a bubble necklace this route-there are LOTS of fakes out there!)

Gold Chain Bracelet: Oia Jules via Etsy

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Neutral Wedges: Guess via DSW (recent)

Another great thing about embroidered shorts (in addition to all of their cute and preppy lovely-ness) is that they are a great piece to dress up or down-or even land somewhere in the middle like I did with the above outfit. They look great back to a t-shirt (or tank) and flats, or back to a mid-height wedge with fun accessories (as above) , and would even look fabulous with some higher heels, and a cute button-down for a night-on-the-town type of a look! So if you are like me and love these adorable shorts, then I suggest hitting up your local JCrew-they hands down do this trend better than anyone else.

Happy Monday!!!

FPF: Anything from Etsy

On July 13, 2012July 13, 2012 By all dolled upIn Favorite Products5 Comments

I wanted to take today to share with you my undying love for Etsy. I have known about the site for several years, but for whatever reason was always a little hesitant to take the plunge and purchase anything. But a couple of years ago when my girlfriend was preparing for her wedding and started picking up all sorts of cute things from Etsy (her clutch, bridesmaid gifts, jewelry, etc.), I knew it was the site for me. And since then I have purchased lots of jewelry. cute prints, and fabulous decor for my home. And not only have I never been disappointed with a purchase, but I love that it is a means for me to support local artists across the globe. I also revel in knowing that the things I am buying are typically one of a kind and made by hand with love-which of course makes each item that much more special. So with that (drum roll, please!), below are a few of my all-time favorite Etsy purchases…

Turquoise Necklace by Basil The Cat

Druzy Ring by Deco Fox

Chain Bracelet with Heart by OiaJules

Gold Plated Monogram Necklace by Keti Sorely Designs

Hot Pink Druzy Ring by amandalynneLUXE

State Prints by Rooted in Paper

I’m not going to lie, writing this post makes me want to lose myself on the Etsy site for a few hours to do a little treasure hunting. So if you haven’t tried Esty, spend some time on their site this weekend and take a look-they really do have something for everyone. And in addition to all of the fabulous Esty shops mentioned above, below are a few of my other favorites who are all definitely worth checking out:

Bridger and Madison: modern baby items from sensory blankets, to quilts, to burp cloths-way too many cute things to list!!

MakeupbyBella: chain Bracelets and Necklaces

outoftheblue: vintage modern jewelry

Whimsical Details: recycled jewelry and decor

Elizajay Charm: acrylic monogram jewelry

BeMe Jewelry: Turkish Jewelry (FABULOUS cocktail rings)

Hands Full Creations: purses, clutches and accessories (REALLY cute chevron clutches!)

Enjoy! And have a happy, happy weekend, dolls!!