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!

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!

Giddyup

On October 1, 2012October 1, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas1 Comment

I LOVE a great chambray shirt. And perhaps even one step better is a great chambray shirt with a western flare. Maybe it’s my Montana roots that draw to me to this particular trend, or maybe it’s my current obsession with button-downs, but I can’t stop wearing them. Plus it doesn’t hurt that it’s one of those on-trend items that is a hybrid of fashion and comfort-something that doesn’t happen nearly as often as it should!

Instagram Filter: Amaro

Cowboy Chambray Shirt: Forever21

Black Skinnies: Clavin Klein

Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Necklaces: Tiffany and Co., personal collection of charms

Silver Watch: Michael Kors

Aviators: Jessica Simpson via TJMAxx

Bag: Steven by Steve Madden Bluuna

Animal Print Pumps: Jessica Simpson (same shoe but solid color)

Another great thing about chambray shirts is that you can style them a multitude of different ways. Not only do they look great back to black and animal print, but they also look great with cognac boots and accessories, colored denim (I especially love them with red skinnies), and, of course, tucked into sweet skirts for a flirty and edgy feel. They are a great fall staple and I highly recommend adding one to your closet if you haven’t already.

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

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!

100th Post!!

On August 28, 2012August 28, 2012 By all dolled upIn Outfit Ideas3 Comments

Today marks my 100th post on the All Dolled Up blog! It seems crazy to me that I’ve not only been able to come up with that many outfit ideas to share with all of you, but even more so that I decided to take on this project just a few short months ago. It has been such an incredible journey thus far and I am truly loving every minute. I have learned so much about myself but more importantly have been incredibly blessed by the outpouring of love and support I have received from friends, family, and my readers, who now also feel like my friends. And it all makes me incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to share my love of fashion with all of you. So thank you to each and every one of you who takes the time to sit down and read my blog. You are appreciated far more than you know.

Today’s post is about two of my very favorite things: feather earrings and sequins. Both are great transitional pieces into fall, but what I really love about them is unexpectedly pairing them together-something sweet and girly back to something more boho and far less refined. An easy look that was made for a night on the town, or an end-of-summer outdoor concert.

Instagram Filter: Earlybird

Sequin Top: Express (last summer, but they have many similar styles in store and online now!)

Skinny Jeans: The Gap (in store now!!!)

Silver Bracelets: Tiffany and Co.

Gold Charm Bracelet: Juicy Couture via Nordstrom Rack

Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom Rack

Feather Earrings: The Icing (last summer), Macy’s (recent)

Gold Metallic Handbag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier (my gold version was a limited edition, but they always offer this bag in lots of great colors and some sort of metallic usually comes out around the holidays)

Shoes: Guess via TJMaxx (thanks Kendi for introducing me to these shoes!!)

Truth be told, sometimes I feel a little silly writing a fashion blog when there are so many important and pressing issues going on in our world-it makes me feel a little frivolous. But at the same time, we all want to feel good about ourselves and confident in our skin, and a huge part of that can come from the way we dress and put ourselves together. So if I can help even one person out there feel a little better about themselves or more confident when making shopping or fashion decisions, then I am doing my job. I truly believe that women of any shape, size, or budget should all have the ability and the tools to look and feel their best.

Thank you again for all of the love and support! I’ve got some exciting things in the works that I can’t wait to share with all of you!

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. 😉

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!!

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. 😉

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!