Home Sweet Home // dress shorts + vest

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix giving shorts outfit ideas
Earlier this month I took a trip home, traveling from NYC to Chicago. I grew up in a suburb located outside the city called Naperville, and I love that my parents still live there so that I can come back and visit. These photos were taken in front of our city's iconic "Dandelion" fountain - isn't it beautiful? 
brunette fashion blogger showing off balayage blonde hair
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix showing how to wear shorts
...Getting back to fashion, I wanted to style a summer outfit that proves shorts CAN be dressed up, and therefore appropriate for more than just beach days and weekend wear. While most people reserve their shorts for after hours (sometimes in part due to office dress code,) this look is perfect for a night out or a summertime event. 
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix showing how to wear shorts to work
The key to mastering the classy-shorts look is to pick a pair in a neutral color (i.e. black,) a flattering silhouette (i.e. not too short,) and a dressy material (i.e. NOT denim.) This elegant pair is made of polyester and elastane, and, bonus - they're also high-waisted. Wearing shorts has never felt more grownup! 
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix wearing shorts with heels
When going for that formal shorts vibe, accessories play a major role. Since I'm wearing a relatively simple top, I added a black blazer vest for sophistication points. The vest also ties my shorts together and makes the two separate pieces look like a set.
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix showing how to wear a vest
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix summer outfit ideas
These mesh heels are way cool. I love the athleisure feel, which totally plays off of my casually chic shorts.
Mesh high heels
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix summer street style
Half choker, half necklace, this piece, while purchased in Paris, is available right here! It's super unique and adds tons of flair to any ensemble. The coolest part? The flowers are made of genuine leather. 
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix wearing a silver flower choker
nyc beauty blogger
Every woman needs a bright sunny purse in her life. This one never fails to give my outfits that extra oomph. Without it, I'd be black-and-white, which is all well and good, but come on people - it's SUMMER!
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix with yellow Rebecca Minkoff clutch
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix wearing shorts
Aside from my clutch, I added some color to my outfit in the form of makeup. I painted my lips a purpley fuchsia, which made quite the statement against my white top and black accents. When in doubt, go for the bold.  
nyc beauty blogger showing summer makeup ideas
Brown to blonde balayage highlights
If you think my hair's getting blonder, you'd be correct ;) I owe it all to balayage highlights and the talented people at Fringe Salon NYC
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix summer work outfit ideas
Photos by Sarah Harper 
[shorts: Banana Republic (similar pair here) // vest: Express (I also like this one) // top: Ann Taylor (similar style here) // heels: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // sunglasses: Ray-Ban // necklace: & Other Stories // clutch: Rebecca Minkoff // watch: Fossil // lip color: Urban Decay's Vice Liquid Lipstick in "ZZ"]

There's nothing quite like being home. And while my visit to Illinois was a quick one, it was incredibly memorable and only left me wanting more. 
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix wearing shorts with a vest for office style
 // SHOP //


Haute Tropic // pineapple skirt + one-shoulder top

Wednesday, July 19, 2017

nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing a pineapple skirt with ruffle one-shoulder top
Channel the Chiquita Banana lady - in the best way possible of course - and slip into something a bit tropical and a lot stylish this summer as the temps rise. It's hard not to let the bright colors liven your mood!
nyc fashion blogger kathleen harper wearing a one-shoulder ruffle blouse
nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing a pineapple midi skirt
I bought this pineapple skirt last year in the spring and it's proven to be a closet staple for me for two summers in a row now. There's something so cheerful and optimistic about pineapples - it's no wonder they symbolize friendship and warmth in certain cultures. In midi skirt form, this piece is classic and uber ladylike.
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing a pineapple skirt with pink slides
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in pineapple skirt, white ruffle top, and pink slides
While off-the-shoulder tops are certainly "in," one-shoulder tops are the new craze. Elegant and slightly unexpected, this refined ruffle blouse is not only ideal for brunch or an afternoon date, it's also perfectly acceptable for the office or after-work cocktails. Tucked into a skirt, this piece becomes super feminine, but worn with skinny jeans, it's chic and trendy.
NYC fashion blogger Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix
nyc fashion blogger kathleen harper showing off summer style
How fun are these hot pink slides? Reminiscent of slippers, these whimsical sandals are insanely comfy and such a JOY to wear. Even better, they come in a variety of hues - including blue, black, and gold. While pink may not have been the most practical color choice, sometimes you just have to do what makes you smile. The pizazz these babies add to my summer outfits is priceless.
nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing ann taylor pink slide sandals
nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing summer office outfit
This sky-blue envelope clutch is one-of-a-kind. I bought it at an event hosted by THE Rebecca Minkoff herself, and I was able to get it monogrammed with the first three letters of my first name. That was nothing though compared to when I actually got to meet Rebecca soon after making the purchase. I've been a fan of hers for years so to say it was a special moment is an understatement. 
rebecca minkoff light blue envelope clutch
nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing an ann taylor one-shoulder ruffle top
With an asymmetrical neckline like this one, it's fun to get fancy with your earrings. Since a necklace is best left out of the picture, I chose a statement pair of crystal dangle earrings, and I love how they put a polished finishing touch on my entire ensemble. They're truly the icing on the cake. 
crystal dangle earrings
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing a pineapple skirt and ruffle top
Dior Addict Lip Tattoo is such a great lip product for summer. Its light, non-sticky formula is a breath of fresh air as the humidity increases, yet its bold pigmented color is juicy and impactful. Here I'm wearing the "Natural Berry" shade. 
Top fashion blogger in NYC, Kathleen Harper of Kat's Fashion Fix
nyc fashion blogger kathleen harper wearing ann taylor summer outfit
Photos by Antonio Owens 
[skirt: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // top: Ann Taylor (more sizing options with this style) // slides: Ann Taylor // clutch: Rebecca Minkoff // earrings: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // lip color: Dior Addict Lip Tattoo in "Natural Berry"]

Perfect for a summer party - or even a special day at the office - a colorful outfit like this one is equally as stylish as it is fun to wear. After all, "going tropical" doesn't have to mean throwing on a touristy Hawaiian shirt ;)
nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper showing summer beauty/makeup trends
// SHOP //


Feeling Beachy // his & hers swim style

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in an aerie bikini swimsuit
While sundresses and off-the-shoulder tops are quintessentially "summer fashion," swimsuits and bikinis play JUST as much of a role in this season's lineup. After all, beaching it up and lounging poolside are two of summer's most enjoyable activities - you might as well look good doing it ;) 
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper on the beach
Antonio Owens in Nike athletic wear on the beach
This week, I'm incorporating some men's fashion into my post, which is a complete first! My boyfriend/amazing photographer, Antonio, inspired me with his beach getup SO much, there was no way I couldn't share it along with my own beach attire. Below, you'll see how to get BOTH of our looks - a "his & hers beach day" if you will! 
Couple on the beach
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper on Rockaway Beach in a bikini
First things first: every great day by the water requires a few essentials. For us, sunscreen is at the top of that list. Since I'm super fair, I opt for SPF 50, and I always make sure to grab the waterproof variety. A fun beach towel is also a necessity. Mine is from the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's - the cute ice cream print was a no-brainer for me - and Antonio's is Lacoste. A sturdy beach tote, preferably NOT cloth, is also a must. This yellow Coach one has been my go-to for years. 
Beach towel blanket with hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Of course you can't forget to stay hydrated either! This fun pineapple cup is way cuter than any water bottle, am I right?
pineapple cup
It's always hard for me to invest in a swimsuit - let alone multiple - knowing I'm only going to wear it a FEW times a year. This season I decided to check out aerie and I'm so glad I did. They have super cute swimwear for prices that won't break the bank, and even better, there's truly something there for every body type! 
NYC Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper showing off summer beach style
Playing in the ocean in a bikini
Antonio's suit is equally as bright as mine and looks so cool next to the water. It's by Nike, which makes it sporty and comfortable, and I love how it hits JUST above the knee, which is the trending style for men right now. 
Nike swim trunks
fashionable swim trunks
Is it weird that I picked these sunglasses out specifically because they matched my bikini? I couldn't resist! Obviously shades are a necessity for any pool/beach day, and sporting ones that compliment your suit is just stepping your swimwear style up a notch.
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper at the beach wearing a bikini and floppy hat
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper showing how to look cute at the beach
A floppy sunhat is another beach accessory that's practical AND can elevate your waterside look. I need all the sun protection I can get, and a fashionable hat like this just makes staying out of the sun look chic.
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in a bikini with pineapple cup
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper's beach style
Antonio is clearly a Nike man. His hat of choice is a simple cap, but the gold swoosh, which matches his gold chains, makes it memorable and unique. He also threw a matching black tank on, which went with his black slides. And let me just tell you, if you're in the market for sandals, you should highly consider these insanely comfortable Nikes. They literally make you feel like you're walking on clouds. 
guys beach fashion
I normally wear a sundress to the beach because it's easy and fuss-free. But this summer I've been living in these Levi denim cutoffs on the weekends. I paired them with a white crop top tee and loved the effortless vibes.  
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in beach coverup cut-off denim shorts and crop top
What to wear to the beach
While it may LOOK like we're in Florida, Antonio and I didn't have to leave New York - or even the city for that matter - in order to enjoy this gorgeous beach day. Believe it or not, we're at Rockaway Beach, which is in Queens, and it definitely exceeded our expectations. We got there via a 45-minute ferry ride from Manhattan, but you can also take the subway. We're already planning to go back in August! 
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper beach body
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in beach coverup at Rockaway NYC
I'm kind of obsessed with my neon orange bikini. I was convinced I was going to buy a one-piece this year because they're everywhere right now, but after I tried this beauty on, there was no turning back. The halter top is super flattering and I love how I can run around without feeling like I'm about to fall out of it - amen to that! 
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in aerie bikini on the beach
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper in an aerie halter top bikini
[on Kathleen: bikini top: aerie // bikini bottoms: aerie // sunglasses: Banana Republic // hat: Bloomingdales (similar style here) // shorts: Urban Outfitters // top: Zara (old, but I also like this one) // beach bag: Coach (old, but I also like this one) // pineapple cup: Urban Outfitters (identical one here) // beach towel: Macy's Martha Stewart Collection // on Antonio: swim trunks: Nike (similar pair here) // tank: Nike // hat: Nike // sandals: Nike // beach towel: Lacoste]

Getting to the beach is on my to-do list every summer, but after it didn't happen last year, I was determined to make it a priority this July. And hitting the beach is an even better feeling when you do it in a new swimsuit! 
Fashion blogger Kathleen Harper at the beach
 // SHOP //