Do The Polka // Wrap Top + Levi's

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper at New York Fashion Week 2019.
If there's one thing I've learned in this industry, it's that on-trend looks don't have to cost an arm and a leg. Sometimes a single new item can completely reinvent an outfit. Take this ensemble for example. Everything I'm wearing here is AT LEAST one season old...except my top.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing the best jeans for petite women.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper's fall makeup look with dark lipstick.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper's fall denim outfit idea.
Let's be clear, while every piece, excluding my top, may be "old" by fashion standards, they still look relatively fresh, which means in the REAL WORLD, they may not actually be that old. I get it. But fashion does move fast, so typically, if something is a few seasons old, that can be the difference between on-trend and old-news.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper's fall date night outfit idea.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing hand-painted heels from Naturalizer.Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing white Naturalizer pumps.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper's fall street style.
I decided to add this top to my arsenal because I instantly knew it would upgrade my favorite Levi's jeans (almost a year old). I was also attracted to its retro flair, which I thought would perfectly complement the cat-eye shades (two years old) and white pumps (6 months old) I already owned. 
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing a polka dot wrap top.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing a silver Rebecca Minkoff top handle purse.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper wearing Levi's wedgie jeans.
My fiancé and I are currently in saving mode, which means I've been creatively challenged with making some of my "old" pieces feel new and modern again. The key lies in how you style them. I've also learned that strategically purchasing a FEW new items here and there can do wonders for your entire wardrobe — no overhaul necessary.
Nyc fashion blogger Kathleen Harper's fall outfit inspiration with jeans and a wrap top.
[top: Nordstrom // jeans: Levi's wedgie fit // heels: Naturalizer // purse: Rebecca Minkoff (I also like this one) // sunglasses: Urban Outfitters // hoop earrings: fine jewelry courtesy of my mom (similar pair here) // lip color: Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in "Chaos"]

At the top of every season, scope out the trends and do your research. I keep my pulse on the fashion world through Instagram, people watching IRL, constantly refreshing the "New Arrivals" pages on my favorite brands' sites, and reading posts from Who What Wear and POPSUGAR.

Next, make a list of your MUST-HAVE pieces. This should consist of a few items that encompass your favorite current trends — pieces you know will completely elevate everything else you pair with them. This is the hardest part because it takes some serious thought. My first instinct every other season is to declare I need new EVERYTHING, but when you're on a budget, you have to think objectively. Be honest with yourself!

Once you know what you need to feel stylish for the season ahead, take your time scouring the internet/the world for a good deal. Patience is key here, people. For affordable, fashion-forward items, I love MANGO, TopShop, Zara, Bloomingdales' Aqua line, and Nordstrom's Halogen line.

Remember, a fantastic, on-point pair of heels or a statement-making top is oftentimes ALL YOU NEED to take your older items to the next level 👌

// SHOP //


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