Do The Polka // Wrap Top + Levi's

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.

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.

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. 

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.

 Photos by Antonio Owens 

[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 //

Mix it Up // Dotted Ruffle Top + Stripes & Floral

What do you get when you mix polka dots, floral, and stripes? A playful spring look that's fresh and fun with a dash of daring. While patten mixing can be intimidating, when done right, it's beyond rewarding. Why? Because the result is an uber stylish look that warrants major fashion cred.

Pulling off multiple prints at once comes down to: 

1. Choosing one print to dominate and one (or two) as an accent.

2. Mixing prints of different scales.

3. Keeping your fabrics in the same color family.

4. Keeping the rest of your outfit neutral.

5. Remembering stripes can almost always be treated as a neutral ;)

I've never been one to aggressively pattern mix, which is why I love this particular look so much. It's subtle but intentional, and 100 percent memorable. The navy polka dots on this top complement the navy stripes on my headband, and my dark floral clutch gives the whole outfit a refreshing burst of color. 

And don't even get me started on these glorious face-framing earrings; they're obviously not printed, but they do play up the whole Hamptons vibe. ...They're also SUPER lightweight 👌.

Photos by Antonio Owens 

[top: Anthropologie // jeans: J.Crew (sold out, but similar pair here) // slides: Theory (similar pair here)  // clutch: Anthropologie (I also like this one) // headband: Anthropologie // earrings: Anthropologie // lip color: Lancome Matte Shaker in "Berry N Clyde"]

With temps in the 80s now, it almost feels like we went from winter straight to summer with barely any spring in between. And while I love summertime, I am not ready for 1. the humidity, and 2. sweating my makeup off by noon — eek! 

Regardless, I love the above look for that (supposed to be) mild time when it's warm and sunny but not yet HOT. Ideal for Memorial Day specifically, this outfit is stylish, playful, and bold in a fun and polished way. Antonio and I will be in Washington DC for MDW and we are pumped for the change of scenery!

//SHOP//

Greener Pastures // square neckline + statement earrings

Green is the color of springtime — it's refreshing, charming, and upbeat. This year especially, shades of green are abundant, as it reigned supreme during Fashion Month. In emerald, the hue is downright irresistible. Pair it with pinks, and you have got yourself a LEWK. 

Square necklines are another major trend this year. I love how flattering they are on every body, and how they instantly add a fresh and modern twist to even the simplest looks. 

Photos by Ryan Kathleen Greene

[top: J.Crew // coat: Ann Taylor (I also like this one) // jeans: STS Blue via Nordstrom (similar pair here) // slides: Nanette Lepore (I also like this pair) // earrings: Anthropologie (I also like this pair) // purse: Anthropologie (I also like this style) // lip color: Fenty Gloss Bomb in "FU$$Y"]

I spent this past weekend in LA for work, and let me tell you, the sunshine felt incredible. It reminded me just how badly us East Coasters need warmer temps. Luckily, it's been starting to feel like spring here in NYC, and I've been taking full advantage. Greener pastures are on their way! 

// SHOP //

Making Varsity // leopard boots + varsity cardigan

I like to call this look "collegiate with a twist." On the one hand you've got your varsity cardi (varsity letter and all), velvet knotted headband (feels super schoolgirl, right?), and dark-wash denim (doesn't get much more classic than that). But on the other hand, we're mixing it up with leopard booties (so 2019), acrylic hoops (hello major jewelry trend), and a leather studded crossbody that's edgy in all the right ways. 

Once again, I'm styling these gorgeous leopard booties. If it seems like I can't get enough of them, it's probably because I can't. Once you start seeing leopard as a neutral, incorporating it into your wardrobe becomes effortless.

These Rag & Bone jeans give me legs for days, which is a big deal because I'm under 5'2." And while I'm definitely not a label snob, it does go to show just how incredible high-quality pieces can make you look and feel. I wish I could pinpoint exactly why this pair is superior to my others, but I'm guessing it's all in the fabric — and of course the little details. These babies have great stretch, impressive resilience, and expertly hug me in all the right places. 

 Photos by Sarah Harper 

[cardigan: POPSUGAR x Kohl's Collection (I also like this one) // tee: J Brand // jeans: Rag & Bone (I also like this pair) // boots: Karl Lagerfeld // purse: Rag & Bone (I also like this one) // headband: Anthropologie (similar style here) // sunglasses: Anthropologie (I also like this pair) // earrings: Ann Taylor (similar pair here) // watch: Fossil (super similar one here) // lip color: Kylie Cosmetics matte liquid lip kit in Koko K]

Anyone else have a feeling that March is going to be colder than February? While NYC has essentially avoided snow this entire year, we actually have some slush on the ground currently, which is extra disappointing because it's SO late in the game! So although I may be ditching coats in all my posts going forward, just know that yes, it is still cold, and yes, my down coat is just chilling on the ground out of frame ;) 

// SHOP //

Silver Fox // metallic puffer + high-waisted jeans

Ever have one of those pieces that makes you feel instantly cool when you put it on? Meet my Levi’s silver puffer coat. Not only is it an item I feel confident in and love wearing, but it makes me feel especially stylish and trendy — no matter what I have on underneath. Maybe there’s some magic secretly woven into these gorgeous marshmallow panels of shiny goodness!

This puffer has been one of my pride-and-joy pieces this past winter. Unique, eye-catching, and certainly statement-making, it’s helped me step up my fashion game in a fun and unexpected way. But it’s not just the metallic finish that I love — the crop shape is super flattering and the down, insulated padding is toasty and soft. Oh and the compliments? Constant ;)

I’ve been having a lot of fun these past few seasons slowly (but surely) revamping my denim closet. For the longest time I played it safe and stuck to basic skinny jeans — maybe throwing in a girlfriend or a high-waisted pair here and there. But for the most part, I had my go-to denim look and I was cool with it. Lately though, I’ve been widening my horizons, playing with mom fits, baggy fits, straight styles, bootcut, and more. The Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit jean is iconic, and I’ve been rocking this uber high-waisted pair with endless crop tops and tees. I love that they’re subtly sexy while maintaining a relaxed yet modern vibe.

Photos by Sarah Harper

[coat: Levi's // top: Levi's (sold out, but I also like this one) // jeans: Levi's Wedgie Jeans // boots: Nic & Zoe (almost sold out, but I also like this pair) // hat: Loft (old, but I also like this one) // purse: Michael Kors (I also like this one) // necklace: Tiffany & Co. // rings: John Hardy (I also like this one) // earrings: John Hardy (I also like this pair) // watch: Fossil (I also like this one) // bangles: Alex & Ani // amethyst bangle: David Yurman // lip color: Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in "Spike" (similar shade in "Garnet")]

 It’s cold, we’re not happy about it, but here we are. I keep thinking spring has GOT to be just around the corner, but who am I kidding? It’s February! We’re easily going to be shivering in our boots for another two whole months. In times like these, I try to refresh my spirit through my wardrobe — think interesting silhouettes, bold colors, fun prints, and unique textures. In other words, my metallic puffer is pulling serious double duty, and I am A-O-K with that 👌 

// SHOP //