Mixing It Up

First of all, happy August!  I seriously can't believe it's August already - the months are flying by, and yes, I'm pretty sure I say that every single month... maybe even every day.  At least we stil have 7+ more weeks of summer (it's true!  Fall doesn't actually start until September 22, if you can believe it!).  It always feels like Labor Day is the end of fun though, doesn't it?

I don't usually wear a lot of mixed prints, probably because it's difficult to get away with in a professional office setting, but it's definitely something I'd like to try to do more.  Luckily for me, I had a great excuse to try it this week because the Marionberry Style style challenge for this month is mixing patterns!  I can't wait to check out all of the other submissions and get some new ideas for how to mix patterns I already have in my wardrobe (reiterating to myself - no new clothes this month).  Here's what I pulled together, and (big surprise here), I went with a nautical theme.  No need to venture into uncharted waters, eh?

Sock bun!

I'm Wearing

J. Crew Anchors Aweigh silk blouse - $39

Talbots striped blazer - $50 (I can't find any good ones online, but I've seen other bloggers post really cute ones from Marshall's, TJ Maxx, and Forever 21)

J. Crew Factory pink and gold chain necklace - $12 (recent)
Michael Kors gold watch - gift
J. Crew red bangle - $15

J. Crew No.2 pencil skirt in natural - $42

American Eagle red flats - old (similar)

I actually did wear this outfit to work, so I wanted to keep the print mixing on a minimal/moderate level.  I stuck with patterns in similar colors, a small print, and the classic stripes pattern which is pretty easy to mix in with everything.  Aside from the pop of red in the shoes and bracelet, I kept everything else neutral and minimal so it wasn't too overwhelming with the mixed patterns on top.  Are you fan of mixing patterns in your wardrobe?  What's your favorite combination?

Also linking up with The Pleated Poppy for WIWW, hope to see you over there too!