THE RULES FOR PATTERN MIXING

There are no rules for mixing patterns.

None at all.

But I will let you in on my secret method to pattern mixing: I put two (or more) patterns together, and if they look good together, I wear them.  It's foolproof.

If you would like to shop some pre-mixed patterns, read on...

REASONABLE RUNWAY [JOSIE NATORI]

This coral and white Josie Natori ensemble from her Spring/Summer 2015 Collection (photo via style.com) is a perfect look for spring.  I think the best part of the outfit is the flat and comfortable sandals.  Lucky for you, I found identical sandals from Target for less than $25!!  You can shop the rest of the items below (without breaking the bank).

Sleeveless Cotton Blouse in White [$17.95] from H&M

Waist Belt with Oversized Bow Detail [$22.00] from ASOS

Doris Footbed Sandals in Gold [$24.99] from Target

The Laden Showroom X Meekat French Swing Skirt [$72.00] from ASOS

PEOPLE LOOKED AT ME FUNNY WHEN I TOOK THESE PHOTOS + TRANSITIONAL FASHION

On this particular day I asked my friend Katie, from Lady Katie, to take some photos of my outfit. Passersby looked at us like we were crazy, to say the least.  Despite all of the disapproving looks we received, I got some great shots to share with you all (thank goodness I didn't have to use another photo with my bathroom wall as a backdrop).

This time of year is a bit of a challenge when it comes to dressing.  I find that dressing in layers prepares you best for the crisp mornings and warm afternoons.  My go-to pieces this Spring are lightweight jackets, cuffed denim, easy button downs, and sunglasses. 

To shop pieces similar to mine, read on...

I'M A DWEEB, BUT I CAN LOOK PRETTY COOL IF I WANT TO.

Yes I admit it, I am a dweeb.  However, just because I have a dweebish personality doesn't mean I can't dress like a cool kid.  I pulled it off this time with a button down shirt, V-neck tee, joggers, metallic loafers, and the very important studded cuff bracelet.  I found some exact and similar items so you can look cool, too.

Oxford Shirt (exact - different colors) from Old Navy

Merona Ultimate V-Tee in Pink Azalea (exact) from Target

Marled Joggers (similar) from Forever 21 - in regular and plus sizes

Metallic Perforated Cara Loafers (identical) from J. Crew Factory

Studded Cuff Bracelet (similar) from Stella & Dot

"I'D BETTER CALL THE DOCTOR, 'CAUSE I'VE GOT SPRING FEVER!" - SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS

So I quote SpongeBob a lot, but this particular quote is exceptionally true for me this week.  In order to treat my spring fever, I am going to be wearing midi skirts (like this beautiful lace one), exposing a little more of my pasty skin, and most importantly: leaving my heavy coat at home.

I found some other pretty lace midi skirts all under $50.00!

Painted Threads Lace Midi Skirt in Soft Pink from Nordstrom

LC Lauren Conrad Lace Midi Skirt in Xenon Blue from Kohl's

A Presh Start Skirt in Aqua from ModCloth

Bloomington Lace Midi Skirt from Francesca's

REASONABLE RUNWAY [ALTUZARRA]

This look from Altuzarra's Spring/Summer 2015 Collection was my inspiration for this Reasonable Runway (photo via style.com).  I love the mixture of the black and white stripes, this is a very easy look to replicate with your own pieces.  OR you could use the pieces that I found to create an almost identical look.  Sometimes I surprise myself with how good I am at this.

Straight-Cut Shirt in White/Striped [$19.95] from H&M

Skinny Faux Leather Belt in Cognac Brown [$14.94] from Old Navy

Mossimo Tinka Block Heel Huarache Pumps in Natural [$29.99] from Target

Striped Sarong Skirt [$59.90] from Zara

I WEAR A LOT OF BLACK. DON'T ASK ME WHY.

When in doubt, wear black.  I find that it looks sophisticated about 87% of the time (don't ask me where I got that figure).  Style tip: to make a black ensemble more interesting, I would recommend using different textures and a little bit of pattern and/or color.  I wore a satin pleated skirt, a cotton knit cardigan, fringe, and leather to add some visual contrast between my black pieces.

A little leopard and fringe will make this all black outfit a lot more captivating.

I LOOK LIKE A PREPPY FOOL IN THIS GINGHAM SHIRT

Don't get me wrong, I love a classic gingham shirt and I appreciate preppy clothing.  However, I think I had a bit of prep overload on this look for my taste.  Gingham check is a huge trend for this spring, so I would like to incorporate it into my wardrobe (and you should consider it as well!).  I Think next time I wear it though, I will be incorporating some studs and black leather to make it a bit edgier.  I really don't want to look like I'm headed for the country club.