My Style // Patterns and Pops

Over the weekend, a few of us decided to grab lunch then go take some photos at a local forest preserve. I was wearing my very favorite dress and favorite new flats, and as I walked out the door, I grabbed a recently received pretty patterned tote to use as a purse.  As we headed to lunch, I had a moment of dresser's remorse, thinking that the patterns of the dress and tote together might be overkill.  (Why yes, I do over-think everything.  How did you know?)  Ultimately, I came to the conclusion that I was actually quite fond of the two patterns together, especially against the solid orange shoes - and once again, all was right in the world.  I have a thing for patterns in neutral or muted shades paired with pops of bold color.  (Hence the 'patterns and pops' subject for this post.)  

The forest preserve, along with many acres of fields and woods, includes a really rad old, abandoned barn and a perfectly preserved one-room school house.  This was probably the first time I've ever been there without wearing shorts and hiking shoes, but it was actually fun for us all to walk around in nature feeling a little dressed up.  

In addition to the fact that this carry-all tote (called the Mint & Grey Rope Tote) is equal parts cute and handy (I like big bags and I cannot lie...), it was also ethically produced, which makes my level of adoration for it increase exponentially.  The quality is unsurpassed, and the hand loomed ikat fabric is beyond gorgeous.  If you haven't yet heard of Hearts, the company who makes the bag (along with lots of other beautiful accessories and jewelry), I highly recommend checking them out.  They support quality of life for more than 2,000 artisans around the globe, ensuring that each person involved in the production cycle receives fair wages and safe working conditions.  Pretty cool. (Pssst... They're also giving Bubby and Bean readers 30% off with code BUBBY30!)

And how about these shoes?  You guys already know that I'm a long-time fan of Blowfish, and these Paloma Flats may just officially be my new favorite flats.  I broke out of my usual boho-ish shoe habit with these bold beauties, and I'm so glad I did.  I love the textured fabric and the fact that the bow is elegant without being too girly.  They're the perfect flats for short summer dresses, and will be great with tights once fall rolls around too.

The dress (which I also wore here last year) is my absolute favorite garment in my entire closet.  I bought it about a year and a half ago at a Target in Indianapolis for all of $25, and I would venture to say that I've worn it at least 30-40 times since.  Honestly.  I love the print, I love the cut, and I love the fit.  I can't tell you guys how many times I have purchased a piece of clothing that I wasn't so sure about initially, only to have it end up being one of my most treasured wardrobe staples.  Funny how that works.

Dress:  Target  //  Shoes:  c/o  Blowfish  //  Tote Bag:  c/o Hearts
Charm Bracelet: vintage (my grandmother's)  //  Earrings:  c/o Roots & Feathers

What are you thoughts on mixing patterns and throwing in pops of bright colors when it comes to your outfits?  Too much or just right?