Pattern Mixing: Florals and Polka Dots

There used to be so many rules in fashion - don't wear white pants before Memorial Day or after Labor Day, don't wear black and brown together, don't mix patterns - the list goes on, I'm sure. We all used to follow these rules to a tee. Now, there is only one rule in fashion - wear whatever you want! I am definitely an advocate of that and was especially happy to see the white pants rule go away. It took me a minute to get used to mixing blacks and browns, and I still think there are only a few ways that really works. But, what I have had the hardest time with is mixing patterns! Not necessarily because I didn't like it, but because I didn't know how to do it! I was afraid I would look ridiculous, like I got dressed in the dark. I would for sure get odd looks from people, right? Well, who really cares about that! Fashion is all about expressing yourself in the ways that make you the most comfortable. I love that there are no rules in fashion! Sure, there are many things that I would never wear, but who am I to judge? Fashion should be fun and make us feel good (without putting us into credit card debt - had to throw that in there, it's my slogan!).

I was thrilled when a couple of my friends and fellow bloggers posted their tips on how to mix patterns.  These girls are pros at mixing patterns, and I have learned a lot from them! I have mixed patterns a few times now and not even realized it! Of course, I am still a novice, and my pattern mixing most always includes florals, but I am definitely branching out! For tips on mixing patterns, check out Renee at Style with a Story and Kati at Glitz and Gold!

One of the ways I have eased into the trend is by mixing florals and small polka dots:

By the way, I scored these polka dot skinnies for a whopping $8 in store at Old Navy!! I am just a little proud of that, so I had to share! Although not as amazing as the denim, the top was purchased for 50% off at Loft - still a great deal!

What I'm Wearing:

Top - Loft (on sale AND an extra 40% off!) // Denim - Old Navy (in store or similar at Forever 21 and Gap - on sale) // Flats - Tory Burch // Bag - Rebecca Minkoff via Nordstrom (last year's color, also try Zappos or Amazon to catch mark downs on certain colors) // Sunglasses - Ray Ban // Bracelet - Ann Taylor (old) // Watch - MICHAEL Michael Kors (old, try eBay or similar at Macy's) // Ring - Hello Fab

So, tell me - are you brave enough to pattern mix? What have you tried? 

What worked, what didn't? Tag me on Instagram, if you mix patterns!

P.S. If you're visiting Kati's blog to check out her pattern mixing tips, you should also take a second and vote for her to be Wallis' first U.S. blogger ambassador. See her post for more details. 

Vote for Kati here 

(you will be required to "like" the Wallis Facebook page)