I love nautical inspired fashion and a crisp white and navy palette is an easy way to add a hint of that, even in the cooler weather. This polka dot down vest is my go-to piece to make my outfit a bit more interesting. [This vest features last year's pattern, but Lands' End replaced it with a similar version.] Even though the only colors represented in this look are white and shades of blue, it is far from boring.

Pattern mixing adds value to a simple color palette and if you are unsure of your pattern mixing abilities, working with fewer colors increases your chance of success. Basically this is an easy way to look great without all the stress.

This look is perfect for a casual fall Saturday because the individual pieces are comfortable, the layering gives options in case of a temperature change, and everything is machine-washable. Oh yeah, and it also looks fresh and effortless. Lots of fall activities are seasonal photo-ops so it is important to choose an outfit that makes you look and feel great. I bet you can't visit a pumpkin patch without having someone try to take a photo of you holding a pumpkin. 

So when you need an easy, no-fail outfit for the weekend, grab basic denim and a long sleeve tee and amp them up with a patterned scarf and down vest. You'll stay warm, feel comfortable, and be ready for any fall photo moment.

I've been wearing a lot of blue these past couple months, which has given me the the chance to accessorize with this great cobalt statement necklace. Remember that your colorful jewelry doesn't need to match the pieces in your outfit.

Stripes and polka dots are my two favorite patterns, so when I see them in a great color, I buy them! I like the navy, white, and taupe combo so much that I got it in both the scarf and in the shirt. I did not initially plan on wearing them together, but once the idea planted in my head, I couldn't resist. The stripe widths are different in the two pieces, but the colors are the same so the layering adds depth and texture. When mixing patterns, use solid pieces to help ground the look.

One of my go-to pattern combinations this winter was the polka dot vest and floral scarf. It started because I was running to the grocery store and needed a scarf to throw on under my coat. This floral scarf (in shades of red, pink, and faded black) was the first one I grabbed. When I got home and actually saw myself in the mirror, I decided I liked look! I added the extra-long red sweatshirt underneath to create a red, white, and blue look to wear during the Olympics (can you believe that was only last month?).

I also got a chance to wear my red and navy rain loafers from LL Bean during a couple warm-ish days last month. They are waterproof and perfect for splashing through shallow puddles and they have the added benefit of being more versatile than traditional rain boots. Plus, since red is my favorite color they coordinate with lots of pieces in my wardrobe!

I can't wait to share my springtime outfits with all of you! I am heading to Atlanta at the end of next week and will take lots of photos of all my warm weather looks!