Clashes of black and white

I have always been a fan of mixed patterns. On the other hand, I'm a pretty play-it-safe kinda gal, so you won't ever catch me in leopard and floral at the same time. With this outfit I have taken a safer route to mixing patterns. Combining patterns can be tricky, not only is there a lot going on geometrically but you have to make sure your colors don't clash. When I incorporate multiple patterns, I like to keep it all in the same color story. For example, with this look I paired a black and white stripe shirt with a black and white houndstooth skirt and kept all my accessories basic. I think my version of pattern mixing is just the right combo to still be fashion forward, yet work appropriate. In case you don't already know I am a marketer for a Radiology company so I meet with doctors and attorneys everyday. I sometimes struggle with the urge to be edgy and still be taken seriously. Do any of you struggle with the obligation of professional attire verses the desire for an exciting wardrobe? For this lovely ensamble I only paid $49.49!!

[Blazer]
Brand: BCX
Purchase Price: $ 24.00 (on sale)
Purchased From:  Macy’s
Suggested Retail: $ 49.00


[Stripped Shirt]
Brand: Forever XXI
Purchase Price: $5.50
Purchased From: Goodwill
Suggested Retail: $ 12.80

[Houndstooth Skirt]
Brand: Forever XXI
Purchase Price: $ 5.00 (clearance)
Purchased From: Forever XXI ( in San Luis Opisbo, CA
the biggest Forever21 I’ve ever been in including LA and NYC)
Suggested Retail: $ 15.80

[Necklace]
Brand: New York & Co.
Purchase Price: Free (There was a bogo sale so my Mom
bought one and gave me the other)
Purchased From: New York & Co.
Suggested Retail: $20.00

[Pumps]
Brand: Steve Madden
Purchase Price: $ $14.99
Purchased From: Ross
Suggested Retail: $59-$69
(*By far my most comfortable pair of pumps*)