DD's Style File - Nautical Interpretation

I've done prior posts on the nautical trend (here and here) and it's one I believe never seems to go out of style because it's inevitable that you'll see it reappear on runways. So, for this edition of Style File, I'm posting an outfit that I wore to work that's my loose translation on the trend.

Navy striped ruffle top - H&M
Tan paperbag skirt - Zara
Denim sandals - Payless
Red leather handbag - Foley + Corrina
Gold necklace - Burlington Coat Factory
Rings and earrings - Express
Sunglasses - Charlotte Ruse

Sometimes I just throw things together and the end result turns into one of my favorite outfits. And this would be one of those. The fabrics were all easy and comfortable, even down to the sandal which was a casual blend of a dark knotted denim with a cork bottom. I didn't love the skirt so much in the store, but got it anyway and now I adore it. And of course, the girly ruffle shoulder detailing is right up my alley.

I'd been lusting after a Foley + Corinna tote for ages, and this bag is one of my most recent mini splurges. Thanks to an announcement post  by the Budget Babe I was able to snatch one up at a Gilt Groupe sale (thanks Dianna!). I was a bit too late to grab a mid city size, so I reluctantly went for the disco. I say "reluctant" because I'm a big bag kinda girl (like I carry my whole life around in my purse), so going to a much smaller sized bag I felt would be a challenge and I was worried that perhaps I wouldn't use it as often.

Well, color me surprised because I love it! I do wish it was just a tad larger, perhaps big enough for one inner zip pocket for my cell phone or whatever, however it still works. Keep in mind that my wallet is kind of mammoth, so if I scaled back on that, I'd have way more room. But since I'm stubborn I force them to work together.

I don't use this bag every day, but I'm always looking for an opportunity to carry it. And another great thing is that I was able to kill two birds with one stone - cross an item off my "lust list" and try something new, which is a crossbody style. Last month, I encouraged you all to test drive a crossbody and I'm here to say that I've become a convert because they are a must for shopping! By keeping my hands and arms free and my money close, it's a win win.