I got into a rare argument with my mom the other day about whether or not an outfit of mine “matched.” While I don’t do it often, I tried to explain to her that mixing patterns, if done tastefully, can be both work-appropriate and modernly chic, especially during the holidays when green and red plaid, houndstooth, argyle, and polka dot prints are running around rampant. I was elated when I saw an article about the trendiness of mixed patterns in Marie Claire‘s December issue (in your face, mama), so I pulled this adorable black and white geo print J. Crew skirt out of moth balls and paired it with my new Merona argyle sweater to style the perfect professional holiday look. Full outfit details are listed at the bottom of this post!

And when Marie Claire says something is trendy, you know it’s legit. It’s 2 legit 2 quit. In all seriousness, Marie Claire has become my seminal resource for fashion trends, tips, and must-have pieces for all of the most important seasonal trends and classic stylistic advice over the past few years. Plus, their inspirational articles always have me in tears, and I respect their commitment to educating readers with hard-hitting facts and commentaries about culture, politics, and current events.

Shop the Look: Argyle Sweater: Merona (exact style out of stock, similar color options linked), $19.99 | Oxford: J. Crew, $29.50 (on sale) | Skirt: J. Crew (old), Similar Style Linked, $49.90 | Heels: ShoeDazzle, $52.95 (sign up for a VIP membership for discounted pricing here) | Tights: SPANX, $38 | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff, $295| Earrings: Kendra Scott (exact style out of stock, similar style linked), $55 | Necklace: Kendra Scott, $60 via the KS Color Bar | Watch: Michael Kors, $250| Sunglasses: BP., $12

Did anyone else happen to pick up Marie Claire’s December issue? It was amazing, and I’m now fully inspired to wear only winter clothing, regardless of whether or not Florida’s temperature remains in the high 80s. If you haven’t seen it yet, click here to subscribe for yourself and receive a free subscription for a friend (cheers to knocking names off your Christmas shopping list early).

Is anyone else shocked that Thanksgiving is next week?! Where has November gone? Dear time, please stop flying. Thanks.

_{I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.}