Busy as a Bee

Nothing like getting back to the September grind to make dressing like a worker bee appropriate. Yellow and red are the 'popiest' colours to pair with black and white, and yellow feels fresher to me.
Reading this article about polka dot addiction made me realize that I am not alone. And also that I am perhaps a little bitter about the current uber-trendy status of my beloved spots. I think perhaps my spotted wardrobe needs its own family portrait.
This look is pretty simple, but full of details like ruffles, bows, and mixed-print accessories to make it something special. I'll never tire of this Joe Fresh blouse. Prepare for its American invasion soon my southern readers...(see article in October's ELLE) 24°30 or fight!I'm looking so pensive despite my sunny sweater because my lovely photographer Judith is departing for the semester for the libraries of Amherst. Her loss, combined with the darling Jenna's graduation, has left me looking for photographers. Names starting with letters other than 'J' may also apply.
Cardigan: J Crew

Blouse: Joe Fresh, Real Canadian Superstore

Pants: no brand, Winners

Shoes: Jessica Simpson, 6pm.com

Belt: Old Navy

Bracelet: Vintage, Etsy

The Darling Buds of June

Normally I wear this cardigan in more formal iterations, but I loved the way it paired with dots so much I wanted to wear it with my polka dot flats in a casual outfit.While I originally thought a short-sleeved cardigan would be totally impractical, and bought it for the print alone, I have been surprised at how often it is the perfect layering piece in a temperate climate like Vancouver's. I have been wearing my casual jean capris like crazy this spring with both t-shirts and converse and more dressed-up versions like this. I like how they make work staples like a staid floral cardigan and prim flats seem more laid-back.Because I often go for fun over practical, I have never owned a basic black camisole other than $6 spandex versions until I bought this empire-waisted one on sale at the Gap. I can't believe I ever lived without one! Cardigan: Ann Taylor Loft, Ebay
Camisole: Gap
Jeans: American Eagle
Flats: Jessica Simpson, 6pm.com
Necklace: Tiffany's, gifted by my boyfriend

Genus Capri Species Leopard

Sometimes you have to keep it simple. I know that leopard will always work with neutrals like denim, beiges, and black or white, and that the addition of any bright colour will help give the print an extra kick.
Because black and white tops are often basis of your look, I like to look for blouses or even t-shirts with special details. Ruffles, pin tucks, or trim on a white or black blouse can elevate a simple look to something more, and are just as easy to wear as a plain one.
My pop of colour came in the form of cheap and cheerful flats, but a bright necklace, brooch, or scarf would have worked just as well. What is your go-to way to style animal prints?
Cardigan: JCrew, Ebay
Trouser Jean Capris: Old Navy
Blouse: Club Monaco
Flats: PURE Alfred Sung, Zeller's
Necklace: Gifted, Kelly
Sunglasses: Kate Spade Franca, Amazon.com