Some outfits have a theme or genre. Like today's look, which would clearly be marked "nautical." You can also create outfits that mix genres - such as a girlie pink dress with combat boots (romantic + military). But with all these themes flying around, how does one not wind up going overboard? (nautical pun intended)

I have a quick test for this: if your outfit would could be worn to ANY costume party (including a Mad Men themed party!), then you might want to switch something out (use a piece from another era) to make your outfit a bit more modern. I think today's look is about as far as I would take one theme, and although it could be the start of a great costume, for Halloween I would wear it with red pumps, a full skirt and a sailor hat. :-) Tell me - how do you determine if an outfit has crossed over into costume territory?

Inspiration photo: Guess
Sweater: Banana Republic, $20
Shirt: H&M, $13
Jeans: Gap, $30
Shoes: Banana Republic, $25
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Bracelets: Forever 21, $8
Necklace: c/o Stella & Dot (detail below)