Snakes on a Shoe: Accessory vs. Quality

Animal Print. 

We've never been on good terms, actually. 

I'll even admit that there's been a bit of animosity as far as our past relationship's been concerned.

It is, after all, kind of kitschy to pretend that you're wearing the skin of a dead animal without, you know, owning up to the fact that you're actually wearing the skin of a dead animal. 

Kind of like pleather, but a bit more 

... obnoxious. 

Lately, though, I've found it the perfect tool for nailing the ideal outfit 180. 

It's less of an appealing texture in itself as it is a crutch for completing an otherwise un-juxtaposed look. 

I mean, the plastic-y texture & imperfect print may not make for the most enviable piece of stand-alone artwork,

but these kids do look pretty cool with some plaid on top, no?

It's like white shoes. Or leather baseball caps. Or plaid shirts tied around our waists. 

They're signpost accessories that signify our ability to mix & match without requiring any semblance of quality. Accessories in which, before beginning a blog, I would never have invested. 

shoes: Calvin Klein, jeans: MIH, shirt: Target

But why? 

What's prompted me to spend money on things I don't love unless they're paired with something else? 

Is the idea of "juxtaposition" just suddenly more important than ever, or have I gradually become more concerned with what I look like from the outside than what I love from within?

Cheers.