It seems like there is an art to mixing patterns and prints, it can seem daunting. It’s all too easy to go with safe, solid colours because we’re afraid if we combine different patterns it will lead to an outfit looking chaotic or mismatched.
But it can done right and create strong positive interest, as well as refreshing our mental approach to outfit creation. So here are some tips to mix patterns and prints for a stylish and cohesive appearance.
Start with a Neutral Base
An easy way to begin is to select a neutral base colour in your colour palette for the majority of your outfit. Neutral colours include black, white, beige, grey, navy, chocolate, olive, khaki, camel, tan, cream. They are the foundation to allow patterns and prints to stand out without being overwhelming. A neutral base provides balance and “grounds” your ensemble, making it easier to overlay and integrate patterns.
Scale and Proportion
When mixing patterns, consider the scale and proportion of each print. Start with smaller and denser prints, they are easier to layer because they create a more subtle visual interest. Then try incorporating a larger scale print in the area you want to highlight. For example, pair a small scale check print trousers with a medium-scale ikat or even an abstract print. Just ensure you stick to the ideal scale of print for your body.
Colour Palette
Choose patterns and prints that share a common colour palette. This can mean selecting different prints/patterns in varying shades of the same hue or analogous colours (next to each other on the colour wheel). If you’re feeling more adventurous, try picking key colours in one print/pattern and using it as the colour scheme for the other print, neatly tying the different elements of your outfit together and unifying your ensemble. I recommend starting with the fundamentals though, make sure you know your personal colour palette (you can find out your colour palette through my Brisbane-based Colour Consultation service).
Vary the Patterns
How about mixing different types but all in the same colour? Changing up the patterns adds dimension and complexity to your outfit. Try combining geometric prints with florals, stripes with polka dots, or animal prints with abstract designs.
Throw in a Solid
Incorporating solid-coloured pieces or accessories will break up the patterns and create visual relief. Effective solid “separators” include outerwear like blazers/jackets/cardigans/coats/etc, scarves, skirts, and shoes. They will help prevent your outfit from looking overwhelming.
Creativity
Tap into your creative side! Mixing prints is common for those with a “creative” Style Personality. (You will discover your style personality in the packages I offer. Book a 15 min chat to find out more.) But everyone has an element of creativity, you just need to work out how to tie it back to your style personality. For example, a “classic” style personality could pair a polka dot print shirt with a subtle stripe skirt/blazer, without compromising on the inherently conservative and functional nature of their outfit.
Body Proportions
Consider the proportions of your body and how the patterns and prints enhance or detract from your body variations. Body scale is also very important so if you’re petite, small-scale patterns are best. If you’re taller or have a larger frame, you can experiment with bolder, larger-scale patterns to match and balance with the available “real estate”.
Other factors to be aware of are density and colour contrast. The lower the colour contrast, the more slimming the pattern but the higher the contrast, the more attention it draws. Low density or sparse patterns create focal points, whereas dense patterns are more flattering and easier to wear. By the way, we discuss which are the best levels of pattern scale, density and colour contrast for you in my Style Consultation service.
Be in the Mood
You want to feel relaxed and unhurried to be able to trust your instincts and have fun with your personal style. Ultimately mastering the art of mixing patterns and prints is about confidence and self-expression and it’s best done from a non-judgemental attitude to yourself. Try documenting your new creativity by taking a photos. This not only helps you remember the combinations but also lets you see what works and what doesn’t. Over time, you’ll build a personal “lookbook” of fresh ideas.
