We all make plans and hope to achieve more both personally and career-wise at the beginning of a new year. Nonetheless, most of us forget more than half of our New Year resolutions by the end of January. I hope this isn't your case but if it is, here is an easy trick: start with small changes and then focus on more significant ones.
In terms of image, how would it make you feel if you could take your personal style to a whole new level, without the fear of standing out in a bad way? You might start by introducing a new colour into your wardrobe. You might choose an outstanding accessory and turn it into the distinctive element of your signature style. Or you might wear patterns more often. If you have already tried all these ideas, you are ready for a bigger fashion challenge: wearing more patterns in the same outfit!
If you’re not sure about how you could mix them, keep reading this post. I’ll provide you with some basic guidelines but remember: your own creativity and personal taste are two essential factors in creating absolutely unique outfits.
Black and white
Neutrals
Geometric patterns
One element in common
An extended colour palette
Various textures and embossed designs
Complex prints split
Alternating colours
Different sizes
Complementary colours
A third pattern
Print accessories
Same print, different textures
1. Black and white
Mixing different patterns in black and white is a safe starting point.
2. Neutrals
You can use basic patterns as neutrals. Stripes and leopard print are easy to mix with almost all the other prints, regardless of colour.
3. Geometric patterns
Two or more geometric patterns can be effortlessly mixed together, since they give a sense of order to the entire outfit.
4. One element in common
A mix of prints sharing at least one element provides a sense of harmony and cohesion to your outfit. It could be a colour, a shape or any other detail.
5. An extended colour palette
Print items used in the same outfit can share an extended colour palette.
6. Different textures and other embossed designs
Quilted items with a matelassé effect or decorated with embossed designs add interest and volume without making the outfit look too busy.
7. Complex prints split
Two or more complex patterns look good in the same outfit if they are divided by a solid-colour accessory or insert.
8. Alternating colours
The same print used in alternating colours creates an elegant visual effect.
9. Different sizes
The same pattern used in different sizes is a great way to visually alter proportions. Place the bigger pattern on the areas of the body you want to emphasize.
10. Complementary colours
For a refined chromatic harmony, you can repeat the same pattern in complementary colours.
11. A third pattern
A third pattern can easily be added to a garment already decorated with two different prints.
12. Print accessories
Print accessories add a moderate amount of colour and interest.
13. Same print, different textures
The same pattern used on fabrics with different textures provides an unexpected twist to the overall look.
Long story short, while texture and scale can help you play it safe at the beginning, colours, lines and shapes provide you with more options when mixing prints. Keep practicing and let yourself inspired by enticing combinations you run into - inspiration is everywhere!
What’s your take on mixing patterns? Comment below!
With these simple guidelines in mind, all you need to do is unleash your imagination and start adding more interest and a personal touch to your outfits. I invite you to contact me if you are looking for interesting pattern mixes and ways to wear them in your everyday outfits.
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