Let's Talk: Mixing Patterns 101
I have really been into mixing prints lately! Its not something I've been consciously thinking about, but I have noticeably been wearing prints almost everyday. Mixing prints can be really tricky. If it works, it will be wonderful, unique, chic and modern. If not...well, then you just look like a big mistake. So, here are some tricks I've learned about mixing prints.
The size of the prints are important| I like to mix up the size of the prints and not completely overwhelm myself with a sea of huge or teeny tiny mismatched prints. I try to pair pieces with a more streamline prints like repetitive lines or larger spacing between patterns on a garment with busier patterns. If the patterns on both garments are too small, they may look a bit chaotic and incohesive.
Start with lines| If you're just starting out with patterns, my advice would be to start with lines. Lines (and even plaid) create a continuous pattern that is not hard to follow. It essentially serves as the "base" for the outfit. So you can do stripes and flowers, stripes and polka dots, stripes and stars...Have at it!
Try to have a specific color scheme in mind| I have a few color combos that I know work well together. I tend to reach for those often. So, if you're a little nervous, go for colors that compliment each other. I like orange and navy, olive and salmon and lots of other combos...just to name a few. So, if my top is a salmon with a pattern color and my bottoms are olive with a pattern, thats a good starting point for me. At least I know the colors compliment each other. Another easy way is to simply make sure there is at least one like color in both garments or accessories (shoes, purses, scarves etc.)
Below I've paired a striped blouse with leopard shoes. These pieces have two different patterns but they are in the same color family. The dark areas in the leopard print shoes serve as a contrast to the tan. I chose to break it up with a blue Chambray skirt. To create a little more depth, I wore an olive green necklace with a peach necklace layered over the top of it-(one of my little jewelry tricks!)
The second look is one of my favorites! -Polka dots and stripes! Because the polka dots were large, I went for a thin line on the blouse.
