Matching and mixing different patterns to create a statement look is every fashionista’s dream. Mixed and matched outfits featuring different prints and patterns exude boldness. When done right, mixing patterns and prints help you add life to your outfit of the day and get you stepping out feeling confident and a fashion guru. However, mixed and matched outfits are hard to achieve. To stand out, you want a seamless and cohesive look that doesn’t leave you looking overwhelmed. But there is always the question of how to find balance and harmony. If you are into experimenting with different prints and textures, read on to learn more about how to pull a mixed and matched look with less struggle.
Mix large with smaller prints
The secret to mixing patterns and textures is to strike a good balance, something that is always hard to achieve. But you can never go wrong with pairing prints and patterns that balance off proportionally. For instance, if you want to put on a bold pattern, match that with a more subtle choice. That would be the same case with a busy or loud print. Rather than going for a print that looks busy as well, tone it down with a print that appears simpler. In the case of stripes, you would look perfectly balanced with bold stripes and a fine stripe to match it.
Go for the new neutrals
Some prints are less overwhelming and can be matched with any outfit. For instance, stripes and animal prints are neutral for most fashion lovers. This is because they appear less overwhelming. They are also versatile and provide different ways to wear them. If you are unsure on what prints to mix and match, definitely go for this. You can pair stripes with any other print. For instance, a striped shirt will go well with polka dots or paisley pants. Likewise, animal prints go well with anything including floral patterns, especially when you want to give your outfit a stunning twist.
Start low key
If you are just testing the waters before diving into the mix-and-match trends, it won’t hurt to stay safe until you are confident enough. A good way to do this is to keep off bold colors and stick to classic black and white. For instance, you can match your black and white polka dot jumpsuit with a striped black and white purse. To test the waters even more, find a paisley scarf to wrap around your neck. You can also go for polka dots in a different color but in black and white.
Black and white also goes well with classic accessories such as sunglasses, hats and scarves. These provide a fun way to add your personality while depth and dimension to your outfit. Matching that look with a good watch is a perfect way to complete the look. Automatic field watches are always a good choice in complementing any everyday wear. You can also go for a bold necklace or ring to tie the outfit together. Consider also layering your outfit with a jacket or shawl to add some warmth.
Another great way to mix patterns and prints in a subtle way is to wear it under a bold pattern under a neutral one. For instance, you can pair a patterned shirt with a suit or blazer. This way, you only have a tiny bit of the shirt showing.
Minimize the number of colors
Unless you are bold enough, mixing and matching prints and textures that are contrasting in color can be a hard look to pull. Also, too many colors in one outfit are likely to clash and look overwhelming. You want to stick to what you are comfortable with. you can decide to stick to the same color tone. For instance, mixing pink polka dot pants with a red and white printed shirt. If you have to go for more than two colors, restrain from going overboard. You can choose 1-2 accent colors and mix that with about 2 main colors. Just be sure to dress in colors that make you happy to boost your confidence.
Consider the weight of the fabrics
It is equally important to balance the weight of the fabrics to avoid creating a chaotic look. Even if the density and thickness of the fabrics contrast, you don’t want it to be too much. For instance, when matching a chunk knit sweater, you would want to keep off a fluffy fur coat. The last thing that you want is to appear heavy rather than fashionable.
Conclusion
The key to mixing and matching prints and patterns successfully is to find a balance between the prints, textures, and patterns. The rule of thumb is to choose contrasting sides of the spectrum. This means a bold color with a subtle one or a busy print with a less dramatic one. If you are not sure how to go about it, start small as you work on gaining more confidence.
