7 Rules for Mixing Patterns in Fashion.

Mixing prints, patterns and textures is definitely a lot of fun, but sometimes it can be a risky business if you are not sure of what you are doing! If you are looking for some ways to mix patterns in fashion, here are a few of them. Just give it a try!

1. Break up your prints

When mixing patterns, it’s important not to make each item a printed item. Please, keep in mind this! You can add a few solids to break up the mix. But remember too much pattern in one outfit can go from cute to a bit too overwhelming!

2. Don’t exclude neutral prints

Houndstooth skirts, tweed pants and other neutral prints can also be mixable, so when planning your outfits don’t exclude them! Neutral patterns are perfect for days when you want to be bold, but still keep it classy. Great for a semi-formal setting or work!

3. Stay in the same color family

It’s very important to follow this rule, ladies! Okay, contrast in fashion is fun, but when you are mixing patterns you should keep it more basic so the eyes of the viewer aren’t going crazy!

4. Don’t let your patterns compete with each other

Another rule to follow for mixing patterns in fashion is to choose patterns that don’t compete! Never wear large plaid with huge floral! Keeping one pattern smaller and more understated than the other pattern is the key! It’s always a great idea to have only two patterns in the outfit.

5. Don’t match too much

Make sure you don’t go for stripes head-to-toe and never match your polka dot blouse to a polka dot headband and polka dot shoes. It’s not bad to mix the same patterns in the outfit, but only in small doses. For instance, your T-shirt with some thin stripes will look good with your bag with larger stripes.

6. Subtle pattern mixing

Going subtle is one of the best ways to mix patterns in fashion! A skirt with small polka dots, a floral printed scarf and a solid color tee is a great example of subtle pattern mixing. There is another example – a striped headband worn with leopard print flats would be subtle and cute as well!

7. Don’t forget about texture

If you have never mixed and matched patterns before, then start out with one texture and one pattern. For instance, you could wear faux leather leggings with a chunky striped sweater! Or you could wear a striped dress with metallic stilettos. Don’t limit yourselves! Mix texture and patterns!
Hope my tips for mixing patterns in fashion will be helpful for you! What are your rules for mixing patterns? Share them, please!