Dos And Don’ts Of Pattern Mixing

Wouldn’t be caught dead wearing plaid and paisley? Reckon leopard print and stripes don’t go? Think again. Pattern mixing is having a serious moment right now.

Here’s how to get it right without looking like you rolled in jumble.

Do start small with patterned shoes, scarves and belts. If you find bold prints a bit intimidating, start out by mixing in a few patterned accessories for a tame way to try the trend.

Don’t go too OTT. Stick with a small print, like polka dot or gingham and mix it up with something a little bolder, like florals or stripes. Mixing one large pattern and one small will help to create balance, so you don’t look like you got dressed in the dark.

Do colour coordinate. A blue floral shirt will look great with some blue shoes, while leopard print will tie in effortlessly with a pair of tan brown boots. Find a strong base colour to pull the look together and if all else fails pick out a few key accessories to keep it looking coordinated.

Don’t get carried away. If you’re brave enough to mix more than two patterns, then good for you, but be careful! Head to toe pattern can look a bit like you threw your outfit together after a few too many Gin and Tonics. Break it up with either a solid block of colour or a crisp white shirt just to be on the safe side.

Do have fun with it. Pattern mixing is supposed to be a little bit out there. Make like your inner 5 year old by mixing and matching patterns that you wouldn’t normally dream of wearing together. If you find that leopard print on paisley is starting to look a lot more catwalk and a lot less cat lady then you’re on the right track.

Pic cred: pudra.com

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