It is quite possible to mix prints and patterns together. But it is true that the famous “fashion faux pas” is not far away if we do not pay attention to certain details, which are not really details. So, we decided to share with you the golden rules for mixing prints and patterns for an original and stunning look.
Different types of prints and patterns
We sometimes tend to limit ourselves when it comes to prints and patterns. We think there are stripes, polka dots, florals and leopard. However, there is a wide range of choices. Here is an overview:
- stripes come in sailor style, but also in tennis or bayadere styles for example;
- the tiles can take the form of gingham, tartan, houndstooth, or even lumberjack tiles;
- the flowers can be tropical or more liberty style;
- the polka dots are sometimes dotted, sometimes points, and sometimes circles of varying sizes;
- animal prints certainly refer to leopard, but also to python, zebra or cow;
- ethnic patterns can be wax as well as Aztec or Inca patterns;
- geometric shapes like triangles, zigzags or art deco;
- figurative motifs such as characters, objects, scarf prints with chains, etc.
The choice of colors for a perfect mix’n’match
The first golden rule for mixing prints and patterns without fear of bad taste is to ensure color harmony.
To do this, you can choose two patterns or prints with the same tone. For example, two fabrics with red, lilac, green, etc. It can be the exact same color, but you can also play on the monochrome effect. In this case, you will mix prints and patterns with similar colors, such as purple and lilac or navy blue and sky blue, for example.
The color then becomes the common thread of your outfit and ensures its coherence.
If you’re a little afraid of colours to start mixing prints and patterns, you can also focus on neutral tones. White, black, beige, khaki, navy or even grey are real safe bets. These neutral tones are easy to wear and mix very well with each other, including in the form of patterns.
So, you can wear a leopard coat with a black and red plaid skirt or wear a tartan skirt with python boots.
Mixing Prints and Patterns: The Rule of 3
Another thing to be careful about when mixing prints and patterns is the rule of three.
Therefore, one should not wear more than three colors at a time, nor more than three patterns or prints.
Then it’s all about proportions.
If you wear an outfit with two prints, you should make sure that these do not represent more than two thirds of your outfit. They can then be concentrated on your top and pants for example and you will opt for a plain coat and shoes.
On the other hand, if you’re wearing a look with three prints, one of them should make up 60% of the outfit, while the other two will correspond to 30 and 10% respectively. This helps to prioritize the patterns and prints so that the outfit remains readable.
Ideas for combining prints and patterns
Mixing patterns of the same type
There is a very cool and low-risk way to mix patterns together. It involves mixing patterns and prints of the same type by playing on their size.
For example, you will be able to mix small and large squares, or even small polka dots with circles.
In this case, you can afford a greater color contrast since the link between the different pieces of your outfit is made via the type of pattern. But you can also have a little color reminder.
Another way to mix patterns of the same type between them is to play on the positive negative effect. As an illustration, you will be able to put a black top with white polka dots, and a skirt with a white one with black polka dots. The result is really very pretty. But be careful with the placement of the largest patterns and the dominant light colors.
Indeed, we come to an important point: morphology!
It is important to know that small patterns and darker colors tend to make you look slimmer, while larger patterns and lighter colors tend to make you look thicker. Therefore, it may be better to wear the larger pattern on a dress and pair it with a coat with a smaller print.
Likewise, if you find that your hips are a little too wide for your taste, opt for a small pattern for the pants or skirt, and a larger print on top.
Don’t hesitate to adapt the rules to your body shape. And don’t forget that the main thing is that you feel good in your outfit.
