How to Mix and Match Patterns Like a Style Icon: A Comprehensive Guide
Mixing and matching patterns is a bold fashion move that can instantly elevate your style and showcase your creativity. However, it can also be intimidating if you're not sure where to start. Mastering the art of how to mix and match patterns allows you to create unique and eye-catching outfits that reflect your personality and confidence. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential tips and techniques to confidently combine different patterns, creating stylish and cohesive looks. From understanding basic pattern types to advanced styling strategies, we'll help you navigate the exciting world of pattern mixing and become a true style icon.
Understanding the Basics of Patterns
Before we delve into the tips for mixing and matching, it’s important to have a basic understanding of different types of patterns. Knowing what kind of patterns are available will help you make more informed choices and learn how to mix and match patterns effectively. Here are some common pattern types:
Stripes
Stripes are a classic pattern that can be vertical, horizontal, diagonal, or varied in width. They offer versatility and can be either bold or subtle depending on the style.
Polka Dots
Polka dots are a playful and whimsical pattern that consists of dots in varying sizes, which are often evenly spaced. They can be both classic and quirky, depending on the colour and size of the dots.
Florals
Florals are a feminine and versatile pattern that can range from small, delicate prints to large, bold designs. They come in a wide variety of colours and styles, making them ideal for multiple occasions and outfits.
Plaid/Check
Plaid or checks are a structured and geometric pattern that can be both classic and modern. They can be found in a variety of styles, from classic tartan to more modern takes on this print.
Animal Print
Animal prints, such as leopard, zebra, or snake, are bold and eye-catching patterns that can add a touch of edge to any outfit. These prints work well as statement pieces or as subtle additions to any outfit.
Geometric Prints
Geometric prints consist of shapes such as triangles, squares, and circles. These patterns have a more modern and graphic style, and are a great way to add visual interest to any look.
Paisley
Paisley is a intricate and swirling pattern that often features teardrop shaped designs. This is an interesting and unique print that is often seen in bohemian styles.
Essential Tips for Mixing and Matching Patterns
Now that you are familiar with different types of patterns, let’s explore some essential tips on how to mix and match patterns to create balanced and stylish outfits.
Start with a Common Color
One of the easiest ways to mix patterns is to choose patterns that share at least one common color. This creates a visual link between the different patterns and helps to tie the look together.
Practical Example: Pair a floral print with a striped print, ensuring that they both have a similar colour present. For instance, a floral top with red, white and green flowers with a stripey skirt with red and white stripes.
Vary the Scale of Patterns
Mixing patterns of different scales can create an interesting and visually appealing look. Try pairing a large-scale pattern with a small-scale pattern. This means that one pattern is larger and the other is smaller, which allows both patterns to shine without competing.
Practical Example: Pair a large floral print with a small polka dot print, or a bold stripe with a small geometric print. For example, wear a large floral print top with small polka dot trousers or skirt.
Use a Neutral Base
When mixing patterns, it’s often helpful to use a neutral base such as a solid-colored shirt, dress, or trousers to ground the look. This allows the patterns to be the focal point, without overwhelming the look. Choose a colour that goes with both of your patterns to create a visual anchor.
Practical Example: Pair a patterned blouse with neutral trousers or a skirt, or wear a patterned skirt or trousers with a neutral top.
Mix Different Types of Patterns
Don't be afraid to mix different types of patterns, such as stripes with florals, or polka dots with animal prints. The key is to find patterns that complement each other in terms of colour, scale, and style. Combining different prints creates a more interesting and visually engaging outfit.
Practical Example: Try pairing a striped shirt with a floral skirt or a polka dot top with a plaid trousers.
Treat Animal Prints as Neutrals
Animal prints, such as leopard and cheetah print, can be treated as a neutral pattern and are a great way to combine other prints into the mix. These can add a pop of colour, texture or visual interest.
Practical Example: Pair a leopard print with stripes or florals or checks.
Use a Unifying Element
To create a cohesive look, use a unifying element such as a belt, scarf or jacket in a solid colour or neutral tone that ties the patterns together and grounds the look. This helps to ensure that the outfit looks well styled and cohesive rather than haphazard.
Practical Example: Wear a solid-coloured belt to tie together patterns in your top and trousers, or wear a neutral jacket to unify the patterns in your outfit.
Don't Overdo It
When mixing patterns, it’s best to stick to a few key patterns rather than trying to incorporate too many. Usually two or three patterns are enough to create an interesting and balanced look. Choose styles that complement each other.
Try Tone-on-Tone Patterns
Tone-on-tone patterns involve using patterns in the same colour family or in the same tone, which can create a subtle and sophisticated look that is very easy to style. These types of outfits are great for the pattern mixing novice.
Practical Example: Pair a light blue striped shirt with a slightly darker blue check trousers, or a light grey floral blouse with a darker grey geometric skirt.
Start with Subtle Patterns
If you're new to mixing patterns, start with subtle patterns such as thin stripes, small polka dots, or tiny florals. Once you feel more comfortable you can start experimenting with bolder patterns and larger scales.
Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, the key to successfully mixing patterns is to trust your instincts and have fun experimenting with different looks. There are not hard and fast rules, so experiment and find what works best for your personal style.
Practical Ways to Mix and Match Patterns
Here are some practical ways to start experimenting with how to mix and match patterns in your own wardrobe:
Stripes and Florals
Pair a striped shirt with a floral skirt or trousers for a classic yet modern combination. Choose patterns that share a common colour for a more cohesive look.
Practical Example: A navy and white striped top with a floral skirt that features navy and white flowers.
Polka Dots and Stripes
Combine a polka dot top or dress with a striped jacket or trousers. Vary the scale of the patterns to avoid competing with each other.
Practical Example: A small polka dot shirt with a bold striped trousers.
Plaid and Florals
Layer a plaid jacket or shirt over a floral dress or top. Ensure that the colours complement each other and use a neutral base to anchor the look.
Practical Example: A plaid blazer with a floral dress, with both featuring a common colour.
Animal Print and Geometric
Pair an animal print skirt or trousers with a geometric print top or jacket. Keep the overall colour palette cohesive to ensure both patterns work well together.
Practical Example: A leopard print skirt with a geometric patterned shirt.
Different Scale Patterns
Combine patterns of different scales, such as large floral prints with small check prints. This creates a visually appealing look without overwhelming the outfit.
Practical Example: A large floral shirt with small check trousers or skirt.
Tone-on-Tone Prints
Mix tone on tone prints in the same colour family, but using different patterns such as stripes with checks.
Practical Example: A light blue stripey shirt with a slightly darker blue check skirt or trousers.
Product Recommendations: Where to Find Great Patterned Pieces
Here are some product recommendations to help you get started with mixing and matching patterns:
| Product Category | Brand & Product Name | Why it's Great for Pattern Mixing |
|---|---|---|
| Striped Shirt | Everlane The Cotton Oxford Shirt in Stripe | High quality material, versatile and easy to style. |
| Floral Skirt | Reformation Marlowe Skirt | Stylish, comfortable and perfect for pattern mixing. |
| Polka Dot Top | Anthropologie Polka Dot Blouse | Versatile, stylish and easy to mix with other patterns |
| Plaid Trousers | Zara Plaid Trousers | Comfortable, stylish and great for everyday wear. |
| Animal Print Jacket | ASOS DESIGN Leopard Print Jacket | Bold, stylish and easy to mix with different patterns. |
| Geometric Top | COS Geometric Print Top | Modern, stylish and easy to incorporate into different looks. |
| Paisley Scarf | Etro Paisley Silk Scarf | Great for adding a pop of colour and texture, and perfect for layering |
Conclusion: Unleashing Your Creativity with Pattern Mixing
Mixing and matching patterns is an exciting and creative way to express your personal style and elevate your outfits. By understanding the basic types of patterns and following these essential tips and guidelines, you can confidently mix and match patterns like a style icon. Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun with the process, and let your creativity shine through your unique and eye-catching combinations. Embrace the bold and beautiful world of pattern mixing, and transform your wardrobe into a reflection of your own personal style.
