Who doesn’t love a good print? Especially in the summer, and especially this summer. We’re seeing prints left and right from nearly every designer. There’s a not so hidden secret that can spice up your wardrobe and make it feel bigger.
Mixing prints.
It’s always difficult to tell how well mixing prints will really work until you just give it a try. You’d be surprised by what pieces actually work together. Just remember to try to stay in the same color family. Don’t pair two bold patterns – one should be a bit more dominant. Remember, be confident! Here is a list of a few mixes that are sure to look great.
1. Stripes and Floral
Mixing a striped top with a floral skirt is a sure and simple winner. Black and white stripes can go with any floral design. Spice it up with a strip color that pulls from the floral pattern. Luckily, stripes are considered a print neutral and can be paired with almost anything. If you’re not feeling so brave, take it slow. Wear a floral sundress and pair it with a stripped purse.
2. Polka Dots and Plaid
The OG of print collaborations can be done in a million different ways. You can do the top/skirt combo listed above with plaid and polka dots as well, or a polka dot dress with a plaid button up over it and topped off with a belt. For a more polished look, layer a long sleeved polka dot shirt over a plaid one with a collar and roll up the sleeves to reveal a plaid cuff.
3. Leopard
Leopard is probably the easiest and the trickiest to mix with. It looks great with polka dots and with floral, but it’s very easy to over do. Use leopard accessories to keep things from getting too wild. For example, wear a leopard print heel with your polka dot dress. If you’re wearing floral, add a leopard print scarf or cardigan. If you’d rather have leopard print be the main print try mixing it with herringbone.
4. Multiple Geometric Prints
Mixing geometrics takes practice but when you find the perfect pairing, it’s almost like the heavens have opened up just for you. Since the prints will be so bold, it’s best to keep one piece in black and white. Try a structured swirl with something star-like.
5. Same print, different color
A tamer, but extremely tasteful approach is to wear the same print but in varying scales and different colors. By varying scales I mean mesh thicker stripes with thinner stripes. Don’t go crazy with the colors; try to keep one color the same in each print to keep it balanced.
