How to Master the Art of Pattern Mixing

When it comes to style, I feel most confident when my outfit is unique and unpredictable. That may sound weird, but I strive to really think outside the box. You want to people to remember you, right? So if my outfit does that, then you best believe I’m feelin myself. My favorite way to really create a fun and innovative look, is to mix prints! If you’ve seen any of my content before, you know that I’m a pattern mixing fanatic. I can’t get enough of it! Although, many of you have let me know that it scares you. As my most requested post to date, today I’m finally sharing how to master the art of pattern mixing!

ALSO READ: 6 Core Pieces to Mix and Match with Every Outfit

Cater to Your Color Scheme

There are a couple of ways you can go about this. One, you can stick to one single color and layer on the different style of prints. This is one of my personal go-to pattern mixing tactics, because I just have to worry about one thing – color. It really narrows down my options, which in hindsight makes styling that much easier. I sometimes find that the narrower the breadth of options, leads to a deeper depth of creativity.

Another way you can go, is to really utilize the color wheel. I find the easiest way to do this is to cater to complementary colors, which are opposite colors on the color wheel. For example, blue and orange are complementary colors. By mixing different shades of blue with the orange in the pants, really harmonizes the entire look.

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Same Prints, Different Hues

Another foolproof way to pattern mixing is to stick to the same print, but switch up the colors. This is another go-to method of mine, because again you only have to focus on one thing. This time, it’s the print that serves as the canvas. This approach really allows you to have fun with color, which I’m sure you can tell I’m all about.

Pro Tip: If you are scared of color, this is the best way to dip your toes in it. Now that you’ve mapped out your base, you don’t have to worry about mixing the wrong colors together.

Patterns Can Be Neutrals Too

I know this sounds like an oxymoron, but hear me out. When I wear most of my prints, they usually serve as a neutral in addition to a print. For example, leopard print. Because of it’s classic status and neutral color theory, it makes it easy to pair with anything. So the next time you think about how obnoxiously loud the pattern is, treat it as a neutral and see what awesome outfits you can come up with. I dare you.

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Experiment With Scale

If you are nervous that mixing the wrong patterns together is going to look overkill, really considering the scale of your prints. I usually find that complementing a large scaled print with a smaller scaled print is the way to go. That way, you get the best of both worlds. So if you want to rock a fun tropical print, maybe layer it with a smaller, delicate duplicate. It’s all about balance, people! That’s why this look works, because I mixed a skinnier striped top with a wider striped bottom.

Layer With Solids

If by the end of this post you are still nervous to test out the pattern mixing waters, pull in some solid pieces to layer with. Have the base of your look serve as the melting pot of prints, put pull in a solid color jacket to tame the outfit to your liking. I also find that this a great entry level to entering the world of pattern mixing. It really allows you to have fun and experiment with prints. If they may not necessarily work together though, your solids can be your saving grace.

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Back to the Basics

Last but certainly not least, you can stick to the basics. I like to classify all stripes and polka dots as classics. They are simple shapes and work well with other prints. They are kind of like that friend in school that is literally friends with everyone. No matter what type of personality you have, they easily mesh with all. They are the chameleons of the pattern realm.

I hope this helps you step outside your comfort zone, and take a chance on pattern mixing. It may seem daunting at first, but my goal is to really break it down into more manageable methods to test out. Don’t be scared to mess up, because that’s kind of the art behind it. Everyone has different interpretations of fashion, and I just want you to be able to show the world yours. Comment down below your favorite way to mix prints, or if you have any other tips and tricks to help us all out!

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Top: Zara || Pants: Urban Outfitters || Slides: Sam Edelman (different color – 30% off) || Earring: Finola Jewelry || Hat: Lack of Color || Shades: Free People (similar)

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