Prints and patterns are a fun and playful way to add interest and personality to your outfits. From polka dots to stripes, florals to animal prints, there are endless options to choose from. However, mixing and matching prints and patterns can be intimidating and overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the dos and don’ts of wearing them. In this article, we’ll cover the basic guidelines to help you confidently incorporate prints and patterns into your wardrobe.

The Dos of Wearing Prints and Patterns:

1. Start simple: If you’re new to wearing prints and patterns, start with small doses. A printed scarf or a patterned blouse paired with solid bottoms is a great way to dip your toes into the world of prints and patterns.
2. Mix and match: Pairing different prints and patterns can be tricky, but it can also create interesting and unique outfits. The key is to keep the colors in the same family and vary the scale of the prints. For example, pair a small floral print blouse with a larger floral print skirt.
3. Use prints to flatter your body type: Prints can be used strategically to flatter your body type. If you’re petite, opt for smaller prints to avoid overwhelming your frame. If you’re curvy, choose prints that accentuate your curves, such as diagonal stripes or floral prints that follow your body’s natural curves.
4. Mix prints with neutrals: If you’re not ready to commit to a full-on print outfit, mix prints with neutrals for a more subdued look. For example, pair a leopard print scarf with a black sweater and jeans.
5. Experiment with different textures: Patterns and prints can be mixed with different textures to add depth and dimension to your outfit. For example, pair a plaid skirt with a chunky knit sweater.

The Don’ts of Wearing Prints and Patterns:

1. Don’t go overboard: Mixing too many prints and patterns can be overwhelming and clashy. Stick to two or three prints in one outfit for a cohesive look.
2. Don’t mix prints with busy accessories: If you’re wearing a patterned outfit, keep accessories simple and understated. Busy accessories can compete with the prints and make the outfit look too busy.
3. Avoid horizontal stripes: Horizontal stripes can make you look wider than you are. Stick to vertical stripes or diagonal stripes that follow the body’s natural curves.
4. Don’t mix prints that are too similar: Mixing prints that are too similar in scale or color can create a confusing and cluttered look. Make sure the prints you mix and match vary in scale and complement each other.
5. Don’t forget about proportion: Prints and patterns can be used to create an illusion of proportion. For example, if you’re bottom-heavy, opt for a patterned skirt and a solid top to balance out your silhouette.

Conclusion:

Prints and patterns can be a fun and playful way to add interest and personality to your outfits, but mixing and matching them can be intimidating. By following these dos and don’ts, you can confidently incorporate prints and patterns into your wardrobe. Remember to start simple, mix and match, use prints to flatter your body type, mix prints with neutrals, experiment with different textures, avoid going overboard, mix prints with simple accessories, avoid horizontal stripes, mix prints that vary in scale, and don’t forget about proportion. Happy experimenting!