How to Mix and Match Patterns

If you’re anything like me, then you’ve always heard that you just don’t mix patterns. Plaids and stripes together was a no-no and polka dots just weren’t meant to go with florals. These days, however, the lines have been blurred thanks to the creative minds of some of the world’s most notable fashion designers and the bold people who wear their pieces. In fact, modern fashion says that some patterns can look great with others, and the days of automatically assuming they clash have finally been replaced with new combinations of colors and prints, each of which with the power to instantly improve your style and confidence.

Your desire to wear a pair of polka dot pants with a beautiful tribal shirt shouldn’t be hindered because of what a bunch of outdated fashion standards have taught you. It’s time to redefine your style by incorporating fun mixtures of colors and patterns to create wonderfully unique looks.

Three Rules for Mixing Patterns in One Outfit

So, how does someone safely mix patterns? By remembering these three simple rules:

1. Patterns Should Always Complement One Another

Say, for example, you have a herringbone peacoat and you want to mix it with a plaid scarf. Is that even possible? According to the rules, you should be just fine as long as the textures and patterns are complementary. Subtle (simple) patterns typically don’t clash with bolder (intricate) designs and vice versa, but they still have to work together to create a single look.

TIP: Keep in mind that mixing cool and warm tones in one outfit can get tricky if you don’t use the right proportions.

2. Use Coordinating Colors

The outfit above works because the patterns are brought together with color. The reds, browns, and creams all coordinate nicely to give each piece its own unique personality while providing cohesion with the other items. Best of all, an outfit like this can be tailored to any body and worn for almost any occasion, from a day on the job to a night out and anything in between. 

TIP: Remember that adding color blocking to an already busy ensemble can be tricky, so try to make all patterns flow.

3. Try Seeing the Same Picture in a Different Frame

Pattern recognition is one of mankind’s greatest gifts and biggest curses. We learn to see things a certain way and then seldom consider the alternatives because we’re comfortable with the basics. Bust out of the box without looking tacky. Use alternating versions of the same pattern for an interesting take on the norm. It’s even better if you mix patterns that are familiar to the untrained eye – stripes, plaids, etc. Relatable or seasonal pattern combos almost always work when they’re worn in the right proportions.

TIP: Try mixing well-known color combinations with the rules mentioned here for a customizable take on a popular style trend.

5 Basic Patterned Pieces to Have in Your Collection

I like playing with patterns a lot, so I’m always gathering pieces for my collection. After a while though, my general style begins to integrate itself into the items I select and my wardrobe becomes more versatile. At this point, I can mix and match a wide variety of pattern combos into a single ensemble without looking tacky. And guess what – You have the power to do it too.

Here are the top 5 patterned pieces I think every woman needs in her closet:

1. A Skirt (any length). Few things exude feminism like a lovely, flowing skirt printed with an interesting or flattering pattern that complements other pieces in your wardrobe.
2. A Flattering Shirt. A go-to shirt can make all the difference in a collection, especially if its versatile enough to be worn with several kinds of patterns.
3. A Pair of Fitted Jeans (or Trousers). Pants are an attractive piece in any woman’s wardrobe because they innately showcase confidence, but be sure to select a pair that fits both your body and your style.
4. All-Weather Shoes. Interesting shoes can make a patterned outfit runway-ready.
5. A Handbag. No outfit is complete without the right purse. And while not all outfits call for a patterned purse, have a few just in case you want to spice up your style in a fun and easy way.

Learn my recommendations for a capsule wardrobe.

The Final Verdict

Gone are the days of being afraid to mix patterns or colors in a single outfit. You don’t have to adhere to the old fashion standards if you pay close attention to the details. Follow these simple rules and you’ll be well on your way to looking and feeling like a million bucks.