Mixing different patterns and fabrics is a way to give your outfit an unexpected fashion moment. Moreover, if you master the art well, you can give your outfit that extra personal touch. Nothing is as boring as a predictable creation (from head to toe in something from the same designer = unimaginative). All you need is a bit of courage, imagination, and of course, creativity and a few rules to follow.
Tip 1 Repeat colors
The most important thing when combining different patterns in an outfit is that the different patterns share at least one color. By repeating a certain color, it seems as if the different fabrics attract and complement each other. Even if they are two totally different patterns, it can still look like they were made for each other. For example, a lime green striped skirt and a paisley with a lime green background. The colors do not have to match exactly, but they should be close enough together so that it is clear they are meant to be combined.
Tip 2 Choose a combination of a large and small print
If you combine too many different prints of the same size, your look can appear a bit busy and messy. Prefer a combination of prints of large and smaller sizes. The combination of large and small dots is often seen this summer season. Also, wide and narrow stripes are often used together.
Tip 3 Follow the 60-30-10 rule
When mixing three different patterns, make sure that the largest print takes up 60 percent of the look, choose a medium-sized pattern for 30 percent of the look, and let the accent consist of 10 percent. The accent can be a fabric and pattern but also a scarf or striking earrings. If you follow this rule, you will see that it creates a nice balance and does not come across as overwhelming.
Tip 4 Use something of a solid fabric to break up the prints
Sometimes two prints can clash with each other. A solid fabric can then provide harmony. Choose a color that matches both prints. For example, a flowing, unlined jacket in an exotic floral pattern with a long skirt in an abstract pattern combined with a top in a solid fabric. This combination gives the eye a chance to rest instead of jumping back and forth between busy patterns.
Tip 5 Mix two similar patterns
That is to say, prints that come from the same theme. Think of flowers and leaf patterns or leopard combined with python print. This season we also see a lot of abstract patterns combined with each other (Céline). Another possibility is to wear different patterns with the same colors. This look works especially well in black and white combinations.
PS: You might think of mixing only clothes, but of course, you can also play with accessories like patterned bags, shoes, and scarves. .
PS: This season there are many nice T-shirts with prints. Use those together with other prints, preferably in the same color tones or the same theme.
