Playing with Patterns

“Learn the rules, so you can then break them properly.”

There are so many rules in fashion: DON”T wear pink with red, DON”T wear horizontal stripes, DON’T mix patterns. But then you see the lady walking down the street wearing pink, red, horizontal stripes with mixed patterns….and it looks good!!  The key is knowing how to break the rules properly, and when you master this, YOU will be that IT girl who has everyone wondering how you pulled it off! For this blog we are going to focus on mixing patterns, one of this season’s hottest trends. Unfortunately, this trend can be a bit tricky to master…so let me give you a few tips…

When you mix and match your patterns does it end up looking like this? YIKES!

Mixing and matching patterns is all about balancing the colors, pattern density, and fabric weight. If you have too similar of a color and pattern scheme, it all runs together, causing you to look too overwhelming.

One of the easiest ways to play with patterns is to start out small. Use accessories that have a different pattern than the outfit. For this mannequin, I used a thick striped maxi dress and paired it with a color popping scarf. The Jessica Simpson bag helps keep the outfit neutral, allowing the scarf to pop, which draws the focus to your face.

Stripes tend to work well with almost any other pattern. Especially when the stripes are thicker, they play more of the neutral role. Adding simple pops of patterns is always an easy addition to any outfit!

This tribal print scarf is currently in stock at both stores, and is a great accessory for almost any outfit!

Here are three examples of stripes meshing well with different patterns:

Stripes + Floral

Stripes + Polka Dot

Stripes + Tribal 

One of the easiest ways to play with patterns is to mix stripes with floral. Because these two patterns are so different, and have different pattern densities,  they work well together. 
Opposites attract!

My favorite way to mix patterns is to play with pattern density. If you have a thick floral patterned skirt, pair it with a toned down floral top. Below I used a thin striped maxi dress with a wider stripe T. Staying within the same pattern family helps balance the outfit out…not too crazy, but still fun!

Pair a bold pattern (the focal point) with a subtle supporting piece. I paired these pants below with a bright, slightly detailed blouse. Mixing these two evens out the intensity, and it gives the outfit an element of texture.

 

Have fun! 
Sometimes the most random patterns will work well together. You never know until you try. When working with bold prints, just try on different contrasting jacket/cardigans. You will be surprised at the random combinations that just happen to be the perfect fit.

Mix patterns from the same color family. Designers Diane Von Furstenburg and Anna Sui are wonderful examples. If you ever need some high-end inspiration, follow these two designers, they are pattern mixing geniuses!  

The biggest key to mixing patterns is to just have fun! I encourage you to just start playing with the patterns you have. One of my favorites currently is stripes with leopard...random, but it works! Take the risk when pairing patterns, and I’m sure you will come up with something great!  When you really love the outfit you put together, your confidence will exude...which is what really makes or breaks the outfit! 

Have a patterned skirt that needs a fun top? Swing by Again or Again 2 and I will help you find the perfect match. You can also book a style appointment with us! One of our stylists will spend an hour helping you pick out flattering colors, cuts, and brands for your body type! Hope to see you soon!

-Bailey