How to wear patterns. Mixing patterns can be intimidating but also intriguing when done correctly! #howtowear #patterns Personalized styling, in person, virtual styling, interior design..

Color. Pattern. Texture. These are the foundation for making our aesthetic world go round. Think about the last outfit you saw that really resonated with you. Whether you loved it or not, it created a reaction. Maybe, “Wow! I love that blue but would never have thought to pair it with orange.” Or, “I would never wear stripes with florals, but someone can pull this look off.” When the proper balance of color, pattern and texture are used you can create visually, interesting outfits to suit any personality and style.

When it comes to pattern mixing there are a few things to keep in mind. You want to find, what I call, “common ground” with the prints you are mixing. Typically this is achieved in colors that have the same tone. Since pattern mixing adds a lot of visual interest, having “common ground” helps to keep you mix harmonious and balanced. Example: Not all yellows have the same tone. Some are brighter while some are more muted. Mustard tones are not on the same level as your neon yellow. (Dramatic example used to get my point across.)

Nice balance of pattern here using a textured polka dot and chiffon floral skirt with the micro pleats. The textured mustard vest compliments the green and orange tones in the skirt.

Size Matters: In addition to finding something similar in your prints you will want to vary the size of your prints. Typically you want to pair a small scaled print with a large scaled print.

*Tip: Use your smaller scale print on areas you want to reduce focus. Your larger scale prints will be your focal point.

Examples of print pairings: Stripes and florals, Polka dots and florals, Geometrics and florals, tribals and stripes, plaid/checks and florals, paisley and stripes.