A Beginner’s Guide to Styling Prints and Patterns Like A Pro

Patterns and prints will add personality, and texture and elevate your outfit. Sometimes they’ll even add a splash of fun! Sometimes they can be intimidating to style. Many don’t want to embrace them because they fear clashing, looking weird, or overly busy.

But to be able to style them like a pro, you only need to follow some simple guidelines and have a little practice. Anyone can style them with flair and confidence.

The first step: is understanding the basics

Prints are designs that are printed onto fabrics. They can be florals, geometric, or even abstract designs. Patterns on the other hand are woven or created and they are part of the structure of the fabric.

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You can familiarize yourself with common prints like polka dots, animal prints, florals, stripes, and other geometric shapes. Once you do this it will be easiest to decide which ones are the perfect fit for your comfort level and style.

Gradually incorporating prints

If you are new to prints, then you should start with smaller doses. One of the best ways to do this is with accessories. As they will be a great way to dip your toes, without committing to a full patterned outfit.

You can start by adding a floral scarf or a printed handbag to your monochrome outfit. Another option is to try patterned shoes to enhance your look softly. You can experiment with this approach while keeping your outfit simple.

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Keep it simple!

If you are a beginner then the best thing is to just wear one printed piece per outfit. By focusing on one single print, you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed or having a chaotic outfit.

Doing it like a pro

Once you feel comfortable with wearing just a single print, you can start exploring and mixing patterns. The key is in the scale. You can combine larger and bolder prints with subtle and smaller ones.

When mixing patterns, make sure that there’s at least one color that ties the pieces to get a cohesive look.

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Harmonize the hues

When you are working with prints it is vital to color coordinate. If you don’t want to clash, you’ll have to choose prints that share similar colors. Also, it’s important to stick to a specific color family. Meaning that for example, neutral-toned prints are easier to mix than contrasting and bold colors.

A foolproof way for beginners to experiment is with monochromatic prints (which are patterns in shades of the same color).

Experiment with textures

Prints don’t always have to compete with others. I’d you mix printed fabrics with textured solids you will be able to create a much more sophisticated contrast.

A good example of this is pairing a corduroy skirt with a floral silk blouse, which will add depth to your outfit. Another example is striped pants with a knit sweater.

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Textures add dimension and also make any outfit dynamic without being overwhelming.

Accessorizing with prints

Accessories are a great way to experiment. Printed accessories can elevate simple outfits. For example, you can add a patterned belt to cinch a plain dress. Of even a printed headband with a casual outfit.

Remember to keep accessories minimal to let the printed piece take the main focus of attention.

The key is confidence

One of the most important things about styling them is wearing your prints and patterns with confidence. When you feel comfortable then your outfit will look more effortless.

If you are not sure about a combination, then first test it at home. Sometimes taking pictures of your outfit will help you decide if it works.

Break the rules

While following guidelines are helpful, fashion will always be about self-expression. So don’t be afraid to break the rules and create combinations that make you happy.