Mixing prints can be a fun and stylish way to spice up your wardrobe. However, this trend can also be a bit tricky to pull off successfully. If you’re not careful, you could end up looking like a fashion disaster rather than a trendsetter. To help you navigate the world of print mixing, we’ve put together a list of dos and don’ts to keep in mind when trying out this popular trend.
Dos:
1. Start with a neutral base
When mixing prints, it’s best to start with a neutral base to anchor your look. This could be a solid color or a subtle print that serves as a foundation for your outfit. Neutral colors like black, white, gray, or navy work well as a backdrop for bolder prints.
2. Stick to a color scheme
To keep your print mixing from looking chaotic, it’s a good idea to stick to a cohesive color scheme. Choose prints that feature similar colors or complementary hues to tie your look together. For example, pairing a floral top with a striped skirt in coordinating colors can create a harmonious and visually appealing outfit.
3. Mix different scales of prints
When mixing prints, it’s important to vary the scale of the patterns to create interest and balance. Pairing a large floral print with a small polka dot or a bold stripe with a subtle gingham can add visual contrast and create a dynamic ensemble.
4. Experiment with different textures
Mixing prints doesn’t have to be limited to just fabrics – you can also play around with different textures to add depth and dimension to your outfit. Pairing a silky floral top with a tweed skirt or a velvet blouse with a geometric print can create a rich and visually interesting look.
5. Accessorize wisely
When mixing prints, it’s best to keep your accessories simple and understated to let your outfit take center stage. Opt for neutral shoes, bags, and jewelry to balance out the boldness of your prints. A classic pair of black pumps or a sleek leather handbag can provide a chic finishing touch to your print-mixed ensemble.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid mixing too many busy prints
While mixing prints can be fun, it’s important not to overdo it by incorporating too many busy or competing patterns in one outfit. Stick to two or three prints at most to keep your look cohesive and avoid overwhelming the eye.
2. Don’t clash colors
When mixing prints, be mindful of the colors you’re combining to ensure they work harmoniously together. Avoid pairing prints that clash or create a jarring effect, such as mixing bright neon colors with pastels or mixing warm tones with cool tones. Opt for prints that share similar color families to create a cohesive and polished look.
3. Steer clear of mixing conflicting styles
When mixing prints, it’s best to stick to a coherent style theme to avoid looking mismatched or disjointed. For example, pairing a romantic floral print with a edgy graphic tee may create a confusing and conflicting style statement. Instead, opt for prints that share a similar aesthetic or vibe to maintain a cohesive and polished look.
4. Avoid overwhelming your frame
When mixing prints, it’s important to consider your body type and frame to ensure the prints you choose are flattering and don’t overwhelm your silhouette. If you’re petite, opt for smaller-scale prints to avoid looking swamped, while if you’re taller or curvier, you can carry off larger-scale prints with ease.
5. Don’t forget to balance your look
When mixing prints, it’s crucial to strike a balance between your top and bottom halves to create a visually pleasing ensemble. If you’re wearing a bold printed top, opt for a more subdued print on your bottom half, or vice versa. This will prevent your outfit from looking too busy or cluttered and help create a harmonious and balanced look.
In conclusion, print mixing can be a fun and creative way to express your personal style and add interest to your wardrobe. By following these dos and don’ts, you can confidently mix prints like a pro and create fashionable and eye-catching outfits that will turn heads wherever you go. So go ahead and experiment with different prints, colors, and textures to create your own unique and stylish looks – the key is to have fun and be fearless in your fashion choices!
