How to Mix Patterns: A Guidebook
There are quite a few patterns you’ll see getting major play this fall: plaid, snakeskin, leopard, polka dots. A few are already in my closet and more are on the wishlist. More than ever, I’m seeing more of these patterns side by side. I’m working to push myself to try out new combinations. It’s no longer about just one pattern in an outfit. It’s perfectly okay to let a few come out to play together. If it’s a new thing for you, it can be tricky to figure out how to mix patterns. I put together a few tips and tricks along with these outfits inspired by a structured striped blouse from Express Factory Outlet.
Start with your favorite pattern as a base
It’s always a smoother ride when you know what your foundation is. Start with one pattern instead of two or three. Make that your primary pattern. Build off of it’s key characteristics: color, shape, texture. So, for example, I started with this striped blouse from Express. I knew the wide sleeve shape and flared bottom would look the most flattering with a tighter bottom. So I reached for bottoms with patterns that were fitted instead of loose.
Choose a pattern that is different, but not too different
Once you know what shape and texture you want your accompanying outfit items to be, then you can begin to look at your pattern options. You can layer plaid on plaid or stripe on stripe. The key is to pair an open plaid with a tighter plaid shape to avoid a clash. You can also pair stripes with plaids and stripes with polka dots and so on. The trick is to pair your foundation pattern with a pattern that has at least one similar color. You can see here all of my Express shirt outfits are paired with some kind of black pattern. I pulled that from the stripes in the shirt. It makes the pattern friends get along!
Neutrals are your friends
Whether your foundation pattern is a neutral tone or not, your accompanying pattern should be. Think simple colors. This helps tone down your patterns and make the outfit more relatable. It’s also easier to think it through and avoid color clashes. I personally think that leaning towards neutral patterns also adds a bit of class to the look. It’s already a bold statement to blend patterns. Stick to neutrals to make it count.
Connect the dots with Accessories
The finishing touches are really where everything comes together. Make sure your accessories are straight forward basics that nod to your outfit. Pull out colors from your patterns like my black beret, black booties, and fanny pack to go with my striped shirt. My jewelry was also gold, which picked up some of the colors from the pants. By keeping my accessories solid and simple, I was able to highlight and accentuate corresponding colors in the patterns, therefor polishing off the look!
Get your patterns at Express Factory Outlet
When I visited express Factory Outlet, I was drawn to so many patterns! A major bonus is that many items come in several patterns and shades. So, if you like a structure or fit, you can get more than one. It’s a smart way to invest in those staple pieces! Find your local ExpressFactory Outlet Store here. Use my code 9445 to receive 20% off a purchase of $125 or more! Exclusions apply. Learn more.
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