Mixing prints and patterns can seem daunting, but it’s a fun way to express your personality and elevate your style. When done right, combining different prints creates bold, eye-catching outfits that exude confidence and creativity.
Whether you’re a print-mixing pro or just starting out, these 20 ideas will help you master the art of mixing prints and patterns with ease.
Get ready to step out of your fashion comfort zone and embrace playful, patterned looks that turn heads!
1. Start with Stripes and Florals
Stripes and florals are a classic combination that always works. Pair a striped top with a floral skirt or pants for a balanced and stylish look. Make sure the colors complement each other for a harmonious blend.
2. Mix Small and Large Prints
Mixing prints of different sizes adds depth and interest to your outfit. Pair a large floral print with small polka dots or checks to create contrast without overwhelming your look. The balance between large and small keeps the outfit visually appealing.
3. Stick to a Color Palette
When mixing prints, staying within a specific color palette helps to create a cohesive look. Choose patterns that share similar tones, even if the prints themselves are bold. This approach makes the mix feel intentional and stylish.
4. Use Animal Prints as Neutrals
Animal prints, like leopard or zebra, can act as neutral patterns. Pair them with bolder prints like florals, stripes, or geometrics for a fresh and edgy combination. This adds texture and personality to your outfit while keeping things balanced.
5. Play with Black and White
Black and white prints are easy to mix and match, no matter the patterns. Try pairing black-and-white stripes with polka dots or checkered prints for a chic, modern look. The monochrome color scheme helps keep the outfit sleek and sophisticated.
6. Combine Plaid and Floral
Plaid and floral patterns can create a surprising yet fashionable combination. For a balanced look, choose one bold print and one more subtle to avoid clashing. This pairing offers a great way to mix casual and romantic vibes.
7. Mix Bold and Subtle Prints
Pair a bold, attention-grabbing print with a more subdued pattern. For example, combine a brightly colored geometric print with a subtle stripe or dot pattern. This allows the bold print to stand out while the subtle print provides contrast.
8. Pair Dots and Stripes
Polka dots and stripes are a playful yet harmonious combination. Mix a striped top with polka-dot pants or a skirt for a fun and energetic look. The simplicity of these patterns makes them easy to pair without overwhelming the outfit.
9. Layer Patterns with Accessories
If you’re hesitant to mix prints in clothing, start by incorporating patterns through accessories. Try pairing a printed scarf with a patterned bag or shoes. This subtle mix adds interest to your look without being too bold.
10. Mix Prints with Denim
Denim is a versatile neutral that pairs well with any pattern. Combine printed tops or jackets with denim for a stylish, grounded look. Denim acts as a buffer, allowing you to mix bolder prints with ease.
11. Play with Geometrics
Geometric prints like squares, triangles, or zigzags can be mixed for a dynamic look. Pair two different geometric patterns, ensuring they have a unifying color palette. This creates a bold, modern outfit with visual intrigue.
12. Keep One Print Monochromatic
To make mixing prints easier, keep one of the patterns monochromatic. A black-and-white polka-dot top pairs well with a vibrant floral or animal-print skirt. This trick helps balance the outfit while allowing one pattern to stand out.
13. Mix Vertical and Horizontal Stripes
Mixing vertical and horizontal stripes adds dimension to your outfit. Try pairing a vertical-striped shirt with horizontal-striped pants or skirts. The different directions create contrast and make your look more interesting.
14. Match Patterns by Theme
Another way to mix prints is to match them by theme, such as nautical or bohemian. Combine different patterns that fit the same theme, like anchors and stripes for a nautical vibe. This creates a cohesive outfit while still embracing pattern mixing.
15. Introduce Prints Through Outerwear
If you’re unsure about mixing prints in your main outfit, try incorporating printed outerwear. A patterned coat or jacket can be layered over another printed top for an effortless mix. This is a great way to experiment without fully committing to the look.
16. Use Solid Colors to Break It Up
When mixing prints, use solid-colored pieces to break up the patterns and add balance. A solid belt, blazer, or shoes can provide a visual break, helping the prints work together. This trick creates a more streamlined look while still embracing mixed patterns.
17. Pair Tropical Prints with Stripes
Tropical prints paired with stripes create a vacation-ready, playful look. Combine a bold palm-print top with striped pants or a skirt for a balanced mix. The contrasting patterns give off a fun, relaxed vibe perfect for summer.
18. Experiment with Gingham and Floral
Gingham is a versatile print that pairs well with florals for a vintage-inspired look. Mix a gingham skirt with a floral blouse for a chic, feminine outfit. This combination adds a touch of nostalgia while remaining stylish.
19. Mix Boho Patterns with Classic Prints
Bohemian patterns, like paisley or tie-dye, can be paired with more classic prints. Try mixing boho with polka dots or stripes for an eclectic yet refined look. This creates an interesting balance of styles that adds character to your outfit.
20. Trust Your Instincts
When mixing prints and patterns, trust your instincts and have fun. There are no strict rules, so experiment with different combinations to find what feels right. Confidence is key when pulling off mixed prints, so wear your outfit with pride!
