How To Mix And Match Patterned Clothes Like A Pro
Mixing and matching patterned clothes can seem a bit daunting at first. But once you get the hang of it, it can be a fun way to jazz up your wardrobe. Combining different patterns allows you to express your creativity and stand out from the crowd. The trick is to find a balance that looks stylish and not too overwhelming.
One of the easiest ways to start is by using a neutral base. This helps to ground your outfit and gives your eyes a resting point. From there, you can play around with combining different sizes of patterns. For instance, a small polka dot top can look fantastic with a pair of trousers that have a larger floral print.
Balancing bold patterns with more subtle ones also helps to keep the outfit looking chic. Too many bold patterns can clash, but a mix of bold and subtle creates harmony. Adding the right accessories ties everything together, making your outfit look complete and polished.
With these tricks up your sleeve, you'll be mixing and matching patterns like a pro in no time. Let's dive into some detailed tips that will help you master this fun and fashionable skill.
Start with a Neutral Base
Starting with a neutral base is a great way to mix and match patterns without feeling overwhelmed. Neutrals like black, white, grey, and beige act as a blank canvas, making it easy to add various patterns on top. This grounding effect helps your eyes focus and makes the entire outfit look more cohesive.
A solid-coloured piece, like a white blouse or black trousers, can serve as your neutral base. Once you have this, you can add patterned items with more confidence. For example, a white blouse pairs well with a bold plaid skirt or polka dot trousers. The neutral base gives your outfit structure and balance.
Using neutral accessories like shoes and bags also helps. If you’re wearing a patterned dress, pair it with black heels and a grey clutch to keep the look grounded. This way, the patterns become the focal point of your outfit without looking too busy. Neutral bases are key to making mixed patterns look stylish and put-together.
Combine Different Sizes of Patterns
Mixing different sizes of patterns adds depth and interest to your outfit. The trick is to pair smaller patterns with larger ones to create a balanced look. This contrast helps each pattern stand out without clashing.
Start with a small, subtle pattern as your base. A tiny floral print or small polka dots can form the foundation. Then, add a larger, bolder pattern. For instance, pair a small floral top with trousers that have oversized stripes or a big check pattern. The difference in size will make the outfit visually appealing and balanced.
Keep the colours in mind when combining patterns. Using a common colour in both patterns can tie the look together. For example, if your small pattern has hints of blue, pick a larger pattern that includes blue as well. This makes the transition between patterns more seamless.
Mixing different sizes of patterns might seem tricky at first, but with a bit of practice, it becomes second nature. This technique allows you to create unique and stylish outfits effortlessly.
Balance Bold Patterns with Subtle Ones
Balancing bold patterns with more subtle ones is a smart way to create stylish outfits without looking too busy. When combining patterns, if one piece is loud and colourful, the other should be more understated. This way, the bold pattern becomes the focal point while the subtle one provides harmony.
For instance, you can pair a vibrant, geometric-patterned top with a soft, pastel-striped skirt. The bold geometric pattern stands out, but the stripes complement it without overpowering the look. This balance helps to keep the outfit visually appealing.
When in doubt, stick to a colour scheme. If your bold pattern features bright reds and yellows, choose subtle patterns in the same colour family. This keeps the overall look cohesive and pleasing to the eye. Balancing bold patterns with subtler ones helps create a fashionable and balanced outfit that catches attention in the right way.
Add Accessories to Complete the Look
Accessories are the finishing touch that can make an outfit look well-put-together. When mixing and matching patterns, choosing the right accessories can tie everything together. Keep it simple to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
Neutral accessories are a safe bet when your outfit features mixed patterns. Think black belts, nude shoes, and silver or gold jewellery. These staples can complement any patterned outfit without clashing. For instance, if you’re wearing a mix of floral and striped pieces, a pair of black heels and a simple clutch can complete the look.
However, if you want to add a bit of flair, choose one accessory that also features a pattern. A patterned scarf or bag can enhance your outfit, especially if it includes a colour from your clothes. Just ensure that the additional pattern isn’t too bold, so it doesn't compete for attention. Adding the right accessories can elevate your style and make your mixed-pattern outfits shine.
Final Thoughts
Mixing and matching patterned clothes can transform your wardrobe into a canvas for creativity. By starting with a neutral base, combining different sizes of patterns, balancing bold patterns with subtle ones, and choosing the right accessories, you can create eye-catching and stylish outfits with ease. Each step helps to build a balanced and harmonious look that highlights your unique fashion sense.
At Virgo Boutique, we offer a wide range of patterned clothing and accessories to inspire your next fashion statement. Visit our online boutique today to explore our collection and experiment with patterns like a pro. Let's make your wardrobe as vibrant and stylish as you are!
