Written By Reagan Roper

Patterns and prints come in all shapes and sizes, and some people tend to shy away from statement-making pieces like these. I will be sharing some tips and tricks for how to style patterns so everyone can enjoy them! Patterns will not be going away any time soon. They will be long lived by interchanging colors and graphics. New patterns are always on the rise whether it’s colorful stripes, animal prints, or characters. There are many to choose from and many ways to wear them. 

Balance

The first way to style patterns is the most traditional. The trick is to create some balance so the pattern is eye-catching, but not overwhelming. Choose your favorite pattern whether it's on a pair of pants, a shirt, or even an accessory, and make your other article of clothing a corresponding color from that pattern. For example, if your shirt has white, brown, green and purple, try wearing brown pants so the outfit flows together and your pattern can still be admired. 

Mixing Patterns

When mixing patterns, they can tend to clash together and look like a hot mess. However, if you’ve got a colorful graphic print, neutral toned plaids pair really well with those kinds of prints. Plaid is still a pattern, but it creates rhythm between the graphics and colors. 

Accessorize 

While wearing statement-making pieces, matching accessories can make or break the look. If you’re able to find matching shoes or a bag to go with your staple piece, it will pull together the whole look. Matching patterned accessories can be hard to come by though, so you can also choose a pattern that has some of the same color properties that the first one had to turn heads!

Matching Prints

Sticking to the same print among all garments can create a subtle yet bold look. Monochrome colors have been popular in recent years. For example, wearing a green striped dress with a green striped jacket of a different tone will look flawless! Some people tend to be scared of complimentary colors but if you stay within the same pattern range and switch up the colors, you will look like a fashion icon. Don’t be afraid to play with the color wheel and step outside of your comfort zone!

Wearing patterns and prints can be scary sometimes if you don’t know how to pair them, but what’s most important is that you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. Try out these tips and own the next room that you walk into!