four tips to pull off mixed prints

The great thing about the Internet? There are so many incredible outfits to inspire your next look. Whether that inspiration comes from a celebrity appearance or a well-known blogger…. finding great fashion has never been easier. Lately I have been head over heels for mixed prints. I love the way pieces that traditionally would not be worn together somehow bring out the best in each piece. It works, even though it shouldn’t. Despite the popularity of this trend, it can seem tricky (if not impossible) to wear. How can you tell what goes and what doesn’t? Keep reading. These tips will help you pull off mixed prints all season long.

Start Small and Build Up Your Confidence. Mixing two prints together can be difficult enough, let alone mixing three or four prints seamlessly! Before you dive in headfirst, start out small. Try mixing black and white prints together. Maybe a black and white polka dot blouse with a black and white gingham print skirt. Or black and white stripes on top and a black and white cross print on the bottom. Starting with similar colour families ensures the prints work together cohesively.

Choose One Dominant Print. Not all prints are made the same or have the same scale. One pair of pants might have a large and oversized floral print while another may have a daintier floral print. Use these differences to your advantage! When you are just starting to mix prints, choose one print to be the dominant one. Pick a larger print on either the top or bottom. Then pair it with a print that is smaller and less obvious. This will help you mix prints worry free.

Break It Up With Solid Sections. The best way to mix prints with ease is to include a solid colour. Even though there is still plenty of print going on, it doesn't need to take over the entire piece. When in doubt, break things up with solid colours. That might mean an accessory in a solid colour, a blazer, or another part of your outfit. Not only will this make the prints pop more – but it will give you the balance you crave.

Go As Far As You Feel Comfortable. The real key to mixing prints well is to trust your gut. You don’t need to layer on every single print in your closet to look fashion forward. Try things out, get creative, and play around. Then make decisions based on the way you feel in the outfit. Love the way two specific prints look together? Can’t get enough of that tropical print with stripes? Follow your heart and only go as far as you feel comfortable. After all, fashion isn’t just about following trends. It is about representing who you are.

There are so many great ways to embrace prints, patterns, and colour. And even more amazing ways to put it all together. How will you wear mixed prints this season?