Ok readers, we can all admit that we’ve had one of those rushed yet creative mornings where we were standing in our closet trying to decide what to wear and amidst that closet FULL of clothes, we just simply could not find anything to wear! So tapping into our creative spirit, the solution that felt right at the time was to throw something crazy together (like an outfit full of different patterns) and run out the door, fingers crossed that passersby would keep their opinions that we looked completely ridiculous to themselves, or that perhaps, at least one person might actually like the jumbled mess of an outfit.
We get this crazy idea to mix prints because after all, if our style icon Carrie can do it, and celebs can do it, shouldn’t we be able to? True – this whole pattern-mixing phenomenon may look a little bizarre to some. Nevertheless, if done correctly (and assuming you own the look and rock it), it can come off fantastically chic.
Whitney Port shows us how it's done! Bravo!
Good news! Mixing patterns and prints is a YES – especially right now! However, to avoid looking like a hot mess, there are just a few guidelines that all women should take into consideration . So ladies, follow these few simple steps and you’ll be making an outfit of mixed prints look effortlessly chic instead of looking like your grandmother’s closet of plaid and polka dots just threw up all over you. Before you know it you’ll be looking like you stepped right off the runway!
1. Find a base color. This is the first and most important step. Have the base color appear in each of the prints, whether you choose 2 or 3 prints to work with. This repeat of color will tie all the patterns together and give them a common tone.
2. Work with patterns that are different from each other. You don’t want any pattern be too similar to another. The key is contrast. Try balancing a larger, bolder print with a smaller, softer print. A great example of this is pairing a large, bold stripe or gingham print with a soft floral or paisley print.
3. Mix old with new. Let’s face it, in this economy we simply cannot afford to run out to the mall every time we want a new outfit or find ourselves staring blankly into our closets. The best way to keep your look fresh and to fake “new” outfits is by mixing and matching pieces. Of course, your inner shopping diva who has no awareness of your limited budget or that your rent is due tomorrow will sometimes win out and force you right over to the mall. When this happens, take clothes from your closet with you, or wear them out on your shopping trip so that you can find new pieces to coordinate with them that make them feel new again.
bevello's version of mixing prints!
Mixing this striped GLAM top ($45) with a paisley printed scarf ($25) is a definite YES! Pair the look with a simple denim jean like these Anoname jeans for $110 and for those cooler nights throw on this Aryn K. white summer blazer for $123 (notice the oh-so-subtle tiny blue & white stripe on the cuffed lining of the jacket - I love it). All available at your beloved bevello. Ta-da!
So now it’s your turn fellow bevelloans. What do you think of the pattern-on-pattern look? What are some of your favorite ways or tips to wear prints? Will you or have you tried it?
