The Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Prints and Patterns
Have you ever looked at someone wearing prints and patterns and wondered how they managed to pull it off effortlessly? Well, it’s all about knowing the dos and don’ts of this fashion trend. Prints and patterns can add vibrancy, excitement, and creativity to your outfits, but if done wrong, they can also create a fashion disaster. To help you navigate this bold fashion terrain, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when wearing prints and patterns.
Dos:
1. Mix and Match: One of the most exciting aspects of wearing prints and patterns is that you can mix different ones together to create a unique and eye-catching look. Pair a floral top with a striped skirt or a polka dot shirt with a plaid blazer. Experiment with different combinations and play with contrasting colors to create visual interest.
2. Start Small: If you’re new to wearing prints and patterns, it’s advisable to start small. Begin with subtle patterns like pinstripes or smaller prints that are less overwhelming. As you gain confidence, you can gradually move on to bolder and larger patterns.
3. Use Patterns to Enhance Body Shape: Prints and patterns can be a great way to enhance or balance your body shape. If you have a smaller frame, opt for smaller, delicate prints to create the illusion of curves. Conversely, if you have a fuller figure, larger prints can help to camouflage problem areas while drawing attention to your overall look.
4. Accessorize Thoughtfully: When wearing prints and patterns, it’s essential to choose accessories that complement and enhance your outfit rather than compete with it. Go for solid-colored accessories that match one of the colors present in your print or pattern. For example, if you’re wearing a floral dress with pink flowers, choose a solid pink handbag or shoes.
5. Play with Neutral Colors: Incorporating neutral colors into your outfit can help to balance out bold prints and patterns. Pair a colorful patterned top with neutral bottoms, or vice versa. Neutrals like black, white, beige, and gray can tone down the boldness of prints and allow them to take center stage.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid Mixing Too Many Prints: While mixing prints can be a fun and fashion-forward choice, it’s vital to strike the right balance. Avoid wearing too many different prints and patterns in one outfit as it can result in a chaotic and overwhelming look. Stick to sticking to two different patterns maximum in one ensemble.
2. Don’t Clasp Patterns: When wearing multiple patterns, avoid wearing similar prints together, such as a striped top with striped pants. This can create a visual clash and make your outfit look too matchy-matchy. Instead, choose patterns that differ in scale or style, like pairing a large floral print with a small polka dot pattern.
3. Avoid Pattern Overload: While we encourage you to have fun with prints, it’s crucial not to overpower your entire outfit with them. If your top, bottoms, and accessories are all heavily patterned, it can create a busy and confusing look. Instead, balance the prints by pairing them with solid-colored pieces. For example, if you’re wearing a patterned skirt, pair it with a solid-colored blouse or t-shirt.
4. Don’t Forget about Fit: Regardless of the pattern or print you choose, ensure that your clothing fits well. Ill-fitting clothing can make even the most stylish prints look sloppy and unflattering. Pay attention to the proportions, lengths, and cuts of your garments to create a polished and put-together look.
5. Avoid Clashing Colors: It’s essential to choose prints and patterns with complementary colors. Clashing colors can create discord and confuse the eye. Stick to a color palette that works harmoniously together. If you’re unsure, stick to colors within the same family or consult a color wheel for guidance.
In conclusion, wearing prints and patterns can be a fun and exciting endeavor if you follow some simple guidelines. Remember to mix and match, start small, and use prints to enhance your body shape. Accessorize thoughtfully, incorporate neutral colors, and avoid mixing too many prints in one outfit. Lastly, don’t forget about fit and avoid clashing colors. With these dos and don’ts in mind, you’ll be able to confidently embrace the world of prints and patterns and create stunning outfits that make a statement.
