Print mixing is a trend that has been in the fashion world for years now and is here to stay. Adding different colors and patterns to an outfit is a great way to make an otherwise plain ensemble look fresh and chic. But mastering the art of print mixing is not as easy as it sounds–it takes skill and knowledge to pair prints for a fashionable look. In this article, we explore the basics of mastering print mixing and how to pair prints for a stylish and well-put-together ensemble.
1. Unleashing the Power of Print Mixing
Break out of your comfort zone and be daring with your wardrobe by . Print mixing can add variety and vibrancy to any summer outfit, and is a trend that can be easily achieved.
Here are our top tips for incorporating a print mixing frenzy into your wardrobe this summer:
- Scarf Tying – be creative with your scarf tying techniques by taking a patterned scarf and tying it around your neck, waist or hair for a fun and interesting alternative.
- Level It Up – wearing a bold pattern does not mean you have to limit it to one item – mix it up with different colours. Go for bold inclusions such as leopard print pants with a polka dot dress for a well-balanced look.
- Stick To Simple Patterns – when wearing statement pieces stick to smaller patterns. Try match it with tribal style jewellery, an unstructured kaftan or a wide-brimmed straw hat to stay fashionable.
- Mix Patterns With Solids – If you are a beginner, an easy way to accomplish this is to mix patterns with solids. Try combining a patterned maxi skirt with a solid top or a striped dress with plain sandals for a cohesive look.
Once you are comfortable with the basics of print mixing, start experimenting with bright palettes and shoes. With the correct execution, print mixing can be the perfect way to express your uniqueness and individuality.
Whether it is colours, designs or textures you choose to pair together, print mixing gives you the power to create summer looks unlike any other.
2. An Introduction to Making a Fashion Statement with Clashing Prints
In fashion, clashing prints is a fun way to make a statement. It’s not for everyone, but those who love to experiment with their style often find that clashing prints can be a great way to express oneself. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of clashing prints fashion.
Choose the Right Prints
It is important to pick prints that are not only visually pleasing but are also complementary. You want to choose two or more prints that contrast without clashing too much. Find the common denominator between the prints and try to blend them harmoniously.
Pair the Prints In the Right Proportions
- Don’t mix too many prints all at once.
- Don’t forget to match scale — meaning that the two prints should not be too far apart in the subtle to bold scale.
- Choose a centerpiece — the one statement piece that will be the focus of your look.
Be mindful that larger prints are often used sparingly and smaller prints are used in great excess to give the look more structure. It’s helpful to create a visual outline of the proportions between the prints you are wearing so that the look does not become too chaotic.
Be Mindful of Color Combination
Colors play a major role when it comes to clashing prints, and it is important to choose shades that go together without washing each other out. When choosing color, find an underlying tone and then match complementary colors to this tone. Also, keep your color combination to only two or three shades.
3. Nailing the Basics of Matching Patterns and Colors
Matching patterns and colors sounds simple enough, but it can actually be a bit daunting. How do you pick the right colors and patterns, and how do you make sure they work together?
Know the Undertones – Every shade or hue has an undertone, which is the underlying color that influences the shade’s temperature and intensity. When matching colors, it’s important to consider these undertones and how they interact. For example, a pinkish-purple shade may have an underlying blue tone, while a yellow may have a brown undertone.
Choose Complimentary Colors – Knowing which colors go together is key when matching patterns and colors. To determine complementary colors, look at the classic color wheel. Generally, colored opposites make good companions.
Identify a Common Color – If there are several patterns and colors that you want to use together, identify a common color element that links them together. This means that if there are several shades of blue, striped patterns, and floral designs, you may want to pick out a solid blue fabric to tie together all the elements.
Other things to consider when matching patterns and colors is the weight of fabrics, prints, scale, the season, and sustainability. Even if you don’t know all the tips and tricks, practice makes perfect. With enough practice, you’ll soon find that the basics of matching patterns and colors will come naturally.
4. Taking Your Style Game to the Next Level with Print Mixing
One of the most fun ways to wear your wardrobe is to mix prints. The key to print-mixing success is to stick to colors that work well together—like navy, teal, and emerald. Keep the amount of clashing prints to a minimum. A good rule-of-thumb is print-on-print-on-solid.
1. Pick Your Combination
Start with a classic combination like stripes and polka dots, or stars and florals, that will match effortlessly. Create interest by using prints in different scales. Mix small, medium, and large prints to avoid a too-monotone look. Play with textures instead of patterns, like mixing tweed with silks.
2. Choose the Right Colours
The colors you choose for your print mixes are just as important as the prints themselves. Stick to a common color palette — if you choose to mix a green floral print with a navy geometric print, pick shades of green and navy that go together. Don’t be afraid to mix bold colors, too! It’s a great way to add fun and vibrancy to your look.
3. Balance Out the Proportions
An easy way to make sure your look isn’t too busy is to balance out your prints. Choose one larger pattern and mix it with smaller prints. This will prevent your ensemble from becoming too overwhelming. Put a plain coat or jacket over the look to take it from day to night, or if you feel it’s a tad too busy.
4. Have Fun
Don’t be afraid to experiment with print-mixing. You may not always pull off the look but don’t let that stop you from trying again. It takes practice and creativity to master the art of mix-and-match. Have fun with it, and break the rules until you have developed your own signature style!
Mixing prints may seem intimidating, but wit some basics knowledge, you can confidently create stylish ensembles. Check out our guide to mastering print mixing for an extra spark to your fashion wardrobe. Take your look to the next level and confidently pair prints like a pro!