I always have so much fun putting together outfits and it’s one of the activities that fuels my creativity the most! I am a huge fan of mixing prints, experimenting with different textures, and playing with color and in this post… I’m doing it all! Read on to see how you can mix patterns and textures like a pro!
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How to Mix Patterns and Textures Like a Pro
Outfit Details
Chicwish Top c/o (also available in cream and black) | Cece Skirt c/o (also has a matching denim jacket) | Kate Spade Coat (similar here) | LC Lauren Conrad Handbag (old – similar here) | Pink Bow Heels (similar here) | Alexandre de Paris Hair Clip c/o (similar here) | Rocksbox Ring
Everything single time I style an outfit, I always think about what I can do to make it more interesting and how I can make it really stand out and shine. While playing with prints is always a lot of fun (a few of my favorites are florals, polka dots, and stripes), I believe that the real magic comes from mixing textures. Even thought it’s basically the same idea, there is just something about mixing textures that instantly elevates an outfit. It’s fun and sophisticated! But what happens when you want to mix patterns AND textures? I think that the thought of this can overwhelm some but there’s an easy formula for it to ensure that you still look chic and put-together!
4 Ways to Mix Patterns and Textures
Find a Similar Color
Just like when you mix patterns, you’ll want to find a similar color that the two items have in common. For example, my floral skirt includes the same pink hue that my top does! For inspiration, draw colors from the print and start looking in your wardrobe for things that can work. Pair a few choices together until you find “the one.” If y0u can’t find a similar color, then try to use a neutral color or a similar color to the background of your print.
Use Solid Colors for Textured Items
Since a texture can sometimes read as a pattern, it’s important for it to be a solid color. It will look much more put together and won’t make your outfit look too busy. My top has a tonnn of texture – ruffles, Swiss dots AND appliqué – which can be a bit much for some people. If you’re just venturing into pairing prints with textures, I’d stick to a single texture (think lace, Swiss dots, ruffles, embellishments, eyelet, etc) 😉 For a super chic look, go for a more neutral color.
Pair Different Sizes Together
Just like with prints, you’ll want to pair different sizes together to balance one another. For example, I paired the larger texture of my top with the small print of my skirt and they compliment each other nicely! If you pair two similar sizes together then the overall look can be too chaotic.
Pull Together with a Solid Item
I highly recommend including a solid item to bring your outfit together! An outer layer like a solid coat, jacket, blazer or cardi will tone down the entire outfit and make it look more wearable. If you have a three piece look, you can actually do this with any of the pieces (example: solid bottom with textured top and patterned outer, solid top with pattern bottom and textured outer, solid outer with textured top and patterned bottom, etc). If you don’t want to use a topper to pull together your look, then go simpler on the texture or pattern and pair with solid accessories (handbag, shoes, etc).
Do you like to mix patterns and textures? If you haven’t, will you be giving this a try?
Let me know your thoughts!
xo
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