How to Mix and Match Prints: Get the Rules Here

I change fashion obsessions like I change my underwear. Some of my past loves include the denim on denim look and these trendy DIY accessories.

But this trend has them all beat: mixing and matching prints. Tricky? Yes. Disastrous when misfired? Indeed. But the good news is, once you learn the rules, you can mash up just about any print or pattern and look really fashion forward (here's proof).

Click here to see our instructional guide
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Then, scroll down for quick tips from fashion experts on how to pull off this look without clashing. And if you've got any tips to add, leave them in the comments section below.




Tip No. 1: Pair a neutral print with a busier one
If you're new at mixing prints, don't worry. There's actually a super easy way to get started: simply pair a simple, neutral print with a busier one. For example, wear a metallic stripe top with a muted floral skirt, or if you're going the opposite route, "pair a colorful floral with stripes, but keep the stripes tonal [two shades of the same color] and neutral," says Polk. This will allow one of the printed pieces to shine, while the other one supports it.





Tip No. 2: Try mixing prints in similar color groups
If you're afraid of going too crazy when mixing prints, try this trick: "Stick to prints that are in similar color groups," says Rygorsky. Not only will this help blend your look, but the juxtaposition of prints isn't quite as jarring. For example, a red and blue polka dot patterned top would look great with a red and blue plaid jacket. This works because "there is something in common among the patterns you are wearing," says Inlander.






Tip No. 3: Same print, different scales
Now, let's talk about different print sizes. A great way to wear two of the same prints is by mixing them in different sizes. Try a blouse with a large vertical stripe on it, and then pair it with a smaller pinstriped skirt. Or pair a large chevron pattern with a smaller chevron pattern to make both pieces pop. "This is not only visually interesting, but it tells people that you intended to wear it that way," says Rygorsk





Tip No. 4: Add a solid item to break up the prints
Sometimes, wearing too many prints can be headache-inducing. To prevent this effect, "find two prints that you love, and separate them with a solid," says Inlander. Just make sure you keep one print above the waist, and one below the waist -- like a plaid flannel shirt or scarf with solid black pants and leopard print flats. You can also try adding a solid-colored jacket to your printed look to give the eye a break and let the rest of your outfit stand out, says Rygorsky. Or use a smaller accent, like a wide solid-colored belt, to give the eye something to focus on.




Tip No. 5: Use prints to draw the eye where you want it to go
Another great thing about mixing prints? It's easy to use them to flatter your body type, because patterns naturally catch the eye. The trick is to wear a bright, playful print over the area you want to draw attention to, says Polk. On the flip side, keep the print simple and muted on the body parts that you want to downplay, says Rygorsky. "You also want to make sure that the larger of the prints is on the body part you are trying to highlight, and the smaller print is on the area from which you are trying to deflect attention," says Inlander. Small-busted? Wear a thick striped tank and a muted skirt with tiny florals. Love your legs? Wear a vibrant printed miniskirt with a darker print top.

For more tips on how to mix and match prints, click here.


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