MIXOLOGY 101

So, mixing prints can seem daunting, but I think the first and only rule of mixing prints — and fashion generally — is that it should be fun. Let’s say you mix a print and it looks weird. Who cares? You had fun and took a risk, and probably learned something in the process.

With that in mind, let’s talk about some easy ways to mix prints. This is obviously not an exhaustive list or rules to follow (because THERE ARE NO RULES), just a helpful guide if you want to elevate your current wardrobe. By adding new pairings within your current wardrobe, you’re basically increasing outfit choices without spending a cent.

Tip One: Try Different Patterns with the Same Colors:

• 

• 

The easiest way to mix prints is to find items in your wardrobe with the same colors, regardless of the similarity of pattern. It just works. As you can see in the first photo in the above gallery, I just repeated the red, white and black pattern throughout all of the elements of the outfit. However, you don’t have to match all of the colors. In that second photo, the blue and white colors are present in the blouse, skirt and shoes, but the primary color of the blouse is red.

Want some additional, shop-able looks to help you understand the concept? You’re in luck because I curated some for you. **Note that I’ve changed the way links work — just click on the item description and it’ll open in a new window — as I found the other way not very user friendly**

Any one of these blouses would pair wonderfully with that skirt:

I love these menswear inspired pants with that gorgeous floral turtleneck for a fun office outfit:

• 

• 

And, I’d really love to see these two items paired together.

• 

• 

Tip Two: Mixing the Same Print in Either the Different Colors or on Different Scales is Always a Winner

There are many traditional patterns — e.g., polka dot and houndstooth, to name a few — that you’ll always find in your closet and in-store. An easy way to mix prints is to mix one specific print, either on different scales or in different colors.

This polka dot skirt and shirt have the same pattern in different colors would look incredible together.

• 

• 

And this oversized-print houndstooth sweater is perfect with the smaller prints of either those houndstooth pants or skirt:

• 

• 

• 

Tip Three: Certain Patterns Can Do Double Duty as a Neutral

There are some prints — e.g., plaids, herringbones and tweeds — that are basically neutrals. Polka dots can also fall in that category at times, like those Manolo Blahnik Hangisi pumps pictured above. These prints are great because they don’t necessarily need to match the other print you’re wearing in order to work. One rule of thumb that will help you navigate this tip: the smaller the print, the safer the pairing. In addition, prints in more neutral colors such as navy blue, black, beige or white tend to be more versatile. Below are a few examples of how this works.

The subtle herringbone-esque pattern on these slate jacquard pants will go with all the things, including this insanely gorgeous Rotate blouse:

• 

• 

And I love these plaid joggers with this red patterned sweatshirt for a weird but totally awesome pairing. Just add a simple pair of crisp white sneakers.

• 

• 

Finally, this houndstooth skirt and floral shirt skirt the line between feminine and masculine:

• 

• 

I hope this helps you on your journey to mixing prints. As always, feel free to ask questions in the comments section.