Getting a handle on Patterns

Using and especially mixing patterns can seem scary and intimidating but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be a lot of fun.

Patterns are related in size to you and any other pattern you are wearing. Match your principal pattern size to your body size: small with small build, medium with medium build, etc.

The general guidelines are that patterns can be mixed if they are the same or opposites. For instance, two medium sized prints can go together IF they do not make up the ENTIRE look.

A good example that works would be a printed tie and a printed shirt with a solid jacket or vest.

If you want to mix top and bottom prints the opposite rule applies. A large print could be on the shirt (argyle or paisley, for instance) with a small print on the pants (like pinstripes).

A good body balancing tip is to put the larger print on the part of your body that is larger.

As far as mixing goes you can either look to the actual patterns, stripes, plaids or the colours. Use patterns that look pleasing to the eye together either because they are similar patters, perhaps, all stripes or use a similar colour scheme, for instance a plaid with a argyle sweater in the same colours could look very sharp.

Give your closet and accessories a fresh look. Who knows, you may have pattern combinations just waiting to be tried. And next time you are shopping don’t avoid the patterns. Try on the ones you are drawn to and are the size of patterns that work best for your body. As always, wear what you feel comfortable in and let your personality shine through.