How to Wear Patterns

Wearing patterns can be a fun way to give you wardrobe a boost. The trick is finding the right ones, and combining them in fresh ways, to make you and your clothing take center stage.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Flowered dresses
• Pinstripe pants
• Print bag
• Patchwork skirt
• Print wrap dress
• Animal print scarf
• Patterned bracelet

1. Look for subtle prints that will be timeless additions to your wardrobe. Pinstripes, tiny flower sprigs and miniature polka dots can add interest to your clothes without going overboard.
2. Invest in some bold flower prints. Notice how the color combinations can vary the impact of the same print. For instance, a black and white floral pattern can be sophisticated and understated, while the same pattern in bright green and yellow can be young and fresh. Play with different looks to get one that suits your style and your mood.
3. Use patterns strategically to create the illusion of the body you wish you had. A bright print can accentuate your best features. If you have a small, toned upper half and larger hips and thighs, opt for patterns above the waist to call attention to this area, and go for darker pants or a skirt to balance yourself out. Or, if your upper body is wider and your legs are very slim, then select a fuller print skirt and pair it with a solid top.
4. Take a lesson from the runway and pair different patterns together for bohemian chic. Study examples from top stylists in fashion magazines and websites to see how to do this like a pro. Generally, you will want to find some common color or theme to two different patterns to help them relate to each other. For instance, a green, red and brown striped top and a floral skirt can work if there is some continuity in the color scheme.
5. Buy patterned dresses, which work well on most ages and body shapes, and are an easy way to ease this trend into your life. Silky wrap dresses with flowers, stripes and other prints can work well year-round. Summer dresses in flower prints can also be an easy way to achieve the look without much effort.
6. Realize that investing in pieces with animal prints are a safe bet, as these are always in style and can make any outfit look fresh. Look for scarves, tops and pants with this on it.
7. Play it safe by adding patterns in your accessories, rather than your clothes. Look for patterned tights and leggings, patterned bracelets, print bags and necklaces with lots going on.

Tips & Warnings

• Master the multi-patterned look without the risk by buying skirts, dresses and tops that are made from fabric that is already a patchwork of different prints.
• Ask for a second opinion if you are mixing prints and aren't quite sure how they look. Sometimes it's hard to judge for yourself and you want to be sure your look works before you head out the door.
• Avoid buying prints that overpower you. Just because something is "in" doesn't mean it will work for you. Select patterns, colors and cuts that suit your figure and your style, so you will always look your best.