Rules for Mixing Patterns and Textures

by Sadsam
(Brooklyn)

Christian Lacroix, Emanuel Ungaro, Etro

What are the rules for mixing different textures, and also how do I mix patterns?



Mixing different textures and patterns is a fabulous way to create more variety in your outfits, giving your outfit some interesting depth which is definitely a must if you want to take a more individualistic and personal approach to dressing.

Yes, mixing patterns and textures can be tricky, which is why most people say they'd never do it. But seriously, it can look amazing if done correctly!

Here are the right ways to mixing patterns and textures:

1. Vary the scale of the patterns.

Wearing medium/large with small patterns create balance. However mixing large patterns make your outfit look overpowering, or combining two or more small prints make your overall appearance busy.

In outfit #1, thin striped 'RVCA' tee balances well with a skirt in large floral print from Tilly's. You can also add some texture with grainy leather flats and gold 'Maricella's Starburst Bib' statement necklace.


2. Look for very different patterns and textures that won’t compete with each other.

Wearing two super-bold patterns makes it look like you got dressed drunk or in the dark.

Instead, combine a large floral skirt with a versatile two-tone striped top. Or black lace tights with a plaid shirt. Or solid leather leggings with a cozy wool knit.

In outfit #2 I've demonstrated how completely different textures like '6126 by Lindsay Lohan' wet look/leather leggings, a comfy knit sweater (Forever 21) and white canvas Converse hi-top sneakers can synergistically create a cool and casual outfit.


3. Make sure that they are in the same color family .

Your patterns should share the same color scheme. Like, if your paisley top is orange, teal and beige, your plaid skirt should have some orange, teal and/ beige to it, or anything similar (same color, but different nuance) to those colors.



Note: If you're wearing a basic black and white stripe tee you're more free to combine it with whatever print piece you like because black and white are versatile and work with almost anything. This also includes brown, gray and navy blue.

In outfit #3 I used an abstract print blouse (net-a-porter) together with a paisley short skirt (Forever 21) in the same color scheme as an example -- a little bit of white/cream, blue and reds. To tone it down you can add a simple black belt (by Michael Kors) around your waist along with black wedge gladiator sandals (Enzo Angiolini Nilla from Piperlime). By spreading the colors evenly (black shoes and belt with gold details) with the patterns you'll achieve a more pulled together femme-chic look!


4. Break it up with a basic, solid color to even it out a bit.

This make your outfit look more balanced and modern. Sometimes patterns work well together if they’re completely on top of each other. For example, pair ark blue jeans or black skinnys with a pair of cute multi colored ballerina flats and a print top. You can also break a print top and skirt with a black wide belt or black cardigan.

Adding basic colors is one of the best strategies to wearing prints subtly. In outfit #4 I mixed 'Seraphine' brown snake skin high heel ankle boots (mytheresa.com) with solid dark blue wide leg jeans and a cute polkadot chiffon polkadot blouse (by designer 3.1 Phillip Lim) for an ultra-sweet look with a trendy flair to it.


5. Some patterns can be neutrals.

Think tweed skirts and dress pants or small houndstooth. And even black and white, navy blue and white. They are so classic and understated, they become a neutral. If you decide to base your outfit on such basic patterns, make sure you add a couple of other multi colored accents, like a paisley scarf.


5. Don’t go overly matchy-matchy.

Similar polka dot patterns on head and toe make it look like you’re following rule number one. Like your outfit is too well-thought and predictable. It just isn't exciting to look at. Add a few surprises.