Scared to mix prints? These mixing patterns outfit ideas make bold style a breeze, whether you’re a beginner or just looking for new angles to try!
Mixing prints can feel intimidating—I get it. As a teen, I dodged clashing patterns after seeing all the shade thrown at them, and nobody wants to look ridiculous. But then I remembered this Disney Channel music video where a girl rocked polka dots, checks, and stripes—and she was the neighborhood’s style icon. What an inspiration to be different. That’s proof you can master how to mix prints!
My 5 genius tips, each with a styled print outfit, show you how to style prints with ease. Whether you’re channeling your inner maximalist or stretching your closet, these looks will elevate your style game. From mixing floral and stripes to this year’s bold vibes, your outfits are sure to make a statement.
Ready to master prints? Let’s dive in!
How to style prints with neutrals
A great way to kick off pattern mixing for beginners is with neutral colorways. Neutrals create harmony, making them perfect for mixing patterns outfit ideas using minimalist pieces from your capsule wardrobe. Neutrals never have to be boring, and my styling method proves it.
Try pairing a print accessory, like a vintage scarf, with a classic pattern, like a black and white polka dot skirt. Ground it with solid neutrals—a sleeveless black mock neck top, black boots, and a black handbag—in the outfit’s color palette. This outfit is a chic, easy win that builds confidence for bolder pairings. Add a matching cardigan, and you have the perfect print mixing look for the office.
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Break up bold prints with a solid accessory
My favorite way to master how to mix prints is with an accessory in a solid color, like a waist belt. It adds shape and creates a demarcation line to ground mixing patterns outfits, even in a contrasting color.
For pattern mixing for beginners, choose two-color prints and cinch the look with a solid-colored waistbelt or Obi belt. For polish, finish with matching shoes and accessories, and add a jacket. This outfit blends whimsy with structure, making bold prints approachable.
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Choose one color to dominate your patterned outfit
To make mixing patterns outfit ideas look cohesive, pick one color to dominate—about 2/3 of your look. Black is a safe bet, but any color, especially your most flattering ones, works. Choose layers and accessories in your dominant color to tie the mixed print outfit together for a style that looks fully done on purpose—because it is!
Pro-Tip: Black and white patterns pair well with colorful prints, as these colors complement nearly everything.
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Mixing patterns outfit Ideas with stripes
Try mixing patterns clothes with a classic print like stripes paired with a busier design. For pattern mixing for beginners, soft pinstripes give a subtle vibe, while bold, thick stripes embrace maximalist style.
Follow the dominating color rule from the last tip, and use that to style your outfit together. Also, your color doesn’t have to match exactly; a tonal color will work, too. For example, I chose a neutral navy to tonally match the cool blue in my outfit, above. Consider a striped top with a floral skirt or pair of pants, with a silver chain belt for a mix n match color outfit that pops!
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Pattern mixing by matching colors
Okay, for this next one, we’re tackling mixed prints with multiple colors! Things will get busy—but in a good way, when you follow this styling method. All you have to do is choose one or more matching colors in each piece to mix prints. Instead of juxtaposing with color, you’re juxtaposing with prints, as if your pieces were sewn together for an incredible statement.
Opt for matching accessories or neutral ones to ground your mix n match color outfit (including shoes). When it works, it really works, delivering pure mixing patterns fashion fire!
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Mixing patterns outfit ideas tips
Ready to take your mixing patterns outfit ideas to the next level? Here’s the ultimate cheat sheet:
- Look for mixed media and mixed print pieces for inspiration while shopping.
- Shop your closet by pulling all your printed and patterned pieces, laying them on your bed, and grouping them based on matching colors, tonal families, or contrasting colors.
- Find unique patterns at vintage shops, secondhand stores, or when thrifting.
- Choose one metal for your jewelry and keep it minimal until you’re more comfortable mixing and matching.
- Ready for more? Try matching colored jewelry and accessories to your outfit.
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Mixing patterns outfits are your key to bold, iconic style! These 5 tips—neutrals, solid accessories, one dominant color, stripes with prints, matching colors, and my master cheat sheet—make mixing prints a total breeze. Play with different patterns outfits, like paisley with stripes or polka dots with plaid, to own your mixing patterns fashion game. Maximalist style or low-key, these mixing patterns clothes tricks bring the heat.
I’d love to know what mix n match color outfit you come up with, so let me know in the comments or tag me on social media!
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