The Beginner’s Guide to Pattern Mixing

One of the first fashion lessons you learned when you started dressing yourself was probably not to mix plaids with stripes. While, just like not wearing black with brown, times have changed and the fashionable masses are changing the rules.

Pattern mixing may seem a little counter-intuitive, but it’s actually quite easy. I’m going to give you some beginner tips, and then show you how you can put them to use!

  1. Try mixing patterns on top, with a cami and cardigan or blazer, and keep your bottom half pattern-free.
  2. Start with neutral or more classic color palettes, like black and white with denim, when you’re first trying this trend. You can add color later if you’re feeling more adventurous, or punch up your outfit with colorful accessories.
  3. Keep size in mind. If you want to ease yourself into the mix, look for smaller prints like those with thinner lines and smaller dots. You can also try one bolder pattern with another that’s more subtle.
  4. Pick pieces that you like separately. Not only will it be more likely that you’ll wear them again, but chances are you will like them together too.
  5. Make sure your pattern mixing looks intentional. Don’t go overboard, but at the same time, forget any preconceived notions that certain patterns can’t look good together.

Dots & Stripes

Floral & Ikat

Plaid & Dots

Stripes & Leopard Print

Dotted Sateen Tank: Gap, Striped Blazer: LOFT

Floral Top: Forever 21, Ikat Pants: Forever 21

Gingham Button Down: Old Navy, Chambray Shorts: C. Wonder

Striped Dress: LOFT, Leopard Belt: Target, Pink Wedges: LOFT

P.S. For more inspiration, check out my girl Tara over at Mix & Match Fashion!

Meet Sam

Hello and welcome to La Petite Pear! My name is Sam, and this is where I share curve-friendly, affordable style + favorite products, destinations, and a look at life as a toddler mom in New York.

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20 Comments

  1. Ruby Girl wrote:

    this is such a smart post! i’m sure it would be helpful to many. i always love gingham & polka dots together. so classic prepster!

    xoxo linds
    my style blog :: Ruby Girl

    Posted 5.7.13
    • Thanks so much, Linds! Hope I can help the fashionably overwhelmed 🙂 xo

      P.S. LOVE your blog!

      Posted 5.8.13
  2. Elena wrote:

    This is fantastic! Super helpful – not only the list, but also the outfit inspiration. You’re the best!

    Posted 5.7.13
    • Thanks for the idea to do a how-to, and of course, your unending support!

      Posted 5.8.13
  3. Tara wrote:

    Yes, pattern mixing is not that bad when you put it this way 🙂 Thank you so much for the shout out!

    Posted 5.7.13
    • Yes, exactly! Thanks for being an inspiration to my inner pattern lover 🙂

      Posted 5.8.13
  4. Erica wrote:

    Love this post!! Pattern mixing is all about the subtle mix of prints!

    Posted 5.7.13
    • You are so right! It doesn’t have to be totally in your face. In fact, subtle patterns are often better. Thanks girl!

      Posted 5.8.13

Comments are closed.