How To Mix Prints Like a Fashionista

Most people don’t think to mix prints and patterns when they’re styling an outfit.

Clown clothes is what used to come to mind whenever I thought about mixing prints.

It’s something I always wanted to be confident enough to do, but clown immediately came to mind.

I thought I’d look like I escaped from the circus and was secretly trying to disguise myself in a train wreck of Goodwill finds and colors. But once I changed my perspective and studied how to do it successfully, I found it to be really fun, bold and unique.

If you’ve ever found yourself intrigued by how fashionistas mix prints and patterns, this post is for you.

I’ll walk you through how to mix prints and patterns and give you a little outfit inspo on the side. Before you know it, you’ll be an expert of this bold fashion statement. From beginner friendly looks to mastering your mix up.

Beginner Stylist

If you’re just starting out with mixing prints and patterns, you may not want to hop right into different colors and crazy patterns. With that being said, I’ll let you in on a simple tip for beginners.

That is sticking with black and white patterns and prints.

Black and white prints are the easiest to start off with. Naturally, the hues are usually paired and they look less busy together.

Something about the cohesiveness of the hues creates a well put together outfit. This then gives you more creative room to play with patterns when you’re not focused on colors that clash.

Another simple tip coming right at you; stripes are a must.

I may be bias because I love a good black and white striped top, but they’re really so versatile and easy.

Stripes pair well with black and white polka dots, houndstooth and checkered prints.

Intermediate Icon

Moving on to something a little more spicy; this is where the fun really begins.

We started off with like colors. Next, it’s time to move on to like patterns.

My personal favorite patterns are a mix of animal and tribal print. Nothing brings out your inner Goddess and Warrior more than the two.

The key to mixing the two prints is finding a common undertone. The leopard pants have brown and black in them. Although the shirt I’m wearing is primarily a mix of gold/ yellow, it also has hints of brown and black in it.

I like to find a mutual color in both prints and use that color as a marker for my accessories.

In addition to finding a common undertone, another trick is to pair your print with another monochromatic print of the same color.

For example, if you’d usually pair the leopard pants with a plain black top, pair it with a black tribal top or black print of your choice.

Leopard print is considered a neutral in the fashion world. This is also the same for camouflage.

Ultimate Fashionista

Now that we’ve cat-walked through how to mix prints on a beginner and intermediate level, it’s time for the grand finale.

This is where we separate the babies from the fashionistas who wear big people pants or panties.

Last but not least, mixing prints that are contrasting.

All clown jokes aside, this is probably my favorite look. I feel like it takes a little bit of beginner and intermediate level and makes a fashion love child with it.

The most important thing when mixing contrasting prints and patterns is a common base color. In this case, it’s black. Another element that ties the outfit together is the accessories. I chose to do a pop of color because red is always the answer, and I felt it complimented both pieces. However, this outfit could have easily used black accessories for a classic look.

Overall the takeaway is to avoid mixing prints and patterns that have absolutely nothing in common because that’s how the clown comes out to play.

As stated in my recent post on Thrifted Cheetah, you can’t be afraid to take risks and you have to own your style and rock it.

Outfit Details

Look 1:

Mock Neck Top: Shein

Skirt: Forever 21

Belt: Discovery Clothing

Shoes: Puma, Boots: Qupid

Bag: Vintage YSL

Look 2:

Shirt: Thrifted (The Territory Ahead) – Mens

Pants: Walmart (Time and Tru)

Belt: Discovery Clothing

Shoes: UrbanOG, Heels: Forever 21

Bag: Discovery Clothing (I think) 😂

Look 3:

Peplum Blouse: Walmart (Eloquii)

Pants: Shein

Belt: Discovery Clothing

Shoes: Rainbow, Heels: UrbanOG (Olivia Ferragamo)

Bag: Thrifted