Wednesday, August 20, 2014

What Everybody Ought to Know About Pattern Mixing (5 Secrets That Make All the Difference)

Ever try to wade into the pool of pattern mixing and feel overwhelmed? Or feel like you might look crazy for wearing two non-matching things? I am here to take away that fear and break down the rules of pattern mixing into five simple (yet essential) tips.
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Hey there! My name is Maria Wendt and I blog about modest fashion and style at The Orange Purse. Pattern mixing is for adventurous and the brave of heart. It can greatly expand your wardrobe and your overall fashion style. But there are a few guidelines that are crucial to not looking like you got dressed in the dark...

1. Start small

Not quite ready to go crazy with pattern mixing? Try starting small. Choose a skirt with a little pattern at the bottom and wear with a printed top.

2. Use a solid color as a break
Using a solid color in between patterns is a great way to dip your toes into more adventurous pattern mixing. The solid color provides a visual break which gives the outfit a more put together look.

3. Stick with the classics
Florals and stripes are something you can't go wrong with. They are the most accepted form of pattern-mixing and can be mixed and matched together in so many different ways.

4. Small on top, big on bottom
By keeping the big prints on the bottom and the little prints on the top, you are establishing balance and hierarchy resulting in a finished, put together look.

5. Use Similar Hues
Although these are two totally different and unrelated patterns, it works because both of the patterns are heavily colored with navy. The belt also gives visual relief and is a way to break up the two patterns.

In Real Life
I recently wrote a style post using the second guideline (Classic Stripes and Florals - also in the image of me above). This post is helpful because it gives you a good idea of what pattern mixing looks like in real life. You should totally check it out!

I really hope you enjoyed this guide to pattern-mixing! Let me know if you have any questions and I will totally be willing to answer anything! Have an amazing day!!

11 comments:

  1. Yes! I love me a classic stripe + floral combination :) Great tips! I was also wondering if you had a review of Vain Pursuits? I'd love to hear what you have to say abt them!

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    1. I have never had the pleasure of reviewing Vain Pursuits, are they a clothing company? I would love to get in touch with them and write a review, though!

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  2. Maria, I just started following your blog, and I love it! It's so well-designed, and your outfits are gorgeous.

    dance a real

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    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Hannah! That is so kind of you! Do you mind if I ask how you found our blog? We are trying to get the word out there and I love to know what is working...thanks again!

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  3. This post was exactly what I needed! I'm always dressing in solid colors, so I thought I might break my fashion style and go a little crazy! Thanks! -Abi
    jubilantjoys.blogspot.com

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    1. I am SO glad this was able to help! Pattern mixing is really fun, esp once you get the hang of it. And don't worry if it takes time to get it right. I had some of the weirdest combos when I started. Like you wouldn't even believe. So don't be afraid to make mistakes, because that's how you figure out what works!

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  4. This was very helpful! Thanks!!

    Blessings,
    Grace

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    1. You are so welcome, Grace! I hope you have tons of fun mixing patterns!!

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  5. Thanks for sharing these tips, Maria. Your outfit is lovely! :)

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    1. Thanks for your sweet words, Paige!! I am glad you enjoyed the post!!

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  6. i, for one, like this. my mom says its just a name people call their clothes that don't match:P but i love it!

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