Mixing patterns has always been a favorite trend of mine, but it can be very hard to pull off. The one rule that I always follow is to make sure the colors themselves look good together. Then, even if you have lots of conflicting patterns and designs going on, at least they don’t clash. The other good rule to follow, is you have to take the jump. It can be intimidating to wear something busy when general fashion principles tell you to tone it down. But, if you are willing to take the risk, normally it will work out in your favor.

Check out my top tips below for how to successfully add pattern mixing into your everyday wardrobe!

Mixing patterns is a huge trend right now, but sometimes we may not have the confience that we are doing it right. Before you get the hang of it, you may feel like a hooligan who got ready without the lights on. Well fear not, I am here to help you tackle this trend by giving you tips that will have you look and feel good.

Tip 1: Remember that you aren’t Olivia Palermo and no one expects you to be. You don’t have to start with floral and cheetah print, like she so eloquently does. Mixing patterns is a gradual process and you should start on the more conservative side before working up to a fierce cheetah print or floral.

Tip 2: Start with neutral-colored patterns. This guarantees that your colors won’t clash. Like in the outfit shown above, the colors are similar, but the jacket has more white, while the top has more navy. The slight difference prevents you from looking washed out.

Tip 3: Once you feel comfortable rocking neutral colors, the next step is to try colorful patterns. The key is to make sure your colors match, although the patters may not. Keep in mind that stripes and polka dots as well as stripes and florals are good go-to patterns. Both are acceptable pairs that aren’t too over the top. The outfit in the picture above works well due to the blue from the stripes complimenting the colors in the pants.

Tip 4: Once you feel comfortable with the tips above, it’s time be brave! Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment. Everything you try doesn’t have to work, but try to break out of your style comfort zone so you don’t get stuck in a niche. As you practice, coming up with ideas and seeing how things could work together will get easier. This is a gradual process so don’t expect to be awesome at initially mixing patterns. Give yourself a chance and remember that if you are comfortable and like your outfit, then it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks!

How do you mix patterns? Any general principles you always follow? Until next time, XO