Mixing and matching prints and patterns can be a little intimidating, but it’s a great way to add some personality and interest to your collared shirts. Here are some tips to help you do it with confidence.
Start with a neutral base
If you’re new to mixing prints and patterns, it’s a good idea to start with a neutral base. This could be a white, black, or navy collared shirt. A neutral base allows you to play around with different prints and patterns without overwhelming the outfit.
Combine prints of different scales
When mixing prints, it’s important to pay attention to the scale of the print. You don’t want two prints that are the same size competing with each other. Instead, try combining a small-scale print, like dots or stripes, with a larger-scale print, like florals or paisleys. This creates a nice balance and adds visual interest.
Stick to a similar color palette
To make your mixed prints look cohesive, try sticking to a similar color palette. This doesn’t mean you have to match the colors exactly, but they should complement each other. For example, if you’re wearing a navy and white polka dot shirt, you could pair it with a red and white striped tie. The red and white tie complements the navy and white shirt without being too matchy-matchy.
Mix prints with solids
If you’re not ready to fully commit to mixing prints, try starting with one printed item and pairing it with a solid. For example, you could wear a gingham shirt with a solid tie, or pair a floral tie with a solid shirt. This is a great way to dip your toes into the world of mixed prints without feeling overwhelmed.
Experiment with texture
Mixing prints doesn’t just have to be about the pattern. You can also mix textures to add interest to your outfit. For example, you could pair a chambray shirt with a knit tie, or a silk shirt with a tweed blazer. Mixing textures adds depth and dimension to your outfit.
Don’t be afraid to clash
When it comes to mixing prints and patterns, there are no hard and fast rules. If you like the way two prints look together, go for it! Don’t be afraid to clash a little bit. Fashion is all about self-expression, so have fun with it.
Keep accessories simple
When you’re mixing prints and patterns, it’s best to keep your accessories simple. Stick to solid-colored belts, watches, and shoes to avoid overwhelming your outfit. If you do want to add a little more interest, try incorporating a textured accessory, like a woven leather belt or a pair of suede shoes.
Pay attention to the occasion
While mixing prints and patterns can be fun, it’s important to pay attention to the occasion. Some events call for a more conservative look, so it’s best to stick to a more traditional outfit. Other events, like a casual dinner with friends, give you more freedom to experiment with your style.
Have fun with it
At the end of the day, fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. If you don’t like the way something looks, you can always change it up. The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
In conclusion, mixing and matching prints and patterns with collared shirts can be a great way to add some personality and interest to your outfit. By following these tips, you can do it with ease and confidence. Remember to start with a neutral base, mix prints of different scales, stick to a similar color palette, mix prints with solids, experiment with texture, don’t be afraid to clash, keep accessories simple, pay attention to the occasion, and most importantly, have fun with it!