The practice of combining different prints is among the most visually arresting methods used in the fashion industry. The days of matching clothing safely, or with other similar-looking pieces, are long gone; now, it’s all about unique, unusual pairings. When done well, mixing prints can take your style to new heights, elevating your overall look and persona.
If you wish your clothes would better capture your distinct personality, it’s time to enter the fascinating realm of prints and patterns. However, while combining mixed prints can transform your attire, striking the perfect balance is nothing short of challenging. Fret not, dear reader, we’re here to help you master the technique of styling skirts with mixed prints and patterns.
1. Understand Different Prints
Before you become an expert at styling skirts with mixed prints and patterns, it’s imperative to be able to distinguish between the most fundamental types of prints. In addition to more adventurous choices like animal prints, geometric patterns, and abstract motifs, there are timeless classics such as stripes, polka dots, and florals. Understanding the unique feel and energy that each print possesses is the first step in assembling harmonious combinations.
2. Begin With Neutrals
If you’ve never mixed prints before, start with neutral designs like polka dots and stripes. These prints serve as a great foundation and go well with practically everything. Polka-dot or floral skirts will go well with a striped top to create a stylish yet well-balanced look. Bolder patterns can be safely experimented with neutral prints.
3. Stick To The Same Colour Family
Selecting patterns from the same colour family is a tried-and-tested method to combine prints successfully. Colours can tie the prints together, giving them a unified, pleasing appearance. For example, you could pair a navy striped shirt with a navy flowery skirt. With this method, you can play around with various designs while sticking to a consistent colour scheme.
4. Play Around With Texture
Combining prints involves more than just pairing visual patterns. An additional dimension can be added to your ensemble by teaming a satin flowery dress with a denim blazer or a crisp silk shirt with a textured tweed skirt. Textures give the skirts a more tactile appeal and give the entire outfit more depth.
5. Experiment With Scale
Combining prints from various scales is an important method to learn. A bold, dramatic pattern can be balanced out with a smaller, more detailed one to add visual interest and keep the ensemble from looking too voluminous. For example, one can buy skirts online with delicate flower prints that can be worn with a bold shirt in leopard print. The contrast in scale gives the design depth and visual appeal.
6. Accessorise Smartly
Accessories can draw attention to ensembles with a mix of designs or soften striking pairings. Choose neutral accessories if your ensemble features prints that are bright and clashing. To balance the boldness and let the prints take centre stage, pair the prints with a classic black or nude handbag and shoes. As an alternative, try adding interest to a subtle ensemble with dramatic accessories like a colourful necklace or a patterned scarf.
7. Layer With Prints
Using prints in layers is another artistic technique to employ within this trend. For example, you can wear a polka-dot top with a chequered coat or cover a floral dress with a striped blazer. By layering several prints together, you can make a bold and visually striking statement with the designed skirts. Just make sure the prints’ colours and scales work well together.
8. Try Print-Clashing
For those who are fashion-forward, print-clashing is the deliberate pairing of prints that don’t typically go together. Consider combining skirts with florals, polka dots and checks, or geometrics and animal designs. When done correctly, this technique delivers extremely striking and unforgettable looks. But bear in mind that to prevent overpowering the ensemble, you must strike a balance between opposing prints and neutral components and accessories.
9. Draw Inspiration From Art & Nature
When it comes to combining prints, art and nature are rich sources of inspiration. Think about skirts prints with geometric shapes evoking architectural marvels, animal prints that imitate the patterns found in the wild, or floral motifs inspired by blooming gardens. Drawing inspiration from art and nature can result in print combinations that are surprising and harmonious, giving your clothes a visually striking look.
Above all, the key to successfully combining multiple skirts print with flair is confidence. There are no rules when it comes to fashion; it’s all about showcasing your uniqueness and ingenuity, so embrace the unexpected, follow your gut, and don’t be afraid to experiment. You can become an expert at mixing prints and creating bold, one-of-a-kind outfits that truly capture your individuality by learning the basics and trying out various combinations. A little practice, and you’ll become a pro in no time!
