Style: 4-Step Guide to Confidently Mixing Prints + Pattern

How to Mix Prints and Pattern with Restylist Catenya McHenry. Catenya wears a J. Crew camo sweater paired with a blue and white striped oxford fromH&M

Mixing prints may seem like a fashion sin but trust me, it’s not. The only thing sinful about the experiment is not testing it at all. Here’s my  Guiltless Guide To Mixing Prints + Pattern in 4-steps.

Step 1– Ask yourself ‘do the pieces share some of the same colors?’ If the top and bottom you’re holding to your body in the mirror have similar colors, or if the colors pair well together, like green and blue or black and white, then it’s a match. For instance, if the floral top and cardigan both have hints of black, then yes, you can wear them together. Ultimately, each piece will accent and compliment one another.

Mixing Floral+Animal Prints | Catenya.com

Step 2– Take baby steps. If you’re a mixing virgin, don’t fret- start with an accessory like the clutch below or a scarf. Whether it’s a cute clutch or a pair of ballet flats, find subtle ways to be brave. You can go bolder when you’re more comfortable.

Stripes and Florals | Catenya.com

Animal Print Ballet Flats | Catenya.com

Step 3– Buy a stripe top- it’s a smart layering piece and another easy place to start if you’re new to the science of print mixology. Although stripes can be a challenge, if styled correctly, they can create a wonderful illusion and trick the eye. The key is to stick to thinner stripes, especially if you’re curvier. You’ll want to stick to the basics, like black, white and navy. Other combinations don’t work as well.

Florals And Stripes | Catenya.com

Step 4–  Pair a bold print with a more subtle print to help keep the outfit from looking too busy. If you’re still nervous, start with basic black or white and build from there.

Olivia Pope Suit | Catenya.com

Olivia Pope Suit Stripes | Catenya.com IMG_6477

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