The Art of Outfit Mixing: How to Master Colour and Pattern Pairing in Your Wardrobe
Mixing colours and patterns in your wardrobe is like curating a masterpiece – it’s bold, creative, and unapologetically you. But if the thought of pairing stripes with florals makes you break out in a sweat, don’t worry! With a few simple guidelines, you can create outfits that are equal parts stylish and eye-catching. Let’s get mixing!
Step 1: Start with a Hero Piece
Every great outfit needs a star. Choose a standout piece, like a patterned blouse or brightly coloured trousers, to build your look around. This hero piece sets the tone and gives you a focal point for the rest of the outfit.
Pro tip: A patterned skirt with bold stripes or a jacket in a punchy colour is a great place to start.
Step 2: Stick to a Colour Palette
To keep your outfit looking intentional (and not like you dressed in the dark), choose a cohesive colour palette.
Pull colours from your hero piece and echo them in other parts of your outfit.
Use neutrals to balance out bright or busy patterns.
If you’re new to mixing, start with one bold colour and a neutral pattern, like a striped top with red trousers.
Step 3: Mix Patterns with Confidence
Combining patterns can feel tricky, but the secret lies in contrast and balance:
Match scales: Pair a large-scale pattern with a smaller one to avoid visual overwhelm. Think big florals with dainty polka dots.
Unify with colour: Patterns that share a common colour naturally work well together.
Keep it simple: Limit yourself to two patterns per outfit if you’re just starting out.
Pattern-clashing pros? Go wild with three or more prints – just make sure there’s a unifying element.
Step 4: Texture Counts Too
Adding texture can elevate your outfit and make it more dynamic. Pair a chunky knit sweater with a silky patterned skirt, or mix leather with lace for a blend of hard and soft elements.
Step 5: Accessorise Like a Boss
Accessories are the ultimate finishing touch for a mixed outfit.
Add a brightly coloured bag or statement jewellery for an extra pop.
Use shoes to tie the look together – metallics or neutrals are fail-safe options.
Think of accessories as the cherry on top of your sartorial sundae.
Step 6: Practice Makes Perfect
The more you experiment with mixing colours and patterns, the more confident you’ll become. Don’t be afraid to play around – fashion is meant to be fun! Snap a selfie of your outfit each day to see what works and what doesn’t.
Why Mastering the Art of Mixing Matters
Your wardrobe should be a celebration of your personality, and mixing colours and patterns is a brilliant way to show the world who you are. By combining bold hues and playful prints, you’ll stand out from the crowd and feel fabulous doing it.
Ready to unleash your colourful, patterned side? Let’s build a wardrobe that’s uniquely YOU! Book a Colour Wardrobe Consultation today.
Colourfully rebellious,
Jodie
