Patterns can add depth, personality, and visual interest to any outfit, and mastering the art of pattern mixing can be just the creative challenge you’ve been looking for!
With a few tips and tricks, you can elevate your style game and mix patterns like a true pro, and with Peacock Boutique’s online store, you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home to do so! But, we recommend checking out our unique locations for the full experience–you’ll be glad you did!
Whether you’re a maximalist or prefer a more subtle approach, Peacock Boutique delivers on how to effortlessly blend different patterns into cohesive and stylish ensembles, including how to wear patterns together, how to rock patterns for the office and for fun, changing with the seasons, and how to diversify your wardrobe by thrifting!
How to Mix Different Patterns into Your Wardrobe
- Start with a colour scheme: choose a cohesive colour palette to make sure that the patterns will harmonize. Using colours within the same family or complementary colours can tie different patterns together.
- Vary pattern scales: combine larger with smaller patterns to create balance. It’s easiest to avoid using patterns of the same scale, as they can compete for attention and create visual chaos.
- Mix pattern types: pairing different types of patterns (e.g., floral with stripes, geometric with paisley) can add complexity and richness to your look or space.
- Consider the rule of three: limiting yourself to three patterns is a good rule of thumb for beginners. It’s enough to create variety without overwhelming the eye.
- Use solids as a breather: incorporating solid colours can provide visual rest and highlight the patterns, making the overall design more cohesive.
- Experiment and adjust: mixing patterns is an art, not a science. Trust your eye and adjust the combinations until you find a balance that pleases you.
If you’re not used to mixing patterns, start gradually introducing patterned pieces into your wardrobe and have fun mixing and matching them to create unique looks that reflect your style.
Can You Wear Different Patterns at the Same Time?
As we briefly mentioned before, yes, it’s generally totally fine to wear different patterns at the same time, but it’s encouraged to follow a few guidelines for a more cohesive look.
When mixing patterns, try to avoid combining too many bold prints in one outfit to prevent visual overload, however, don’t be afraid to break the rules and trust your instincts—sometimes unexpected pattern combinations can result in the most stylish and unique looks.
First, consider the different main pattern types: checks, stripes, houndstooth, paisley, polka dots, and of course, floral. There are many other patterns, such as animal print, gingham, waves, geometrics, plaids, chevrons and more. Next, consider the scale and intensity of the patterns—mix large-scale patterns with smaller ones to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
Checks
Checks are a versatile and popular pattern, found in everything from formalwear to streetwear. The variety within checks, such as window panes, herringbone, and tartan plaid, allows for numerous combinations.
Stripes
Stripes, both horizontal and vertical, have become a staple. Three methods for mixing stripes: keeping them uniform, varying stripe width, and combining vertical with horizontal stripes. For a refined appearance, sticking to a limited colour palette is recommended.
Houndstooth
Known for its micro-check pattern resembling a canine’s incisor, houndstooth is a subtler option that pairs well with simple patterns like pinstripes or polka dots. It’s often used in tailoring for suits, pencil skirts, and overcoats, contributing to a formal look.
Paisley
Originating from Persian designs and popularized in the 1960s by The Beatles, paisley is a bold and intricate pattern that requires confidence to wear, especially head-to-toe. Paisley is another pattern that is suggested to be best coordinated with a single colour from the design for a more cohesive look. For those wanting to make a statement, paisley can be clashed with uniform patterns like pinstripes or polka dots for a subdued approach, or mixed with animal prints and luxury fabrics for a maximalist style.
Polka Dots
Historically viewed as a feminine pattern, polka dots have also found their place in men’s fashion as a playful element. For men, brands often introduce polka dots through formal accessories such as ties, pocket squares, and socks to add a pop of colour and interest to traditional suits, however, they make an excellent foundational print for shirts and skirts, too.
Mixing polka dots with straight-lined patterns like checks and stripes can create a visually appealing contrast. For a bolder look, combining different patterns while maintaining a cohesive colour palette makes sure that the outfit remains stylish without overwhelming the senses.
Floral
Floral patterns have been a prominent feature in fashion, captivating audiences with their diverse beauty and intricate details. The allure of floral designs lies in their versatility and the way they evoke the beauty of nature, making them a perennial favourite in various creative fields.
Floral patterns are easy, you can effortlessly pair them with polka dots, geometric shapes, animal prints, chevron, houndstooth, paisley, and gingham can elevate your style. These combinations create harmony and contrast, enhancing any outfit’s appeal.
Plaids
Plaid, also referred to as tartan, is a modern print that layers well with other patterns for a subtly mixed-print aesthetic. Combining a plaid button-down shirt with a striped tank top offers a stylish way to experiment with contrasting patterns, demonstrating a confident and chic approach to personal style.
Styling Patterns for the Office
The way we dress in the workplace influences how others will interact with us, therefore, it’s important to maintain a professional look when considering patterns in your office attire. We recommend opting for the more classic patterns like pinstripes, houndstooth, or florals for a polished and office-appropriate ensemble.
Balance bold patterns with solid-coloured pieces, such as pairing a striped blouse with tailored trousers or a floral pencil skirt with a solid blouse. Keep accessories minimal and opt for sleek, structured silhouettes to complete your professional look.
Styling Patterns for Leisure
When it comes to styling patterns for leisure, the possibilities are endless! Embrace vibrant colours, bold prints, and playful combinations to express your personal style and creativity.
Mix and match patterns like stripes, florals, and geometric prints to create casual yet chic outfits for brunch with friends, shopping trips, or weekend getaways.
Incorporate relaxed silhouettes, comfortable fabrics, and statement accessories to add flair to your leisurewear looks. Try something new!
Changing with the Seasons
As the seasons change, so do the patterns in your wardrobe. In the warmer months, you’ll want to opt for light and airy fabrics like cotton and linen adorned with playful prints such as florals, tropical motifs, or gingham.
Transition into fall and winter with richer fabrics like wool, faux fur, and velvet featuring classic patterns like plaids, houndstooth, or animal prints. Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonal colour palettes and layering techniques to create stylish and weather-appropriate outfits year-round.
Adding Diversity to Your Wardrobe by Thrifting
Thrifting is an excellent way to add diversity to your wardrobe and discover unique patterns and prints. Explore thrift stores, vintage shops, and online resale platforms to uncover one-of-a-kind pieces that can’t be found elsewhere.
From retro florals to bold geometric prints, thrifted items offer endless opportunities for creative pattern mixing and styling. Not only is thrifting sustainable and budget-friendly, but it also allows you to cultivate a truly distinctive and eclectic wardrobe.
Feel Confident in Your Bold Patterns
Bold patterns can make a powerful statement and exude confidence when worn with the right attitude. Whether it’s a vibrant floral dress, a striking leopard print coat, or a geometric print blouse, embrace bold patterns with confidence and flair.
Pair bold patterns with neutral basics to let them take center stage, and accessorize with confidence-boosting pieces like statement jewelry or sleek heels. Remember, fashion is about self-expression, so wear your bold patterns proudly and own your unique sense of style.
By incorporating our tips and guidelines into your fashion repertoire, you can confidently mix patterns like a pro and elevate your style to new heights. Whether you’re dressing for the office, leisure, or changing seasons, Peacock Boutique has everything you need to express your personality and creativity–visit us today for a fun fashion experience!
