Mixing Prints For Dummies

It took me the longest time to figure out how in the world to mix prints…how much is too much, how much is just right? Which patterns work well and which ones don’t? After much debate and finally figuring it out myself, I decided to narrow it down to three easy peasy rules to abide by when pattern mixing:

1. Find patterns that are about the same size. For instance, if you have small rose bud type flowers on a shirt, it would be best to mix it with a small pin stripe type jacket or pant. Or if you have bigger flowers on top stick with bigger polka dots or stripes on bottom like I have in this outfit post.
2. In the day of pattern mixing and “anything goesing”, too busy is still possible to achieve. When pattern mixing either go with one pattern on top and one on bottom or if you do two patterns on top, stick with a neutral on bottom.
3. Try to have at least one color in each of your patterns that is the same as the other pattern.  Not trying to be matchy-matchy at all but to have something that the eye can be drawn to from both patterns. In my dress and shirt combo, I have navy blue in each pattern. It’s subtle but they definitely compliment each other.

There you have it, pattern mixing for dummies! If you use these three guidelines, I promise that you will never go wrong.

Now for the outfit details, the gorgeous shirt and skirt combo both come from She Traveled, a fantastic shop that is designated for sister missionaries but perfect for women of all ages. Their clothes are top quality and you can mix and match pretty much everything in their shop. I absolutely love it.

This amazing bag is the perfect size and it’s neutral colors makes it go with anything! I got it from No Square Peg. I love the items that are in this shop, but even more than that, I LOVE what this shop stands for. They encourage that every single women loves their body and is comfortable in the skin their in no matter their shape, size, color, etc. In a world filled with such negativity (especially with body image). I love that shopping here is such a positive experience.

Shoes and Hat: Target

Pictures were taken by the amazing Nicholette Photography, I have a giveaway going on on my Instagram right now to win a free session with her!

What are your favorite patterns to mix?