When I sit down with a new client, we talk about many things. I ask questions and provide a listening ear. We get to know each other well. It’s the piece that sets the tone for everything going forward. I was taught this years ago when I went through stylist certification and I’m really thankful it was emphasized. Simply said. How can I help you with things in your closet until I get to know YOU and everything about your style and preferences first?
One of my questions is: Do you like Solids or Prints (or both?) I wish I had a dollar for every woman who told me that prints were “old lady” or “reminded them of their grandmother”. Certainly at that point in our relationship, I’m not going to way a word. After all, it’s personal preference and isn’t it nice we don’t all like the same things? What a boring world of fashion we would have.
And then I have clients like me who enjoy pattern. We laugh together because it’s easy for us to overbuy patterns and then we don’t have enough solids.
Here is why I believe patterns are helpful in your wardrobe:
Perhaps it’s because I’m still hearing Stacey and Clinton in my head: Texture, Pattern, Color and Shine… (from the days of TLC’s What Not to Wear)
1. They add variety to your closet. Prints and patterns allow for versatility when combined with solids. You have way more combination possibilities not to mention it adds interest! When I go to a client’s house to work in her closet making new combinations, my job is easier when there are patterns!
2. Small patterns can camouflage the middle. The right style top with pattern hides a lot of sins.
3. Still not sure? Add a jacket in a solid color so just a touch of the pattern is showing
4. Start with a very subtle pattern like a super small print or very narrow stripe.
5. Just NOT you? Stick with your solids but add an accessory (even a solid in a contrasting color will add some interest)
Was it my love for Cabi over the years that has me drawn to prints? There is always a selection of unique prints every season.
Here is a post and video from Cabi that shows some great print mixing. If you’re thinking, “wait just a minute. I don’t even like prints let alone mixing them TOGETHER! Stick with it. Start slowly and have a little fun with it!
When attempting a mix, here are some tips:
1. Mix similar colors–2-4 different ones.
2. Pin stripes, florals, polka dots and small prints seem to be my favorites to mix in different ways.
3. Choose pieces with very subtle not bold patterns to help you feel comfortable at first.
4. Try to achieve balance. For example, bolder busier patterns on the bottom need to be mixed with smaller patterns on top or vica versa.
5. Accessories are fine with pattern mixes but keep jewelry simple. A patterned scarf can even be part of your mix
6. Worried about patterns adding pounds? Keep most pieces in your outfit pretty tailored with great fits. Baggy/blousy styles in pattern could add the weight.
These tips are a combination from things I’ve read as well as what I learned from doing it myself (always the best way!)
In the pics, the jacket is several years old. I keep my clothes for quite a few years, but I do grow tired of wearing them the same way AND I never really loved what I had to go underneath this piece. (Sometimes you have to hang on to something and be patient )I really wanted to pull out the lime green and finally this year I found this top from Boden. Yes, Nordstrom just started carrying a little bit of this line.
Over to you. If you like patterns in your style will you attempt to mix it up a little?
