A couple of days ago I found this article about mixing patterns, it is the best and the easiest one I have ever read!
As most bloggers know, it is now acceptable to mix two different patterns. The difficult part, however, is to mix in a way that looks intentional and not like you got dressed in the dark.
Revailing fashion thought has long held the belief that a pattern should be mixed with a solid neutral. Below is a list of "traditional" neutrals.
- Black
- White
- Grey
- Navy
- Cream
- Khaki
- Olive
- Brown
Pattern Mixing - Identify Pattern Categories.
All patterns can be divided into two general categories, neutral patterns and color based patterns. A neutral pattern is a fairly simple pattern in a traditional neutral color (see above). Below is a list of what I consider neutral patterns.
- Stripes
- Polka Dots
- Checks
- Pinstripes
- Window Panes
- Lace
- Some Animal Prints
- Any print in a single, neutral color
The color based patterns would encompass any pattern involving one or more colors. Color patterns are generally busier than neutral patterns, therefore, more challenging to mix. Below is my list of color patterns:
- Florals
- Geometrics
- Plaids
- Paisley
- Ethnic (Ikat, Batik, Tie Dye, Etc.)
- Artistic (Brush Stroke, Abstract, Etc.)
- Any pattern from first list in a non-neutral color (Red Stripe, Purple Polka Dot, Etc.)
General Mixing Guidelines.
Pattern mixing is both an art and a science. The science part is the easiest to impart. It deals with scale, proportion, complimentary and contrasting colors, etc. The art of pattern mixing is much more subjective. It must be developed through experience. You can develop your eye by studying other bloggers whose mixing skills you admire and by experimenting with your own closet. I lay pieces together on my bed and ask myself. Do those two pieces look totally wacky together or do they have a certain harmony with each other? Pattern Mixing can be daunting so I have set up a 5 step program to make you a mixing pro.
Pattern Mixing Step 1 - Two neutral patterns in similar colors and scales.
Pick two patterns off the neutral list that are similar in color and scale. It may help to pick two patterns with different background colors. Example: A white piece with a black pattern and a black piece with a white pattern.
Two smallish patterns in black and white. Pattern on left has slightly more white space than pattern on right.
Two smallish patterns in navy and cream. Pattern on left has more cream while pattern on right has more navy.
