So you want to mix up your patterns like a pro? Here are some simple tips to make sure your outfit is a "Do" and not a "Don't".
Ensure that one of the patterns is smaller than the other. Patterns the same size compete visually for your eye's attention and cause confusion.
Use one pattern that is less prominent color wise. Here the darker blue on green plaid skirt is less noticeable than the lighter black on peach polk-a-dot blouse.
I have a "buffer' black sweater that is helping create a restful area for the eyes when going between the plaid and the polk-a-dots. This sweater also helps me look thinner since it has a "black hole" effect to make everything look smaller and tighter.
The brown corduroy blazer adds a solid color on top making everything below it seem a bit smaller and less prominent.
I kept my hose dark to help with what I like to call my "man legs". Dark hose hide a multitude of problems. Since I'm not tall either I decided not to break the line I've created with my legs and I've stuck to a dark shoe. This will visually make you look taller.
I have mixed two patterns but many different textures; the blouse is rayon, the sweater is knit, the jacket is corduroy, and the skirt is almost like felt.
The bow blouse is the focal point of the outfit, the red faux allegator handbag just adds an unexpected pop of color and texture. If you don't want to pop the bag though you could just as easily go with a standard black or tan bag.
Blouse H & M, blazer Le Chateau, shoes TJ Maxx, skirt Forever 21, sweater Betsy Johnson, bag Brooks Brothers.
