Mixing Patterns

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I usually err on the more simple side when putting outfits together. For me, that means mixing a pattern with a solid that doesn’t clash;  however, somewhere along the way I decided I actually liked mixing patterns. The key to making sure the outfit as a whole isn’t too loud is to contrast the general scale of a larger pattern with a smaller one. The print on these pants is not only small, but also very subtle, and at first glance, they really just look gray. This spots on this blouse on the other hand (also worn here) are much larger in scale and therefore contrast nicely with the printed pants. I’ve found contrasting pattern scales to be a good rule of thumb when trying to mix patterns. Anyone else feel the same way about this?

shirt: utility blouse
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pants: Marisa skinny (the print I’m wearing isn’t available anymore, but the same style is available in this pattern and these fall colors: plum preserve + marsala red)
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necklace: marquise gem necklace
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shoes: old Cole Haan (similar here and similar under $120 here)
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lips: roomiest rose
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tote: york buckle tote

Happy Monday!
xo -L

P.S. The pants, shirt and necklace are all from LOFT, where everything is currently 40% off!!! Sales ends today, so don’t miss it 🙂

10 Comments

    • September 29, 2015 / 3:42 am

      Thanks, Elisabeth! I’m always wearing of contrasting patterns looking too busy!

  1. September 28, 2015 / 10:18 pm

    I haven’t tried this on a while, but I usually like to pick a common color in the two contrasting patterns 🙂

    • September 29, 2015 / 3:43 am

      Me too! That way there is some cohesion!

  2. September 28, 2015 / 11:26 pm

    I am terrified to mix patterns, but this is giving me a little confidence to give it a shot!

    – Shae (shaerandolph.com)

    • September 29, 2015 / 3:43 am

      So glad – I hope you try it out!

  3. October 4, 2015 / 11:47 pm

    This looks perfect! You mixed patterns seamlessly!