The “nine-to-five” doesn’t often welcome color and personality when it comes to workwear, which is why it’s so easy to fall into a habit of only ever wearing monochrome or simple textures.
Well, this season it’s time for a revamp. It’s time for… pattern. Patterned clothing has been off and on trend throughout history, in the 70s, 80s and beyond. But this year seems to be opening the door again to welcome in the bold, bright and downright boisterous.
For example, according to Vogue (France) in the recent article ‘The 19 key fashion trends to know for Spring/Summer 2024,’ bold stripes and polka dots will be red, red hot this season. And, the fashionistas-in-the-know from Who What Wear go one step further to specifically call out vertical stripes, for a new twist on an old fave. Another top look? Graphic florals that provide a serious wow factor.
But, wearing bold colors and powerful prints can be a bit daunting – especially if you’re not used to strutting your stuff in anything more than a basic tee and some cute jeans.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, here are a few tips to help you get started with living your best, busy patterned life.
Pair prints with neutrals
Those looking to dip their toes into the wonderful waters of oversized gingham or pop-art florals can start off pairing a patterned piece with a simple neutral item. Perhaps try a pretty patterned top with your trusty, go-to jeans.
Alternatively, for a night on the town, an animal print dress would look incredible with a neutral, oversized blazer and heels.
Start small, build up
While Instagram is home to purple fluffy jackets paired with bright orange tank tops and flared leopard print jeans, that doesn’t mean you need to follow suit.
You might feel a little too out of your comfort zone to dive into a full-length piece like a maxi dress or coat, so there’s no shame in starting small.
You can shop plus size clothing UK online and see which accessories might look good with a few staple items. Don’t forget that patterns can simply be incorporated via earrings, scarves, handbags or headbands – there’s no rule that says pattern has to be on your clothes!
Complementary clashing
There are some patterns that just work together, in a weird, clashing kind of way. Fashion has come a long way from only allowing coordinating patterns. Now, the bolder the better.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and embrace your wild side by pairing clashing patterns together. Plaid and animal print? Why not. Stripes and Spots? Let’s go.
Experiment with print size
If you’re not sure about clashing patterns, there’s still plenty of ways to bring prints into your wardrobe in a pretty and stylish way.
One way is to pair similar patterns in different sizes. Sweet, blossoming florals will have you feeling fabulously summery even on the grayest of days.
Not all pattern pairing has to be chaotic!
Coordinate colors
Another easy way to make patterns work together is to work with two prints in the same color. Even if you feel a little out-of-place at first, your outfit will still look perfectly put together. Using gingham and stripes in the same color may be just what your workwear needs.
If in doubt, you can always look for prints in black and white.
Before next weekend, try a few different pieces from your wardrobe that you wouldn’t usually pair together. You might just find your new favorite outfit!
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