The Art of Styling Bold Prints and Patterns

Bold prints and patterns are a fantastic way to inject personality, vibrance, and energy into your wardrobe. From eye-catching florals to daring animal prints and geometric designs, these statement-making patterns can turn an ordinary outfit into something extraordinary. However, styling bold prints and patterns can be intimidating for many. The key to rocking bold prints is to wear them with confidence and balance, making sure they complement your body shape and personal style.

If you’re ready to dive into the world of bold prints, here’s your ultimate guide to styling them like a pro.

1. Start with One Statement Piece

When incorporating bold prints into your outfit, it’s best to start with one statement piece to avoid overwhelming your look. Whether it’s a floral dress, a striped blazer, or animal print shoes, let one print take center stage while the rest of the outfit remains relatively simple.

• Example: Pair a floral blouse with solid color trousers or a skirt. This allows the bold print to shine without taking over your entire look.
• Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, opt for a printed accessory like a scarf, bag, or pair of shoes. These smaller details can still add excitement to your outfit without making you feel overexposed.

2. Pair Prints with Solids

One of the easiest ways to incorporate bold prints into your look is by pairing them with solid colors. This technique provides contrast and keeps the outfit balanced. A printed skirt, for instance, can be toned down with a neutral top, while a printed blouse can be grounded with simple trousers or jeans.

• Example: A bright leopard print skirt can be paired with a black, white, or neutral-colored top. The solid top complements the print, letting the skirt be the focal point.
• Pro Tip: Use the color palette from the print to guide your choice of solid-colored pieces. If your printed item has hints of navy or mustard, incorporate those shades in your solids to create cohesion.

3. Mix and Match Patterns with Caution

While pairing one bold print with solids is safe and stylish, mixing different prints can elevate your outfit to new levels of creativity. When done right, print mixing can result in a dynamic, fashionable look. The key is to balance the prints in a way that doesn’t create visual chaos.

• Find Common Colors: Choose prints that share a similar color palette to help them feel cohesive. For instance, mixing a polka dot top with striped trousers in matching colors creates an effortlessly chic look.
• Vary the Scale of Prints: Combine large and small prints to keep the outfit visually interesting. For example, pair a floral dress with a geometric print scarf or a small-scale gingham print with bold, large florals.
• Pro Tip: When mixing prints, try to keep one print dominant and the other more subtle. A floral blouse with small stripes on the pants works because the floral print remains the star while the stripes add texture.

4. Use Neutral Accessories

When styling bold prints, accessories can be the finishing touch that pulls the entire look together. If you’re wearing bold patterns, you can balance the outfit with neutral accessories to avoid overwhelming the overall look.

• Shoes and Bags: A pair of neutral shoes (like beige or black pumps) and a simple, solid-colored bag will keep the focus on your prints. Avoid accessories that have their own prints when you’re wearing bold patterns, as it can create too much competition.
• Jewelry: Stick with minimal jewelry, such as gold or silver hoops or delicate chains. Bold jewelry works best when it complements the colors in your prints without clashing with them.
• Pro Tip: When in doubt, go for classic, simple accessories to keep the attention on your bold prints.

5. Consider Your Body Shape

When styling bold prints, it’s essential to consider your body shape to ensure you feel confident and comfortable. Certain prints and patterns can flatter your figure in different ways.

• Hourglass Shape: For women with an hourglass shape, embrace prints that highlight your curves. Bold, figure-hugging patterns like stripes or florals can accentuate your waist and complement your natural silhouette.
• Apple Shape: If you have an apple-shaped body, choose prints that draw attention away from your midsection. Flowy, loose-fitting prints like large florals or soft, abstract patterns can work well. Opt for V-necklines and empire waist dresses to elongate the torso.
• Pear Shape: Pear-shaped women can balance their proportions by wearing bolder prints on the upper body and keeping the lower half more neutral. A printed top with solid-color pants or skirts will create balance and draw attention to the upper body.
• Rectangle Shape: If you have a rectangular body shape, choose prints that create the illusion of curves. Prints with a bit of texture or volume, such as peplum tops or pleated skirts, can help add shape to your silhouette.

6. Embrace the Power of Stripes

Stripes are a classic pattern that can be bold or subtle depending on the width, color, and direction. Vertical stripes elongate the body, making them ideal for those seeking a slimming effect, while horizontal stripes can create the illusion of width—perfect for those looking to add some curves.

• Vertical Stripes: Vertical stripes are elongating and slimming, perfect for both casual and formal wear. Pair vertical striped trousers with a simple top for a chic and elongated look.
• Horizontal Stripes: Horizontal stripes can be flattering when done in moderation. Use them as accent details on tops, skirts, or even scarves. Pair them with solid-colored pieces to balance the look.
• Diagonal Stripes: Diagonal stripes add a dynamic edge to your outfit. They can be used strategically to create movement and interest.

7. Play with Floral Prints

Floral prints are a timeless, feminine pattern, and they come in various forms, from delicate small florals to bold, oversized blooms. You can style floral prints for both daytime and evening looks, depending on the colors and scale of the print.

• Day Look: For a more casual, daytime look, pair a small floral print with denim or neutral-colored items. A floral top with jeans or a floral skirt with a solid-colored T-shirt makes for a simple yet stylish outfit.
• Night Look: For evening wear, opt for darker or richer floral prints on silk or satin fabrics. A floral dress in jewel tones can transition from day to night with the right accessories.
• Pro Tip: When wearing floral prints, balance the femininity with a bit of edge. Pair a floral dress with leather boots or a denim jacket for a contemporary twist.

8. Animal Prints: Confidence is Key

Animal prints, such as leopard, zebra, and snake prints, are bold and can be used to make a statement. If you’re new to wearing animal prints, start with accessories such as a leopard print bag or shoes. As you get more comfortable, incorporate larger pieces like coats, skirts, or dresses.

• Pair with Solid Neutrals: Animal prints work best when paired with neutral tones. A leopard print skirt with a black top or a zebra print scarf with a white blouse will keep the look grounded.
• Monochromatic Look: If you’re feeling daring, you can go for a head-to-toe animal print, but ensure the tones are complementary. A black and white zebra print paired with black accessories creates a bold yet cohesive look.
• Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about animal prints, start small. A pair of leopard print shoes or a snake print belt can elevate your look without being overwhelming.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of styling bold prints and patterns is all about finding the right balance. Whether you opt for a statement piece or mix and match various prints, the key is to stay true to your style while playing with contrasts and complementary colors. With these tips, you’ll feel confident in experimenting with different patterns and prints, making them a fun and stylish part of your wardrobe. Remember, fashion is an art, and the way you express yourself through bold prints should feel empowering and fun!