An art form, pattern mixing can take your home decor or your wardrobe from simple to stunning. Combining patterns can feel daunting but armed with a few guidelines and a little confidence, you’ll be creating a cohesive, definitely not boring and strikingly beautiful design. Mixing and matching patterns is essential for creating any form of fashion, whether it’s keeping your living room cosy or your outfit classy.
Table of Contents
1. Start with a Base Pattern
The secret to pattern mixing success is in having a piece that sets the tone for the entire pattern. Pick one powerful pattern to lend the tone one, the possibilities are a bold floral, a geometric or a striking stripe. Later after you have the base, other patterns can match or counteract it.
For example:
I recommend starting with a patterned rug or wallpaper in home decor.
In fashion lay around a statement skirt or blouse with a strong print.
2. Choose a Cohesive Color Palette and Stick to It!
Keeping mixed patterns from clashing, be sure to keep a consistent color scheme. Choose one or two patterns that have matched colors. He sees this way as creating harmony and tying everything together.
Tips:
Use black, white and beige as anchors.
We should experiment with colors complementary or analogous to visualize balance.
3. Play with Scale
Another tip is to vary the scale of your patterns: make just one pattern fill your piece or make two or more patterns fill it. The idea is to create visual interest, but not overwhelm the eye. Mash large scale prints to smaller, more intricate designs.
In practice:
Try to pair a large floral print pillow with a small polka dot cushion on your sofa.
Gotta wear a bold striped shirt with a subtle plaid scarf.
4. Mix Pattern Types
Mixing the patterns together including florals, stripes and an abstract stitch makes it even more interesting. The trick is to find one that complements the second rather than competing.
Examples:
Home Decor: Team a tribal rug with a striped throw blanket and a botanical print.
Fashion: A striped top, solid blazer and leopard print skirt would give you a nice balance.
5. Include Solids for Completing FA Balance
Solid colors are a visual ‘breather’ when mixing multiple patterns. They help to create contrast within the overall sight without making everything appear too busy.
How to do it:
If your decor is patterned, add solid colored throw cushions, curtains or rugs to break it up.
If it is a bold print, then to balance the bold print, keep the accessories or shoes neutral in case you have decided about the outfit.
6. Use Patterns with Texture
They will give your pattern mix a nice texture without adding more colors. Texture materials – like woven fabrics, embroidered pieces or raised print – will also introduce dimension.
Ideas:
A patterned bedspread should be layered with a textured herringbone throw.
A plaid skirt can be styled with a chunky knit sweather and it will look warm yet stylish.
7. Symmetry and Placement Matter
In home decor, place patterns with a thought and without causing chaos. To achieve balance distribute the patterns evenly in space.
Tips for placement:
So when you’re mixing patterns on a bed, use one pattern for the duvet, a different one for pillows, and then a solid or textured throw.
Layer patterned cushions of various sizes on a sofa keeping some symmetry to their arrangement.
8. Test with Small Accents First
If you’re new to mixing patterns, keep it small. Patterns can be incorporated through accents: throw pillows, rugs, or curtains in your home or scarves, socks or handbags in your wardrobe.
For example:
Drass has done this by adding a bold patterned pillow to an otherwise neutral colored sofa.
Try using a printed scarf with a simple outfit to test your mix and match skills.
9. Trust Classic Combinations
Some pattern pairings are timeless and more often than not, they go nicely together. Use these combinations to build confidence:
Stripes + Florals
Polka Dots + Stripes
Checks + Abstract Prints
10. Embrace the Rule of Three
Using three totally different patterns is usually the wisest way to mix patterns, as it makes for the most balanced look. The trick is to have variety in pattern type, texture, scale within your colour palette.
Final Thoughts
All about experimenting, and trusting your instincts with mixing and matching patterns. By creating a cohesive color scheme, thoughtful scale variations, and balances of textures we can create a look that feels stylish and very intentional.
One great way to play with print and have fun with your decorating or your wardrobe choices is through pattern mixing or metal wall art. Practise these tips and start with small accents — before you know it, you’ll be mixing patterns like a pro!
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