For the fashion-forward, few things feel as bold, expressive, and uniquely chic as mixing prints. It’s the ultimate style move—a combination of creativity, confidence, and just a touch of rebellion. When done right, it can look incredibly high-fashion, effortless, and fresh. But we get it: mixing prints can also feel intimidating if you’re not sure where to start.
The good news? You don’t need to be a stylist or have a runway budget to pull off this trend. With a few strategic tips and a little practice, you can master the art of mixing prints like a pro and transform your wardrobe into a fun, fearless fashion playground.
In this guide, we’ll break down the basics, give you foolproof formulas, and offer styling tricks to help you embrace this eye-catching trend with ease. Whether you’re looking to make a statement or simply refresh your everyday style, this is your go-to guide.
1. Why Mixing Prints Works (When Done Right)
Mixing prints isn’t just a trend—it’s a form of self-expression. Fashion is art, and like any great artist, you have the power to play with color, shape, and texture.
Here’s why it works:
- It adds personality to your outfits.
- It makes use of more of your wardrobe in creative ways.
- It shows off confidence and creativity.
- It can make even budget pieces look designer-level when styled with intention.
The trick lies in balance, cohesion, and confidence.
2. Know the Print Categories
Before mixing, it helps to understand the types of prints you’re working with. Here are the main categories:
- Stripes – classic, versatile, and neutral in the print world.
- Florals – romantic, soft, or bold depending on scale.
- Polka dots – playful and timeless.
- Animal prints – edgy and bold; can act as a neutral.
- Plaids & checks – preppy and polished.
- Abstracts & geometrics – modern and artistic.
- Ethnic/tribal prints – rich and cultural, often featuring intricate detail.
Understanding the print’s character helps you pair pieces that either complement or contrast intentionally.
3. Start Small: Mix Within the Same Color Family
One of the easiest ways to mix prints without overwhelming your look is to stick to a similar color palette. Matching tones brings harmony even if the prints themselves are different.
Example: Pair a navy-and-white striped top with a floral skirt that includes touches of navy. You get the visual interest of mixed prints but the comfort of color coordination.
4. Play with Print Scale
Pairing a large-scale print with a small-scale print is a classic styling rule. It creates contrast while keeping the look balanced.
Pro tip: Let one print be the star, and the other play a supporting role.
- Try a bold floral blouse with a subtle pinstripe pant.
- Or wear large polka dots on top and mini dots on the bottom.
This contrast keeps your outfit from looking too busy or chaotic.
5. Stripes Are the Gateway Print
If you’re new to mixing prints, start with stripes. They act like a neutral and pair well with just about everything—florals, animal prints, polka dots, you name it.
Ideas to try:
- Striped top + floral skirt
- Pinstripe blazer + leopard print dress
- Horizontal stripe tee + plaid pants
Stripes give structure and balance to wilder prints, making them an excellent anchor for your outfit.
6. Use One Dominant Print
When you mix two or more prints, choose one to be the main focus. This dominant print sets the tone, while the others complement it.
How to do it:
- Let a bold piece (like a statement dress) shine, and pair it with a more subtle print (like a delicate scarf or belt).
- Keep the bolder print in the area you want to draw attention to (like your top half or outerwear).
7. Break Up Prints with Solids
Feeling overwhelmed by too much pattern? Use solid colors as visual “rest stops” in your outfit.
- Add a solid belt, blazer, or bag between print pieces.
- Try layering a solid neutral (like black or beige) to calm the overall look.
- Use denim as your neutral—it pairs beautifully with any print.
Solids help tone things down while still allowing your prints to pop.
8. Keep Accessories Simple (or Purposefully Bold)
When mixing prints, accessories can either elevate or clutter your outfit. Choose wisely:
- If your outfit is already bold, go minimal with jewelry and bags.
- If you want to go full maximalist, pick one accessory—like statement earrings or a graphic clutch—that echoes a color or pattern in your outfit.
The key is intention—make sure every piece has a purpose.
9. Mixing Prints with Layers
Layering is a stylish way to test out print mixing without committing to a full look.
- A printed scarf over a patterned blouse
- A patterned coat over a striped dress
- A printed button-down peeking out under a printed sweater
Layering lets you play around without overpowering your look.
10. Trust Your Eye and Experiment
Rules are great for learning—but fashion is personal. Once you get comfortable with the basics, start trusting your instincts.
Try this:
- Lay out your outfit on the bed and see how the prints look together.
- Take mirror selfies to check how it appears from a distance.
- Ask yourself: “Does this feel like me?”
You might surprise yourself with how much you love an unexpected combo.
Bonus: Print Pairing Cheat Sheet
Here are a few tried-and-true print pairings to get you started:
- Stripes + Florals
- Plaid + Leopard Print
- Polka Dots + Abstract
- Animal Print + Bright Color Block
- Checks + Stripes
If in doubt, throw on a denim jacket or black blazer to unify the look.
Final Thoughts
The art of mixing prints like a pro isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about developing your personal style, embracing creativity, and stepping outside your comfort zone. With a few easy guidelines—like matching colors, balancing scales, and trusting your eye—you can turn your wardrobe into a canvas of expressive fashion.
Remember, confidence is your best accessory. So whether you’re mixing florals and stripes or leopard and plaid, wear it boldly. Own the look, and you’ll always be the most stylish person in the room.
