Mixing Different Patterns

On the surface, mixing multiple patterns within the same outfit seems like style advice on a par with investing in a pair of bootcut jeans. But it is a look that can be pulled off, provided you style it out with conviction.

The rules of proportion and cohesive colour palettes apply here, too, but there’s an extra one: your patterns should be as different as possible. Rather than polka dots and puppytooth, opt for stripes and florals.

Layering is your best friend here. A buffalo check overshirt can be worn open with a graphic print T-shirt or a striped sweater underneath for a streetwear vibe. Or throw a plaid blazer over a hoodie with side-stripe track pants and sneakers.

Mixing Multiple Patterns

Got one or two patterns down pat? Well, get ready to enter the big leagues. “If you get this right it will be Instagram gold,” says Down, “but get it wrong and you are going to look clownish.”

Far from a case of throwing anything and everything into a mixer and hoping for the best, mixing multiple patterns requires careful planning. “You want one small, one medium and one large bold pattern,” says Down.

Not all of these have to be on clothing, mind. Incorporating a third motif can be as simple as adding in a patterned accessory into your outfit. “The aim is that it looks like it all came together naturally without too much thought,” says Down.

Pattern Mixing: Expert Tips

Tonal Is Tried And Tested

Maintaining a consistent palette is always wise when you’re mixing patterns. You can always add pops of colour later through accessories or smaller details like contrast linings or collars. Either way, if the rest of your outfit is all in line, you’ll invariably look well put-together.

Etro

Play With Proportion

Size matters, especially when clashing the same pattern. Think big checks with small checks, wide stripes with narrow stripes: all stop you from looking like a walking picnic blanket or deck chair.