Nowadays it can be easy to get lost in the normalcy of fashion. Companies like American Apparel promote solid colors and the idea of standing out in minimalism. College life is fast-paced and ever-changing, so why wouldn’t you be tempted to simply throw on several basics and run out the door? However, making your style daring yet put together without taking hours to get ready is possible.
Our bold Fashionisto is doing what many (admittedly, myself included) often try to avoid: mixing prints. As opposed to making his shoes,the sole statement piece of his outfit, he took it a step further by sporting a printed T-shirt featuring the lovely Kate Moss. To keep his prints from going awry, this Fashionisto added an army green bomber jacket and black denim creating an overall more solid, continuous illusion.
So the next time you decide to take the daring step of mixing prints, here are some things to know. First, utilize more than just the printed garments. Like our Fashionisto you should use solid pieces to break up overlapping prints. This includes accessories such as a solid belt that could split your prints in half. Taking this easy step can take your outfit from eyestrain to exciting!
Second, focus on size and scale. Do not wear prints of the same size. Instead, offset a smaller with a larger to create a balance. Prints of the same size can become an eye sore and have you look like you’re dressed for wacky tacky day at school. Create some dimension and pair thin stripes with a large floral print.
Next, do not mix too many colors. My best advice would be color-blocking or color palette; if you’re mixing print you don’t need to go that extra mile by mixing a bunch of your favorite, unrelated colors as well. Choosing army green, black, white and beige as his main colors, Haywad is able to make this work because many serve as neutrals that compliment each other and don’t overpower the outfit.
Lastly, do not decide this is a time to dish out every print you own. We’re talking more of a three-ingredient mac and cheese instead of a 15-ingredient beef stew. If you’re a beginner, stick to two prints and watch throughout the day to see if people look at you in discomfort or desire (totally kidding… kind of.)
What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Style is an art, so never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot wear. It’s something that’s personalized, with no right or wrong. Personally, I like polka dot prints because it catches people’s eyes more than others. It’s a bold way to go.”
