Print Mixing 101

Mixing Prints:

  How to get creative with everything in your closet

One of the most popular and difficult trends to master this season is the mixing of prints. You will see many crazy combinations on the runway and on the streets of Paris but I want to help you find a simple way to use what is in you closet to add some interest to your basic pieces. It is possible to have this look go waaaaay wrong and have you looking like the crazy bag lady who talks to the pigeons in the park. Have no fear...help is here.

The easiest way to achieve the complex yet effortless look of print mixing is to start with a couple of black and white items from your closet. The look at right works because one print is a black and white stripe and the other is a smaller black and white print. The pop of red is gives interest to the whole look and makes it polished yet fun. The simplest way to ease into this trend is to start with one black and white item like a striped boat neck tee, add a floral scarf, then throw on a black blazer, cropped jeans and a colorful flat. The look at left is from my own closet and is a favorite go-to outfit.

We all have an animal print item in the back of the closet like a jacket, skinny jeans, scarf, or shoe. The look at left is elegant and interesting and can be easily achieved with items that we already have. The chambray shirt gives a casualness to the formal attitude of the pearls and faux fur coat. I could see Grace Kelly strolling the streets of Paris in this feminine and provocative ensemble. I also love the fearless use of pearls and bangles. Never underestimate the power of a print scarf to liven up a bland        combination of basics.

The looks at right are another example of things we already own and how to update them by mixing it up. A printed cardigan is paired with a plaid shirt and textured skirt, a basic argyle sweater gets new life when paired with a red print blouse, a basic black a-line, and a navy and yellow plaid blazer is paired with a yellow checked skirt. These are all examples of print mixing without the crazy colors or bag lady effect. Run to you closet and mix it up this week. People will be impressed with your creativity and wonder how you managed to hire a celebrity stylist!

Julie Borshak (julieborshak@me.com)