Fall 2017 fashion trends include everything from 80’s remix windbreakers to boxy plaid suits with a unisex edge. For some, mixing textures and prints comes naturally. For others, it isn’t as easy. Here is my fool-proof guide to rocking bold prints like Queen Bee or Rih-Rih.
Tip #1 Love your print.
The first rule of prints should be unspoken. Print must: purchase prints you love. My taste in prints is wide and non-discriminating. Animal, floral, geometric prints – they’re all fair game. What distinguishes a must-have from a pretty piece is rule #2.
Tip #2 Make your print wardrobe-friendly.
If you’re someone that prefers to wear neutrals, would you purchase a vibrant watercolor print dress? Probably not. Be strategic about the printed items that gets to call your closet home. When you’re deciding if a piece is for you, plan out (2) different outfits in your head – think of a work look and a casual or night out look. If you can’t come up with both, chances are the printed item won’t be a great investment.
Tip #3 Let the print be the statement piece.
An outfit can have a variety of elements; the simplicity of the finished look is up to you, but the printed item should always be the highlight. I do this by pairing my print with basics. Options may include your best jeans, a simple V-neck, leggings or a T-shirt dress.
*One thing to address – how do we know what the “statement” print is, when pairing an entire look of prints? The statement print is the item with the color most opposite your skin tone, the biggest item in the outfit or the largest print in scale.
Tip #4 Keep all your pieces in the same color family.
If you’re intimidated by prints, go for neutral tones or a color palette of similar shades. My leopard coat has tones of black, brown, toast, gold and ochre, bringing out the gold and brown tones in my sweater. And even though my pants are leather, the color is complimentary and the design is simple which allows the coat to shine.
Tip #5 Pair with minimalist accessories.
No look is complete without accessories. Earrings bring out a brighter smile and the shine in your eyes, so they’re pretty necessary. Instead of a dangle or hoop, go for a stone or metal stud. Accessories should be as far away from the statement piece as possible.
Do you have go to accessories that you wear everyday? If so, keep your signature in place.
Tip #6 Be mindful of proportions.
We’ve made it to my last tip, and this goes for any look, with or without prints. Proportions are the difference between a bloated looking waist line or a svelte physique. It doesn’t matter if your statement print takes up the most outfit real estate or the least, as long as the length and weight of all your items are in perfect harmony.
For example – a leopard statement coat, leather pants and a loose sweater. The coat is more than half my body in length. I compensated for this by wearing a high-waist pant and tucking my shirt slightly. And then my pants are quite tight, but the body in the sweater and cut of the jacket keep this outfit chic rather than going too sexy.
When you love what you’re wearing, it shows. Following these simple steps helps me to exude confidence and ease rather than letting those, “does this outfit look ridiculous,” worries creep into my head. And who cares if you look ridiculous anyway? Your opinion is the only one that matters. And, maybe your mom’s.
I’d love to see your print inspired looks. Leave links in the comment section, and don’t forget to like/share if this was helpful or informative!
Thanks for reading -T
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