How To Mix Prints Without Looking Overdone

Wearing prints can turn a simple outfit into a statement — but mixing them takes confidence and a bit of strategy. The key is to balance patterns so they complement, not compete. Done right, mixed prints look bold, creative, and completely intentional.

Start With a Neutral Base

Before diving into loud prints, ground your look with neutrals. Think of whites, blacks, beige, or denim as your “canvas.” They keep your outfit balanced while letting the prints take the spotlight.
For example:

• Pair a black-and-white striped top with a floral skirt.
• Try a polka-dot blouse with plain jeans before adding more prints.

Neutrals help your outfit breathe. Once you master that balance, you can start layering more adventurous combinations.

Stick to a Cohesive Colour Palette

The easiest way to mix prints like a pro is by keeping the colours in harmony. Choose patterns that share at least one or two common colours. This creates visual flow and prevents clashing.

For instance, if you’re wearing a blue floral skirt, add a striped shirt that also has shades of blue. Or, if your animal print has brown undertones, match it with a pattern that uses beige or cream.

Pro tip: Use colour as your glue. Even the boldest prints can look seamless when tied together with a shared hue.

Play With Print Size and Scale

Balance is everything when mixing prints. Large and small patterns can complement each other beautifully when styled thoughtfully.

Here’s how:

• Combine a bold, oversized floral print with a delicate pinstripe.
• Match a large checkered skirt with a smaller polka-dot blouse.
• Avoid pairing two equally loud prints — they’ll fight for attention.

The trick is to let one print lead and the other support. This contrast adds depth and keeps your look sophisticated, not overwhelming.

Use Accessories as Pattern Bridges

If you’re unsure about mixing prints in clothing, start small with accessories. Scarves, bags, belts, and shoes are perfect ways to experiment.

• A floral dress with a striped handbag adds interest without being too much.
• A plaid blazer with a leopard-print clutch feels chic and modern.
• Printed shoes paired with neutral outfits give just the right amount of pop.

Accessories can tie two contrasting prints together or introduce a third pattern in a subtle way.

Balance Bold Prints With Solids

If your outfit feels too busy, tone it down with solid pieces. A bright blazer, monochrome trousers, or simple shoes can balance everything out. Solids give the eye a place to rest and make your prints stand out more elegantly.

For example:

• Pair a bold printed skirt with a plain white top.
• Layer a solid-coloured jacket over mixed prints.
• Use neutral shoes to anchor patterned outfits.

When in doubt, let one print dominate and support it with solid tones for a more refined look.

Confidence Is Your Best Accessory

Ultimately, mixing prints isn’t just about fashion — it’s about self-expression. When you wear your combinations with confidence, others will see it as intentional and stylish, not overdone.
So, play around. Try stripes with polka dots, florals with checks, or even abstract prints with animal patterns. You’ll be surprised at how effortlessly they can work together once you find your balance.

Takeaway

Mixing prints is about balance, colour harmony, and confidence. Start simple, build on what feels natural, and trust your eye. When your outfit feels fun and authentic, you’re doing it right.

Save this styling guide for later and next time you open your wardrobe, don’t shy away from mixing those patterns!