Easy Pattern Mixing

Pattern mixing is everywhere you look right now–store ads, fashion magazines, etc.  How many of you have looked at an outfit involving pattern mixing, though, and thought it looked hideous?  I know I have!  Some patterns just aren’t meant to be mixed together.

I have recently started pattern mixing more and more. I think that when you start mixing patterns, it’s easiest to start simple and work up to pattern-on-pattern mixing.

Start off by easing into pattern mixing–wear 2 patterns in your outfit, but make sure they don’t touch.  This should mean you’re wearing 1 article of clothing with a pattern + 1 accessory with a pattern, like my skirt/scarf combo shown here.


Scarf: details below.
Tee: Maurices (similar, $9).
Skirt: Maurices
Shoes: Kohl’s (similar, $5)
Here, I chose to colorblock my look, and put a neutral tee in-between the two patterned pieces so they weren’t pattern-on-pattern.  The scarf pics up the pink and white from the skirt, and the white tee ties the look together.  
Scarf: Mimi’s Monograms, details below.
Watch: Coach (gift from hubby)



I’m especially in love with this scarf!  I purchased it from Mimi’s Monograms, and showcased it recently on a #H54F post.  Right now, the scarf + monogram is on sale for $17.99, but you can use promo code TIF15 at checkout for an extra 15% off, making the monogrammed scarf only $15.29 and it ships for free!

Have you tried pattern-mixing?  If so, how did it go???  Do you have any recommendations?

Nice to meet you!

Hi there! I’m Tif Fannin, the blogger behind Bright on a Budget, based in Lexington, Kentucky. Bright on a Budget is a Southern fashion and lifestyle blog where I share everyday looks, beauty, and travel, along with a behind-the-scenes look at my life as a working mom of two. I have a penchant for bright colors + good deals. Follow along for posts that are relatable to the everyday woman.

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0 Comments

  1. 9.8.14

    Looks great!! I love pattern mixing… floral and stripes, stripes and polka-dots, etc. It's a fun trend that I hope sticks around for a while.

  2. 9.8.14

    You did it well! Growing up you know we learned polka dots and stripes do not go together… Now its a thing and I love it! I think once you have a balance it can work!

  3. 9.8.14

    I love the pattern mixing! You always are so creative with your wardrobe. I need to take you shopping with me lol! Della@delladevoted.blogspot.com

  4. 9.8.14

    Love this pattern mix and the pink and mint colors! Your scarf is adorable!

    Jill
    dousedinpink.blogspot.com

  5. 9.8.14

    Super cute outfit! Love the pink and mint and how the monogram ties things together!

  6. 9.8.14
    Joey said:

    Ah! You look fabulous! This is a case of pattern mixing that doesn't have me blocking my eyes–you pull it off nicely! And I'm dying over that scarf. Too adorable!

  7. 9.8.14
    Caitlin said:

    Love that scarf! I agree, there are some patterns that shouldn't be mixed. I tend to mix a more subtle pattern with something a little bit more bold, like thin or lightly striped with a floral. So much fun!

  8. 9.9.14
    Angie said:

    Very cute! I love pattern mixing on others but can't seem to make it work for myself. Maybe I should try it like this 🙂

  9. 9.10.14

    Great tips, I will definitely utilize these right away. I came across your blog through Becky of bybmg blog. We were both nominated for the Tour Through Blog Land. I enjoyed reading this. I am looking forward to getting to know you. Following via bloglovin. Rachel xo https://garaytreasures.wordpress.com/2014/09/09/aztec-print-maxi-skirt-turned-dress/

  10. 9.11.14

    That scarf is so lovely! I'm a sucker for anything monogrammed!

    Katie @ Cup of Tea

  11. 9.17.14

    Thanks, Whit! I think my favorite anchor in pattern mixing is a striped print, closely followed by polka dots. I hope it does too, since I'm getting into it!

  12. 9.17.14

    Bingo–you hit right on it. We also learned that you should never wear black with brown, but certain shades of brown are now a different story (like cognac). It's all about balance, for sure!

  13. 9.17.14

    Thanks, Della. And you can anytime! We can also shop online together:)

  14. 9.17.14

    Thanks, Jill! I'm loving the scarf!

  15. 9.17.14

    Thanks, Becky! I love weaving colors together like that!

  16. 9.17.14

    Pattern mixing used to make me cringe, but I think it's all in how you pull it off. Thanks! I'm looking forward to wearing the scarf year-round.

  17. 9.17.14

    I am going to have to have an intermediate pattern mixing post soon! Thanks!

  18. 9.17.14

    Thanks, Angie. I would definitely start with a striped shirt in the same color tone(s) as whatever pattern you're pairing it with!

  19. 9.17.14

    Thanks for stopping by, Rachel! I've been super busy with life (especially work) and I'm just now catching up with everything. I'm hopping over to your blog now:)

  20. 9.17.14

    Me too!