STYLE SWAP TUESDAYS- PRINT BERSERK

Just when I thought Fall was here, DC witnessed a warm-warm day. When I say warm: I mean summer-like-80-degree weather. I am in no way complaining about this capricious weather, rather I rejoiced another warm day. I could have worn a short dress, but instead I decided to go berserk: SUMMER PRINT BERSERK.

I have an undeniable obsession with mixing-prints together and I leave no chance of wearing em, even if it is a print overload. If I can do it, you can too. Just a few basic rules and lots of confidence can make any print on print look work. So listen to your heart and keep reading for my basic rules of wearing prints:

The first rule to remember is proportion: always make sure the print size is proportionate to your body size. For skinnier-on-the-bottom-type bodies, a bigger print on the bottom and smaller on the top would give the illusion of wholeness on the lower half, thereby giving a more balanced look. On the contrary for curvier women a smaller print on the bottom and bolder on the top would work favorably. Also if you are heavy-chested steering away from larger prints, especially horizontal stripes, is highly advised. So remember, if you wish to draw attention to any part of your body,

wear bolder and eye-catching prints.

The second one is quantity: don’t go overboard with the number of prints in one outfit. Stick to two, maximum three prints, otherwise you’ll end up looking sloppy. Always treat leopard and other animal prints as neutral: pairing this print with other fun prints would be idealistic.

The third one is scale: if you are a newbie to this print-mixing trend, choose a single print and use different sizes of the same print. For instance if you choose geo prints as in my case- the bomber flaunts a smaller version as the blouse, which boasts a much larger geometric pattern. This way the focus stays on that one print but different sizes make the look more interesting.

The fourth one is monochromatic: simple rule of thumb- ‘if it gets overwhelming…. go monochromatic.‘ Choose one color and play around with different patterns, prints and textures to create you own personal look. For example:- STRIPES- choose different sizes, go vertical, go horizontal, and diagonal too, you’ll be amazed how dramatic these lines look when paired strategically. I believe I have honed this skill, so I like playing around with two colors.

Last but not the least is to have fun: print mixing can get intimidating and a fashion-risk, but once you get the hang of it, it will surpass all your expectations. Listen to your sartorial instincts- if you feel confident of your mixed-prints outfit: wear it, if anything feels off: correct it. Once you get it right, you will develop a whole new perspective towards your printed clothes. They will never feel boring and never will you have to stand in front of your closet, gazing and saying to yourself- ‘I have nothing to wear !’ So have fun and be sartorially smart.