How to Style Patterns and Prints Within Your Work Wardrobe

“A pattern is any repeated design woven or embroidered, whereas a print is a design that has been printed onto fabric” - Tan France.  Clothing with patterns and prints can instantly catch the eye and lift any outfit. Adding bold patterns or versatile prints to your wardrobe will give you the opportunity to elevate your outfits and add a little bit of fun to your regular 9 to 5.

Prints and patterns are used interchangeably, but are there any differences between these two concepts? Introducing these can be tricky if you are already used to using basic and solid colour palettes for your outfits. Fashion Biz Canada wants to provide you with some tips about how to start incorporating prints and patterns into your outfits.

Try starting with one pattern at a time

We all have to start somewhere! Adding just one pattern at a time will help you build a foundation. This will come in handy when you want to get creative and start mixing patterns around.  

To start with, you can wear something patterned under something neutral. For example, you might wear a patterned shirt underneath a blazer as the jacket will cover most of it, giving just a little peak of it. If this feels like it is too much of a leap from your regular outfits, you can also start with subtler pieces of clothing like a scarf, a handbag, or funky patterned socks. These can add to your look without being the main focus point.  

There are basics in patterns

It’s totally fine if you’re not ready for the more out-there patterns just yet. There is a reason why a striped button-down is universally loved and considered a basic staple piece. First, allow yourself to get comfortable with the key patterns: checks, stripes, and polka dots. You can start with overcoats, jackets, and casual tailoring.

Don’t be scared to get some inspo

There are so many options out there for you to find what suits you best and plenty of fashion inspiration on how to mix patterns properly. Many fashion professionals are particularly good at it. There is a misconception that patterns can be tricky to style in a professional environment. However, we believe there are so many examples of patterns being properly styled for corporate wear out there - you just have to find them!    

Trust your style!

Neutrals are universally appealing. This will not be the case with prints, as they are more personal and subjective. For example, a print you like might not be appealing to others, and that is okay. Wear what makes you feel good and what follows your style, and don't be scared to express yourself with your outfits.

Will it go well with your current wardrobe?  

Patterned clothing is generally considered a statement or accent piece. It is very important not to buy these garments on impulse as this can make it harder for you to integrate your new clothes with your existing clothing. Understanding how you will wear a pattern is key when you are shopping.

While browsing, be sure to think about what and on how many occasions you can wear the item and if you already own items that will pair nicely with them. If you can’t think of many occasions or options to wear it with, you might want to leave it behind.

Find your balance

You have to find a balance for the perfect combination of interest and versatility. Some days you can use patterns to spice up your outfit, and other days they can be the pillar of your outfit. You can go loud and subtle. You can choose a coordinate pattern throughout. Or, you can choose a bolder colour as a neutral to match with a subtle pattern. All these can help you achieve that balance you are looking for in your day-to-day outfits.

Don’t be scared to mix patterns

We have all heard before the conventional rule of fashion that says you can’t mix patterns. However, mixing patterns can be a way to show your confidence and add fun to your looks. Start with the classics like stripes, for example, and layer with bolder prints. Tan France says that a good starting point can be a striped T-shirt with a bolder geometric pattern on top. Both of these patterns will complement each other thanks to the lines.

Try to match at least one colour throughout your pieces to bring your whole look together. For example, a red and white polka-dot, combined with another multicolour pattern that predominates one of the colours from before, like a red floral print. At the same time, if you decide to wear a vibrant colour, you can balance it out with something darker.

Know your scales and what works for you

Larger patterns will create the illusion of size. For example, if you want to add volume to certain areas to give an illusion of balance, you can place larger patterns on those areas.

At the same time, the density of the patterns will determine the focus of individual elements of your outfit. For example, a dense pattern with not much negative space will keep the eye moving. At the same time, patterns with more negative space will create a focal point wherever you wear them.

Is it timeless or a trend?

Some patterns stay in fashion, while others reflect a particular moment in style and fashion. When choosing prints for your work outfits, opt for classic patterns and prints that are timeless that will not go out of style anytime soon.

What vibe are you going for?

The majority of patterns are associated with particular styles and vibes. Fashion Biz Canada likes to focus on classic and chic pattern styles for the office. These patterns would include stripes, small geometric patterns, repeating patterns, and delicate curved patterns. Don't be scared to mix and match. The best style for you is the one you like.

Head into your closest Fashion Biz Canada distributor and find which prints and patterns look the best for you!