5 Prints Every Women Needs in her Wardrobe

A great wardrobe has a balance of solids and prints, but, one look at my own closet—So. Much. Navy.—leads me to assume that some of us aren’t venturing into the world of patterns as much as we should. Now stripes are a gimmy, so I took a look into some of the more adventurous prints you need now.

1. PATCHWORK
Don’t worry, I’m not talking Raggedy Anne here. Modern renditions of patchwork are much more subdued, with a subtle feel of Americana. Wear an A-line style with a tied button-up for an easy summer look with a retro twist.

2. ANIMAL
Animal prints have come a long way since the skin-tight legging days of Peg Bundy (hopefully I didn’t just date myself here). The latest renditions of leopard and snake are so easy to wear, they’re almost a neutral. The next time you feel yourself reaching for black, swap it out an animal print.

3. FLORAL
Most people have one floral print in their closet, like a dress or a blouse. But to really stretch your fashion limits, try something more unexpected like a floral pant. Going bold with bottoms takes a certain amount of confidence—just what you want to project in summer. Pair them back to a lacy top and wide-brim hat for a free-spirited look.

4. PLAID
Summer plaids are more bold and electric than the tartans of fall. An asymmetrical top can be a striking statement piece with of-the-moment white pants. But, if you really want to embrace prints, try styling a plaid top with a contrasting plaid skirt.

5. WILD
Everyone needs at least one wild print—something that defies categorization—to rely on in their wardrobe. Examples are tie-dye, an exclusive artisan print (like the Born Free collection), or something futuristic. Go-to brands for this style of print are Mara Hoffman and Clover Canyon. The only guidelines here are to find a bold print you love and wear it!

--Libby S.