Style 101: Pattern and Texture
Tavi mixing stripes, floral and photorealistic prints (stylerookie.com)
*Artful clashing or "mix-matching" is de rigeur. The key to pulling it off is attention to scale and diversity. You want to mix a big print with a little one outside its immediate “pattern family.” So for example, pair a big plaid with a small floral print or skinny stripes with a big graphic print.
conservative "power clashing" (via)
*When in doubt, just go with a splash of pattern. A bold tie, scarf or patterned chemise with an otherwise neutral outfit is both conservative and personalized.
via
*Don’t forget texture! These days, we no longer obey the old rules about color and season nor the sharp distinction between formal and casual wear. Texture allows us to express these ideas very subtly, however. Think of the difference between a white nubby wool jacket versus a white linen one. Or the difference between a cobalt blue A-line dress in silk versus one made of blue suede versus one in blue cotton jersey. Three completely different dresses thanks to diverse textures. Be careful how you mix textures, too.
How do you use pattern and texture? Is one more important to you than the other? --m
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