I've always found mixing patterns to be a challenge. There are some people that are just so naturally good at it, and I honestly don't know how they manage - whenever I attempt to mix paisley with stripes, or stripes with plaid, or what-have-you, I feel like I just end up clashing.
But one of my (many) New Year's resolutions is to venture more outside of my sartorial comfort zone this year, and this is one goal I am absolutely determined to keep. One thing I've learned about trying out fashion trends you're intimidated by is to start off slowly...so that's exactly what I did.
Instead of diving off the deep end and mixing bright colors and patterns for a really bold look, I kept it toned down by staying in a low-key, neutral color palette. I've had this polka dot romper lying in my closet since last spring, when I wore it a few times and promptly forgot all about it. Now it's far too chilly to wear on its own, so I paired it with a loosely-fitting blouse in a similar color scheme but "clashing" pattern.
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| Blouse, H&M Sz XS (similar here); Romper, H&M Sz 2 (similar here); Boots, Aldo, old (similar here); Tights, HUE. |
To keep the look from being too black and white (literally and figuratively!) I added some subtle dimension with a few turquoise bangles. I love that these sorts of bangles are considered "trendy" right now (thanks, Amrita Singh!), since I have so many of them! One of the perks of being Indian ;)
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| Bangles, from India (similar here); Watch, MK Small Madison; Necklace, old (similar here); Ring, old. |
The weather on Saturday was so absurdly warm - 62 degrees in January, can you believe it? You can bet that I took full advantage of the unseasonable heat by banishing my wool coat to the closet and bringing back my ASOS light trench (similar) for the night. I wasn't even cold!
How do you all wear patterns? Are you adventurous enough to mix and match bold prints, or timid like me? I'm determined to be more courageous when it comes to my wardrobe this year - but what are your own fashion resolutions for 2012 (or, failing that, what are your resolutions in general)?
