To be honest, mixing patterns is a bit out of my comfort/style zone. At some point I even thought it was a bit tacky. Yes, I was a hater. After accidentally putting together a mixed pattern outfit in the dark one day, I am now a fan of this growing trend. I think the scale of the patterns is the key. Two large patterns together can make the pieces compete against each other and two small prints can result in an outfit that is too busy to focus. I’m sharing a few of my faves.

Mixing two monotone patterns or patterns in a similar color scheme is an easy starting point if you are a novice mixer like me.

top: Urban Outfitter old (similar, similar), skirt: Loft old (similar), shoes: JCrew Factory, jewels: Loft & Old Navy

Mixing bold and subtle prints together balances the outfit. This is a good option for work attire pattern mixing.

top: H&M old (similar), skirt: JCrew Factory, shoes: BR (final sale in stores now $17), jewels: T&Co

top: H&M old (similar) skirt:Jessica Simpson Old (similar), shoes: Target old (similar), hat: JCrew old, jewels: Loft

Subtle textural patterns, like an eyelet, carry bold colors well and can handle being paired with complementary colors.

top: H&M old (similar), skirt: JCrew Factory, shoes: Target (still available in stores), belt: H&M (came with another dress)

My pattern mixing is still rather tame. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll work up the courage to rock a Peter Pilotto sundress. On an unrelated note, I noticed I wear a lot of skirts. What are your thoughts? Are you a fan of mixing patterns?