Mastering the art of pattern mixing is one of the most advanced skills in menswear. When done correctly, mixing different patterns can elevate your outfit, adding depth, texture, and personality. But without the right approach, it can easily go wrong, creating an outfit that looks chaotic rather than cohesive. In this article, we’ll guide you through the fundamentals of mixing patterns like a pro, showing you how to combine stripes, plaids, and prints in a way that’s stylish, balanced, and sophisticated.
1. Understanding the Basics of Pattern Mixing
Before diving into pattern combinations, it’s important to understand the basic principles of how patterns interact. Patterns are essentially shapes that repeat, and how they work together depends on their size, color, and spacing. There are three main elements to consider when mixing patterns: scale, color, and style.
Scale:
When mixing patterns, varying the scale is essential. If all the patterns in your outfit are of the same size, they will compete for attention, making the look too busy. For example, if you’re pairing a pinstripe suit with a patterned tie, ensure that the stripes on the suit are narrow, while the pattern on the tie is larger or bolder. This creates contrast and ensures that each pattern stands out.
Color:
Color coordination is key when mixing patterns. To make pattern mixing more seamless, stick to a cohesive color palette. For example, if you’re wearing a plaid shirt and a striped tie, ensure that at least one color is consistent across both patterns. This will create harmony and keep the look grounded.
Style:
Each pattern carries a certain level of formality. Stripes, especially pinstripes, tend to be more formal, while plaids and paisleys have a more relaxed, casual vibe. When mixing patterns, consider the overall formality of the outfit and choose patterns that align with the occasion.
Pro Tip: Start simple if you’re new to pattern mixing. A subtle striped shirt paired with a solid color tie and a checked pocket square is a great way to dip your toes into the world of pattern combinations.
2. The Golden Rules of Pattern Mixing
While pattern mixing can be a creative process, there are a few golden rules that will help you pull off this look with confidence.
Rule 1: Vary the Scale
As mentioned earlier, the most important rule is to vary the scale of the patterns. Large patterns paired with small patterns create contrast and balance. For example, you can pair a large windowpane blazer with a finely striped shirt and a bold, paisley tie.
Rule 2: Stick to a Color Family
One of the easiest ways to make patterns work together is by ensuring that the patterns share a common color. Even if the patterns are different (such as a plaid jacket with a striped shirt), if they are within the same color family, the outfit will still appear cohesive.
Rule 3: Use One Bold Pattern
It’s often best to limit the number of bold patterns in your outfit to one. For instance, if you’re wearing a boldly checked blazer, pair it with a more understated shirt and tie. This ensures that the bold pattern remains the focal point without overwhelming the look.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, a solid piece (such as a tie or pocket square) can act as a visual anchor, breaking up the patterns and bringing balance to the outfit.
3. Combining Stripes, Plaids, and Prints
Now that you understand the basic rules, let’s explore how to mix specific patterns such as stripes, plaids, and prints.
Stripes
Stripes are one of the most versatile patterns in menswear. Thin pinstripes on suits are formal, while wider stripes on shirts or accessories offer a more relaxed look. When mixing stripes with other patterns, remember to vary the width and direction. For example, pair a vertical striped shirt with a horizontally striped tie or a plaid jacket. This variation in direction and size creates contrast while keeping the outfit unified.
Plaids
Plaids come in various forms, from subtle checks to bold tartans. Because plaid patterns tend to be more eye-catching, they should be paired with more understated patterns. For example, a plaid shirt or blazer can be paired with a solid tie or a tie with a small polka dot pattern. Plaids often work best when they are the main pattern in the outfit, with other patterns serving as accents.
Prints (Florals, Paisleys, and Geometrics)
Florals and paisleys add a touch of personality to your wardrobe. These patterns are often used in ties, pocket squares, and shirts, offering a playful or elegant touch depending on the context. When combining prints with other patterns, make sure the print is the statement piece, with smaller, more neutral patterns as a backdrop. For example, a floral tie can be paired with a striped shirt, as long as the colors complement each other.
Pro Tip: When pairing three patterns together, such as in a suit, shirt, and tie combination, keep one of the patterns more muted or smaller in scale. This prevents the outfit from looking too busy and ensures balance.
4. Advanced Pattern Mixing: Going Beyond the Basics
Once you’ve mastered the basics of pattern mixing, you can start experimenting with more advanced combinations. For instance, mixing two bold patterns, such as a large plaid blazer with a floral tie, can work as long as the colors are harmonious and the scales of the patterns differ significantly.
Textures as Patterns
Textures, like herringbone, tweed, or corduroy, can also be treated as patterns, adding depth and dimension to an outfit. Combining different textures with patterns creates an interesting, layered look. For example, a tweed blazer with a subtle herringbone pattern can be paired with a paisley tie and a striped shirt for a sophisticated, textured ensemble.
Pro Tip: When mixing bold patterns and textures, keep accessories (such as shoes and belts) simple and understated to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
Conclusion: Mastering Pattern Mixing Like a Pro
Pattern mixing is an art that requires confidence and creativity, but when done right, it can elevate your style to a new level. By understanding the principles of scale, color, and pattern style, and following the golden rules of mixing stripes, plaids, and prints, you can create outfits that are dynamic, stylish, and effortlessly sophisticated. Whether you’re attending a business meeting, a wedding, or a casual dinner, mastering pattern mixing ensures you’ll always stand out in the best way possible.