Prints Charming
The Return of Bold Patterns in Fashion
I’m so sick of the “clean-girl aesthetic”! It is so boring when everyone looks the same. One thing the "clean girl aesthetic" completely erased were patterns and prints. Everyone was wearing beige, white, black, or blue, and then red when it became trendy. So beyond dull and uninspiring. That's why I'm excited that we're finally moving away from it and going back to having fun with our clothes and using them to express ourselves— their true purpose.
Prints are making a bold comeback in the fashion world, marking a shift away from the uniformity that has dominated recent summers. As people get sick of minimalist trends, there is a growing desire to experiment with something unique. This resurgence of prints and patterns signals a renewed interest in self-expression through fashion. Traditionally, prints have always been more popular during the summer, so this isn’t groundbreaking by any means. But now, they are breaking seasonal boundaries and becoming a year-round staple. This highlights a move towards individuality and creativity in personal style, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards embracing diversity and uniqueness.
The cool part about fashion is that there are no strict rules. I know adding a new print to your wardrobe can be a little daunting, but experimenting with different patterns will make it easier. In this article, I want to share three prints and patterns I've been loving lately and how you can learn to love wearing them too, one step at a time.
*all below images are from Pinterest*
Leopard Print
Incorporating leopard print into your wardrobe can add a sophisticated and stylish touch when done thoughtfully. While I consider leopard print a wardrobe staple, I understand that not everyone feels the same way. My golden rule for wearing a new print is to start small and work your way up. Begin with accessories like a headband, scarf, or belt—something easily removable to gauge your comfort with the pattern. These small elements can enhance neutral tones and provide a pop of interest, making your outfit more dynamic without overwhelming it.
Once you’re comfortable with accessories, consider incorporating leopard print footwear. A stylish pair of slingbacks, flats, or if you’re feeling trendy, a leopard print sneaker. Shoes are a great way to experiment with patterns because they’re a smaller commitment and can instantly elevate your look.
As you grow more confident with the pattern, start introducing larger pieces into your wardrobe. Leopard print pants or skirts can be paired with solid colors to maintain a balanced look and ensure the pattern doesn’t dominate. For those feeling particularly bold, a leopard print coat or dress can serve as a fabulous statement piece, perfect when you want a little extra attention. Such pieces can be the focal point of your outfit, allowing you to keep other elements simple and streamlined.
By slowly integrating these elements, you can seamlessly blend leopard print into your style while maintaining a polished look. The key is to balance the boldness of the pattern with classic, neutral pieces to create a cohesive and chic outfit. Embracing leopard print thoughtfully can elevate your fashion game and showcase your confidence and creativity in styling.
Polka Dots
To bring polka dots into your wardrobe, begin with subtle yet chic pieces like polka-dot scarves and dresses. These items pair wonderfully with neutral colors, creating a balanced look that is both sophisticated and playful. For those looking to add a bit more flair, polka-dot tights are a fabulous choice. I know that might seem scary, but even when worn with a simple little black dress, polka dot tights show that you've put extra thought into your outfit, adding a point of interest.
As you grow more comfortable with the pattern, don't stop there. Polka dots can be remarkably versatile and look stunning when styled with other prints. For instance, pairing a polka dot skirt with a striped top can create a bold look that showcases your personal style and confidence. The possibilities are endless, and once you start mixing and matching, you won’t want to stop. You’ll find that polka dots can be a surprisingly versatile addition to your wardrobe. I’ve been obsessed with them lately.
This summer, sheer polka dot dresses have become a trendy choice for cover-ups. These dresses offer a contemporary twist on the classic pattern, making them perfect for those hot summer days when you want to stay cool while looking fabulous. Embracing polka dots in various forms—from accessories to statement pieces—allows you to explore and enjoy this timeless print while expressing your personal style.
Gingham
Gingham is a fabulous pattern that adds a timeless and playful touch to your style. However, people tend to be afraid of gingham because it can sometimes give ‘pilgrim-energy’, which if that’s your vibe, slay. Start with gingham pants or shorts, which look great with solid-colored tops for a balanced look. These pieces are incredibly versatile, allowing you to dress them up for dinner or keep them casual with a baby tee and red sneakers.
As you’re learning to love gingham, consider adding a dress to your collection. Perfect for various occasions, gingham dresses offer a classic appeal that can be accessorized with statement jewelry and a pair of kitten heels for added flair.
Once you've mastered the basics, take your gingham game to the next level with a gingham two-piece set. These coordinated outfits, whether a matching top and skirt or a crop top and high-waisted shorts, provide an effortlessly stylish look perfect for summer. Gingham can be cool, I promise.
The shift away from the "clean-girl aesthetic" signifies a refreshing return to individuality and creativity in fashion. People are finally using their fashion to express themselves again. The resurgence of prints and patterns, from leopard and polka dots to gingham, offers endless opportunities to express personal style and embrace the joy of dressing up. Starting with small accessories and gradually incorporating bolder pieces allows you to experiment confidently with these patterns, making them a staple in your wardrobe year-round. Fashion has no strict rules (thank goodness!!!!), and the key to mastering prints is to find a balance that works with your unique taste and personality. Let’s have fun with our clothes!
XO,
𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆