I don’t know about you, but I’m starting to get a little tired of dark winter colors. Don’t get me wrong, I love the garments I have constructed with rich, warm fabrics in the always-elegant blacks, dark greys, rich jewel tones, and navy blues. But with the promise of spring just around the corner, I’ve been dying for something livelier to spice up my sewing projects! While digging through my fabric drawer, I felt vaguely overwhelmed – so many choices. Then it struck me. Why choose? Mismatching patterns has become incredibly in vogue over the last couple of years. If you’re like me, however, mismatching patterns also feels a little like playing with fire. Not enough or a little too much mismatching can make the piece or ensemble flop. But being the fearless and fashion-forward crafters we are, we will persevere!
- Find a neutral element to unify the piece: Whether it is a neutral shoe/belt, or a complimentary color in each pattern, one small cohesive element can work miracles in tying together vastly different patterns. The neutral element is very important, and absolutely cannot be skipped. If you’re stuck or you feel like there’s already too much going on, try a solid color!
- Size matters: Try pairing different patterns with a noticeable variation in size. For example, small polka dots with a large floral pattern, wide stripes with a finely patterned gingham. You get the gist.
- Polka dots with everything: Polka dots, designers agree, have amazing transformative powers! They have the ability to look casual, dressed up, feminine. Dots in a neutral shade can be that unifying or grounding factor we discussed, while a bold colored dot can be more of an attention grabber.
- Variations on the same pattern: Don’t be afraid to pair the same pattern – just make sure they don’t match too Try looking for variations of the same pattern in different colors, sizes, and direction within the garment. (Here’s a fun tip: Animal patterns go great with other animal patterns…rawr!)
- Texture is the new pattern: Don’t ignore your fabrics. That combination of fabric textures can be just as noticeable as the pattern.
- Keep the rest simple: Let’s face it. Mismatching patterns is a bold crafting statement. Don’t try to do too much. Keep shoes neutral and go very simple with the rest of the accessories. Let your patterns be the centerpiece of the outfit.
Don’t forget to put a customized clothing label on your finished masterpiece! When your customers are stopped on the street and asked who the designer of their fun, fresh, and fashion-forward ensemble is, make sure all roads lead to you!
