Styling prints can be tricky, but with a few smart strategies, you can make them look chic, intentional, and modern. Let your print reflect your mood or message for the day.

Get to know your prints

• Animal print = bold, confident, fierce.

• Stripes = classic, structured, dependable.

• Florals = romantic, soft, artistic.

• Geometric = modern, edgy, assertive.

• Tie-dye or watercolor = creative, relaxed, free-spirited.

Print Placement & Proportion (Body Awareness):

Prints draw the eye, use them strategically to highlight or downplay areas.

Tips by Body Area:

• Top-heavy? Wear prints on the bottom to balance proportions.

• Petite? Choose smaller, more spaced-out prints so you’re not overwhelmed.

 • Curvy? Look for prints that flow with your silhouette,     not against it.

Color theory with prints

Understanding color helps you layer prints and accessories like a stylist. For example:

• Monochromatic looks (all one color in varying shades) look elevated with prints.

• Complementary colors (opposite on the color wheel like blue & orange) create bold contrast.

• Analogous colors (next to each other like green & blue) give harmony and softness.

Mix Prints Carefully

Mixing prints can look high-fashion if done right. It creates a fashion-forward, editorial look when executed thoughtfully. Use these guidelines:

• Same color family: Keep prints in similar tones.

• Different scale: Mix a large print with a small one.

• Break it up: Use a belt or solid-colored layer to separate clashing prints.

Combo idea: Polka dot blouse with a striped skirt in coordinating colors.

Pairing Prints with Solids 

It balances the visual weight of a print, allowing it to stand out without competing elements.

How to Do It Well:

• Anchor bold prints with basic colors like black, white, cream, or navy.

• Match one of the print’s colors with your solid piece for a cohesive feel.

• Keep fabric textures in mind — a silky printed blouse pairs beautifully with matte trousers or denim.

Use Accessories to Echo the Print

Match your accessories to a color or theme in the print for cohesion without overdoing it. Smaller doses of print can add personality and trendiness to an outfit.

Tips:

• Keep the rest of the look minimal to avoid clashing.

• Coordinate accessories by color, not by print.

• Let one accessory be the hero — don’t overload.

Cut and Silhouette: Match Style to Print

The cut of a garment can either modernize or age a print.

Tips:

• Bold prints often look better on structured pieces (tailored blazers, boxy tops).

• Soft prints work well on flowy silhouettes (wrap dresses, chiffon blouses).

• Avoid overly “retro” combinations unless intentionally going for a vintage vibe.

Seasonal Tips for Prints

 Spring/Summer:

• Light, bright, playful prints (florals, tropical, watercolor, stripes).

• Use lighter fabrics: linen, cotton, chiffon.

Fall/Winter:

• Moody florals, tartan, leopard, abstract art prints.

• Heavier fabrics: wool, tweed, velvet.

• Pair with layered neutrals — camel, charcoal, olive, oxblood.