I remember the moment exactly, a few years ago. I was looking through a magazine and saw this picture of a woman wearing an outfit composed of mixed prints. I thought it was so cool but that I could never pull that look off. I was just beginning to come into my fashion confidence and this outfit was like stepping into the deep end. I was so inspired by that picture I tore it out of the magazine and pasted it in a notebook as inspiration and promised myself that I would be that woman wearing mixed prints with confidence some day.
Little by little, I tried. Stripes were a classic, comfortable pattern to start mixing so I tried that out in black and white. Then, I started pushing myself to mix prints in bold colors, larger prints, more detailed prints and the evolution began.
I made an internal pact with myself to push my own boundaries of what I was comfortable with. I played with patterns and prints and colors and let them lead the way. I removed the judgment from the process and just enjoyed it. I also told myself whenever I had the choice between a “safe” or “crazy” option, let’s say for an accessory or a pair of shoes, that I would always pick the choice that was least expected. This commitment to myself in exploring fashion blossomed into what is now my signature style.
Today, just a few short years later, virtually my entire wardrobe is prints and color, so I have no choice but to mix them. I even incorporate patterns in my shoes, hats, scarves, jewelry and bags. I receive comments that I am the print mixing queen and that I do it with such ease. If only they knew just a few short years ago, I didn’t think it was possible.
While mixing prints is a fashion trend, for me it was the tool that helped me discover my true style. If there is a style that inspires you or makes you smile when you look at it, I encourage you from the bottom of my heart to try it!! And then try it again, and again and if it feels right and it feels like you, own it!
Today’s look is mixed prints turned all the way up. Every piece is a print, worn in honor of every step of my journey to define my signature style and wear it with confidence.
{Jumpsuit, JCPenny, Blazer/Earrings/Thrifted, Shoes/Peter Pilotto for Target, Necklace/Bag/Bought in Guatemala, Mixed Bangles/Claire’s & Santee Alley, Scarves (one worn as a belt & one worn as a headwrap/Target, Hat/99 cents store}
This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Together we are #UnitedlyPlus!
United Plus is our dedicated place to celebrate every woman, every body type, every clothing size, and every ethnicity. We embody inclusivity, honoring the unique beauty that each woman possesses. We encourage all women to embrace and love who they are today. We show persona style can encourage body positivity, foster self-confidence, and provide an outlet for personal self-expression. Please join us in our mission of united women from every part of the world, showcasing our individual beauty, and authentic creativity.
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