I’ve always thought that patterns should never be worn together. Stripes and polka dots? Totally separate pieces. However, what I love about recent trends is the flexibility around mixing patterns, and the openness to how this can be done. I like mixing a bold pattern with a more subtle, neutral pattern. A more subtle pattern, such as thin stripes, can act as a neutral to pair a variety of different pieces with. The key that I have found is not to mix various ultra bold patterns in one outfit, since this can look busy and overwhelming. However, when done correctly, this can be worn in the office, on a day date, or out on the town. Here’s how I like my mixed-patterned look:

Since both of these patterns are relatively neutral, they paired well together, and these shorts are the perfect blue/denim color to go with lots of different pieces. Pair with bright, funky jewelry to really make the outfit pop! Let us know how you mixed patterns-we’d love to see! Thanks for reading!

{Outfit Details: Sold out, similar here; Top: Sold out, similar here; Bag: Nordstrom, Necklace: Sold out, similar here; Shoes: Nordstrom}