Bring Bold Patterns into Your Wardrobe with Typography and Floral Dresses

Hello there ladies & gents! At Lux Lair, we adore prints– whether it's typography, oversized florals, stripes, animal patterns, or even geometric or abstract art themes- we just love embracing the bold and beautiful. 

But we get it. For many, wearing bold prints can feel like a giant leap out of their comfort zone. There's this fear that bold prints can be “too much” or “too loud” or they make you look bigger than you actually are.

Here's the thing though: if styled right, bold prints can do the opposite. They can add structure, create a stunning balance, and highlight your best features in ways that solid colors can't. For us, prints are a fun styling opportunity to give your outfits that exciting pop and make you stand out in all the right ways. If you're not sure how to style your prints without going overboard, don't worry! We're going to share some tips to help you wear them with grace and confidence.

Find Prints that Flatter Your Body Shape. 

When you're wearing bold prints, picking the right silhouette is key. It's not just about the print itself but also how it fits and flows with your body. A well-fitted garment allows the print to shine without overwhelming your frame. E.g A big, bold floral or abstract print looks amazing on a fitted wrap dress. 

If you're wearing something loose or flowy, like a blouse, go for smaller, more delicate prints so that you don't feel like you're drowning in fabric. For example, a blouse with tiny polka dots, small typography, or small geometric patterns keeps things interesting without adding extra bulk. The key is to balance the volume of your clothes with the size of the print to keep everything looking chic and well put-together.

For bold patterns, classic shapes like A-line skirts, wrap dresses, tailored shirts are your best friends– for example an A line skirt with a bold checkered pattern or a wrap dress in bright florals will keep your body looking sharp while still allowing the print to stand out. 

Also, the right patterns accentuate your physique more than you think. For instance, if you're petite, vertical stripes or pinstriped denim can create height while tall ladies can rock bold florals in a midi dress to balance their proportions. 

Balancing With the Right Colors- Let Your Prints Pop (without clashing)

When it comes to pairing bold prints with colors, the goal is to let your prints take front seat without competing with the rest of the outfit. If your print is already doing the heavy lifting, choose colors that complement it rather than distract from it. 

The right color tones can make all the difference when you don't want your outfit to be uncomfortably distracting. Try not to mix too many contrasting hues in one outfit. Keep it simple and streamlined, using two or three complimentary shades. 

For example, if you're wearing an animal print blouse, balance it with a neutral skirt in classic black or beige to ground the look. Or even try it out tucked in white or black jeans. Alternatively, if you're wearing printed trousers in floral/plaid/geometric patterns, keep the top solid for contrast.

If you're wearing a Co-ord dress with a matching print, balance with neutral or muted accessories like nude shoes or a beige handbag. For black and white prints, a pop of color with a single accessory like a red bag or cute gold earrings, can go a long way. 

Choosing the Right Accessories- Little Touches that Make a Big Difference 

Accessories are your finishing touch that can bring together your entire outfit. With bold patterns, you need accessories that enhance the look, not compete with it. 

• The best tip with accessories is choosing colors from your print. For example, if you're wearing a floral dress with shades of maroon or burgundy, match a bag or shoes in those tones. If your print has multiple colors, choose one that stands out and let that shade shine in your accessories. E.g wearing green earrings with green polka dots over a white background top. It will keep things cohesive without overwhelming the eyes.

• Sometimes, sticking to classic accessories is the best choice. E.g you can never go wrong with white or black clutch or Crossbody on a loud print. Nude heels or a simple gold bracelet can provide a gorgeous foundation while letting your print steal the show. You can also break up a printed dress with a wide, solid belt without drawing too much attention.
  

• With bold prints, less is usually more. Think delicate jewellery, neutral bags, and simple belts. For example a chunky necklace will clash with a busy print, but a dainty gold chain or minimal studs will complement the outfit perfectly.
  

• In a cool weather, adding a scarf or a hat can be the perfect way to complete your look. A solid colored scarf like a beige, off-white, or soft grey, paired with a patterned dress will balance everything out.
  
  
  

Layering Over Bold Patterns (Without Overdoing it)

Layering can be super fun when you're styling a bold print. It can bring out so much of your style and help ease you into your confident self. 

If you're layering outside of a patterned dress, keep your outer layer simple and neutral. E.g if your dress has bold typography, pair it with a solid colored jacket, or a trench coat, or cardigan. Neutral tones like black, white, or beige keep it simple and chic while highlighting your pattern. 

Go for layers that have a shape. Loose, flowy layers can sometimes overwhelm patterned outfits. A structured jacket, or a fitted trench coat can go a long way in bringing out your body shape. 

Instead of adding more prints to your layers, you can also opt for different textures to keep things fun. Think leather, denim, or knits. E.g A knitted sweater over a checkered skirt or a leather jacket over a floral dress looks absolutely gorgeous. 

How to Mix Different Patterns

Mixing different patterns might sound a little wild, but if done right, it can take your outfit game to a whole new level. The key is to keep it simple at first and follow a couple tips. 

Start by sticking to the same color family. This helps your outfit feel more put together and ensures that the prints don't clash. 

Second, you want one print to be more prominent than the other. Think of one as the main star and the other in a supporting role. E.g floral and stripes look great together. A bold floral blouse with a striped trouser- the stripes add the structure to the flowy nature of floral prints. Similarly, stripes go amazingly well with leopard print dress shirts and blouses. Together, they give the perfect edgy look without looking too chaotic.

Floral patterned blouses or tops are also easily complemented by checkered skirts or trousers, giving a nice, balanced look. 

Plaid and polka dots are another winning combo. Think plaid trench coat over a polka dot dress. Or a polka dot scarf over a plaid shirt. It's a bold but organized pattern mix. Keep the proportions in check, with one print being larger and the other more subtle.

IN CONCLUSION

Don't be afraid to have fun with bold patterns. After all, it's all about finding the right balance and creativity. Whether you're into florals, typography, or stripes, anything is possible when you're in the right fashion mindset. Keep your body shape in mind, pair your prints with the right colors, and keep the accessories light & fun. 

At Lux Lair, you can find a variety of 100% authentic, pre-owned outfits and accessories in from luxury brands all over the world. Check them out, mix things up, and let your prints bring out the best in your style.