How to Wear Prints Like a Pro: Fashion Tips for Every Print

Prints are an exciting way to add personality, color, and flair to any wardrobe. From bold florals to striking stripes and playful animal prints, they offer endless opportunities to express your unique style. However, many people feel intimidated by prints, unsure of how to mix and match them without looking overdone. The good news is that with a few styling tips, anyone can master the art of wearing prints like a pro.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to wear prints for various occasions and body types, as well as offer tips on mixing prints and choosing the right ones for your personality. Whether you’re a print lover or hesitant to try them, these expert fashion tips will help you rock any print with confidence.

1. Start with the Classics: Stripes

Stripes are timeless and versatile, making them an easy print to incorporate into your wardrobe. Whether they’re horizontal or vertical, thin or thick, stripes can be styled in a variety of ways to suit your mood and occasion.

How to Wear Stripes:

• For a Casual Look: A classic striped t-shirt or sweater pairs effortlessly with jeans, denim skirts, or casual trousers. This look is simple, stylish, and always on-trend.
• For a Polished Look: Vertical stripes are known for elongating the body, making them perfect for a more polished, professional outfit. Opt for a striped blouse or dress and pair it with tailored pants or a pencil skirt for a sharp, office-ready ensemble.
• Mixing Stripes: Stripes are relatively easy to mix, especially if they are in complementary colors. For example, pair a bold striped top with striped accessories like a scarf or shoes in a different width of stripe to create a layered effect without overwhelming the look.

Tip: To prevent stripes from appearing too busy, keep the rest of the outfit minimal with solid colors or neutrals. A pop of color from accessories can add an interesting dimension without clashing.

2. Floral Prints: Sweet and Feminine

Florals are synonymous with spring and summer, but they can work year-round depending on how you style them. Floral prints come in a wide range of variations, from small delicate blooms to large, bold flowers, making them perfect for any occasion.

How to Wear Florals:

• For Daytime: Choose a floral dress for an effortless daytime look. Pair it with sandals or sneakers for a casual vibe, or dress it up with ankle boots or block heels. For cooler days, layer with a light denim jacket or cardigan.
• For Work: A floral blouse or pencil skirt can be professional yet playful. Keep the color palette neutral and muted for a more subtle approach, and pair with classic accessories like a leather bag and loafers to keep the look office-appropriate.
• Evening Wear: Florals can also work for a night out. Look for dark floral prints on velvet, silk, or satin fabrics for a more sophisticated vibe. Pair a floral top with high-waisted trousers or a skirt for a chic, evening-ready look.

Tip: If you’re new to florals, start with smaller prints or darker shades. If you feel more adventurous, you can experiment with bolder, larger floral patterns.

3. Polka Dots: Fun and Playful

Polka dots are a playful and retro-inspired print that adds whimsy to any outfit. Whether you opt for small, subtle dots or large, bold ones, this print can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

How to Wear Polka Dots:

• For a Vintage Look: Pair a polka dot blouse with high-waisted pants or a pencil skirt for a chic, vintage-inspired outfit. Red or navy polka dots often evoke a retro feel, perfect for brunch or casual outings.
• For Casual Comfort: A simple polka dot dress with sneakers or sandals is an easy, go-to outfit for running errands or grabbing coffee with friends.
• For Work: A polka dot shirt or blouse can be sophisticated if styled correctly. Pair it with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt in a solid color like navy, black, or white for a modern, office-friendly look.

Tip: If you’re mixing polka dots with other prints, make sure the colors and scale of the dots and the other prints complement each other. For example, pair a small dot print with stripes for a balanced look.

4. Animal Prints: Bold and Edgy

Animal prints—especially leopard, zebra, and snake patterns—are known for making a bold statement. These prints can be worn in subtle ways or as the focal point of your outfit, depending on how you choose to style them.

How to Wear Animal Prints:

• For Subtle Sophistication: If you’re hesitant about going all out with animal prints, start with accessories like a leopard print scarf, handbag, or shoes. This adds a touch of edge without overwhelming your look.
• For a Statement Look: If you’re feeling bold, wear an animal print dress or coat. Pair it with neutral shoes and accessories to let the print stand out.
• For Work: To make animal print office-appropriate, choose a single item—like a leopard print blouse or snake-print skirt—and pair it with neutral-colored pieces such as a black blazer or white trousers.

Tip: If you’re wearing multiple animal prints, mix different types (e.g., leopard with zebra) but keep the color palette in a similar family to avoid clashing.

5. Plaid and Checkered Prints: Preppy and Chic

Plaid and checkered prints are a sophisticated option, adding texture and visual interest to your outfit. They work well for both casual and more formal occasions and are particularly popular in autumn and winter.

How to Wear Plaid and Checkered Prints:

• For Work: A plaid blazer or checkered trousers can make a stylish yet professional statement. Pair them with a plain top and classic accessories for a balanced look.
• For Casual Wear: A plaid shirt or checkered skirt paired with jeans or casual pants can create an effortlessly chic ensemble. Add sneakers or loafers to complete the look.
• For a Night Out: A plaid mini skirt can be dressed up with a fitted black top or turtleneck and ankle boots for a fun, night-out look.

Tip: To avoid looking too “clashy,” mix plaid or checkered prints with solid pieces that complement the colors in the print.

6. Camouflage: Cool and Utilitarian

Camouflage print has become a staple of street style. While it’s often associated with military or utilitarian fashion, when styled properly, camouflage can be a trendy and edgy print to incorporate into your wardrobe.

How to Wear Camouflage:

• For Casual Comfort: A camo jacket or pants paired with a basic t-shirt and sneakers is the perfect casual look. The key is to keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the camo print be the focal point.
• For a Cool, Street Style Vibe: Pair a camo shirt with skinny jeans or leggings and combat boots to create a bold, street-style-inspired outfit. Layer with a leather jacket for added edge.
• For Subtle Use: If you want a less bold approach, incorporate camouflage in accessories like bags, scarves, or hats. These small details can add a military-inspired twist to an otherwise simple outfit.

Tip: Keep the rest of your outfit neutral to avoid overwhelming the camo print. Stick to neutral tones like beige, white, or black.

7. Mixing Prints Like a Pro

Mixing prints can feel intimidating, but it’s easier than it sounds if done correctly. Here are some tips on how to mix prints with confidence:

• Match Colors: When mixing prints, make sure the colors in both prints complement each other. For example, pair a floral print with stripes in similar color tones to create a harmonious look.
• Vary the Scale: Pair larger prints (like oversized florals) with smaller prints (like delicate polka dots or thin stripes) to create contrast without overwhelming the look.
• Stick to a Common Theme: Mix prints with a common theme, such as pairing animal prints with neutral tones or mixing two types of stripes in the same color family.

Tip: Start with prints that share a common color or pattern for a more approachable approach to mixing.

Conclusion

Prints are an excellent way to add visual interest and creativity to your wardrobe. From classic stripes to bold animal prints, there’s a print out there for everyone, regardless of style or occasion. The key to wearing prints like a pro is confidence and balance—whether you’re going for a subtle hint of pattern or embracing an all-over print, the right approach will make your outfit look effortlessly chic. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your style. After all, fashion is all about expressing yourself!