When it comes to choosing prints that look right on you, there’s a lot to consider. From color and level of contrast to scale and shape type, there’s a lot that goes into pairing the right pattern with your unique coloring, body type, and personality.
When it comes to floral patterns (see Parts 1 & 2), there’s even more that goes into it: density and style of floral pattern will now come into play as well. Not only do you want to make sure that the floral pattern suits your age and personality while drawing attention to your best features and away from those that aren’t your favorite, but you also want to make sure that the pattern actually suits the piece it’s on — and the occasion.
The Right Floral for the Right Piece
Maybe you really like the look of a high-contrast, stylised floral, but an entire dress in such a bold pattern would look bad on your body or at your age, or with your lower contrast coloring. Maybe you could pull in that kind of print in a smaller article of clothing, like a scarf or even a tank or cami worn beneath a jacket. Or maybe you want to draw attention to your slender waistline while camouflaging your abundant bust area; then wear that bold floral in a skirt and keep the top dark and solid.
Generally speaking, the smaller the article of clothing, the denser and smaller you’ll want the floral print to be. So you could get away with a sparser, larger-scale floral on a long, flowy, long-sleeved blouse than you could a fitted, cap-sleeved top.
The Right Floral for the Right Place
This time, instead of talking about where on your body you might want to wear a particular floral print, we’re thinking about where you’re going in that outfit. Regardless of your personality and preferred style, there are certain levels of appropriateness for various types of events. A lot has to do with what kind of vibe or image you wish to project.
We’ve discussed how pattern will reflect personality before. Let’s say that you’re drawn to feminine florals and bohemian styles. You can certainly wear clothing that suits those characteristics; however, if you’re going for an interview for a job where reliability and maturity are sure to be important characteristics, you’ll want to look a bit more classic and conservative. Perhaps add a floral scarf to that otherwise dark, solid-colored or pin-striped suit, but put the whimsical-looking floral maxi skirt and pink blouse with the billowing sleeves away for another day.
By contrast, let’s say you tend toward a relaxed look with plenty of checks but are going on a romantic date. For the evening, you’ll want to consider going out on a limb and lean on your feminine side a bit with a delicate floral dress. If the print feels too overwhelming and far from your comfort zone, maybe add a solid jacket or sweater over it.
Penny Pincher Boutique
We’re Westchester’s luxury consignment shop offering women’s designer clothing, jewelry, shoes, handbags and much more. Visit our shop at 184 Harris Road in Bedford Hills, New York or visit us online at www.pennypincherboutique.com. You can also find a selection of our items on sale on eBay. We ship throughout the United States.
Images are from the Penny Pincher Boutique Instagram Page and may represent products already sold.
Sources Cited for this Series:
https://insideoutstyleblog.com/2014/07/prints-and-patterns-natural-vs-stylised.html
https://insideoutstyleblog.com/2018/03/how-to-choose-prints-florals.html
https://insideoutstyleblog.com/2012/03/how-to-interpret-prints-and-patterns.html
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