The Pattern of Life

 Now I don’t know if you have notice, but I have slight obsession with patterns. Polka dots, floral, checkered, novelty patterns I love them all! My wardrobe is full of color and fun and I’m in love with it. But Ari why do you love patterns so much? Well I’m glad you asked. I just feel like adding some patterns to your wardrobe adds some personality to it. You can kinda show a fun, funkier side of your fashion.

I know that not everyone is a fan of taking a risk and adding some pattern to your wardrobe, but I think it’s just because we haven’t been taught how to do it. Also patterns kind of get a bad rep. Like picking the wrong pattern can make you seem matronly instead of young and fresh or stripes can make you look like a mime on the streets of Paris rather than a fashionable Parisian.

So let me give you some tips on how to beat your fear of patterns and incorporate some variety into your wardrobe.

Dress: Francesca's, Shoes: Adidas, Earrings: Baublebar

1. Start with what you’re comfortable with

Let me tell you, you can buy all the patterns in the world, but it won’t mean anything if none of the clothes that you buy flatter or fit you, and in turn makes you feel über uncomfortable.  A pattern can be gorgeous and fabulous and all those great things, but if you don’t feel comfortable then there’s no point. 

So Don’t get crazy on your first pattern purchase!

2. Have a silhouette in mind.

Part of the battle of being comfortable with patterns is being comfortable with the way the actual garment fits you. If you love the pattern, but you hate the way the shirt/skirt/dress/pants fit you, then you will still be unhappy. So keep this in mind. If you prefer a looser fit on your clothes, don’t go for a body con skirt in a tribal pattern.

Sweater: Christmas Present, Shirt: H&M, Leggings: Target

3. Be Smart with your Styling

As a pro of patterns, I am now comfortable with layering and partnering patterns with other patterns, but this isn’t what you should instantly do. Start wearing a pattern with a more basic or subdued piece, and then build up from there. Don’t just jump in all at once.

4. Find your signature

There are so many patterns! Like tons and tons and tons. If one doesn’t work for you then don’t fret, there are like 20,000 more patterns for you to try.

Pants: Gap, Shirt: A little shop in Galveston, Shoes: Steve Madden

5. You can be subtle

Just because it's a patten, doesn't mean that you have a bold color. There are plenty of ways to incorporate a pattern without a color. For example, my favorite shirt is white and the pattern on it is done in a different, rather than a different color. It's the texture of the shirt that forms that pattern, rather than a color making the pattern. 

6. Patterns can be in anything

You don’t just have to wear them as clothing. Maybe you have a fun pair of polka dot shoes or maybe some fun and fashionable socks. Also jewelry is an awesome way to incorporate some pattern and pizzazz without the commitment of buying an actual garment.

Dress: Forever21, Necklace: World Market, Sweater: Thrift shop in Paris

7. Just have fun!

I just feel like fashion now is at a weird point between everyone looking the same, and that patterns are now only reserved for music festivals. I think patterns can be incorporated into everyday life, and can also be very helpful in letting your personal style reflect your personality.