Sharyn GreensteinAre you often drawn to prints when shopping but not always sure how to wear them? Prints are fun, flirty, and never boring. Prints were all over the runways for Fall 2020. But in reality, some prints do not flatter our body types or make us feel confident. Since we can tire of prints faster than solids, it is important to choose wisely when buying patterned clothing.
How should we incorporate prints in our wardrobe? One foolproof way is to pair a patterned blouse with your favorite pair of denim. Or combine an animal print skirt with a solid colored tee or sweater. Avoid prints that remind us of our grandmother’s housecoat or our aunt’s dated floral tunic. I find that small scale prints often look more sophisticated than large scale ones. Animal prints, polka dots, block prints, houndstooth and windowpane are all great choices and will never go out of style. Narrow stripes will always be more figure flattering than wide ones. Since the eye will be drawn to the print, place it where you want to draw attention. If you are petite, be mindful of large scale florals which can overwhelm your figure. If your hips are one of your best features, a patterned skirt is ideal. Print scarves are a great option for BA50’s and will highlight your face (and conceal the neck!) Check out some stylish options below.
Snakeskin is an animal print that is very popular right now. This relaxed fit blouse from NYDJ will skim over your body and be very comfortable. If between sizes order one size down. On sale this week only.
A clay colored stripe dress is soft on the eye while being lightweight and breezy. It has buttons all the way down the back and is made of cotton and tencel. Add a jean jacket to transition into fall with cognac mules.
Part summer-weight wrap, part cover up, this breezy extra long scarf in a colorful block print is a sunny-day essential. Final reductions at JCrew, so act fast if you like it!
This animal print satin midi slip skirt by Aqua is budget friendly and versatile. I have a similar style from last year and often wore mine with a black cashmere sweater, tights and ankle boots for a fun yet sophisticated look. Currently on sale.
Navy and white is a timeless combination. The V-neck and 3/4 sleeves are flattering on all body types. Pair this blouse with white jeans now, and with dark denim in the colder months. Ideal for work zoom calls. On sale this week.
Windowpane is a print that will never go out of style. This gold and cream Madewell scarf with fringed edges can be used as a shawl on a summer evening, and will also look great in the fall over a jacket. Part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Textured Windowpane Scarf $42.90
Polka dots have been seen on all the runways recently, but this print can stay in your closet for many years. With on-trend flare sleeves and wrinkle-free sateen, it’s a winner! Pair now with white jeans, and with black pants and a cardigan come fall. On sale this week only.
Madewell is known for their patterned dresses and this longer version has a polished shift shape and tiny floral print. And it has pockets. On sale right now.
A surplice neckline (meaning faux-wrap) makes a flattering silhouette in this long sleeve top cut from lightweight crepe. The scattered dot print is subtle and sophisticated and will add a nice pop of color to dark denim jeans. Part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Whether paired with relaxed denim or a preppy skirt and heels, this button-down elevates any outfit with ease. The brush strokes print is on trend for fall 2020 but will likely be a favorite season after season. Available in other prints as well.
Feeling adventurous? Mixing a stripe tee with a feminine skirt hits all the high notes. This midi skirt in a pretty floral print makes achieving that low-key luxe thing a piece of cake. The skirt would also look great with a chunky sweater and boots come fall. Both currently on sale.