Successful Pattern Matching 101

A Complete Mens Fashion Guide to Mixing and Matching Different Patterns

Patterns are some of the most useful elements of men’s fashion, and can have a dramatic effect on one’s overall look. For a lot of men, however, understanding how to best incorporate patterns into an ensemble can be easier said than done. After all, there are a variety of different routes one can take, and with patterns comes a great potential for clashing. This is especially true for those who are interested in mixing several different patterns in to one well harmonizing outfit.

While it may seem that mixing a handful of different patterns would be a recipe for disaster, there are actually plenty of ways to go about doing so without issue. The trick to mixing patterns is learning how to identify what works and what doesn’t before you take the next step of walking out the door. With the right combination, you’ll be sure to turn heads in ways you may never have thought possible. Because knowing how to mix and match different patterns is one of the most important aspects in men’s fashion, we at Mens-Ties.com created this ultimate pattern matching guide.

Utilize Repeating Colors

checkered-shirt-dotted-necktie

Photo Credit: Pinterest.com

One of the major issues associated with mixing patterns comes down not to the patterns themselves, but the colors inherent within them. Colors can clash quite easily, and certain patterns can bring this out even more. As a result, one of the first things you should strive to do when trying to properly mix patterns is to utilize repeating colors.

Start by choosing your shirt, and be sure to take note of its overall shade; a blue-striped dress shirt, for example, will leave you with the color blue to work with. Let’s say you want to pair this with a checked tie. It can be tempting to add additional contrast by choosing a tie that utilizes yellow or red, although this technique often comes off as being a bit too bold and brash. Instead, go with a checked (or other patterned) tie that features blue as the dominant color, which will help to ensure that clashing doesn’t occur.

Differentiate Patterns in Size

paisley-necktie-striped-shirt
When color isn’t the culprit for clashing, pattern size is often the issue. Two different patterns that are the exact same size can often get lost in one another, which creates an ugly, disorienting effect. Fortunately, fixing the issue is a lot easier than most people realize.

The best way to play this situation is to start with tight patterns and incorporate them into your largest ensemble elements; a tight check on a dress shirt, for example. In terms of the accessories you chose, go with those that feature a larger, more open pattern such as a wide stripe, or maybe even a large paisley pattern. Whether you’re accessorising with a tie, scarf or otherwise, sticking to this concept will you nothing but favors.

Space Things Out
While it can be tempting to layer patterns on top of one another, this isn’t always the best route to take. After all, you have your entire body to utilize when putting together an outfit, so why stick just to the shirt/tie combination of patterns? If you think about it, you’re only using 50% of your potential in that case!

Instead, try spreading patterns throughout your entire ensemble. You might want to try on a pair of pin-stripe pants with an argyle sweater for a massive effect that can really draw attention to you if you pull it off right. Remember that upward moving patterns can add height as well; ideal for those who would prefer to have a few extra inches added to their height.

Experiment!

pinstripe-suit-striped-shirt-striped-necktie

photo credit: 1.bp.blogspot.com
There are plenty of rules to follow when it comes to pairing different patterns with one another, and they can generally help to steer you in the right direction. What many people don’t realize, however, is that mixing patterns is in and of itself something that requires you to think outside the box. The best combinations are those that you won’t find on a mannequin; they come out of experimentation and are an extension of your personality.

Spend a healthy dose of time in front of a mirror with a variety of different patterned ensemble elements, and be sure to take note of which you feel work well for you and which do not. There’s no harm in trying even the most brash combinations, so long as you don’t walk out the door until you’re absolutely sure of what you’re wearing. Mixing patterns can certainly be a difficult affair, but the right approach can help you to achieve stellar results.

Other Style Guides You Might Like:
Sample Outfits for Knitted Ties
Guide to Matching Shirts, Suits, and Ties

Your Mens-Ties.com Team

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