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IdeasDO’s and DON’Ts for mixing and matching patterns
Before you roll your eyes and think back to mismatch day in elementary school, bear with me. The notion that you shouldn’t mix and match patterns is like the rules not to wear white after Labor Day or not to pair brown with black — clearly rules that are made to be broken! It’s easy to combine two or more patterns in a way that reflects your style and personality, if you follow a few simple do’s and don’ts.
DO consider your end goal.
What statement do you want to make about your space? Patterns have a huge impact on a room’s energy. Larger patterns pull a space together and create balance. Smaller patterns can draw the eye to a specific part of the room. If you’re trying to attract attention to your new dining room table, try dressing it up with placemats or a table runner with a fine print.
Busier patterns tend to energize, while simple, larger patterns are calming. Darker and bolder patterns add drama.
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DO find safety in numbers.
Numerologists (this title seriously does exist — trust us, we looked it up!) associate the number three with imagination and expression, so use it to your advantage. When it comes to mixing patterns, the more the merrier — with some restraint, of course.
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Not sure which patterns to choose? Here’s a general rule of thumb for mixing patterns:
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DO try new textures.
Kick your space up a notch by incorporating textures. Whether it’s through a plush, shaggy rug or a pristine, white brocade bedspread, textures add dimension and give a space that little extra warmth. Create an inviting room with linen or velvet pillows; a silk-lined throw; a fabric lampshade with a stamped metal base; or a straw or woven floor rug. The trick is to find a balance with your mixed patterns that make the space interesting but still cozy.
DON’T be afraid of lions and tigers and cheetahs (oh my!).
Animal prints have made a big comeback in recent years. Open any fashion magazine to see cheetah print scarves and imitation snakeskin bags and shoes.
If you’re not sure where to start, use your favorite magazine or Pinterest board as inspiration. Mix different animal prints together to be really bold, keeping the pattern rule of three in mind. If you don’t want to go overboard, choose a single, smaller pattern or incorporate it into lampshades, pillows or other home décor items.
DO try wallpaper.
Again, what’s old is new. When it comes to wallpaper, prints and textures are hot! Add some character to your walls with textured or patterned wallpaper. If you can’t find a wallpaper design you like or are hesitant to take the plunge, use a favorite fabric as a wall covering or faux wall.
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Choose a paintable textured wallpaper to really make a statement.
Patterns bring out the personality of your space, so if the mood strikes you, look beyond geometric prints and flowers. It’s all about finding unique and creative ways to express your personal style. For me, patterns don’t just show my personality — they hide the fur my dogs, Pepe and Momo, leave behind between cleanings! The important thing is to have fun with it.
What are some of your favorite patterns? How have you harmoniously mixed them in your home? Share your creativity with us in the comments.
DO consider your end goal.
What statement do you want to make about your space? Patterns have a huge impact on a room’s energy. Larger patterns pull a space together and create balance. Smaller patterns can draw the eye to a specific part of the room. If you’re trying to attract attention to your new dining room table, try dressing it up with placemats or a table runner with a fine print.
Busier patterns tend to energize, while simple, larger patterns are calming. Darker and bolder patterns add drama.
Create a cohesive look by choosing patterns with colors in the same palette and of the same intensity.
DO find safety in numbers.
Numerologists (this title seriously does exist — trust us, we looked it up!) associate the number three with imagination and expression, so use it to your advantage. When it comes to mixing patterns, the more the merrier — with some restraint, of course.
If you’re just getting started with patterns, choose three patterns of varying scales for the best result, and tie them together with related colors, like the rust color in this living room.
Not sure which patterns to choose? Here’s a general rule of thumb for mixing patterns:
- Primary pattern — The inspiration for your entire space. It should be the largest and the boldest. Other patterns should be complementary but on a smaller scale.
- Secondary pattern — Half the scale of your primary pattern. But make sure it’s different enough to stand on its own. Think a large floral print to complement a geometric print.
- Tertiary pattern — Similar to one of the other two patterns. Make sure you incorporate one or more colors from the other patterns.
Lacey’s chevron pillow is the primary pattern, the floral print pillow is the secondary pattern, and the lampshade acts as a tertiary pattern.
DO try new textures.
Kick your space up a notch by incorporating textures. Whether it’s through a plush, shaggy rug or a pristine, white brocade bedspread, textures add dimension and give a space that little extra warmth. Create an inviting room with linen or velvet pillows; a silk-lined throw; a fabric lampshade with a stamped metal base; or a straw or woven floor rug. The trick is to find a balance with your mixed patterns that make the space interesting but still cozy.
DON’T be afraid of lions and tigers and cheetahs (oh my!).
Animal prints have made a big comeback in recent years. Open any fashion magazine to see cheetah print scarves and imitation snakeskin bags and shoes.
If you’re not sure where to start, use your favorite magazine or Pinterest board as inspiration. Mix different animal prints together to be really bold, keeping the pattern rule of three in mind. If you don’t want to go overboard, choose a single, smaller pattern or incorporate it into lampshades, pillows or other home décor items.
DO try wallpaper.
Again, what’s old is new. When it comes to wallpaper, prints and textures are hot! Add some character to your walls with textured or patterned wallpaper. If you can’t find a wallpaper design you like or are hesitant to take the plunge, use a favorite fabric as a wall covering or faux wall.
Wallpaper is so “in!” Check out these popular wallpaper patterns I saw at a recent tradeshow.
Choose a paintable textured wallpaper to really make a statement.
Patterns bring out the personality of your space, so if the mood strikes you, look beyond geometric prints and flowers. It’s all about finding unique and creative ways to express your personal style. For me, patterns don’t just show my personality — they hide the fur my dogs, Pepe and Momo, leave behind between cleanings! The important thing is to have fun with it.
What are some of your favorite patterns? How have you harmoniously mixed them in your home? Share your creativity with us in the comments.
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