Guest Blogger: How to style a busy pattern

Do you have clothing items in your closet that just sit there? When you bought it you loved it, and when you got home, you thought “What the heck was I thinking?” I was asked to dinner by a friend and of course for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out what to wear! There are always those repeat offender outfits, or your favorite go-to look—but for some reason I wanted something fresh and untainted with a previous evening’s adventure.

And there it was—this old 90’s crazy printed blouse! There I was, thinking, “Hmmmm….okaaaay, I really bought this”. But the more I looked at it, the more I realized it was time! I needed to revive this Goodwill purchase and make it my own. The shirt is busy as ever, so whatever I put on the bottom had to be toned down a bit.

I decided to go with a basic black mini and a black belt; and as you can see the clutch I am carrying is a solid color but it also has a beautiful pattern to it. The belt broke the pattern up a bit and made it a little easier on the eyes. As for the shoes and clutch, I kept that simple as well. Because the best way to pair a busy blouse, skirt, dress or whatever the item may be is to pair it with solid colors.

Just like this dress: it’s a paisley pattern, so I wore nude pumps and wanted to add another punch of color. So I added a pink clutch.

I do understand that some fashionistas are a little daring and love to pair different patterns together. And this look can work as long as you have the confidence to carry it!

If you are anything like me, you must have a few crazy print items in your closet that need to be dusted off or reinvented. Instead of retiring it, I think you simply need to get your creative juices flowing or you can follow these three simple tips!

How to style a busy pattern:

• If the top is busy; keep the bottom simple and vice-versa.
• Use a solid-colored belt to break the pattern up a bit.
• Keep accessories toned down to a minimum.

I am Ms. Karen Minor, I hope to see you around my blog some time. But until then…keep on giving your best shot at being a fabulous you!

Words, Art, and Life in K.Minor is the FYI on living, creating and making your dreams a reality. I, Ms. Karen Minor, will share my life as a visual/makeup artist and a lover of all things beauty and fashion! I believe that life is a journey and we should forever evolve and become who we are created to be!