Mix and Match Patterns – You Can Do It!

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to mixing and matching patterns.  It takes some focus to pull it off just right, but don’t be afraid, with the three simple steps and examples below, you are on your way to seriously transforming the look of your home:

Step 1: Start off by choosing a limited palette such as navy, persimmon red and white like the photo above from House Beautiful.  Black and white is a classic combination and one of the easiest to pull off.

Step 2: Play with scale, geometry, and contrast. In the living room above large scale chevron stripes are paired with ikat prints and smaller scale solid textures. I’ve always been a big fan of combining masculine prints such as stripes with feminine and romantic prints like florals and paisleys.

Step 3: Lastly, always add some pops of solid color.  It can be the window treatments, rugs, lamps, or furniture pieces.

I love the photo above because it exemplifies how multiple patterns can cohesively work together in a space. Layering different patterns in a neutral color theme is a great way to add interest without overwhelming a space.

In the photo below the high contrasting wallpaper and drapery are paired with an almost solid bed set that pulls together and harmonizes the patterns in the room by repeating the black from the drapes and the pillow.

As you try your hand mixing and matching, remember that it is all about telling your story with patterns and textures and a range of colors.  For more tips on mixing patterns and a basic introduction to the different pattern types, here’s a video by Kim Rush. Good luck, and let us know how it goes!