Not sure how or where to start when trying to coordinate patterns and prints? There are some basic guidelines that will help you create an interesting look without resulting in a “Matchy Matchy” look.

A well-put together scheme is successful in achieving variety, by including patterns and prints that create “Interest”, “Structure” and “Support”. Patterns and prints can fall under more than one category depending on the circumstances.

First lets start by classifying patterns and prints. All fabrics can fit into one of these types:

Large Print– used to add “Interest”.

Small Print– used to add “Support” to the dominant pattern or print.

Geometric– used to add “Structure”.

Stripe– used to add “Support” or “Structure”.

Solid– used to add “Support”.

Make sure your scheme meets all three requirements (Interest, Support & Structure); use color to further tie together your look. The combination of patterns and prints are endless. Below are some examples to give you a better idea.

1^st Example

*A large floral print (interest): Coral colored flowers with a turquoise background and cream highlights.

*A medium size geometric pattern (structure): Turquoise geometric circles on a cream background.

*A solid cream colored (support), textured fabric.

2^nd Example

*A large geometric pattern (interest): Coral background with cream colored geometric shapes.

*Medium sized stripes (structure): Wider turquoise stripe and smaller coral colored stripe.

*A small print, for example polka dots, (Support): Cream colored dots on a turquoise background.

As long as your scheme has variety by meeting required guidelines (interest, structure & support) you can’t go wrong. The possibilities are endless when you consider mixing and matching while meeting requirements. Have fun making your own combination!