3 Ways To Mix Patterns For Petites
As a petite person (I’m 4’8”) patterns aren’t always my friend. As much as I would love to wear large florals or stripes, they more often than not, overwhelm my short frame. Every “how to dress as a petite” blog I’ve ever read has mentioned avoiding patterns, and most of the time, they’re right. However, all is not lost for those of us on the short side, and patterns and pattern-mixing can be done!
Here are a few of my favorite ways to wear patterns as a petite…
Monochromatic/Tonal Patterns: Bold patterns on a petite frame can be done, but look best when they’re in the same color family. The jumpsuit I’m wearing in this blog post is a low contrasting pattern that isn’t too bold. Because the color differences are subtle, it doesn’t chop my already short frame in half.
Use Bold Patterns As Accents: When done in small doses, wearing bold patterns can really work, even for a petite. Whether it’s your bag or a layered shirt, keeping the pattern contained to a smaller area works well! In these photos, my scarf is a big, bold pattern. But because it’s just an accessory that can easily be removed, it doesn’t overwhelm my outfit.
Mix Subtle Patterns: While mixing bold patterns works perfectly fine on someone who is 5’9”, it’s not really the best or easiest option on us shorties. To embrace that look, without getting lost inside the outfit, opt for subtle patterns and monochromatic looks. When the outfit is in a similar color family, from head to two, it creates an optical illusion and lengthens the look of the person wearing it. Keeping the patterns on the smaller side and/or in the same color family will lend well to a head to toe, patterned ensemble.
scarf: Pack Wild Co. // hair clip: Amazon // turtleneck: ASOS (similar) // jumpsuit: Love Olive Co (similar) // tights: Madewell // boots: Redwing // Maple’s collar: Pack Wild Co.
Hopefully these tips were helpful for wearing and mixing patterns in your own wardrobe. Of course, there are no rules in fashion, and these are simply my own opinions, so do with them what you will!