How to mix and match prints and patterns this summer

Gail and Leslie Thompson share all the tips for wearing print on print.

May 20, 2022 12:12 p.m. EST

Style is first and foremost about personal creativity, so as long as you like the outfit you put together, that’s all that really matters. But we don’t blame you if you want to dip your toe into fun summer trends this season! One of our favourite trends this year is mixing prints and patterns, but it can be a bit intimidating to know where to start. Style experts Leslie and Gail Thompson share all the guidelines you need to know to kick up your summer style with a handful of notches. Scroll on to shop the looks, and watch the video clip to become a master of mixing.

Black and White

For anyone making their first step into mixing, black and white is a great place to start. Create a juxtaposition with your look by going mainly black on the top and mainly white on the bottom.

SHOP: Eva Franco Polka Dot Midi Skirt; $178 ay Anthropologie | H&M+ Rib-Knit Dress; $15.99 at H&M | Stessy High Heel Shoe; $120 at Aldo | Strawberry Sequin Bag; $69.90 at Zara

Chevron and Check

The key to mixing prints is to have colours in common throughout the outfit. Green is the shade of the season, so select pieces with different shades to tie it all together.

SHOP: Pocket Tweed Jacket; $119 at Mango | Lurex Knit Dress; $99.99 at Mango | Aderra Heels; $98 at Aldo | Lake Life Preppy Circle Drop Earrings; $54 at Anthropologie

Floral and Stripes

This pattern combination is all about mixing one bold pattern with a finer more delicate one. Have the bolder print, like this striped top, take center stage while the finer print acts almost like a solid colour.

SHOP: Leah Striped Top; $137 at Kaela Kay | Jenna Skirt; $259 at Kaela Kay | Purse; available in-store at Winners

Bold Tropical

We recognize that not everyone is really into print mixing, but we have a look for you, too! We love the idea of pairing a printed garment and a printed accessory. In this case, we used a bag as the accessory, but you could also go for a printed scarf or cute earrings.

SHOP: Monae Robe; $302 at Kaela Kay | Poplin Balloon Top; $49.90 at Zara | High-Waisted Pants; $49.90 at Zara | Annabrilden High Heel Sandal; $110 at Aldo | Palm Print Bucket Bags; $75 at Hilary MacMillian