How to Mix Prints: Pairing a Patterned Bag with a Patterned Outfit

Mixing prints is one of the most exciting — and most misunderstood — styling techniques in fashion. Done right, it looks intentional, creative, and effortlessly chic. Done wrong, it can feel chaotic. The good news? There are simple rules that make print mixing easy, and a patterned bag is the perfect place to start. Here's your complete guide to pairing a patterned bag with a patterned outfit.

Why Start with the Bag?

A patterned bag is the easiest entry point into print mixing because it's an accessory — not a garment. You can experiment with bold prints on your bag while keeping your clothing relatively simple, then gradually build confidence to mix prints across your whole outfit. Our collections — Florals, Animal Prints, Velvets, and Lace — give you a wide range of patterns to experiment with.

Rule 1: Vary the Scale

The most important rule in print mixing is to vary the scale of your prints. Pair a large, bold print with a smaller, more subtle one. For example:

• A large floral bag + a small gingham or micro-stripe top
• A bold leopard tote + a delicate ditsy floral dress
• An oversized abstract print bag + a fine pinstripe trouser

When both prints are the same scale, they compete. When they're different scales, they complement.

Rule 2: Keep a Cohesive Color Palette

The secret to successful print mixing is color. Choose prints that share at least one color, and your outfit will feel cohesive even if the patterns are very different. For example:

• A pink floral bag + a red and white striped top — the pink and red are close enough to feel intentional
• A navy animal print bag + a blue and white floral dress — the navy ties the two prints together
• A multicolor velvet bag + a solid top in one of the bag's colors — this is the easiest way to mix prints

The Pink Floral Slouchy Oversized Tote is a great starting point — its warm pink and green tones pair beautifully with stripes, gingham, or even a subtle animal print.

Rule 3: Mix Pattern Families Thoughtfully

Some pattern combinations are classic for a reason:

• Floral + stripe: A timeless combination — the organic curves of florals balance the geometric lines of stripes
• Animal print + solid or subtle texture: Animal print is bold enough on its own — pair it with a tone-on-tone texture rather than another bold pattern
• Floral + animal print: The maximalist's favorite — vary the scale and keep the colors cohesive for a look that feels intentional rather than chaotic
• Geometric + organic: Pair a structured geometric print (plaid, check, stripe) with an organic one (floral, paisley, abstract) for natural contrast

Rule 4: Use Lace as a Neutral

Lace is a pattern, but its delicate, tonal nature means it functions almost like a neutral. A lace bag can be paired with almost any other print without clashing. Our Lace Collection is full of options that work beautifully as a print-mixing anchor. The Blush Lace Slouchy Oversized Tote pairs effortlessly with florals, stripes, and even subtle animal prints.

Print Mixing Combinations to Try

• Floral bag + striped dress: Classic and feminine — keep the colors in the same family
• Leopard bag + floral blouse: Bold and fashion-forward — vary the scale and let one print dominate
• Velvet patterned bag + plaid coat: A rich, autumnal combination that feels luxurious and intentional
• Lace bag + printed maxi dress: The lace adds texture without competing with the dress's pattern
• Animal print bag + gingham top: A playful, summery combination that's easier to pull off than it sounds

When in Doubt, Follow This Formula

If you're ever unsure, use this simple formula: one bold print + one subtle print + one solid. For example, a bold floral bag + a subtle striped top + solid trousers. This three-part formula almost always works and gives you a starting point to build from.

Ready to experiment? Start with one of our patterned totes and build your look from there. Shop Florals, Animal Prints, Velvets, or Lace — and have fun with it.