Bold prints have a magical way of transforming an outfit, injecting energy, personality, and a touch of drama into your wardrobe. If you’ve ever shied away from vibrant patterns, thinking they’re too loud or hard to pull off, now is the time to reconsider with my bold prints style tips. Bold prints can be playful, sophisticated, or even downright empowering. The key is to find prints that reflect your personal style and wear them with confidence.
So, how can you make a statement with bold patterns without feeling overwhelmed? Let’s explore some dynamic ways to embrace eye-catching prints and inspire you to step out of your comfort zone.
1. Go Big or Go Home: Opt for Larger-Than-Life Patterns
One of the most effective ways to make a bold statement is by going for oversized prints. Think large floral motifs, big geometric shapes, or abstract art-inspired designs. These prints are dramatic by nature and immediately draw attention. Wearing oversized patterns on a dress, blouse, or even a jacket instantly elevates your look, giving it a confident and modern edge.
The secret to pulling off large prints is balance. When wearing a bold pattern on one part of your body, keep the rest of your outfit more streamlined to let the print shine. For example, pair a bold patterned top with solid-coloured trousers or a simple skirt to avoid overwhelming the look.
Style Tip: If you’re new to oversized prints, try starting with a statement coat or jacket. It’s an easy way to embrace the trend while still keeping the rest of your outfit simple and polished.
2. Mix and Match: How to Balance Bold Looks
Once you’ve embraced bold prints, the next step is to have fun with pattern mixing. Combining different prints might seem daunting at first, but when done right, it can create a dynamic and fashion-forward look. The trick to mastering pattern clashing is to find a common element between the prints, whether it’s colour, scale, or theme.
Here I’ve mixed a large scale sparse floral print with a dense medium scale leopard print top. The colours work together as they are in the same palette. On the right above, Rather than mix two prints that sit next to each other, think about two prints separated by another garment that’s in a solid colour or neutral, this way the scale can be the same, nut there still needs to be a relationship in colour between the two prints (or three as I’ve done here with the leopard top, floral bag and floral shoes).
For example, pairing a striped top with a floral skirt works beautifully when the colours complement each other. Or try mixing polka dots with animal print for a playful twist. The key is to experiment and trust your instincts—sometimes, the most unexpected combinations create the best results.
Style Tip: When mixing prints, stick to a cohesive colour palette. This keeps the look harmonious and prevents it from becoming too chaotic.
3. Let Your Prints Speak: Statement Dresses and Jumpsuits
For those days when you want to make a dramatic entrance with minimal effort, statement dresses or jumpsuits in bold prints are your go-to. These one-piece wonders take the guesswork out of styling, as the print does all the heavy lifting. Whether it’s a leopard-print jumpsuit or a dress adorned with bright florals, these pieces create an instant statement with little need for accessories.
What makes these bold print pieces so effective is their versatility. Dress them up with heels and bold jewellery for a night out, or dress them down with flats or trainers for a casual, daytime look. Either way, you’ll be turning heads.
Style Tip: Keep your accessories minimal when wearing a bold print dress or jumpsuit. Let the print take centre stage, and avoid adding too many competing elements to the look.
4. Add Punch to Your Basics: Patterned Accessories
If diving into head-to-toe prints feels like a big leap, start small by incorporating bold prints through accessories. A patterned scarf, handbag, or pair of shoes can add just the right amount of punch to an otherwise neutral outfit. This is an easy and low-commitment way to experiment with prints without feeling overwhelmed.
A leopard-print belt, a brightly patterned scarf, or a pair of floral shoes can instantly update a classic outfit, injecting some fun and personality into your wardrobe. Plus, accessories are a great way to dip your toes into bold prints if you’re new to the trend.
Style Tip: Use printed accessories to add interest to your wardrobe staples. A neutral outfit can be completely transformed with the right patterned scarf or bag.
5. Double Down on Drama: Full-Print Ensembles
If you’re ready to fully embrace bold prints, why not go all-in with a head-to-toe print look? Co-ordinated print sets or matching patterned tops and bottoms make a powerful statement while offering a cohesive and polished look. Whether it’s a matching printed blazer and trousers or a printed skirt set, wearing prints from head to toe creates a striking, high-fashion vibe.
Full-print ensembles are great for those who love to experiment with fashion and aren’t afraid to stand out. The key to pulling off this look is confidence and making sure the print feels aligned with your personal style.
Style Tip: Opt for a tailored silhouette when going for a head-to-toe print look. The structure will keep the outfit looking sleek and sophisticated, even with the boldest of prints.
6. Play with Scale: Experiment with Different Sizes of Prints and Patterns
Bold prints come in all shapes and sizes, and playing with scale is a clever way to add variety and visual interest to your outfits. For example, pairing a small polka dot top with wide, abstract print trousers creates contrast and keeps the look from feeling too uniform. The juxtaposition of different print sizes adds dimension and keeps your outfit visually exciting.
Another great way to play with scale is by layering prints of varying sizes. Try layering a large floral scarf over a striped top, or mix a small geometric pattern with a larger abstract print.
Style Tip: Use prints of different sizes to draw attention to or away from certain areas of your body. For example, larger prints can add volume, while smaller prints can create a more streamlined effect.
7. Embrace Colourful Prints: Be Bold with Colour
Bold prints are often accompanied by bold colours, and embracing vibrant hues is a great way to make a statement. From bright florals to multicoloured geometric patterns, prints with lots of colour add a youthful, energetic vibe to your wardrobe.
Don’t be afraid to step outside of your usual colour comfort zone when trying out bold prints. Experiment with new shades that you might not normally wear and see how they make you feel. Bright colours can be incredibly energising and can completely transform your mood and outlook.
Style Tip: When wearing colourful prints, choose one or two accent colours to tie your accessories together. This will create a more cohesive look without overwhelming the eye.
Bold prints have the power to transform your style and inject your wardrobe with energy and personality. Whether you’re experimenting with oversized patterns, mixing prints, or playing with vibrant colours, the key is to have fun and be fearless in your approach. Step out of your comfort zone and embrace the dramatic effect that bold prints can have on your look.
Further Reading
Embracing Patterns: Elevating Your Personal Image with Style and Substance
11 Genius Ways to Mix Prints and Patterns Like a Pro
How to Interpret and Choose Prints and Patterns For Your Personality
