How to Wear Prints – Do’s & Don’ts

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Prints are a delight for some women, who love the interesting dimensions that can be achieved through them. But not everybody is a fan of prints. Women who shy away from printed dresses do not necessarily dislike prints, it is just that they are scared to wear prints. As we all know, some prints can make you look bigger while some other can just look totally chaotic and unappealing. With such things to consider, it does sometimes seem like the safe thing to do is to keep away from prints.

But seriously, a wardrobe without prints will be extremely limited and can get quite monotonous and boring. Prints help add some exciting and much needed splash off different colours coming together to create a fun look.

Use Prints to Your Advantage

When used right, prints can actually help camouflage flab or create an illusion of a slender frame. For instance, if you have a pear shaped figure, then you can pair a solid shirt or top with a printed calf length skirt. The print must be small and the skirt must reach till your calves. This will create an illusion of a slender hip and waist.

Make Your Prints Stand Out

Okay now repeat after me: I do solemnly swear that I shall not wear prints from head to toe and will limit myself to one or two printed item at a given time.

Overdoing prints will just give you a very tacky look that is a definite eye sore. Unless you are Nicky Minaj or Lady Gaga, you should never overdo on prints.

Ahem, Nicky Minaj working the red carpet.

Ideally, this is what you need to aim for. Since it is a printed dress, the bag and shoes have been kept understated with solid colours.

Pick the Right Designs and Patterns

Okay there is a huge risk that the print you pick ends up looking like a curtain or a bed sheet. To avoid falling into this trap, pick light coloured prints and avoid choosing prints with big patterns, opting for smaller intricate designs.

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Now here’s an example of how not to wear prints. Her dark printed dress looks drably awful and the long sleeves do not help either. Kim Kardashian received a lot of criticism for this gown that she wore to the Met Gala in 2013.

Here’s a nicer, more subtle use of print. This just goes on to show that when it comes to prints, less is definitely more. A printed maxi skirt with a simple crop top.

Printed Accessories

Don’t limit yourself to wearing printed clothing. Conversely, you can keep your clothing of solid colours and break the monotony with fashion accessories, such as a bright printed scarf, belt, or bag. Printed accessories are a great way to start using prints in your wardrobe.