The combination of textures and patterns in the clothes is like a work of art. Choosing an outfit is a creative game in which your personality can be revealed through clothes and accessories. In this article, we will look at how to create a harmonious and stylish look by combining different fabric textures and patterns.
What are the textures of clothing?
When we think of texture in clothing, we imagine a coarser wool sweater, a soft fur coat or a hard denim fabric. Every garment or item of clothing has a certain texture. Let's take a look at what textures we can find in our wardrobe:
- Denim fabric
- Thin cotton
- Velvet
- Leather
- Zomsa
- Embossed fabrics with embroidery effect
- Silk
- Kashmir
- Stretch knitted fabric, for example as a tracksuit
- Flannel
You can probably already imagine what each texture looks and feels like even as you read this, and maybe even identify these textures with specific garments in your wardrobe.
How to combine different textures in an outfit?
Choosing different textures is an easy way to add visual variety to an outfit. By layering different textures, you can create a distinctive look. Here are 3 tips to make it easier:
- First, choose neutral textures. Denim, cotton, leather and suede are some of the main textures that work well with other textures. Neutral textures are those that are sort of finer and less noticeable to the naked eye, such as merino wool, which go well with more eye-catching, more prominent textures.
- Think about the mood created by different textures. Textures evoke certain moods, for example, silk gives a luxurious feel to any outfit. A flannel shirt may look cosy with corduroy, but it becomes 'tougher' when paired with a black leather jacket. Denim has a neutral texture so you can use it with other fabrics. Think also about where you will wear the combination, then combine textures to see if the combination meets your expectations.
- Mix textures, combine colours. Within a limited colour palette, you can play with different types of textures. This certainly doesn't mean that you have to go monochrome. You can use neutral colours and choose two or three colours that go together.
How to combine different patterns in an outfit?
The different patterns in clothing are probably easier to imagine and understand - they can range from classic ones such as polka dots, stripes and checks, to animal, floral and even abstract, modern patterns. As fashion trends change, so does the popularity of different patterns, but the general trend of combining them remains.
- Take colours into account. If you're going to wear a bright colour, pair it with darker colours, such as a deep green jacket with purple trousers.
- Combine expressive patterns with subtle ones. Combining expressive patterns with more subtle ones will give you a balanced look.
- Mix banal patterns. Combine polka dots with stripes and vice versa. Don't overdo it and try to keep the outfit harmonious.
- Discover unexpected combinations. For example, animal prints such as snakeskin or leopard fur are often accepted as universal and often overlooked. Keep them neutral and combine floral patterns together to create an unexpected look.
- Don't be afraid to experiment. Sometimes different combinations can come as a surprise, so consider the clothes that don't really fit in your mind. You may find that when you put them side by side with others, you discover unique combinations.
How to combine different textures and patterns in an outfit?
We have already discussed how to combine textures and how to combine one pattern with another. But how do you combine different textures with different patterns?
- Choose one dominant pattern or texture. When mixing materials, choose one distinctive pattern or texture as the focal point of your outfit. This will ensure that your look is balanced.
- Choose matching colours. If you are mixing materials, start by combining patterns and textures with similar or complementary colours. This will create a coherent and harmonious overall look.
- Vary the range of patterns and textures. To avoid clashing patterns and textures, mix patterns of different sizes. For example, combine a massive floral pattern with smaller dots or stripes. Similarly with textures, combine a bold texture with a more neutral pattern. Leather handbags are an easy way to incorporate more textures into your outfit.
- Balance your appearance. If you choose to wear a distinctive pattern or texture, match it with more neutral accessories or handbags to avoid overloading your outfit.
With these few tips, you'll be able to mix and match a wide range of textures and patterns, and experiment with unexpected combinations that will surprise you and help you to better express your personality through your clothes.
