Bold prints are a fun and fashion-forward way to express your personality through your clothing. Whether it’s animal prints, geometric patterns, florals, or abstract designs, bold prints can instantly elevate an outfit. However, styling them can be tricky, as the key is balancing them with other elements in your wardrobe to avoid looking overwhelmed by the print. Here are some top tips for wearing bold prints with confidence and style.

1. Start with One Bold Print at a Time

When wearing bold prints, less is often more. A single statement piece is usually enough to make a statement. Overloading an outfit with multiple bold prints can create visual chaos.

Why It Works:

  • Focus on One Piece: Whether it’s a printed blouse, skirt, or jacket, let the print be the focal point of your outfit.
  • Balance with Neutrals: Pair your bold print with solid, neutral colors like black, white, beige, or navy to balance the look.

Example Styling:

  • Pair a floral printed blouse with black trousers or a solid-colored pencil skirt.
  • Opt for a striped dress and pair it with a simple leather jacket.

2. Mix Bold Prints with Subtle Pieces

If you love the idea of mixing prints but don’t want to go overboard, combine bold prints with subtle, solid pieces. This way, you get the excitement of prints without overwhelming the outfit.

Why It Works:

  • Creates Harmony: Mixing prints with solid or subtle colors helps maintain a cohesive look while still embracing the boldness.
  • Easier to Style: Pairing prints with basic pieces ensures the outfit remains stylish but not overly busy.

Example Styling:

  • Pair a leopard print blouse with black skinny jeans or a simple blazer.
  • Match a colorful printed scarf with a plain dress or top.

3. Pair Bold Prints with Denim

Denim is the perfect backdrop to bold prints because it’s versatile, neutral, and adds a casual vibe. Whether it’s denim jackets, jeans, or skirts, denim balances out the vibrancy of bold prints.

Why It Works:

  • Grounds the Look: Denim’s simple, classic nature provides a backdrop for the bold prints, making them stand out without clashing.
  • Effortless Style: Denim adds an easygoing, chic element to any outfit.

Example Styling:

  • Pair a floral printed blouse with skinny jeans or boyfriend jeans for a laid-back yet stylish look.
  • Combine a bold printed shirt with a denim jacket and sneakers for a cool, casual outfit.

4. Use Accessories to Add Bold Prints

If you’re not ready to fully embrace bold prints in your clothing, start with accessories. Bags, shoes, scarves, and hats in bold prints can add personality to your outfit without overwhelming it.

Why It Works:

  • Subtle Impact: Bold accessories can add a pop of excitement and color to your look without taking over your outfit.
  • Easy to Switch: Accessories are easier to change out if you want to keep your prints fresh and new.

Example Styling:

  • Opt for a printed scarf with a solid-colored dress or coat.
  • Choose a printed handbag or shoes to elevate a simple outfit.

5. Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette

When wearing bold prints, sticking to a cohesive color palette can help keep the outfit visually pleasing. If the print is multi-colored, try to pick a few dominant colors from the print and incorporate those colors into the rest of the outfit.

Why It Works:

  • Creates Unity: A cohesive color palette ensures the prints complement each other and creates a more harmonious look.
  • Simplifies Styling: Limiting the colors makes it easier to put together a bold yet stylish outfit.

Example Styling:

  • If you’re wearing a multi-colored floral print dress, choose accessories or shoes in one of the dominant colors to tie the look together.
  • Pair a geometric print top with pants or a skirt in a matching or complementary color.

6. Embrace Monochrome Prints

Monochrome prints, which are prints made from different shades of one color, are an excellent way to wear bold prints without feeling too over-the-top. A monochrome print can be bold while still looking refined.

Why It Works:

  • Cohesive Look: The use of one color keeps the print from feeling too busy, while still adding interest and texture to your outfit.
  • Easy to Style: Monochrome prints are easier to mix and match with other pieces because they share a single color scheme.

Example Styling:

  • Try a black and white striped shirt with matching black pants or a skirt.
  • Wear a patterned dress in shades of blue or red, paired with accessories in similar tones.

7. Go for a Bold Print Dress

A bold print dress is a perfect way to incorporate statement prints into your wardrobe. With the right fit and style, a bold print dress can be flattering, stylish, and easy to wear on various occasions.

Why It Works:

  • Effortless Styling: A print dress already combines boldness with style, so there’s less need to worry about pairing it with other items.
  • Flattering and Comfortable: Dresses can be comfortable and flattering while showing off your bold sense of style.

Example Styling:

  • Pair a colorful floral print dress with neutral sandals for a summer look.
  • Dress up a patterned midi dress with heels and a clutch for a more formal event.

8. Confidence is Key

The most important tip for wearing bold prints is to wear them with confidence. Prints can be eye-catching and striking, and it’s important to embrace the boldness rather than shy away from it. When you feel confident in your outfit, you’ll look even more stylish.

Why It Works:

  • Empowering: Bold prints can make you feel powerful and stylish, and confidence makes any outfit look better.
  • Eye-Catching: When worn with confidence, bold prints can make a statement and leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Bold prints are a fantastic way to express your personality and add excitement to your wardrobe. Whether you choose to wear them as a statement piece or mix them subtly with neutrals, the key to styling bold prints is balance, confidence, and a bit of creativity. Start with one bold print, pair it with the right accessories, and always keep your outfit cohesive for a chic, eye-catching look. By following these tips, you’ll be able to incorporate bold prints into your wardrobe in a way that feels stylish, fun, and unique.