How to wear prints and patterns at any age

Here's how to introduce them into your wardrobe

Friday 17 August 2018 12:39 BST

A fruity number: Printed Shirt Dress, £59.99, Mango

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

If you think that curtains, cushions and chintz furnishings wear print and pattern well but you wouldn’t dream of donning them yourself, you’re not alone.

So many women prefer to live in a terminal state of simplicity out of fear of looking too young or too frumpy but, believe it or not, bold prints are more wearable than you think.

Prints are one of those cyclical trends that never really goes out of style, but hearing that they are all over this season’s garb can strike fear in the sartorial hearts of those of us who are reminded of our grandmother’s decorative drapes.

It's not a puzzle: prints can be fashionable, as this African Spot Silk Shirt, £140, from Jigsaw proves

The good news here, though, is that today’s motifs don’t have to be floral – and even when they are, you’re not restricted to the overtly girlish kind.

Instead, opt for tropical blooms, stripes, checks and even a dash of animal print here and there.

High fashion: a Retro Floral Check Neckerchief Scarf, £15, from Accessorize

Anyone, at any age, can wear pattern. The trick is as simple as not overdoing it.

If you’re new to wearing prints, ease yourself in by updating staple pieces in your wardrobe. Team a patterned midi skirt with a plain T-shirt or a patterned crisp shirt with a pair of wide-leg trousers to the office – this way you get the full impact of wearing something bold without looking like you’ve tried too hard.

Fleet-footed: Hanna Finge Flat Sandals, £24, Topshop

Subtle pairings are key here. While the all-over print look is undoubtedly a showstopper, it should be approached with caution, if at all.

Instead, wear your prints with neutral colours to make them feel less intimidating. Or, if you feel like making more of a statement, pick out a colour from your print and carry it through elsewhere in your ensemble.

Alternatively, accessories are a subtle way to include pattern in your wardrobe. From shoes to bags, belts and neckerchiefs, a small dose of print will instantly make your look more interesting.