How to wear patterns and prints for spring 2022

Spring is traditionally the time for ditsy florals, garden blooms, a touch of tribal and graphic monochromes, However, 2022 is the season of the supersized print.

In contrast to the season’s new nude tones come powerful shots of color in a heady mix of bold notice-me patterns. Everything from vivid florals and fierce animal prints to gaudy geometrics and bold digitally manipulated prints.

With a new generation of designers like Peter Pilotto and Mary Katrantzou being reared on computer imagery, dramatic digitally-inspired graphics are one of the hottest new trends.

Bold ethnic patterns are also popping up everywhere in the form of jazzy ikats. Ikat, being of Asian origin, means to tie or bind, and provides the inspiration for some traditional woven prints in everything from scarves to dresses.

How to Wear Spring 2022 Prints

This season’s eye-popping patterns and oversized prints are not for the faint-hearted. Whilst 20-somethings and full-time fashionistas can get away with almost any combination, there are rules to be followed for the average woman who wants to look stylish and on trend. Get it wrong and this season’s oversized prints will look too overpowering and can also add a few extra unwanted pounds.

Mixing Patterns

Spring 2022’s patterns can be mixed together providing they belong to the same color palette. However, wearing the same size patterns is a fashion faux pas, large and small together is de rigueur. To avoid doing a passable impersonation of a garden, avoid mixing too many floral pieces.

Begin with Accessories

For women who lack that exhibitionist streak, then start by embracing a print by buying into accessories. A pair of snakeskin pumps, a zebra print bag or some tribal bangles. Print scarves worn loosely around the neck are a great way to dip a toe into the trend.

Avoid Top-to-toe Prints

To make a subtle style statement wear only one printed piece at a time. Gaudy prints need to be balanced out by keeping the remainder of an outfit plain.

Don’t Go Wild with Animal Prints

There is a fine line between chic and cheap. A dash of animal print can look stylish but avoid overkill, as it can also be ageing.

Keep animal prints simple and subtle. Play safe with just animal print accessories, or work it as only part of an outfit e.g. a leopard print top with jeans. Whether its giraffe, zebra, snakeskin or leopard, animal prints should be tempered with a neutral shade such as black or brown, ideally picking out a color from the print.

Balance Out Body Shape

Top heavy women wearing print on the lower half, should choose a dark color (taken from the print) on top. Pear-shaped women wearing print on their lower half should team pattern with the lightest shade on their top half. Shorter women should choose a pattern with a low contrast (tonal shades of one color), whereas taller women can carry off more clashes of color. Busy prints are the enemy of petite women but look good on boyish shapes.

Fit Florals to Your Figure

Wear oversized florals with care. If in doubt, this season’s supersized prints look better on the bottom half, with a neutral, understated color on the top. As a general rule, oversized prints in fluid fabrics are more flattering and the darker the background the slimmer the look!

How to Wear a Black T-Shirt

A black t-shirt is a versatile wardrobe piece that works well in casual and more formal settings. Here are some styling tips on ways to wear a black tee.

Casual Outfits with Black Tees

There are a variety of ways to wear a black t-shirt for casual events and outings.

A black t-shirt paired with khaki or denim shorts is an easy, pulled-together look for summer. Simple black flats and tasteful metal bangle bracelets complete this chic outfit.
Wear a fitted black tee with a pair of cropped jeans in a dark wash. A thin neck scarf, oversized sunglasses, and wedge sandals provide a comfortable, carefree look for a springtime sightseeing trip or coffee date.
In cooler weather, layer a fitted black t-shirt under a gray, dark red, purple, or green cardigan. Pair with jeans or gray corduroy pants for a cozy weekend outfit.

Dressy Black T-Shirts

A black tee can be easily transformed from an everyday piece to timeless style for a night out.

Tuck a black t-shirt into a high-waisted skirt that hits above the knee. A black or gray skirt is a reliable option, but a brightly-colored skirt in green, red, or blue is eye-catching and fun. Wear with patterned or opaque black tights in cool weather.
For a summer night out on the town, wear a black t-shirt with black shorts. Pair with chunky silver jewelry and gladiator sandals. Transition this look to cooler weather with black pants and flats or pumps.

Wearing a Black Tee for a Formal Event

Stay classy and comfortable even at formal occasions with a basic black tee.

A black t-shirt can serve as a little black dress at a cocktail party: tuck a fitted scoopneck or v-neck black tee into a high-waisted pencil skirt to create a sleek silhouette. Top with a colorful silk scarf, chic stud earrings, and a satin clutch purse.
For a daring formal look, tuck a fitted black tee into a dramatic floor-length skirt. Wear with hoop or stud earrings, a metallic cuff bracelet, and metallic flats for a bit of shimmer.

When shopping for a black t-shirt, look for a style that is slim and fitted, but avoid skintight tops. Play with different necklines: v-necks, scoopnecks, boatnecks, and even mock turtlenecks are dressier than a basic crewneck tee. Remember, a well-cut t-shirt is just as flattering as an expensive fashion tee, and when paired with the right accessories, works in a variety of outfits and situations.