Mixing Patterns 101: the art of creating visual interest

Create a color palette: Start with a color palette to guide your pattern selections. Choose two to three colors that you love and want to incorporate into your room. Once you have your palette, select patterns that feature those colors to ensure a cohesive look. Keeping a consistent color thread throughout your patterns will make the mix feel intentional rather than chaotic.

Mix Different scaled patterns: One of the most effective ways to mix patterns without overwhelming your space is to vary scale. Pair large-scale patterns, like bold florals or oversized geometric prints, with smaller-scale patterns such as pinstripes, polka dots, or houndstooth. The contrast in scale creates visual interest while maintaining a sense of balance.

Vary the pattern type: Mixing different types of patterns add dimension to your room. Combine geometric prints (stripes, chevrons, lattice) with organic prints (florals, paisley, animal prints) to create contrast and harmony. The structured look of the geometric prints paired with the softness of organic patterns prevents the space from feeling too uniform or too chaotic.

Consider texture in your patterns: pattern mixing isn't just about prints, it;s also about texture. Incorporating various textures such as boucle, velvet, wool or leather adds interest and a tactile appeal to your space. Mixing smooth and plush textures helps balance the patterns and enhances the layered look.

Don't be afraid to experiment: At the end of the day, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to pattern mixing. The most important thing is to have fun and experiment with different combos. Lay out fabric swatches, mix and match pillows, or test out different wallpapers until you find a look that speaks to you. Trust your instincts, if it makes you happy, it's the right choice!