Mixing Patterns; Right or Wrong?

Many people, along with a fear of "color" also fear the dreaded label of "tacky" when mixing patterns. This leads most homes to become a neutral palette of solid colors with nothing more than boring layered on top of lifelessness!
Well, make today the day you spice up your life! Adding color and pattern into any room can seem like an obstacle not worth tackling, but if you take the step towards patterns, you will not only brighten your room, you'll brighten your life! Patterns add vibrancy and happiness to your emotional state. Your brain is forced into activity to register the focal point of a pattern and your emotions follow suit. So enjoy spicing up the rooms you live in to create a visual "pick-me-up" for yourself.

Start by picking a pattern that you are drawn to. Start out slow. Choose one pattern to introduce to your neutral palette. Whether it's a floral patterned side chair (30% off at Target this week!) or two matching striped throw pillows; add one small element to your room that you find fun and leaves you smiling.

Then, mix it up. So you started with striped throw pillows, you've lived with them for a while and now you are addicted to patterns! Find another, different pattern that you love; maybe a classic damask print in coordinating colors, or an area rug with sophisticated oversized pattern. Remember;  don't choose another stripe! Leave that first pattern fulfilled and venture to another. You can create layers of patterns within your rooms by mixing different patterns. There are so many to choose from; stripes, damasks, florals, geometric patterns and even prints. And it always helps to take a sample of your first pattern with you when selecting your new element.

Keep in mind, the most important step while choosing a second pattern is to make sure the colors are similar in tone and family. As long as you have one strong color running thru both patterns, along with matching undertones, the patterns will coordinate together nicely. For example, try pairing the orange and white damask side chair with an orange, white and light blue area rug. With the matching oranges as the most vibrant color, the patterns will compliment one another  without competing visually. Or, go wild with an animal print! When used in small doses, like this cheetah print pillow, it can add the perfect touch of whimsy to a vintage french salon chair upholstered in baby blue damask.

Combining patterns takes a bit of finesse and a bit of thought. When all else fails and you cant seem to find the right combination, dont be afraid to ask for professional help. It will be worth your time to to ask for a little advice!

Feel free to post your own pattern predicaments below!

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