Mixing Patterns

A huge trend I’m noticing this spring is mixing patterns. Have you seen it around, or in catalogues and stores? I first saw it in Boden, then I noticed on the mannequins in Nordstrom that ModCloth was doing a ton of pattern mixing, and then J.Crew, too! 

I’m not sure how I feel about pattern mixing. I am in love with this polka dot top from J.Crew (especially in white!), but I am so not crazy about pairing it with the dotted skirt in a different shade of blue. I mean, if pattern mixing means that we can feel less pressure to have our outfits match, I’m all for it. But, I’m not sure I would actually do it. It’s like modern art. What makes a good (mis?)match when mixing patterns? When is it actually just ugly?! LOL.

Please enlighten me, here. Are you mixing patterns? Have you always done so? Are you excited to now be able to get dressed in the dark and not worry about the results? Or is this a trend that you’re going to stay away from? All I know is that I’m ordering that top from J.Crew right now. Chime in with your thoughts in the comments below!