How to Mix Prints Like a Pro: A Beginner's Guide

So, I have a confession... This isn't actually a tutorial on how to mix prints per se. Or some beginner's guide to mixing prints. Let me explain; I promise, it'll all make sense...

Photo by Twayne Pereira @twayner_

When mixing prints, your success lies more in self-confidence in pulling off what you've concocted than in creating the "perfect mix". There is no such thing as perfection. And there are absolutely no rules. Well, at least, in my style bible.

You can mix all types of prints and patterns, vibrant colours and dull colours, similar and dissimilar palettes. Whatever you feel, do it, BUT own it! Because life is too short to have boring style! Period.

Here are 4 looks I styled mixing prints and patterns; do share your top pick in the comment section below.

Look 1: Ankara Shirt mixed with Ankara Culottes and a DIY head wrap. Although the patterns are dissimilar, I played on the colours in the different fabrics (yellow, orange and blue), and it worked!

Photo by Twayne Pereira @twayner_

Look 2: Yellow Floral Wrap Blouse mixed with Green Floral Wide Leg Trousers. Both different colours, but if you look closely, the wrap blouse has green florals (matches the trousers) and the trousers have pink florals (matches the wrap blouse). Voila!

Photo by FizCo Photography @fiz__co 

Look 3: Plaid on plaid on plaid on plaid (four times). Again, all different colours, but I played on the plaid factor with the patterns/lines going in the same direction. And all pieces have hints of yellow, which ties it all together. Perfection!

Photo by FizCo Photography @fiz__co 

Look 4: And lastly, Polka Dots and Geometrics. Opposites really do attract.  And again, notice how all pieces have a common colour, i.e. black (even my earrings). This just ties it all together nicely!

Photo by Lily Yange @lilyyange

Now it's your turn. I challenge you to think outside the box and live life fully in bright colors and mixed prints. Remember, life is too short to live in boring clothes. :)

7 Steps to Thrift Shopping

Thrifting is addictive! Some people get weirded out at the thought of wearing thrift store finds. But what's the difference between this and trying on an item a stranger has worn at a non-thrift store? I'll wait... Plus, it's environment-friendly. Sustainability, but make it fashion!

I bought this Pant Suit for $7 at Value Village Thrift Store

I started thrift shopping back in 2011 when I lived and worked in Atlanta and I've been hooked ever since. Buckhead had the best thrift stores and I couldn't get enough. Today, I'm sharing some insider thrifting secrets I've learned along the way:

Step 1: Scout thrift stores located in high income neighborhoods aka where all the ballers live. One rich person's donation is another person's treasure.

Step 2: Set a budget. After all, it's thrifting, so why break the bank? I say a budget of $50 or less is pretty reasonable. In fact, $50 is too much, but I'm feeling generous today, so $50 (or less) it is.

Step 3: Find out if the thrift store offers coupons for donations. For instance, when you donate used items to Value Village, you get a 20% off coupon for use towards store purchases. As in, discount on top of discount - it doesn't get any better than that!

Step 4: Get ready to spend at least an hour. Take your time and explore racks on racks on racks. Don't go by sizing at all. Just go through the racks. After all, 'the patient dog gets the fattest bone'. I'm just saying...LOL!

Step 5: When picking items, think style and durability. I go for items made out of high-quality fabric, statement pieces, vibrant prints, bright colours, African prints, etc. It has to be out of the ordinary. I mean, check out my Instagram content and see exactly what I'm into. Essentially, pieces I know I can't find in regular stores. They don't call me Ynx the Print Slayer for nothing. LOL!

Photography by Fiz Co @fiz_co

Step 6: Try on your items before you leave the store. Wear them on on top of your clothes. I don't recommend wearing used clothes without washing first. So if you don't want to break out in hives aka craw craw, wear on top of your own clothes. Also find out if the thrift store offers returns or exchanges for purchased items. You definitely want to take advantage of that.

Step 7: Wash purchased items according to the washing instructions on the label. You may need to take items to the dry cleaner. For thrift finds that are machine or hand washable, add white vinegar to your wash cycle. Allow to air dry instead of using a dryer; because, you know, artificial heat plus what's the rush?

Now that I've revealed all my thrifting secrets, you officially have my blessing. Go forth and thrift in peace. But before you go, don't forget to leave a comment below. I always love reading your feedback. And if you're a fellow thrifter, do share some useful tips below.

Giving you my blessings...LOL