Mixing plaid and floral is hardly new. However, we always love this mix, especially when two floral prints are added to the mix.
Mixing plaid and floral is tricky, so a few rules apply.
First, I will qualify the “rules” mention. Anything that looks well on you is the correct mIx!
Tips for mixing plaids and florals:
Try to use different floral patterns in different scales: mine above is a large floral intarsia sweater , thrifted of course, with a lively pink based floral print, on a smaller scale, also bought second-hand. When adding a plaid, try to use a different color for the base of the pattern.
Cobalt blue is a happy shade and looks well with pink. Adding a plaid to this heavily blooming mix, adds a bit of contrast.
Now that I have added a bold plaid, I increase the “sweet factor” with a pair of feminine bow embellished sandals by Ferragamo . The black and white is a good contrast. As well, it matches the black and white sunnies.
Add the requisite straw bag, and this floral mixed print outfit is both Spring and Summer ready !
When three decades are trending all at once, one can happily indulge in most anything that makes the heart sing!
Certainly, this mix is bolder than many might wear, but the heavy-handed mix lends an energetic vibe!
Below, a shot of a glorious garden that a friend took in Dallas. In Manhattan, the flowers are slow to bloom.
This is about the best that I could do last week in Manhattan !
However, in NYC we do have beautiful architecture and antiques at eye level.
These are quite attractive too!
Saturated color is a feast for the eyes, when a peacock stands sentry to an antique store!
Pattern mixing galore with this bird and the resplendent Persian carpets behind it!
When mixing plaid and floral, we need only take our cue from Mother Nature!
Below, the third shot of this outfit.
Intarsia sweaters are a labor intensive kind of knitwear that lasts forever. This thrifted cardigan is six years old. My “mandarin garnet rings” are costume.
Housing Works has a wonderful selection of jewelry and any purchase made there, goes to help the homeless population of NYC. You have seen other purchases from this wonderful store here.
Shopbop curated a good selection of straw bags last year. While preparing a post featuring wicker and straw bags, I did fall for this one and bought it retail, on sale. As you know, this is something I rarely do !
THIS WEEK FOR ME HAS BEEN A BIT TENSE. MY FATHER IN LAW IS STILL HANGING IN THERE, AND I AM GRATEFUL. STILL, THIS PROCESS IS DIFFICULT AS HE TRAVELS BACK AND FORTH VIA AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL QUITE OFTEN.
Still we all have stressful events, as it is part of life. When I take stock I am quite happy. With a life as colorful and fulgent as any well-tended garden, I breathe and count my blessings.
I hope your week has been joyful and colorful! XOXO !
You always have the best perspective on life, Elle. Even when there are such struggles. And I just adore your print mixing!! It is bold, and that’s a good thing!!
XOOX
Jodie
I find that the key with any pattern mixing is to have two or more colours in common, and ideally one of them should be a neutral. You have black (top + cardi), red (all 3 pieces) and white (shoes, top, pants). And two of those are neutrals! Your tip on balancing the scale of prints is awesome too! Love this look. Sending good vibes for you and your father-in-law, Elle. The constant stress can be so wearing and tiring emotionally as well a physically. I’m glad you are treating yourself to beautiful outfits – take care of YOU! Hugs… Read more »
Now that should have been my post ! Thanks for the good vibes! I appreciate you!
Wow Elle, what a daring mix. I always admire you for wearing so many prints in one outfit and rock in it. I am more of a matchy-matchy girl and can only look in awe at what you do again and again! I love your trousers and bag enormously, as well as your positive mindset. Thinking of you and your family! Love, Lieske
I’m loving this look, Elle! This is more that just advanced pattern mixing. Wow! The riot of colour provided by your friend’s garden is just fabulous. Your colourful post really made my day! xxx
Oh my goodness! That first garden photo is gorgeous. Hail Spring!
No one mixes different textures beautifully like your do, Elle. Such happiness here and you look wonderful.
https://www.missymayification.co.uk
Thanks that is truly nice of you!
xo
Keeping your face turned towards the sunshine as you do ensures you can look past the shadows. It can’t be an easy time for you. Your bright, eclectic outfit is a statement of hope.
Suzanne
http://www.suzannecarillo.com
Yes, clinging to hope! Thanks friend!
Such a fun way to do print mixing – i really love those floral pants! I can see why you had to have that bag too! 🙂
Hope you’re having a great start to your week and that things improve with your Father in law.
Away From The Blue
I’m sorry to hear about your father in law and hoping he is improving and feeling much stronger. I’ve never thought to combine these two together but wow, have you made quite the case. I don’t currently have any plaid or tartan (with exception to a casual shirt or two) in my closet but I think I’ll be adding some soon.
Sxx
daringcoco.com
thanks for your kind reply!!!
xo
Your mix is truly inspired and inspiring, Elle! Love each piece separately and all together. Thank you for your tips! The jewelry is so beautiful! And of course NY, always!
The best wishes to your father-in-low and the family!!
Thanks– we are hoping!
xo
I love how you mixed plaid and floral, you look so chic, as always. Loved these Feragamo shoes too. I hope, you are having stress-free Tuesday.
Nina’s Style Blog
Thanks so much! such a fun mix!
xo, Elle
First I wish all the best and strenght for your father in law. Those trousers just scream Spring! don’t they. I think spring is the most fabulous season. To see all the green grow and all the colors of fabulous flowers and to hear the birds sing! I just love it!
Thanks you so much Nancy! Color therapy !
xo, Elle
This is one of those perfect spring looks.
Love how stylish you are with florals.
Ann
https://roomsofinspiration.blogspot.com/
Hi Elle!
I am just dying over those pants! I love the pretty pink pattern and they look wonderful on you! I have been enjoying some tailored pieces myseff lately. I love alll of the beautiful color here and pattern mixing it looks fresh and fun! I enjoy seeing your pictures, the flowers, always a treat to get a glimpse of Manhattan. Im sorry to hear your FIL continues o be in ill health. Prayers for him.
thinking of you , Happy Sunday!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Thank you for your sweet comment, I appreciate YOU!
xo, Elle