mixing prints.

I’ve been letting my third grader pick out her own clothes for the last few months.  As I’m sure you can imagine this is a bold proposition.  Especially given the fact that Hannah has a real propensity towards mixing prints.  Print mixing can be dangerous territory for an adult, so you can imagine how tricky it is for an 8 year old.
While I do let her pick out her own clothes every morning, I try to (ever so) gently guide her into a different option should the ensemble she chooses veer from creative to crazy.  Here are a few tips I’ve passed on to her to keep it both creative and classy.  (such a dowry, I know.)
#1 Don’t let it get to bi-zay. (said with attitude, thank you)  If you’ve got a small busy print or a loud over the top floral, stay a little more understated on the second (or for you bravies) third print.
#2 If you stay in the same color family you will look intentional, instead of like somebody who doesn’t know how to match.  Plus going monochromatic makes you look taller, which let’s face it, we both need.
#3 Always have at least one structured print, especially if you are venturing into florals.  My structured print of choice is usually stripes, but I have a serious weakness for gingham as well.
and 
#4 When all else fails, repeat after me: 
STRIPES AND POLKA DOTS. 
Are you looking to add more polka dots to your wardrobe?
Mix it up a little by trying a funky spin on the classic print with just a touch of ikat.
ikat, polka dots and pleats.
that’s a trifecta.

Skirt: Corilynn.  Top: Zara.  Bag: Melie Bianco c/o. Shoes: BCBG (similar great price!).  Necklace/ Sunglasses: Loft.

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19 Comments

  1. I LOVE both – stripes and polka! Perrrrfect outfit and that skirt is super cute! :)
    You look AMAZING for just having a kids only few short months back! It gives me hope. Love your blog!

    happymedley.blogspot.com

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  2. Hanna wrote:

    Oh how I want one of those polka dot skirts!!!

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  3. Kaolee wrote:

    Gorgeous skirt!

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  4. polka dots and stripes are some of my favorite pairings! you look fab momma! xo

    http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  5. CDS wrote:

    I love stripes with dots! I did it recently and felt amazing! :) xoxo

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  6. Amie wrote:

    Great tips!! I’m rocking the stripes & dots as we speak!!

    http://herestohappinesses.blogspot.com/

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  7. You are so stunning my friend. Amazing you just had a baby too.
    I love that you let your 3rd grader pick out her outfits. I think I was dressed by my mom one year too long and my 4th grade social status definately struggled a little because of it;)
    Adore this outfit combo. Must pin!

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  8. I love the ikat, polka dot, and strip combo! This skirt is fabulous and you look amazing!

    Chelsea
    Haute Child in the City

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  9. Gorgeous outfit. I still have to try pairing stripes with polka dots. Love your skirt. Gorgeous.

    Agi:)

    vodkainfusedlemonade.wordpress.com

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  10. LaynahRose wrote:

    The pleats on that skirt are literally to die for.

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  11. Love this look. And on a different note, I was wondering – are you using a diaper bag? Have you found a big all-purpose bag you love? I am expecting my fourth and on the lookout for something great. Thanks ~

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  12. nerdgirlms wrote:

    Cute outfit!

    My daughter is 2nd grade. As long as it’s in her closet and weather appropriate, she can wear it. She’s come up with wild combinations – some worked in my eyes, and some didn’t, but I just let her roll with whatever.

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  13. Cori, you are sooo tiny! I can’t believe you just had your FOURTH child. It is bonkers. That skirt is my favorite one in your shop! Such a cute look! Oh, and I love the new blog design!

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  14. Sierra wrote:

    I LOOOOVE that skirt.
    So, I just found your blog. And I love it. A whole lot.
    You are so cute!!!!!!
    Would love to have you over on my end, too :)
    xoxo,
    Sierra
    Oh, Just Living the Dream

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  15. Jenna wrote:

    i LOVE this skirt! I wish my waistline wasn’t disappearing week by week ;).

    Posted 1.18.13 Reply
  16. This is freaking adorable!

    Posted 1.19.13 Reply
  17. Love this mix of patterns, so cute and creative!

    Posted 1.19.13 Reply
  18. Tilly wrote:

    I found you via Pinterest and have to say – stripes + spots = genius! LOVE this look!

    Posted 1.21.13 Reply
  19. Keely wrote:

    Adorable combo! That skirt is amazing! (Also in that red chevron- wow!)I’m getting anxious for real clothes these days.

    Posted 1.23.13 Reply