I remember the days when I would see printed pants while shopping and think, “Cute, but I could never pull those off.” (BTW, I remember the same thing with red jeans)
Man, how times have changed. My 40-year-old self would be so proud to know that I’m writing an article on how to wear printed pants. And I’m styling them with 3 different concepts. Talk about personal style evolution.
Quote of the day: “Strength shows not only in the ability to persist, but the ability to start over.” F. Scott Fitzgerald
As always, I’m here to convince you that style should be fun. Life’s too short for boring outfits, right? And that includes pants.
Which is why I wanted to showcase three very different ways to wear printed pants that work for any age, any body shape, and any style personality.
Whether you’re dipping your toe into the trend or ready to dive in headfirst, there’s a formula here for you.
Basically, I’m applying my color recipe (read the crux of the concept back when I first started talking about it) to the entire range of print pants in your closet.
Today’s ideas of how to wear printed pants are a Cliff Notes version of my original recipe. I figure the more you hear it, the more it will sink in. Plus, I wanted to make it easy to follow and straight to the point.
Insider tip: If you don’t have a pair of printed pants in your closet, this is your sign to get some. WHY? Not just because they are fun, but having a print clothing item is actually the best way to camouflage lumps, bumps, AND stains.
Right: Found these linen print pants when thrifting and wore them with a matching lime green top.
1. Printed Pants with Matching Colors
The first and most approachable way to style printed pants is to pair them with one of the colors already found in the print. This is the “matchmaker” approach, and most people find this easy. It instantly makes your outfit feel put together.
Insider Tip: If you’re like me and worried that a coordinating color will look too “matchy-matchy,” add texture instead of sticking to flat fabrics.
Or another idea is to add in an entirely different color with your footwear, accessories, or a third piece.
Right: Red striped pants with rust top.
This method is especially great for those of you who are new to wearing printed pants because it gives you the confidence that everything works together without being overwhelming.
Right: Tan and white stripes pair with everything, including neon green.
2. Printed Pants with a Color That’s NOT in the Print
This next option is where things start to get a little more unexpected. Instead of pulling out a color from the pants, why not try a shade that isn’t part of the print?
Hear me out. If your pants have black and white stripes, most people’s instinct would be to pair them with black or white.
That’s fine, but it can also seem predictable and maybe a bit boring.
Insider tip: Styling something unexpected or different is a boost of adrenaline and is a sure-fire way to get compliments. People have already seen matching outfits and the same ole, same ole…give them something different to be inspired by.
Right: Green and navy stripes with purple top.
Insider Tip: Don’t forget that metallics can count as neutrals too. Metallics are a fabulous option because not only do they combine with anything and everything, but they also add shine.
This approach also works well if you’re not in the mood to match. Sometimes, it’s nice to wear something different from your norm.
Right: Same muted colors for top and pants (see other options with these same pants)
3. Printed Pants with Another Print
And now for one of my favorite options since becoming more bold with my style…print mixing!
I realize that this is the one combination that scares many people, but it’s also the one that gets the most compliments.
Wearing printed pants with another print shows the world you’re not afraid to have fun with fashion. I also like to describe it as an advanced degree in styling.
Matching is something we learned in K-12 grades, while branching out to unmatched colors lends itself to college when we are out on our own.
But print mixing is truly above and beyond and provides the best challenges.
Right: I’m calling this print mixing due to the texture of the bolero, although it matches the print, color-wise.
MORAL OF THE STORY: It doesn’t matter what you call it or how you categorize it, just have fun with style.
The biggest thing to remember is that it’s not about being perfect, it’s about creating visual interest.
For example, in the past I’ve shown:
Insider Tip: Accessories can help tie everything together. A bag, shoes, or jewelry in a color that appears in one of the prints makes it feel intentional instead of random.
And don’t worry if you’re not ready to mix prints right away, start small with something like a patterned scarf or even printed shoes. Before long, you’ll be wondering why you ever stuck to solids.
Why Printed Pants are Worth It
The real question is “Do I really need printed pants?” Of course not, but then again yes.
By this time in your life, you’ve already mastered wearing solid pants, so I believe it’s time to evolve and have fun.
Off the top of my head, I would give you these 3 reasons to wear printed pants:
- They add personality. You can throw on a plain tee and sandals, but if your pants are printed, it looks like you made an effort.
- They’re versatile. As I pointed out above, you can style them with matching colors, non-matching colors, or even other prints.
- They’re fun. Fashion is supposed to bring joy. If your clothes don’t make you smile, what’s the point?
Plus, printed pants can work for every occasion. A pair of print trousers can be office-appropriate with a blazer, chic for dinner with a silky blouse, or casual with sneakers and a denim jacket. Talk about a multitasker.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it. Three ways to wear printed pants as a simplified version of my color recipe.
No matter your style personality, there’s an option that will feel like you. And the best part? These aren’t rules, they’re invitations to play.
If you’re still unsure, start with the matching colors method. Once you see how easy it is, move on to trying an unexpected neutral, and then graduate to print mixing when you’re ready for some fashion fun.
The whole idea of trying something new with our style isn’t about blending in. It’s about standing out and enjoying the process of getting dressed.
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My Goal
Thank you for visiting my space on the internet. I like to showcase how it’s never too late to look great for women of any age, size, or working with any kind of budget.
I feel I’m here to help move beyond the fashion rules of yesterday and evolve. Style and clothes are made to give you joy. Not cause us stress because we are worried about what others think.
