If you've been playing it safe with solids all summer, fall is your invitation to get more adventurous with prints and textures. The cooler weather brings richer fabrics and more interesting patterns, which means you have so many more options for creating outfits that feel dynamic and intentional. The key to making it work is understanding which combinations complement each other rather than compete for attention.
Start with one statement piece and build around it. A Floral Puff Sleeve Mini Dress W/Tie Back is a great example of a print that's bold enough to carry an outfit but not so overwhelming that you can't add other elements. The tie back detail adds a sweet touch, and the puff sleeves bring that romantic, feminine vibe that's everywhere this season. When you're working with a floral print, keep your other pieces in solid colors or subtle textures. A chunky knit cardigan or a smooth leather jacket will complement the dress without creating visual chaos.
Texture mixing is where things get really interesting. Pairing smooth and rough textures creates contrast that makes your outfit more engaging to look at. Washed Corduroy Trousers are having a major moment right now, and for good reason. The ribbed texture of corduroy adds dimension to your outfit, and when you pair it with something sleek like a fitted top or a silky blouse, you get that high-low mix that looks effortlessly stylish. The washed finish keeps them from looking too stiff or formal, which is perfect for everyday wear.
Embroidery adds another layer of texture that works beautifully in fall. An Embroidered Wash Shift Dress combines the ease of a simple silhouette with the visual interest of embroidered details. This is the kind of dress that doesn't need much else because the embroidery does the talking. Throw on some simple jewelry and comfortable boots, and you're set. The washed fabric gives it that lived-in feel that's so popular right now, making it look like a vintage find you've had in your closet for years.
When you're mixing multiple textures or prints, keep your color palette somewhat cohesive. You don't need everything to match perfectly, but staying within the same color family helps tie everything together. If you're wearing corduroy pants in a warm camel tone, pair them with tops in cream, rust, or olive green. This gives you freedom to play with different fabrics and details while maintaining a pulled-together look.
The Smocked Yoke Floral Puff Sleeve Top is another great piece for practicing texture and print mixing. The smocked yoke adds a tactile element that contrasts nicely with the smooth floral fabric, and puff sleeves continue that theme of dimensional dressing. Pair it with jeans for a casual look, or tuck it into a midi skirt for something a bit dressier. The beauty of pieces like this is that they already have multiple textures built in, so you don't have to overthink your styling.
Mixing prints and textures isn't about following strict rules. It's about paying attention to balance and trusting your eye. If something feels too busy or chaotic, simplify one element. If an outfit feels flat, add a textured piece or a subtle print. This fall, give yourself permission to experiment and have fun with your wardrobe. That's when the best outfits happen.
