One of the season’s biggest trends is mixing prints. Stripes with florals taking the cake.
Personally, I love the way it looks and admire my friends when they pull it off, but have trouble achieving the combo myself. Kids on the other hand, they pull together this trend the moment you let them start dressing themselves.
If you’re like me and have trouble mixin’ it up, here’s a few tips I’ve learned from my toddler (wink, wink):
- Start with stripes. It’s the best way to ease into the trend. Stripes go with everything. Some “style experts” even consider them a neutral. Play around with them and see for yourself.
- Focus on colors. If the colors go well together – most likely the prints do, too.
- Spread out the “crazy.” Start with mixing prints on your pants and a shirt and leave the shirt/jacket combo to the pros.
- Pay attention to size. Match big prints with small to make a strong, but not too overwhelming statement.
Banana Republic Factory Store is my first-stop for stripes and florals. Next time you pop in for a weekend shopping trip, get daring in the dressing room and give mixing prints a whirl.
Photo: Pinterest
And while we’re at it, how many of you mamas let your kiddos dress themselves? Sure, it may result in some cringe-worthy combos at first – but a lot of good can come from granting them this independence. So the next time your inner control-freak tries to rein in your child’s expression of freedom, here’s some tips and tricks to let them do their thing:
- Maybe that outfit is a total train wreck, but as long as it’s not class picture day, is this really a battle you want to fight? Give them positive reinforcement for their creativity and send them off with a smile.
- Many kids want to change outfits multiple times per day. Yes, I’m crying on the inside for my washer and dryer. Instead of letting them loose in their closet, give them a few outfit options and allow them to choose their favorite or mix and match. This lets them feel in control, with mom monitoring from the sidelines.
- Plan ahead. Leave yourself more than 5 minutes to get dressed and out the door. If your 3-year-old insists on dressing herself, don’t ruin the experience by rushing her and stressing about rolling into the carpool lane late. Start 15 or 20 minutes before it’s time to leave and make it fun!
Photo: Parents.com
As much as I love seeing perfectly polished outfits, please share your toddler’s funny fashions with me on Instagram using #TangerMom. I want to see the next generation of little fashionistas!