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Mixing Patterns with Black & White

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Comments(10)
July 10, 2019

Hello dear gals, and welcome to Dressed for My Day! I ended up not having to report for jury duty yesterday because the case didn’t go to court. I have to admit, I was a little relieved. Ok. I was a lot relieved! I certainly didn’t mind serving. But I welcomed the opportunity to work instead. Today I’m sharing an easy shorts outfit and offering a few tips for mixing patterns with black and white.

Mixing Patterns with Black & White
gingham shorts // black & white striped top // cardigan (sold out in black) (option) // gold sandals (option) // straw bag (no longer available – option) // earrings // palm necklace // gold bangle // sunglasses

I’ve worn these gingham shorts so much this summer. And while I usually pair them with a solid top, I thought it would be fun to mix things up a little with a contrasting pattern. And I do love stripes!

Mixing Patterns with Black & White

The safest way to mix patterns is to do it like I did here. Just stick with one color scheme, but pair polka dots and stripes or gingham and polka dots or stripes and paisley. Ha! You get the picture!

In this workwear post I paired this striped tee with my solid white pants and this same sheer black cardigan. They’re running low on inventory at this point, but this simple tee is a wonderful workhorse in your wardrobe. Unfortunately, the cardigan is sold out in black, but is available in other shades.

Mixing Patterns with Black & White

Clearly defined patterns, especially small prints and stripes, can be treated as solids. So have fun mixing them up!

Mixing Patterns with Black & White
Mixing Patterns with Black & White

Another great tip for mixing prints is to use solid pieces elsewhere to anchor them. Finally, add accessories that pick up the colors in both prints to marry them harmoniously.

gingham shorts // black & white striped top // cardigan (sold out in black) (option) // gold sandals (option) // straw bag (no longer available – option) // earrings // palm necklace // gold bangle // sunglasses

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Blessed for My Day

Confrontation is never fun. At least, it shouldn’t be. Most of us will walk out of our way to avoid a confrontation over a distasteful situation. But the truth is, confrontation is often necessary, especially if we want to restore what has been lost or broken through misspoken words, unspoken tension, thoughtless actions or hurtful behavior.

Fortunately, the Bible gives us instructions for confronting those who are causing problems. We’re to confront in loving and gracious manner. God’s Word instructs us to listen more than and before we talk, to weigh our words carefully, to seek restoration and peace, not a personal victory for ourselves or shame for the other person or persons. We’re also wise to pray before we go and even, if necessary, meet in a group instead of individually.

Do you need to confront someone today over something that has been stewing for a long time? Ask the Lord to guide you and go with you. Most importantly, seek to honor Him in all you do and say.

“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses.” ~ Matthew 18:15-16

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xoxo, Kay
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10 thoughts on “Mixing Patterns with Black & White

  1. Recently at a bible study, someone shared that when they are in a tough situation with another person, they call on Jesus to come and stand between them. That is a powerful strategy. He has showed up every time for me!
    PS: I love the mixed patterns❤️

  2. I am still struggling with pattern mixing and feeling confident about how I will look. I need to nudge myself out of the safety box and go for it! Thank you for sharing how to properly mix patterns so that our outfit still looks nice instead of clown like. I hope that today goes much better for you, and that you are able to get more items packed. Wishing you a day of blessings!

  3. I wish I had the confidence to mix patterns like you did today and so beautifully. I wouldn’t be able to ‘carry it off’ as gracefully as you do but love seeing pieces mixed in the most unexpected ways!

    1. Oh I think you certainly could carry it off! And what I did here was so tame compared to what others do. Try it! And let me know the results. ?

  4. Hi Kay,
    I just don’t care for the look of mixed patterns. It isn’t because I lack the self confidence to pull the look off, it’s just that I personally think it looks like it doesn’t match. I love your black and white checkered shorts with the hot pink sleeveless top.
    I have lived in Ohio my whole life. I love Ohio!! Our seasons are wonderful. If you don’t like one, not to worry because it will change to another one in a few months. We don’t get hurricanes like some places, we don’t have wild fires like a lot of places do, very few dangerous animals or poisonous snakes or things of that nature. No Sunamies or Tidal waves or bad Earthquakes. I think Ohio is a great place to live, and I would like to welcome you to this great state.

    1. Hi Debrah, I’m actually right there with ya. I enjoyed trying this look out, but it’s certainly not my favorite way to wear these short. I much prefer a splash of pretty color up top! Yes, I’m hearing great things about Ohio. Those who live there seem to really love it. We’re looking forward to the move! Thanks so much for sharing.

  5. Love this outfit. I enjoyed all of your emails. I am a Talbots shopper and I got a lot styles from you that I enjoy putting outfits together that I thought would not go right.

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