Jorce If you are looking for the fastest way to take your outfit from nice to the next level, you can achieve it by mixing textures. This is a subtle styling trick that will give your look dimension, personality and depth. But in reality, mixing textures can be a little bit intimidating. You’ll be faced with too many fabrics that it can feel like a Pinterest craft project that went rogue.
How can you master the art of combining silk, denim, knits and suede without looking like you got dressed in the dark? This is how you can mix textures, effortlessly, intentionally and obviously, without clashing, so your outfits look curated and not chaotic.
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Why do textures matter?
Textures bring life to outfits. When you layer different materials, then you are creating visual contrast. Yes, even if you are wearing everything in the same color. This is helpful if you prefer neutral palettes or even monochrome looks, but still want to stand out.
Maybe think of leather pants with a chunky knit? Consider it cozy meeting edgy. Or a silky blouse tucked in structured wool trousers? Strength meeting softness. Texture tells a story, and when it’s done right, it will make your outfits feel more elevated and thoughtful without actually trying too hard.
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One dominant texture as a start
When you are mixing textures, you need to keep it simple. You need to choose one dominant texture, something that is bold, for example, leather, faux fur or velvet. Then you can layer it with more subtle or contrasting ones.
Let’s consider your statement piece a leather mini skirt. Then you can pair it with a ribbed knit turtleneck and sheer thighs. Here you have three different textures that work together. Here leather is the “star” and the other ones are the supporting ones.
If this is more helpful, you need to think about it as if it was interior design. You won’t want every wall in your house covered in wallpaper, tiles and velvet. You need to choose a feature and then balance it.
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Keep it in the same color family
Texture and color are both strong visual elements. When you are mixing both at once, it can get overwhelming fast. To avoid it, you need to stick at first with one color palette, while you learn to mix materials. If you want to go all black, then do it. But try layering a black satin blouse with black denim jeans and a black boucle jacket. The fabrics will be doing the job, and not the color.
Neutral colors work specially well here. Greys, creams, browns and taupes are super forgiving when you experiment with texture. Once you feel more confident, you can start mixing bolder colors and prints into the equation.
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Textures to highlight your favorite features
A little trick. Wherever you want the eye to go, then place the most interesting texture there. If you love your legs, then try fishnet tights under structured wool skirts. If you want to draw attention to your upper half, then add a metallic or sequined top, as they’ll instantly do the job. Texture is a built-in spotlight, so you need to place it wisely.
Keep in mind that heavier textures like leather, boucle tend or corduroy will add volume. On the other hand, sleek ones like jersey or silk, will drape closer to the body. You need to use this to your advantage when you try and balance proportions.
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Unexpected combos
Once you’ve got your basics down, it’s time to try some unexpected pairings. A good example is lace and denim. Or satin velvet and suede with mesh. These contrasts feel fresh and fashion forwards, if you mix them correctly.
You’ll need to ground your look with a classic or neutral item. A good example is wearing a statement velvet blazer with a lace camisole. Then you can balance it out with tailored trousers or classic blue jeans.
If you want to pair slick leather pants and shaggy faux fur, then add a basic cotton tee underneath. The mix will work because there’s always a calm element.
Image from: https://www.lizzieinlace.com/how-to-mix-patterns-and-textures-like-a-pro/
