How to Wear Prints Like a Pro
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Stand out without going overboard.
Prints and patterns are one of the easiest ways to add personality, energy, and depth to your wardrobe.
But if you don’t style them thoughtfully, they can quickly tip into chaos.
Whether you’re drawn to bold botanicals or subtle stripes, the trick is balance.
You don’t need to avoid prints—you just need to wear them right.
Here’s how to do it with confidence and ease:
1. Plaid
Brooks Brothers
Men’s Polo Button-Down
Try: Brooks Brothers
Plaid is classic, but it can get loud fast if paired poorly. With all those intersecting lines, it naturally grabs attention.
Style tip: Let the plaid be the star. Pair it with grounded pieces—think tan chinos and dark loafers—and keep everything else simple. Skip competing prints for a clean, intentional look.
2. Vertical Stripes
Quince
Organice Cotton Dress Shirt
Try: Reiss
Stripes are super wearable. Narrow stripes feel sharp and office-ready; wider stripes lean relaxed and playful.
Style tip:
Office: Go with thin vertical stripes, wool trousers, and clean leather shoes.
Off-duty: Wider stripes work with neutral denim or chinos.
New to prints? Start with pinstripes—they’re flattering, elongate your frame, and easy to style.
3. Botanical Prints
Vince
Placket Shirt
Try: Vince
Floral shirts aren’t just for vacations anymore. Darker or muted tones can feel sophisticated and modern.
Style tip: Let them be the statement. Pair a bold floral shirt with tailored off-white or navy trousers. For a sharper twist, layer it under a dark, unstructured blazer and finish with loafers. Relaxed, but elevated.
4. Checks
Ralph Lauren
Tattersall Sport Shirt
Try: Ralph Lauren
Checks come in many forms: gingham (bold), tattersall (delicate), and windowpane (minimal).
Style tip:
Casual: A gingham shirt under a bomber jacket with dark jeans = laid-back but put together.
Dressed up: Tattersall or windowpane shirts pair beautifully with solid suits and textured ties.
Checks add visual interest without overpowering your look and are perfect for business-casual settings.
Final Thought
Prints don’t have to be loud to make an impact.
The key: let one patterned piece lead, ground the look with neutrals, and avoid mixing too many elements at once.
Not sure what works best for your body, skin tone, or style goals?
That’s where a personal stylist comes in—to guide you toward prints that feel elevated, flattering, and right for your lifestyle.
Brandi is a personal stylist with over a decade of experience helping men show up with confidence and ease. She offers tailored style solutions that take the guesswork out of getting dressed—so you look sharp and feel great, no matter the occasion.