Prints Charming

We know your type — fashion enthusiast who errs on the side of caution. Subtle, the kind of woman who pauses before answering that her favorite color is black, or maybe taupe or navy. Pattern-phobic. None of these are bad things — chicness is all abo

ut being understated and not chasing trends. But what’s a girl to do when tempted with all kinds of now now now looks? Make them your own, of course. Behold, a guide to tweaking three super-current trends to your own grown-up, real-woman style…

Wild Thing: Leopard print has long been an international sign for bombshell, but if you’re seeking something with a little less “look,” try the print on some shoes. For a low-maintenance, high-impact look, pair it with an all-black ensemble, or ease into the trend with a pair of cropped pants. We especially love it with fall-appropriate cozy tights or tweed coats for an Annie Hall-meets-2012 outfit.

Pattern Play: The fashion world was taken by storm last season by wide-legged, bold printed trousers, but what does that mean for those of us not gracing runways? Simply this: The pants as comfortable as PJ bottoms, but their sophisticated patterns and more luxe fabrics make you look chic, not lazy. Try them with a black top and a blazer, or a monochromatic sweater-and-coat combo to keep the outfit simple and streamlined.

In Full Bloom: Floral prints are undeniably lovely, but they run the risk of making an outfit look soft, feminine and springlike. While there’s nothing wrong with a little girly flair, it’s easy to transform this print into something, more current, more modern, and just plain more. Choose a body-conscious pencil skirt splashed with overblown, exaggerated patterns and pair with seasonal textures like knits, chambray and leather — the end result is womanly, not girly.

Images via street-style-insta.tumblr.com // pinterest.com // thesartorialist.com // stockholmstreetstyle.com // vogue.com // emersonfry.com // wendyslookbook.com // streetpeeper.com // a shot from Celine

Marketing consultant by day, aspiring writer by night, Alexandra Piotrowski defines herself as a professional storyteller. She loves good music, bad movies, hiking in the Angeles National Forest and teaching herself to bake the perfect apple pie.

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