Brighten up your wardrobe with patterns and prints
Winter is such a dreary and drab season; cold and grey all around. The good news is that there is no reason why our clothes have to reflect that! Prints have a special way of lifting your mood, so why not add a little extra cheer to your wardrobes this season? At Patra, we are proud to say that our prints are designed in-house and are exclusive to us. With more than 50 years of experience designing and creating new print patterns, we’ve learnt a thing or two about printed clothing. Here we share with you the best ways to make prints work for you. Adding a subtle print to your outfits this winter has never been easier with these simple rules.
Darker colours for winter
(Left to right) New Reversible Cotton Jacket, Brushed Cotton Tunic Top
It seems self-explanatory, but darker-coloured prints are perfect for your winter wardrobe. While the pastel colours and the lighter prints of spring and summer may look out of place in autumn and winter, you can still find a variety of prints ideal for the season ahead. You might want to choose a more substantial print (with a darker or black background), instead of a white or a lighter base to be season-appropriate. Winter is a fantastic time to embrace beautiful bold colours on darker bases– there is something warm yet sophisticated about it.
You can also go for a more abstract geometric print to shake off any summery feel a print might have. A great alternative to wintery florals, geometric prints are a big trend this season and we have incorporated them into a brushed cotton range that is heavier, warmer and cosier than other lightweight fabrics. So instead of choosing well-defined flowers, take a more abstract approach to prints, whilst staying warm in our brushed cotton range. It’s the best of both worlds really.
Keep it simple with a printed scarf
(Left to right) Pure Silk Crepe Chiffon Scarf, Silk Scarf
If you are afraid or cautious of choosing printed clothing, you can start simple; with just a scarf. You can have a scarf tied around your neck or wrapped around the handle of your bag. We love our silk scarves as they are equally versatile and elegant, giving you unique looks each and every time. Simply by tossing them around your neck or by forming a loop once or twice, our scarves can brighten up a previously plain outfit in an instant!
An easy update to wardrobe staples
(Left to right) Crepe-de-Chine Shirt, Cotton Printed Shirt, Cotton Reversible Waistcoat
The easiest way to refresh your separates is by adding a printed shirt. Silk ones are the most versatile, as you can wear them paired with a glamorous skirt to events with a smart dress code, or use them to dress up your denim for daywear. Denim takes the edge off an –otherwise– overpowering combination. A shirt or blouse with a floral or geometric print could become your safe go-to option for day or night. They won’t date the way a patterned bag will and a couple should be enough to spruce up your usual separates.
A printed cotton shirt is also a nice way to freshen up your casual wardrobe. As well as being durable and hypoallergenic material, its also more affordable than other fabrics – a cotton shirt is always a must. Our cotton printed shirt patterns take their inspiration from the nature with depictions of red-seeded dandelions, and its long sleeves help balance the effect of the floral print. If you don’t want to hide those beautiful colours why don’t you opt for a printed jacket or waistcoat. They come in two subtle prints that won’t overpower your outfit and still give you a fresh look.
Make a statement with prints
(Left to right) Long Sleeved Brushed Cotton Dress, Cotton Jersey Dress with Pleats, Jersey Dress with a Knot
If you’re a print lover and you want to go all out, we have beautiful dresses that will brighten up those winter days. In moody blue shades or bolder purples and reds with pops of gold and ember, you will be sure to find something you like. Pair a patterned dress with simple shoes and accessories and see the power of print. It makes getting ready very simple and easy. Don’t be afraid of colour and embrace the beautiful patterns!
Work-to-weekend covered
(Left to right) Cotton Jersey Printed Skirt, Jersey Flare Maxi Skirt
Printed skirts are a winter staple for work and off-duty looks. What better way to dress up all your gorgeous plain coloured jumpers? For a more glamorous look, pair with a plain satin blouse or neat jersey top and heels – festive look done! For a more relaxed look, you can exchange your heels for some flats, grab a comfy jacket or coat and you are ready to go!
Mixing many different types of prints in a single outfit can be a tricky look to get right. If you’re not sure, always go for only one printed item per outfit. Don’t be afraid to play with your prints, they are such an easy way to take your outfit from drab to fabulous. Try prints with different accessories and match them with your favourite plains. Why not make this season a little more joyful and add some print to your winter wardrobe?
