Clothing for people who love patterns
Short answer: Patterns add personality to an otherwise simple wardrobe, but they need some thought when combined and washed. With a few simple rules, striped, checked and spotted pieces can live well together.
Patterns often start from the bottom
Many people begin with patterns in places where they do not take up too much room, and socks are an obvious spot. A pair of striped or spotted socks can liven up a plain outfit without you changing the rest. See all bamboo socks for men. Because socks are often seen only at the ankle, you can allow yourself more colour and contrast than you would choose for a shirt.
Rules for mixing patterns
If you want to mix several patterns, a few simple rules of thumb help. Choose patterns of different scale, for example thin stripes together with large checks, so that they do not compete. Keep the colours in the same family so there is a common thread. Let one piece be the lead and keep the rest calm. And remember that plain clothes give the eye a rest, which makes the patterns clearer.
A hidden pattern under your clothes
Some prefer to keep the playful part on the inside, where only they can see it. Inner shorts or underwear with a pattern can give a small smile in the morning without affecting your outer look. See bamboo inner shorts. Choose a pattern that does not show through light trousers, and check that the fabric is not too thin when the colour is dark. Flat seams are more comfortable under close fitting clothes.
Sleepwear with personality
Sleepwear is the place where patterns do the least harm, because nobody else sees them. Spots, stripes or small prints can turn the evening change into something you look forward to. See bamboo sleepwear for men. Choose a pattern that is printed or woven in a way that keeps the fabric soft rather than stiff. Fit still matters more than the pattern, so loose sleeves and a soft waistband should come first.
Watch the colours in the wash
Patterned clothes often have several colours, which can bring challenges in the wash. Wash new pieces separately the first few times and use 30 to 40 degrees. Turn them inside out so the pattern is not worn, and avoid mixing light laundry with very dark patterns. Check the care label in the garment. Hang them in shade so the colours stay fresh, and avoid the tumble dryer on high heat.
When the pattern gets tiring
It is a good idea to swap out patterned items if you tire of them, rather than letting them sit in a drawer. Keep some simple plain basics so there is something to build on. Try new patterns in small doses, and choose pieces you can picture yourself wearing many times. It is better to have a few patterns you wear often than many that hang unused.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear several patterns at once
Yes, if they differ in scale and stay within the same colour family. Let one piece be the lead.
Does patterned clothing need different washing
Wash at a low temperature, inside out and separately the first few times so that the colours do not run.
Which clothes are best for starting with patterns
Socks and sleepwear are easy starting points, because other people see them little or not at all.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
