Ensemble: The Pattern-Mixed Kitchen Sink

This ensemble was inspired by an outfit in Trina Turk’s 2016 Fall collection. The wild and bold pattern-mixed look is a wonderful example of the Maximalism trend. Wear the kitchen sink in a cohesive and pulled together way, and you’re making a fun, interesting, and fashion-forward statement.

There are all sorts of ways to wear “the kitchen sink”. This rendition combines bold patterns and accessories, which is one way to go. The outfit looks complex, but the components are simple once you’ve broken it down. Classic silhouettes combined in a not so classic way, topped with a bit of whimsy. Checks, dots, florals and stripes work well together, and are easiest on the eye when remixed in a similar colour palette.

I’ve got the ball rolling with a trousers and skirt look. The tops and toppers work with either bottom, and so does either bag. The footwear is bottom specific. I chose a black, white, red and pink palette because it’s fairly neutral. By all means choose any colour palette.

Here are the components of the outfit:

Plaid Bottoms: Choose plaid trousers or skirt in a silhouette of your choice.

Striped Top: Add a striped pullover, shirt or tee in a colour combination that works with the plaid bottoms.

Solid & Plaid Toppers: Add a solid fitted jacket that matches the palette, and a coat in a pattern that works with the plaids and stripes. A plaid coat in neutral colours is an easy choice. If you don’t have a plaid coat, go with a solid or texture. An animal print could also work.

Footwear: Choose footwear that works with the bottoms. Booties, tall boots and oxfords are great Winter options. Add socks and hosiery for insulation.

Accessories: It’s important to add accessories for an extra Maximal touch. A colour blocked or animal print handbag in a similar palette is fab, and so is a solid in a NEW colour. A patterned scarf can work well as the fourth or fifth pattern as long as the colours are repeated in the rest of the outfit. Add a floral pin to the coat in a colour that is repeated in the bag, scarf or plaids. Add jewellery, eyewear and watch as desired.

This outfit is an acquired taste, and chances are low that you’ll have all the components in your wardrobe. In that case, think of it as inspiration and allow those creative juices to flow.

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