If you tend to stick to looks that work around only 1 or 2 colours, you are losing out on a ton of opportunities! Unless you know how to play with texture, detail and cuts, these looks can end up looking bland, plain and boring.

When you introduce more than 4 colours in one look, you create an ensemble with a variety of points of interest. Every element can play an important part here but layering and accessories are the easiest tools to use.

If you don’t like bright colours, you can still use this technique. Simply mix a few dark or light neutrals or both. The look will have a lot of depth to it even without introducing bright colours.

You can also introduce a print as part of the mix and that will take a look even further!

The best way to start experimenting is by picking any piece that you are in the mood to wear, let’s say, a pair of trousers.

• Then team it with a layering piece like a blazer or a cardigan in a different colour.
• Then look for a top in another colour.
• Then move on to accessories.

Aim to combine at least 4 colours in one look and don’t be afraid to take the amount to 6 or even 7, especially if the shades are similar enough. Remember – every variation of colour counts!

You’ll be surprised how many new looks you can find this way when you focus purely on colour! 

Rhythm is one of the principles of design and basically means creating repetition of elements.

Rhythm through colour is particularly easy to create when you have a print. All you have to do is duplicate the colours from the print.

Alternatively you can use two elements in the same colour (for example, matching your top to shoes).

This allows you to create looks that appear cohesive, harmonious and well put-together. 

The example below with a blouse and different bottoms demonstrates how you can create multiple looks just by featuring colours from the top in bottoms. Then add accessories and you can have both principles combined together – rhythm as well as over 4 colours in one look. 

Pull out some pieces from your wardrobe that have any kind of a print and pattern and try building outfits by simply looking for matching colours in the rest of your wardrobe. 

This way of co-ordinating pieces is one of the biggest trends at the moment, but it will never date. So I’d highly recommend taking your time to master this trick.

It creates the most interesting looks with a strong streetstyle vibe and takes style stakes to a completely different level! If you don’t like pattern, this trick is not going to be your cup of tea but if you like something different, definitely give it a go. 

You need to keep a few elements in mind:

• colours
• scale of print
• the type of print

Here are some guidelines to get you started:

1. If two prints feature similar shapes AND colours, in most cases they will work together. (Image 1 below)
2. It’s best to work with prints of similar scale. The size of the print doesn’t have to be the same, but try not to jump to extremes. Small + medium or medium + large combinations work best. 
3. Most checks, stripes and polka dots co-ordinate well, especially if they have a common colour.
4. Most black and white prints work well together.
5. Stripes can work very well with other types of prints if they feature the same colour.

Start with pulling out any patterned pieces you might have and compare prints side by side to see if any of them will work together. Look for similarities in colour and the type of print and before you know it, you might have an ensemble you never thought of puttig together before!