Trying to wear prints the right way can take a wrong turn faster than you can say sartorial suicide. Florals, stripes, gingham, and bold pops of pattern have the potential to add life to your wardrobe, but there’s certainly an art to not looking like a dizzying mess. Whether you choose to go subtle or not-so-subtle, we’ve pulled together five outfits that incorporate prints with ease. Our tips and tricks will help you step out of your comfort zone and into statement-making style…safely and for under $100. - AZ
Crop top by Topshop, $28; Tie waist skirt by J.Crew, $89.50; Backpack by Herschel Supply Co., $65; Silver beaded sandals by Goodnight Macaroon, $69
Mute the bold print of this J.Crew skirt by pairing it with a heather grey backdrop (top, sandals, bag). If there was ever a cool-girl way to wear rainbow-hued florals, this is it. The key here is to make sure the auxiliary pieces in your look are all in the same neutral monochrome color, which takes the frou-frou out of the floral print.
Khaki green top by H&M, $14.99; Crop jean by American Eagle, $39.99; Leather sandal by Boohoo, $24; Striped shopper bag by Mango, $99.99 
Camisole by H&M, $24.99; Neutral midi skirt by J.Crew, $59.99; Crossbody bag by Mango, $39.99; Platform sandal by Topshop, $85
For those who want to try daring on for size (but not commit to a whole outfit of it), a boldly printed bag or shoe is your answer. Striped bag: Adding an element of chic to distressed jeans and a tank, this look goes from being basic to anything-but-boring with one easy addition. Floral platform: The best way to showcase these embroidered platform sandals? Keep the rest of your look simple. A pink cami and neutral midi skirt are the definition of casual feminine dressing, but the heels and mini bag turn the sex appeal way up.
Black floral dress by American Eagle, $22.47; Tassel earrings on Shopbop, $40; Woven clutch on Shopbop, $35; Satin mid heel sandals by & Other Stories, $95
Date night = great night in this pretty ensemble. With an abundance of neutral background color, the printed dress doesn’t feel busy, which allows you to have more fun with accessories, like tassel earrings and metallic shoes.
Navy gingham top by River Island, $60; Espadrille wedge on Zappos, $62.99; Pink rattan clutch by J.Crew, $88; Blush trousers by Miss Selfridge, $68
The puff sleeve cold-shoulder top in this look is a statement piece, but reads subtle when paired with soft colors. The top’s print in gingham, the ultimate classic summer print, is flirty and feminine, but the tomboy silhouette of the pants in a pale blush balances it out.
