Three Components for an Excellent Pattern

By Judith Rasband, AICI CIM with Sarah Ward, Conselle Affililate

You may have noticed how these days it’s difficult to find harmonious high quality pattern designs.  Exhibit A:

Problematic Patterns by Conselle

Because in the last several decades we have gone through a period of minimalistic design in dress with lots of solid colors and few patterns, many of the young designers coming up the ladder have never been exposed to quality patterns or taught the proper characteristics of good design.  At the same time, Gen X and Gen Y consumers have never worn patterns and tend not to appreciate them (because Mom and Grandma wore patterns, they won’t dare!). 

In an effort to re-interest the young women of today in new patterns, you’ll see the retail locations bombarding consumers with pattern clothing.  But it doesn’t mean they’re all fabulous.  Not all patterns are created equal.

If you look at the red, white, and blue skirt on the bottom row, second from the left, you’ll notice the large floral print is right over the crotch area. 

Of course, not all patterns are problematic.  Here are three components for an excellent pattern:

• Three Components for an Excellent Pattern #1: The best patterns integrate human colors, in other words, colors that are present in an individual’s personal coloring such as brown (eyes or hair), blue (eyes), green (eyes), ivory (skin), pink (cheek color), and so forth.  The most popular colors compliment your natural coloring. 
  

  Notice the human colors present in this Gucci scarf: brown, green, red, and taupe.

• Three Components for an Excellent Pattern #2: If two or more patterns are integrated into one item of clothing, there needs to be a dominant pattern and subordinate pattern, made harmonious by a common color.  This is what we have taught at the Conselle Institute of Image Management for decades.  In evaluating a pattern, the eye needs a resting place. 
• Three Components for an Excellent Pattern #3: Within a pattern, the motifs need to feature a shapes that progress in size from small to medium to large, and not skip from small to large. 

Since we showcased several less-than-desirable floral patterns, here is a harmonious, widely spaced floral pattern for your viewing pleasure:

Trashy Diva Floral Print Dress

If these three components of an excellent pattern have inspired you to learn more about patterns, through Conselle we teach a full day seminar on pattern selection and coordination in dress.  If you are a designer or even an image conscious individual who would appreciate further education on high quality harmonious patterns, this is a terrific course for you.  For more information visit www.conselle.com, email us at kathy [at] conselle [dot] com or call 801-224-1207. 

As a closing note, be sure the print doesn’t take dominance over you.  Above all, your face — where you communicate — should be the main focal point of your ensemble. 

Copyright Conselle L.C. 2010

Judith Rasband is the Image Expert and would love to educate you on pattern selection and coordination!  Visit www.conselle.com or call 801-224-1207 to learn more.

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