Mixing and matching is a huge fashion trend right now, but finding the right elements to mix and match can be difficult.

Mixing and matching is when you use different patterns and put them into an outfit. Thrifting is a great way to find many great pieces. Thrifting, or finding articles of clothing in stores like Goodwill or Savers or discovering things at garage sales or other used clothing sources, is a good replacement in opposition to fast fashion.  

When looking for the right pieces , focus on colors that complement each other. Using the color wheel, you’ll be able to see what colors complement each other and finding complementarycolors helps make things work well together. If you work within the same color palate or contrasting colors, you can create a lot of variety with fewer pieces.

Another way you can go is complementing your outfit with a statement texture. Textures can make an outfit. Add an item made of suede or satin and you can add depth to the entire outfit. Just make sure they go well with each other. For example, leather is really in right now. Wearing leather pants, with lace or silk can make the outfit stand out from a simple denim+tee combination.

Monochromatic outfits are also very popular right now. It’s when you make an outfit with a certain color — let’s say green — and you make an outfit with different shades of green.

Recent patterns that have been trending are animal prints and stripes.

Taking inspiration from celebrities is another way you can find the right elements. Celebrities like Tyler the Creator, Harry Styles, Kali Uchis are great examples of people who mix and match their outfits. Their influence is one way to find key elements in your own outfits as you to try to recreate those you follow.