Being Mixed Up Without being Confused: Gillian Kirkpatrick Reveals some User Friendly Wardrobe Tips

Being Mixed Up need not be equated with being Confused. Mixing colors and patterns can create some dramatic, stunning outfits, and it is really not that hard to do. All it takes is a little bit of daring, creativity and a few rules. Let Gillian show you how to create elegant and vibrant wardrobe combinations (http://www.moojooken.com/Mixing.pdf).

(Vocus) November 23, 2008 -- Ever wanted to mix colors and patterns in your wardrobe but just did not know where to begin? Do not be intimidated. Let moojoo ken's Gillian Kirkpatrick help you get started with a couple basic rules about mixing colors and patterns.

One rule that can go a long way is to have one color that is found in all pieces. That color is the common thread that will connect the diverse patterns. Another rule is to pair one large, dominant pattern with a smaller one. The large pattern is the focal point, and the smaller pattern is the accent. You pick a dominant color and use the others as accents.

The simplest way to use patterns is against a solid backdrop. For instance, use a black dress as the canvas (this one is from Mae). See how the gold and black patterns in moojoo ken's Woodley Park handbag (http://www.moojooken.com) and shoes are the accents? The gold belt has studs that add another element of texture and break up the solid black of the dress, as well as picking up the gold in the shoe and bag.

Another fine example of mixing large and small patterns is the purple outfit. The dress (this one is from Target) has the larger, geometric print, and moojoo ken's Chinatown handbag (http://shop.moojooken.com/product.sc?categoryId=2&productId=25) has the smaller, tighter print in the same purple. The smaller print of the handbag does not compete with the print of the dress, but rather, speaks to it in the same language. Add a belt with purple trim, and voila!

The green paisley wrap dress (this one is from Chetta B) has green and gold throughout the pattern, and moojoo ken's Friendship Heights boots (http://www.moojooken.com) repeat both the green and gold in the dress. The shades of green and gold are not exact matches, but are in the same color family and thus combine nicely. Quickly throw on some blue bracelets just to see what happens...it works!

If you want to see more mixing options, please visit Gillian's Mixing Patterns and Color Commentary (http://www.moojooken.com/Mixing.pdf) or stop by the store. The staff at moojoo ken would be happy to assist with your color selections.

Ms. Kirkpatrick has a B.A. in English and Studio Art as well as an M.A. in Fashion Merchandising from Polimoda University in Florence, Italy.

About Moojoo Ken

Moojoo Ken means "unconditional" in Japanese, as the owners have drawn on their extensive travels to inspire their collection. The DC Fashion Design Label serves up a colorful, eclectic line that features a childhood dream emblem. The collection of unique handbags, shoes, and accessories take their names from historic and exciting Washington, DC neighborhoods, streets and locales. Washington, DC might not be known for its fashion, but moojoo ken wants to change that perception. Visit 1512 U Street, NW (http://www.moojooken.com) or www.moojooken.com.

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