How to Pick, Mix, and Match Styles When You Can’t Pick Just One

Have you ever walked into a store or scrolled through Pinterest and thought, I love that! And that! Oh, and that too!? But then you freeze, because suddenly you're paralyzed by choice. You can’t settle on one style, and honestly, who said you had to? The truth is, mixing and matching styles can lead to a space (or even a wardrobe) that’s truly unique. But how do you make it look intentional rather than chaotic? Let’s dive in.

Start with a Base You Love

Mixing styles sounds wild at first, but it doesn’t have to be. The trick is to start with one foundational piece that resonates with you. Think of it like a canvas. It could be a bold, vintage armchair, a Scandinavian-inspired bed frame, or even a neutral-toned rug you can’t stop looking at. This piece becomes the anchor of your space or outfit, grounding the rest of your eclectic choices.

For example, if you adore boho but can’t resist sleek, modern minimalism, start with the clean lines of a modern sofa. Then, throw in colorful throws, plants, and textures that scream boho. That foundational piece will tie everything together.

Play with Color, Not Chaos

Mixing styles doesn’t mean throwing every color you’ve ever loved into one room or outfit. It’s about finding a cohesive color palette that allows the different styles to play nicely together. Pick three to five core colors that complement each other and tie your styles together. If you’re mixing mid-century modern and industrial, try pairing warm wood tones with grays, whites, and a pop of mustard yellow. The right mix of colors will create harmony without overpowering your space or style.

Blend Textures for Depth

One way to mix styles successfully is through texture. Imagine a chunky knit throw draped over a sleek leather chair, or a velvet pillow paired with linen sheets. Mixing textures allows you to fuse different styles without clashing. A rich velvet might add elegance to a minimalist space, while jute rugs and wicker baskets inject a bit of rustic charm into a modern living room.

In fashion, this could mean pairing a tailored blazer with a relaxed cotton tee or silk blouse. The key is balance, contrasting soft and hard textures to create visual interest without going overboard.

Create a Focal Point

When you’re mixing styles, it’s easy for the space or outfit to feel overwhelming if every piece is vying for attention. Create a focal point that draws the eye. Whether it’s a bold art piece, an antique mirror, or a standout leather jacket, this piece should set the tone for your mix of styles. Once you have that point of focus, you can use the surrounding pieces to complement it without stealing its thunder.

Embrace the Rule of Three

When it comes to balancing multiple styles, remember the “rule of three.” No matter how many different influences you want to pull in, aim to keep the balance by grouping elements in threes. It could be three types of furniture, three contrasting colors, or three different accessories in your wardrobe. Three gives you enough variety to keep it interesting without overwhelming the space. For example, in an industrial and vintage mix, you could balance a modern metal chair with a reclaimed wood coffee table and an antique lamp.

Mix and Match with Purpose

Each item should feel like it belongs, even if it comes from a different style. It’s not about random choices but purposeful selection. Ask yourself, How does this piece make the others feel? Does it bring warmth, contrast, or texture to an area that’s lacking? A well-placed rug with geometric patterns can add a contemporary touch to a space dominated by rustic wood furniture. In fashion, pairing an oversized denim jacket with a sleek dress might seem unexpected, but the combo works when you understand the vibe you want to create, casual but still stylish.

Don’t Be Afraid to Break a “Rule”

When it comes to mixing styles, there are no hard and fast rules. Sure, you can follow design principles, but sometimes, breaking them opens up a world of creative possibilities. Who says you can’t throw a pop of neon in a room full of neutrals? Or wear chunky sneakers with a tailored suit? The beauty of mixing styles is that you get to make your own.

Add Personal Touches

Lastly, the beauty of mixing and matching is that it reflects your personality. Whether it’s a quirky throw pillow with a pop of color, a vintage record player, or a bold patterned scarf, let your individuality shine through. When you blend various styles, you're telling your own story, and that's what makes the mix so exciting.