There’s something incredibly comfortable about old memories. Old smells, old colors, old traditions – it’s warm & fuzzy. It reminds me of home, and being surrounded by familiar people and things… it’s a good, squishy feeling.

It’s the same feeling I get when I look at vintage fabrics. Old patterns and prints remind me of various wallpapers, textiles, and furniture I’ve seen in my life. With the rampant popularity of vintage-inspired clothing, finding these heartwarming prints is becoming easier and easier. They give a wonderful nostalgic, heirloom feel to any outfit.

Day After Day Dress in Bamboo: $99.99 | Dots To Give Dress: $44.99

Cheer & Charm Dress: $49.99 | Living Pouf Dress: 52.99

If the dresses feel too kitschy for you..

You’re in luck! My personal favorite way to wear a vintage print is through separates. If you are ever lucky enough to find a beautiful pair of toile pants, or a classic polka dot sweater – snag it ASAP! You are sitting on a goldmine of awesome!

If you want to give it a go, but aren’t sure how to wear them…

Start out with the basics by pairing a bold patterned separate with a sleek, neutral color palette and make the pattern the focus. I always say that a failsafe pairing is a bold pattern with a solid-colored, black, grey or white sweater, or fitted, neutral bottoms. Easy peasy, and a surefire way to get a great outfit.

But!… if you wake up feeling ballsy – I highly suggest harnessing that in the form of mixing prints. (Caution: not for the faint of heart.)

        

Floral Print Blazer & Pants: $116.38 & $71.62 | Geo Print Cigarette Trousers: $76

Lacoste Dandelion Print Sweatshirt: $61.99 | Kimono Print Sleeveless Shirt: $25.07

Strawberry Sweater: $62.67 | A Splash of Citrus Skirt: $99.99

Irregular Choice Abigail’s Party Pump: $80.92 | Poetic License Dear Diary Flat: 98

Lace Print Tote: $19.99 | Lodis Posey Daisy Laptop/Technology Sleeve: $54.99

The best places online to find vintage-inspired prints:

• ModCloth: Obvious choice! Their extensive inventory is a haven for printophiles. Yep. Just made it up. Roll with it.
• Ruche: A cute, budget-friendly shop with tons of separates, dresses, and jackets – even interior stuff! (Bonus for AA readers: there’s an eco-friendly section, too!)
• Mata Traders: This cute boutique is full of fair-trade fashion that is so cute and simple – it screams “vintage whimsy!” …Which I don’t ever recommend screaming, yourself. You will look like a bit of a tool. Just sayin’.

What’s your favorite way to wear vintage prints?