Many men like to limit bold patterns in their wardrobe to their neckties, and occasionally a checked button-down shirt, believing that striking patterns are hard to pull off in menswear. Patterns can add dimension, texture, and visual interest to your outfit, but many men are afraid to wear it wrong.

Incorporating pattern adds a new level of complexity to constructing an outfit. It’s important to start simple. If you try to put together an outfit consisting of different patterns of varying scales, make sure all the colors complement each other. When you decide wearing a busy pattern such as paisley, stick to solid colors for the rest of the outfit. This will tone down the pattern giving it a subtle look.

Pattern is all about personality. Whether you want it loud and proud or just mute and subtle, patterns are there to make your look more interesting. It’s time to evolve from the basics. Wear some patterns.