Stripes and polka dots. Without a doubt, they’re two of the most well-known patterns around. But their backstories? Those might not be so familiar.

Today, stripes are considered a wardrobe staple, but the pattern has not always had such a great reputation. In his book, The Devil’s Cloth: A History of Stripes, Michel Pastoureau shares that a small group of monks known as the Carmelites wore the pattern to Paris at a time when striped clothes were thought to be a sign of evil. Let’s just say – the pattern was not happily met.

With time, though, stripes came to be considered exotic (perhaps due to ever-fashionable zebra stripes) and made their way into the fashion lexicon.

Polka dots, though, are a different story. Using dots as a pattern really took off during the French Revolution, when newly invented machines made it easier to create repeating designs. These dots became all the rage alongside polka music in Europe in the mid-1800s, and the trend came stateside in the 1950s.

The pattern is still closely associated with the cheerful charm that era was known for. Today, they just scream happy.

Two different patterns with two distinct backstories. Now that you know them, explore our Polka Dots & Stripes: Play with Spring’s Patterns Boutique, which opens Wednesday, April 3, at 11AM ET.

By Anna Kuchinsky, Staff Writer

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Winter brings gloomier weather, and as you look around, people tend to wear more somber colors like grey and black. This winter, don’t fall in to that habit. Instead, include a subtle yet eye-catching pattern to add some interest to your outfit.

As shown above, you can wear a solid-colored shirt and use a combination of classic fall patterns, like herringbone and plaid, which can be incorporated by use of outerwear accessories and, of course, sport coats. By adding small doses of these rich patterns, you’ll keep dismal weather from getting your style down. For more pattern (and layering) help, check out the step-by-step guide below.

Step 1. Start with a simple (and comfy) crewneck tee.
Step 2. Add a classic button-front (I recommend chambray).
Step 3. Throw on a soft v-neck sweater.
Step 4. Incorporate some texture. A herringbone sport coat will work wonders for this step.
Step 5. Look to patterned outerwear accessories. A plaid scarf in dark hues is the perfect neutral eye candy.

1. The leaves may be off the trees (here, anyway), but we’re still dreaming of everything floral.

2. This Pinboard of eye-catching prints and colors has us ready to wallpaper the whole house.

3. We can’t stop staring at these bold tribal prints and patterns.

4. Go easy on the eyes with this beautiful assortment of pastel shades.

5. This Pinterest board has us seeing stripes – on clothing, architecture, and everywhere in between.

Can’t get enough Pinterest inspiration? Check out past boards that caught our eye.  

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Mix patterns: “The most important thing is to have a contrast in scale. Mixing two small ditsy prints won’t work. Break it up with something larger and more open. I like a super feminine print with one that’s more masculine and geometric. Finding a good tag-team is like finding a man. Nothing wrong with trying a few on to see what works!” – Ashley, Designer

Wear a spring dress now: “Wear it with tights, boots, layers, and top it off with a cashmere sweater. Offset a floral dress with leather or dark colors to make it look less spring-y.” - Tarah, Art Director

Rock a denim jacket: “I love denim jackets with sleek black pieces and as a foil for prints. They’re a great way to add texture and a casual vibe to an outfit. Go for ones that are fitted – when on the cusp of two sizes, size down. Get playful with accessories – try belting them, pairing with scarves, and playing the high/low game with serious jewelry. Play with the jacket itself too – push up the sleeves and even pop the collar.” – Rachel, Style Editor

Instantly update plaid: “Choose a loose-fitting style, and pair with fitted bottoms to balance out the proportions. Keep the rest of the look simple and sleek. I like a plaid flannel button-down with super distressed jeans with dressier accessories – high-heeled pumps or boots and fabulous jewelry (maybe a cocktail ring or fancy earrings) to mix it up and dress up the typically dressed-down style. The key is proportion and the perfect balance of dressy and casual… downtown cool, not sloppy.” – Callie, Boutique Producer

Wear a turtleneck: “The trick is sticking to something tight or something loose-fitting. Anything in between looks weird. And then add lots of long necklaces.” – Katie, Product Writer

Wear an oversized sweater: “I look for cropped styles that have a swingy fit – and I wear over something fitted. If you are tall and thin you can get away with a slouchy pair of jeans or pants on the bottom, but funk it up with some platforms. Also, dropped seams on the shoulder can create a slim effect through the arm and shoulder, which balances out the bulkiness.” – Callista, Stylist

Incorporate evening pieces during the day: “Try pairing with some really dressed-down pieces. For your crazy evening heels, wear them with a worn-in pair of boyfriend jeans. Cuff the jeans to show the shoes off. Or with your fancy jewelry, like a heavy jeweled necklace, pair it with a totally laid-back T-shirt. Throw in a fitted blazer and you have the perfect outfit!” - Lauren, Stylist

Wear a poncho: “They can seem a little scary at first, but once you figure out how to wear it, the poncho is a go-to item. Always pair with boots and skinny jeans, and make sure to wear a fitted top underneath.” – Brittany, Assistant Stylist