[Chelsae Anne Photography]

Dress: (c/o) TJ Maxx $24.99/Sandals: (c/o) 7 for Mankind via TJ Maxx $99/Purse: (c/o) TJ Maxx $12.99/Necklace: (c/o) TJ Maxx $29.99/Bracelets: Forever 21 $10.80/Earrings: Francesca’s Collection $4.95/Sunnies: Prada

I’m loving printed dresses these days. But before you hit the stores to nab one (I hear TJ Maxx is having their big clearance sale), there are a couple things you should consider…

Prints are easy to wear as long as the pattern is complimentary to your size. You can do this by using your hand to determine whether or not you can pull it off. If the print is bigger than your hand, leave it. If it’s smaller, go for it.

Try and choose a printed dress that’s slightly fitted. Otherwise, you could run the risk of looking like a printed tent, and nobody wants that. If worn correctly, it could magically conceal all of your problem areas by drawing the eye elsewhere and instead, highlight your best assets like your waist or your legs.

Accessorizing is very important when putting it all together, especially if you’re on a budget. With the right pieces, a look like this can be completely transformed from boring to sophisticated. I personally think a print calls for neutral pieces or ones that are complimentary in color. And solids, on the other hand, demand big, bold colorful jewelry.

What are some of your style tips for prints? Share your comments below and be sure to follow, “This #Maxxinista Life” on Tumblr for more.

Xo, Stephanie