According to menswear expert Alan Flusser, there are rules to mixing different patterns. When mixing two of the same patterns such as two stripes or two checks, keep them as different in size or scale as possible. If the scales are too similar, it creates the optical illusion of vibration.

The opposite rule comes into play when mixing two different patterns, like a stripe with a check. When mixing two different patterns, keep them as similar in scale as possible.

*Alan’s exception: when mating two different patterns that are very small in scale, it’s hard on the eyes. It’s rare to see someone on T.V. wearing two small patterns at the same time because it can throw the camera out of focus. 

Image Credit: apc.fr

Fact Credit: Dressing The Man, Alan Flusser, p. 67-71