Three women stretching in printed Reebok apparel

Why You Need Prints to Power Up Your Wardrobe

January 13th, 2022 | Tara Gardner, Reebok Contributor

When you’re in a more-is-more mood, this season’s prints deliver big on high-energy vibes. Here’s how to wear them.

For a season that’s traditionally about winding down and cozying up, things feel a bit different this year. Maximalist attitudes abound across the runways and streets, a definite departure from quieter looks of recent times. In keeping with this swing in the style pendulum, the vibe for this season is resolutely upbeat (say hello to dopamine dressing) and high energy (see: clothes that spark joy and channel escapism). 

However you interpret the trend, this season’s crop of prints will get you where you need to go. From animal to abstract, it’s go big or go home with this lineup of pieces guaranteed to make a statement with every step.

ANIMAL

You can never go wrong with adding a little wildlife to your wardrobe. If you’re down with keeping it classic but striking, this sherpa jacket is an easy win and a great sartorial investment. Then again, there’s also every reason to take it to another level in vibrant iterations, like this green and frost berry version. To really let your top pop, wear it with neutral leggings or go for fierce in a clashing-complementary outfit that pairs your leopard-print top with similar leopard print leggings. Take the theme right down to bra level with a lux racer bra in a punchy berry hue for all the impact. If you err more on the side of minimalism, there’s still an animal print for you: Try a monochrome moment with the DailyFit DMX sneakers or go with muted beige in the Club C Legacy.

TONAL TEXTURE

If you’re more into color than print, a tonal effect might be just the thing. Case in point: The MYT printed long sleeve cover up, in splashy pink with a lighter tonal pattern, gives the illusion of texture and makes an impact without trying too hard. The tonal texture look extends beyond shirts—it plays out on shortsleggings, and even a crop top, so you can go as all-in as you like. Or if you’re after the single statement look, pair your top with solid-color leggings in a pink or red hue to really set your ensemble ablaze. 

ALL ABSTRACT

The abstract print is another key investment that rarely goes out of style. You’ll find multiple variations, including asymmetric, psychedelic, multi-colored and special effects. Abstract prints can be monochrome, but more often than not they come in a cacophony of swirling color combinations perfect for presenting a total mood. Try energizing your workout gear with abstract print running shorts, or go for the full legging version for all-weather workouts. If you want to mix and match prints, start with watercolor washes of cloud-like colors such as this sports bra and marry it with full-force abstract designs like this tie-dye tee. Bonus: Show your feet some love with the Nano X1 sneakers in a vibrant, eye-popping print option.

GET GRAPHIC

Graphic prints are coming in hard and fast this season, with the runways awash with checkerboard designs, layered lines, and a mishmash of unabashedly joyful effects. Channel these high-energy vibes by weaving graphic prints into your workout gear. Play with different graphic effects for a chic collage look; these lux leggings boast serious print power and come complete with neon accents for added pop. Play matchy-matchy or clash it with a different color, like this complementing strappy sports bra.

CAMO CHIC

From classic brown and khaki to more modern hues of gray and blue, adding a splash of camo print in your look is a cool, pragmatic way to work prints. While the military green camo is a classic, you can go for a contemporary take on camo with edgier hues, as seen in this allover print crewneck sweatshirt. And if you’re looking to give a nod to the trend without too much commitment, try a camo element on a block-color hoodie or even your sneakers.

When it comes to styling your prints, there really are no rules, except you do you. However you want to wear them, prints are the perfect way to express your style, your way.  An remember to show your AAA membership card at Reebok Outlet stores to save 15% on your purchase.