As trends come and go — and then come back again — a few iconic prints remain evergreen. Having them in your closet is a hedge against trend cycles, plus they mix and match with ease and always look fresh. Investment pieces in particular should be in timeless motifs, so think hard before impulsively giving in to trend. Iconic prints will ensure your big ticket items remain timeless, elegant and trend-proof to serve you for decades:

1. Polka dots
   Timeless polka dots stand the test of time, making them a must-have at any age. Always remember that the larger the dots, the bigger the trend statement so go smaller the older you get. Also consider contrast, making sure polka dot color palette matches your own. For example if you’re muted with a light complexion and low contrast between skin and hair, steer clear of black and white and instead choose yellow and cream polka dots. And don’t be shy to shake things up and pair polka dots with stripes, plaids or a leopard print.

2. Stripes
   It doesn’t get more classic than stripes. From Breton to rugby to menswear shirting, stripes are a staple in most everyone’s wardrobe. Keep the line science in mind for the best results — vertical stripes lengthen and narrow; horizontal stripes widen and shorten; diagonal stripes camouflage and lengthen. For color palette, take seasonality into consideration and lean into deep and dark colors in fall (eggplant, mustard), jewel tones in winter (fuchsia, emerald) and happy brights in spring and summer (teal, orange, yellow). This motif will never tire.

3. Floral
   Florals are timeless, seasonless and ageless. They also make a strong statement — the more diminutive, the more innocent; the lighter, the more feminine; the more super-sized, the more dramatic; and the brighter, the more authoritative. Know the message you want to communicate and dress accordingly. Also, think beyond the classic shift dress and consider floral motifs for an evening clutch, ballerina flats or a bucket hat.

4. Paisley
   Paisley print is a classic, traditional motif that — depending upon color palette — can skew either fresh and youthful or stately and mature. Shop paisleys in summer brights like turquoise, teal, orange and coral to project a light-hearted, spunky mood, or choose a quieter palette in deep earth tones like mustard, burgundy and forest green to send a conservative, quiet message. Regardless of color palette, the traditional paisley print will always look elegant and classy.

5. Animal exotics
   Animal prints are perhaps the most chic and conspicuous of all iconic prints. A favorite of celebrities and style makers since forever, animal exotics pack a big punch so wear them sparingly at first. From leopard to zebra to python, go slowly and add a statement belt, kitten heel or beret to start, then upgrade to garments once your confidence can carry the look. Eventually graduate to a pussy bow silk shirt, statement jacket or classic wrap dress, but make sure the color palette matches your coloring — snow leopard cool grays and optic white for Winters, python cool pastels for Summers; tiger burnt oranges and black for Autumns and leopard golden yellows and tans for Springs. A word of caution: There’s a fine line to animal prints, so be measured to avoid looking cliché or costume-y.

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