Patterns are a playful way to play up nearly any outfit. Why wear solids when you can turn yourself into a canvas for artistic expression? Don’t get me wrong, solids are great—and absolutely essential to maintaining balance in your outfits—but there are several patterns I depend on year after year to add a splash of texture, color and fun to many of my favorite basics. Here are my three favorite patterns!

1) Plaid: Ever since I discovered the amazing world of Burberry I’ve been mad for plaid (the right kind, of course). But take that Burberry nova check pattern, for example. It’s timeless. It’s basically neutral. It’s a symbol of classic style. Plaid, when done right, can add a whole new dimension to your look. Perhaps that’s why Burberry has been lining its classic trenches in plaid for decades.

This Burberry trench coat is a modern take on the classic plaid!

2) Polka Dots: Nothing says, “Hi, I’m a lady” like a polka dot frock. From a feminine dress to a silk scarf adorned with polka dots, it’s a playful, girly way to soften up a look.

This Michael Kors dress, covered in dots, manages to be feminine without forgetting the fun!

3) Zebra Print: The cougar in me naturally gravitates to sassy animal prints. And while some animal prints get a reputation for being trashy and unappealing, zebra (when done correctly) is something that always makes me smile. A pair of zebra print heels paired with the right outfit is surprising and unexpected. While a zebra print pencil skirt adds a safari-inspired elegance to a look. Michael Kors is known for making zebra a classy, all-American look. And when done right, a little zebra in an outfit can get you a lot of chic points.

Never experience a lack of sass with these fantastic Michael Kors pumps!

Those are my three favorites. You might be surprised that stripes didn’t make the list…but I’ve seen stripes done wrong too many times to be in love with them. And as for Paisley? I love myself a Lilly Pullitzer paisley for the beach, but simply see too many unflattering paisley patterns done wrong. Argyle? I’m a big prep at heart and have a lot of love for Argyle, but sometimes find argyle unflattering (especially on girls).

What are your favorite patterns and how do you wear them?