Style
You have to wear scrubs, but your scrubs don’t have to be boring. While traditional matching sets have long been the standard in healthcare, more and more professionals are embracing mismatched scrubs to show off their personality while also looking polished. The key is balancing colors, styles and patterns to create an intentional, stylish ensemble that still looks professional.
Whether you want to add variety to your work wardrobe or stand out with a signature style, mastering the art of mismatching scrubs can help you do both. Here’s how to mix and match like a pro.
Why Mismatching Scrubs Is Becoming Popular
Personal Expression in Healthcare Settings
Healthcare workers spend long hours in scrubs, so it’s no surprise that many are looking for ways to make their workwear feel more like their own. Mismatching scrubs allows for creative expression without compromising comfort or function.
By mixing different colors or pairing a patterned top with solid scrub pants, you can create a look that feels fresh and uniquely yours without stepping outside of professional boundaries. This approach also helps you feel more confident and comfortable in what you wear, which can positively impact your mood and energy levels throughout a demanding shift.
Creating a Unique Yet Professional Appearance
Scrubs are often associated with uniformity, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely give up your personal style. Mismatching scrubs the right way allows you to express your individuality while keeping things professional.
The key is intentional coordination—choosing colors and styles that complement each other rather than clashing. A thoughtfully mismatched set can make your outfit look modern, fresh and put-together, rather than random or unkempt. By balancing bold colors with neutrals, pairing fitted styles with relaxed ones and keeping patterns subtle, you can create a look that stands out while still feeling appropriate for a professional environment.
The Dos and Don'ts of Mismatching Scrubs
Do: Stick to Complementary Colors
Choose colors that naturally go well together, such as navy and ceil or wine and pink. Complementary colors create a cohesive, balanced look.
Do: Keep Patterns Subtle and Balanced
If you’re adding patterns, keep them understated. Pairing a printed scrub top with solid-colored pants is a great way to keep your look professional and not overly busy.
Don't: Mix Too Many Bold Prints
Wearing two loud prints at once can look chaotic and overwhelming. Stick to one patterned piece and balance it with a solid color.
Don't: Wear Clashing Colors That Look Unprofessional
While color blocking can be fun, some colors naturally clash in ways that feel unintentional. Avoid combinations like bright green and wine or Caribbean blue and pink if they feel too harsh together.
How to Mix and Match Scrub Colors Like a Pro
Complementary vs. Contrasting Colors
Understanding color pairings is key to successfully mismatching scrubs. Complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel, creating a visually balanced contrast that feels intentional and appealing.
Examples of complementary colors include:
- Navy and Ceil
- Wine and Green
- Royal and Caribbean
On the other hand, contrasting colors create a bolder visual effect by pairing dark and light shades or cool and warm tones. These combinations add vibrancy but require careful coordination.
Examples of contrasting colors include:
- Black and White
- Purple and Green
- Pink and Wine
When mixing complementary or contrasting colors, the key is balance—you want to be sure the shades work well together for a polished look.
Best Color Combinations for a Stylish Look
Neutral Pairings That Always Work
- Navy with light blue or gray – Navy scrubs paired with light blue or gray scrubs create a polished, professional combination that’s easy to style.
- Black with any solid or patterned top – Black scrubs serve as the ultimate versatile base for mixing styles with solid or patterned scrub tops.
- White with pastels or jewel tones – White scrubs combined with pastel or jewel-tone scrubs create a clean, crisp look with a soft or bold pop of color.
Pair a navy scrub top with gray scrub pants
Bold Combinations for a Fashion-Forward Look
Want to make a statement? Try these bold Healing Hands color pairings:
- Wine and pink – Wine scrubs paired with pink scrubs create a rich, sophisticated mix that adds a feminine touch without being overpowering.
- Royal and Caribbean – Royal scrubs combined with Caribbean scrubs make for a vibrant duo that brings energy and confidence to your look.
- Green and purple – Green scrubs matched with purple scrubs create a bold yet balanced combination that stands out in the best way.
Pair a pink scrub top with wine scrub pants
Mismatch Scrubs FAQs
Are There Any Patterns That Pair Well with Solid-Colored Scrubs?
Yes! Subtle patterns, like small florals, geometric designs or pinstripes pair well with solid-colored pants. Match your bottoms to a shade in your print top for an effortlessly put-together outfit.
Fitted vs. Loose-Fit: Can You Mix Them?
Absolutely! Mixing fitted tops with relaxed-fit scrub pants can create a flattering silhouette. Just make sure the proportions feel balanced—if you go for a loose top, keep your pants more fitted and vice versa.
How Do I Make Mismatched Scrubs Look Intentional?
The key is coordination. Stick to a color theme, incorporate neutrals when needed and avoid clashing shades. Adding a matching headband or underscrub can also help tie your look together.
How Can I Accessorize Mismatched Scrubs?
Keep accessories simple and functional. Compression socks, a coordinating scrub cap or a neutral-toned underscrub tee can enhance your look without overwhelming it.
Finding Your Personal Style with Healing Hands
Mismatching scrubs is about more than just color—it’s about expressing your personal style while staying comfortable and professional. With Healing Hands’ variety of bold and neutral shades, you can mix and match confidently to create a look that feels fresh and uniquely yours.
From timeless neutral pairings to bold, fashion-forward combos, there’s no limit to how you can style your scrubs. Ready to redefine your workwear? Explore Healing Hands scrubs and start mixing and matching like a pro!