How to wear prints

Bold, expressive patterns were shown in every possible way this season. A variety of expressions such as die-cuts, typography or woodblocks are now more relevant than ever. During the last year patterns have taken the back seat, but the good news is that spring 2014 appears to be the season of the print! From those with a painterly quality to those influenced by international cultures, the Print is here to stay. Geometric shapes, bold brush strokes Mondrian-inspired grids, color-swatch paint splashes, illustrative portraits as well as animal, jungle and floral prints, checks and stripes. I can easily predict that printed garments will flood onto the high street ready for spring and summer.

If you are suffering from “Pattern-Phobia”, at this point, keep in mind the following tips: when using prints you have to let them make a statement all on their own; just be sure to balance them out with a simplistic piece. Also, choosing prints on a darker background can help anyone look thinner. Believe it or not, clothing that is completely patterned actually give you a slimming look, clothing is busy with pattern, but there is no single focal point to draw your eye to. For a polished look, make sure your accessories and shoes are a solid matching color. However, be careful with floral: If your tummy is an issue, create a vertical line with a long necklace. Also, avoid printed long sleeves. They’ll just add more inches to your width. Another way to use print is mixing them up; it can be very stylish, but it could also be tricky. You need to choose prints that have at least one color in common to pull them together.

Remember that Print has always had a role to play in fashion and textile design over the years, and continues to be a directional influence in fashion. As textile and garment printing techniques, inks and materials evolve and generate new opportunities, print will remain part of fashion industry.

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