Amy Clements is a student at The London College of Style, founded by celebrity fashion stylist Wendy Elsmore and renowned model and fashion expert Kate Smith. In our series of fashion and style blogs, Amy writes about one of the biggest fashion trends this Autumn Winter, patterns and prints.
Forget faint-hearted ditsy pieces – one of Autumn/Winter 2011’s biggest trends celebrates bold patterns and illuminating prints. The trend is so big that it’s easy to find ways to wear it which suit your unique figure and style, so make your boring solids take a backseat and put your prints into high gear this season. Whether you’re into flirty florals, arty abstracts or funky animal prints, these patterns are sure to rock your wardrobe this fall.
Elaborate, artistic swirls decorated the catwalk this season, symbolising rare beauty that was no less worthy than that of a stained glass window. Mary Katrantzou used influences from the art world to create a quirky sense of exquisite luxury (as shown in the image above). She really went the extra mile to stand out with her bold, psychedelic prints so if you’re brave, don’t be afraid to clash!
And if you’re not into brights, do not fear as Holly Fulton has seen to lavish winter florals in darker hues, snakeskin dresses and large symmetrical patterns. Or, if you’re not a girly girl, try casual polka dots Marc Jacobs style to put your stamp on one of this season’s biggest trends without feeling like you’ve overdone it. Stella McCartney and Diane Von Furstenburg transformed the polka dot into something quite beautiful by creating elegant yet statement gowns that nodded towards grown-up evening glamour. Sheer circles and racy cut-outs were the main focus and gave the overall look a magical exuberance.
For fashionista’s looking for other ways to wear the trend, make like Vivienne Westwood and pair abstract patterns with a monochrome staple piece for maximum impact.
So how can I work the print trend into my everyday wardrobe I hear you ask?
For a more wearable version of this trend, take note of the following hints and tips and you’ll be pattern popping in no time!
Brights and florals – A hint of exciting colour and shape works wonders as the darker colours of fall begin to creep in. Mix and match these in any way you please – colour blocking is in! Go daring and team ASOS’s alluring bright blue lace top (£30) with some bright statement jeans for a bang-on-trend look.
Animal prints – animal prints subtly add a pop of colour and pizzazz to an otherwise ordinary outfit. It’s all about leopard and lace with Topshop’s stunning camisole (£40) – wear with black leggings for an effortlessly stylish ensemble.
Plaid, spots and stripes – hark back to the preppy school vibe with these classic prints. Stand out in garments that combine different prints such as this gorgeous Hell Bunny dress (£26.99).
A key ingredient to sporting this trend is versatility and don’t be afraid to mix and match! If you find the idea of patterns too gaudy or ‘in your face’; try experimenting with patterned accessories for a less obvious spin on the trend.
So regardless of your fashion style, go out and work patterns into your outfits this fall for unforgettable looks adored by all! All hail Noel Edmunds!
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