Stylebytes: Prints Charming

D&G, Milan Fashion Week 2011
Source: Flare.com

The first images coming out of Milan this week only reinforce some of the things we already learned from the previous Fashion Weeks earlier this season: prints rule, and the rule about not mixing prints has been well and truly broken. We saw the likes of Thakoon and Jonathan Saunders clashing prints all over the catwalk at the NYFW, and houses like Dolce & Gabbana gave us more of the same in Milan. But more of that later, when M brings you his detailed scoop on the show.
    While we're really digging this bold step, pulling off mixed prints is tricky business indeed, because it's so easy to get it wrong. It's best to experiment and see what works for you. That being said, mixed up, or worn solo or with solids, prints are in, and we're taking a look at our favourite ones for Fall 2011.

Mad Angles

Rodarte, NYFW 2011
Source: Style.com

We've already talked about being dotty about polka prints, but we thought this section would be incomplete without at least an honorable mention. Geometric prints abound, whether we're talking Mondrian squares in the uber-trendy mod dresses that are enjoying a retro revival, or a modern take in Rodarte's granny knits given a new twist, or even the Prohibition-chic pinstripes in men's suits. Stripes, curves, dots, squares, you name it, geometry is back in a big way. We're also seeing an emphasis on tribal influences in some of the designs, which goes well with the jewelry trends, but that is a topic for further discussion in a future issue of Stylebytes.
    Since wool is always a classic winter hit, if you've been wanting to try some of those knitted pieces, this would be the best time to try.

Gucci, Fall 2011
Source: fabulousafter40.com

Animal Instinct

Leopard printed booties and headbands, zebra skirts, even Dalmatian dots on flirty chiffon blouses, fashion's gone zoological in its inspirations. You'll find them especially on the long, flowing maxi dresses that are sticking around for a bit after enjoying immense popularity in summer.
    These prints are already a hit with celebs like the gorgeous Christina Hendricks and teen heartthrob Vanessa Hudgins, who were recently spotted at the Cirque du Soleil, both sporting leopard prints in cool greys, the Mad Men siren in a demure frock with the high neck and flared waist that's a hot Fall buy, and the Sucker Punch starlet showing some skin in a maxi dress with a plunging neckline.
    Leopard and cow prints might be timeless winners; however the biggest rage in animal prints and textures this season, is snakeskin. We're talking snakeskin shoes and bags of course, but also pants and jackets in bold, dynamic Fall colours all gone scaly, scary stylish. Pair one of these pants with a pastel shirt and jacket, and you've got a lock on casual smart.

Flowers of the Fall

Kenzo, Fall/Winter 2011
Source: fashioninquisitive.com

 The blossoms of spring and summer don't show any signs of withering this year. We're guessing the rising Asian influence has a lot to do with this. Whatever the reason, from printed trouses to billowing blouses, to quirky socks, there's a veritable garden waiting to jump into your wardrobe.
      Your summer florals need not be stowed away. Throw on a long cardigan in a neutral colour, and let the prints do the rest. For shorter dresses, there's always tights. Leather jackets over flirty floral dresses are definitely a hot look this year.
   Florals aren't even a woman's prerogative, as Kenzo's Fall collection proved. If the whole flowery suit ensemble seems a bit much, you can take advantage of this year's vogue for velvet jackets by teaming one with a subtler floral print: the paisley. If you're living in the Desh, man or woman, you have tons of options, from saris and kameezes to punjabis and kurtas. Or throw an embroidered Kashmiri shawl over a monochrome ensemble (you know what we're talking about), and you're ready to roll.

Rag and Bone, Fall 2011
Source: style.com

   
   Checking in


    Unless you've been living under a rock, you must have noticed the chequered prints in stores all over the world. H&M, in particular, has been pushing this look pretty hard, with a lot of success. In fact, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to say that the check print is the ruling pattern for casual wear for both sexes.
     Checks go in three directions for the colder months. While the afternoons are still warm, you turn to gingham in soft pastels. Gingham works best for daytime wear, and the current trend for girly frocks is perhaps the best foil for the pattern. It's also a nice subtle print for men's linen shirts.
   As the wind starts to get nippy, you turn to plaid, which worked well for shirts through the warmer months, and have crept southwards to conquer trousers and slacks as well. The look is very preppy. Ditto for empire-waisted plaid tunics with billowy sleeves, when worn with tights and a scarf. For even colder weather, plaid makes for great sports coats, jackets, trenches and pea-coats.
   Tartan is another, slightly less popular alternative to plaid, and have been more successful as accents to otherwise neutral pieces.

With so many cool prints to choose from, here's wishing you a season filled with experimentation and variety.