Floral patterns have been a staple for spring wear since time immemorial, but this year hinted at an interesting diversion in the trend in the months to come.
The ditzy prints of Cath Kidston and the understated style of Liberty’s floral collection remained mainstays in 2015, with the overarching trend in florals leaning toward the traditional. The focus was primarily on cuts and textures, with heavy corduroys in the winter and transparencies in the summer months overshadowing any change in the floral patterns themselves. However as the last months of 2015 come to a close, the focus once more is shifting toward the style of the flowers themselves.
A major trendsetter has been the rise of the power brand, as lifestyle blogs and indie brand designers have revamped their looks across the board. Watercolors and florals provide feminine appeal with a professional edge, but with the emphasis on bold, intricate details unseen in the fashion world for the past few months. In an effort to make web graphics pop, designers have turned to botanical illustrations and retro abstract florals in bold colors to capitalize on continuing nostalgia for the 90s, and industry professionals have hinted at this look spilling over into the fashions of spring/summer 2016.
Expect bold yellows and blues to dominate in childlike, crayon-textured prints reminiscent of 1990s artwork. Cuts remain simple, allowing the intricacies and vibrancy of the pattern to stand out. Paired with solid block primary colors, these floral prints will see high street success in the early months of 2016, with richer reds and oranges to follow in the summer in swimwear and crop tops.
Bloggers’ love of antique, detailed botanical prints will find its way to their accessories, with transparencies and sheer fabrics still tipped to be the hottest texture of the year to come. Expect to see the continued rise of the see-through bag, with pressed flowers or intricately-stitched floral embroidery. Jelly shoes will also persist, with floral accessories and wedge heels to add subversive edge to a feminine trend.
Florals have forever been a mainstay of the high street as well as couture fashion, able to communicate femininity as well as luxury. A keen eye will be kept on the florals of spring/summer 2016, but the versatility of the trend may ensure its success well into the winter months and beyond.
Contributed by B. Scott
Want to read more about Fashion Trends for 2015/2016? Check out this article in fashionisers.com.
