Spring fashion is in full bloom with floral prints, and designs are anything but garden variety.While last season offered delicate prints, 2008’s spring and summer collections reveal big, bold florals with a modern edge.
“Floral prints are always a look for spring, but it’s probably an even bigger trend this year because lines are going back to classic, traditional looks,” said Denise Pope, owner of Pope’s.
“Styles always come back, but in a different way. We’re seeing a lot of floral tops and skirts and less printed pants.”
Prada, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, Carolina Herrera and Stella McCartney blossomed on the runway with strong floral designs in their collections. Daisies, lilacs, peonies, poppies, carnations and orchids adorn everything from cocktail dresses to breezy tops and skirts.
Kathleen Garner, owner of Zoe’s Closet, recently returned from market, where she picked up numerous floral designs for her Bossier City boutique.
“Florals are something you’re going to see every year. It’s a symbol of spring,” she said.
“By springtime, people are tired of dreary black and gray — especially this year. People are ready for color, and they’re ready for florals.”
Celebrities have shown strong support for the stem styles. Jessica Simpson, Lindsey Lohan, Mary-Kate Olsen, Eva Longoria, Cameron Diaz and Natalie Portman have been seen wearing floral prints.
With strong prints, women should scale the trend to their shape. Smaller frames should opt for smaller prints or small doses of larger prints, while curvy figures should go for printed tops with a solid color on bottom. Tall, slim shapes can mix and match patterns for an eclectic take on the trend.
However, simplicity speaks for all. Few can go wrong with a simple white shirt paired with a floral skirt. Black and white florals also tone down the bold style.
“I stay away from printed pants. I wear a solid on the bottom and go crazy on top. I like to add a lot of color, but I don’t want to look like a walking flower field,” said Robin Hiser, of Bossier City.
“I pair my top or dress with a big purse, just something to make the colors pop. And I always do big earrings and bangles. If I’ve got less than two on my arm, we’re in trouble.”
Longer tops and dresses can be paired with leggings for a fresh twist on the trend, Garner said.
Benton resident Krista Knippers agrees. “I’ll either wear jeans and a floral top with lots of jewelry or a floral dress with bright leggings in pink or orange. I love the different designs and the bright colors.”
[Source: Stephanie Netherton: Shreveport Times]