Traditionally, you may think of a floral print being girly or even dowdy. Tiny little stems, petals and flowers known as “ditsy” floral prints have been around for decades and have donned Easter Sunday dresses and housecoats for as long as we can remember. This year, there’s a new floral in town and it’s strong, it’s bold and it’s not for the shrinking violet. These statement botanicals make it impossible for anyone to term the wearer a wallflower. Take inspiration from our favorite runway looks and stand out in one of these bright celebrations of flora (and fauna) this summer.
The New Floral: Forget Delicate Strong Graphic, Petals Are on The Rise
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Short Stems
If no other runway look seems attainable, let a pair of floral printed shorts be your foray into the world of bright prints.
Prabal Gurung image: IMAXtree
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Butterfly Trellis
Here's another frock that makes me think of not only the prettiness of nature, but its living, breathing life, too.
Mary Katrantzou image: IMAXtree
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Leaves of Gray
The flourish and boldness of this design, and its placement, make this dress a stunner.
Peter Pilotto image: IMAXtree
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Senorita
I've never been to Seville. But when I go, I hope at least one night on the town to be decked out like this. The Latin inspiration is clear, as is the use of a variety of colors against a black background.
Etro image: IMAXtree
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Jungle Fever
Yes, flowers are very pretty, their kaleidoscopic maze of colors is truly breathtaking. But for a simpler, yet still beautiful, palette, try shades of green. This diaphanous top has an ultra flattering color range, and I can't help but love its call of the wild.
Dries Van Noten image: IMAXtree
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Ivy Envy
Another green motif, the ivy pattern on this top gives it structure where the fabric provides movement. Simply divine. Thanks Rodarte.
Image: IMAXtree
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Birds of Play
Look closely here. What do you see? At first shades of blue and green that might suggest water and plant life, but when you try to distinguish the shapes, they're birdlike and butterfly-esque. A truly artistic print, perfect for summer.
Thakoon image: IMAXtree
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Neon Dot
Let's see, neon, check; crop top, check; lace, check; how is it that one look can contain so many trends and still feel so fresh? Perhaps the tiny yellow polka dots throughout lend congruity where otherwise there would be none.
Erdem image: IMAXtree
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Head, Knees and Toes
Another day, another floral print that represents photorealism. Another hit.
Kenzo image: IMAXtree
