There’s no denying that I am a sucker for prints. From boho-inspired florals to Andy Warhol-like pop-art patterns, as long as it is eye-catching, you will find me wishing I owned that article of clothing. Black and white prints are amongst my favorite. It is always shocking to me how bold and powerful of a statement just two colors can make. So when I spotted this Fashionista walking into class, I could neither focus in class nor take my eyes off her blouse.
Often, people make the mistake of pairing prints with another statement piece, causing competition for the eyes. This Fashionista understood the powerful impact her blouse would have on others, and paired the top with solid black shorts and a simple flip flop. This allows for the eyes to travel upward to her face, something most Fashionistas strive for.
It is always astonishing to me at the immense variation in prints and patterns that exist in the world. With each unique print is a different effect on others’ moods. The visual impact of distinct motifs can alter one’s confidence or levels of happiness dramatically. In times of stress and anxiety, they can calm you down or simply make you feel as if your life is together. My favorite ways to wear prints include dresses and blouses such as this Fashionista did.
When picking out a pattern, the size of the repeat and the subject of the print is incredibly important. Many think prints are unflattering to wear, and this is simply because the print is either too big or too small. For example, vertical stripes on a T-shirt tend to visually elongate the torso, while horizontal stripes tend to widen the wearer, causing an unflattering shape, although this is not the case for everyone, it is simply a rule of thumb. Garments have different cuts and silhouettes and this will obviously affect how the top or dress will fall on your own body.
What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Next time you are out shopping, think of purchasing a statement top, one that has a bold print or an eye-catching pattern. Keep in mind the orientation and size of the motif, and don’t be afraid of color.”
