From ditsy florals to tropical patterns and powerful polka dots, it’s no secret that the catwalks went a little print crazy for the Spring/Summer 2019 season.
The dark hues and muted designs from Autumn/Winter 2018/19 have been tossed out and, instead, replaced with loud and colourful combinations that would make the cast of the Muppets jealous.
Whether you choose to focus on one key pattern or create your very own clashing ensemble, one thing’s for sure: these 5 summer prints will help you stand out in style this season.
Summer prints 101: all hail the sassy serpent.
A continuation from AW18/19, this style of snake print has been reimagined by designers such as Gucci into statement pieces that captivate and dominate.
Feeling brave? Try a neon strappy serpent-style dress with barely-there heels, a metallic clutch and layered jewellery for a night out OUT with the girls.
Alternatively, tap into the SS19 colour trend of neutrals and opt for a more understated grey serpent-style blouse with high-waisted mom jeans, chunky white trainers and a straw bag for casual affairs.
Either way, you’re sure to sizzle. Sss.
BLOUSE – THE WAREHOUSE, NZ (similar) / JEANS – THE WAREHOUSE, NZ (similar) / TRAINERS – COTTON ON, AU (similar) / SUNGLASSES – PRIMARK (similar) / BAG – BALI STALL (similar)
Similarly, leopard print is sticking around in excess for SS19.
That said, it’s been given a bit of a facelift a la Molly Goddard in the form of primary tones and summery designs.
Planning a date night or meal out with the family? Pick a hero leopard print piece, like an orangey-red satin midi skirt. Then allow it to take centre stage by dressing down the rest of your outfit with a black long-sleeved top, heeled ankle boots and a crossbody bag.
On the other hand, if you’re simply running some errands, swap the black top for a plain white tee and sandals. Afterwards, add a grab-and-go bag for a cute, casual aesthetic.
Did somebody say tres chic?
BOOTS – EBAY (similar) / TOP – NEXT (similar) / SKIRT – COTTON ON, AU (similar) / BAG – COTTON ON, AU (similar)
Polka dots are always revisited during the Spring/Summer season. However, this year, they’ve undertaken a bit of a sixties-inspired revamp.
For instance, black and white graphic prints reigned supreme on catwalks such as Caroline Herrera. Whereas, designers such as Jacquemus favoured subdued neutral options.
If you want to turn heads, rock a black and white polka dot jumpsuit with wedges and a fun clutch bag for drinks with the girls.
Prefer the minimalist look? Try a plain tee and culottes combo featuring small-sized polka dots with a neutral background, like black, white, beige or navy blue. Add trainers and sunglasses for laid-back summer cool.
TEE – THE WAREHOUSE, NZ (similar) / CULOTTES – KMART, NZ (similar) / BAG – FOREVER 21, USA (similar) / SUNGLASSES & TRAINERS – AS BEFORE
A firm favourite of SS18, rainbow stripes are back with a vengeance in the form of SS19 casualwear.
And do you know what? I couldn’t be happier about it. They have the power to make you smile even on a non-sunshiny day.
If you like the idea of popping against a clear blue sky, wear a multi-hued striped top with an adorable denim mini skirt or skinny jeans, a bucket bag and flats for lunch with your mum.
Super sweet yet super stylish – am I right?
JUMPER – THE WAREHOUSE, NZ (similar) / JEGGINGS – UNIQLO (similar) / BAG – AS BEFORE
A newcomer on the summer prints scene, tie-dye is making a comeback for SS19.
Loud and zesty prints at Calvin Klein were juxtaposed with dreamy pastel pieces at Stella McCartney to produce unique, colourful get-ups.
Heading to the seaside? Consider rocking a bright tie-dye t-shirt or maxi dress with sandals and an on-trend straw bag.
Having said that, if you want to create a more superior and sophisticated tie-dye look, try a pleated midi skirt in a low-key colour palette with a black roll-neck top and white boots.
Anyone else getting serious nineties vibes? I’m obsessed.
DRESS – COTTON ON, AU (similar) / SANDALS – THE WAREHOUSE, NZ (similar) / BAG – AS BEFORE
It goes without saying that an abundance of sizzling summer prints have now entered the style-sphere thanks to the SS19 catwalks.
Whether you’re a print lover or not, there are many ways that you can make them work in the coming months. If a head-to-toe patterned outfit isn’t for you – not to worry. Nod to the trend with a printed accessory instead.
That said, if you have the confidence to experiment with summer prints this season, then you’re sure to shine.
What are your favourite summer prints? How do you wear them? Let me know in the comments!
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