There’s just something about those first few hints of a blue sky that makes us ready to swap out our knitwear for something more seasonal, and what better way to do it than with a classic floral dress? Whether it’s the blossom trees of spring or the tropical blooms of a beach holiday, the warmer months were made for floral fashion. As per, the spring/summer 2018 catwalks were awash with beautiful blooms, ushering in new season floral trends to watch out for this year. With these dresses you can get your floral fix now – and later.
Patchwork Florals
L-R: Proenza Schouler, Christopher Kane, Peter Pilotto (source: Vogue)
Mix and match florals were everywhere on the spring/summer catwalks, proving that you can never have too many blooms in one ensemble. Starkly contrasting colourways enhanced the boldness of this look over at Proenza Schouler and Christopher Kane, whilst Pete Pilotto’s bright pastel hues struck a harmonious note. Embrace the look by mixing ditsy florals with bolder, painterly patterns and keep your silhouette simple with a cami dress.
Vintage Florals
L-R: Zimmermann, Valentino, Jill Stuart (source: Vogue)
Wallpaper florals created sense of wistful nostalgia for Zimmermann, Valentino and Jill Stuart, whose 70s-inspired prairie dresses had us re-watching The Virgin Suicides and heading to the nearest haberdashery store for trimmings. The innocence of this look was toughened up for the modern woman with edgier footwear; trainers or lace heels brought a streetwise attitude to these flouncy, feminine looks. Lace accents, maxi lengths and high-necked collars were topped off with antiquated floral prints in blush hues, giving new meaning to the phrase ‘dressing up.’
Folksy Florals
L-R: Delpozo, Balenciaga, Anna Sui (source: Vogue)
From Delpozo’s paisley petals to Balenciaga’s ditsy prints, folksy florals have brought the homespun to high fashion. Anna Sui’s retro-inspired collection is perfect for festival season; channel the look with 60’s style floral minis and knee-high boots to bring a touch of bohemian glamour to the fields. You can get away with folk prints at any time of the year; choose a muted colour for a versatile, trans-seasonal nod to the trend. Pair with opaque tights and ankle boots when there’s a chill in the air, then go bare-legged and wear with ballet pumps or sandals come summer.
Blush Florals
L-R: Valentino, Rodarte, Marchesa (source: Vogue)
Floor-sweeping dresses of delicate, blush-hued fabrics are synonymous with spring and summer; wedding season brings with it a ubiquitous sense of romance, and what better way to say it than with flowers? Valentino’s lace maxi dresses were emboldened with colour-popping blooms and shimmering sequins, putting a contemporary spin on a classic trend. Meanwhile, Rodarte and Marchesa both choose to offset statement occasion wear with a nude palette and tactile floral embellishments. Opt for a simple shift dress that you can style for day or night; a subtle print of pretty pink petals makes an elegant ensemble for wedding guests.
3D Florals
L-R: Dolce & Gabbana, Marchesa, Roksanda (source: Vogue)
This season’s floral trend is well and truly in full bloom. Roksanda’s oversized sunflower accents in bold fuchsia were eclectically modern, whilst the corsage detailing of Marchesa’s lace evening gown reflected the romantic mood of their collection. Dolce & Gabbana’s textural embellishment turned the trend into something wholly decadent, and exemplified the Italian fashion house’s taste for opulent design. Turn heads at cocktail hour in a striking bodycon dress that’s finished with a corsage.
