Pattern Play
Thursday, March 15, 2012 at 3:00PM
realliferunway in Aztec, Bird Prints, Florals, Print Trends 2012, Prints Spring 2012, Python, Spring 2012, The Trends

1. Feather Chiffon Skirt, $24.90, Garage; 2. Bird Print Blouse, $27, Smart Set; 3. Bird Print Scarf, $17, Smart Set; 4. Sleeveless Crepe Blouse, $29.95, H&M; 5. Feather Scarf, $19.90, Dynamite

1. Geometric Cradle Bag, American Eagle Outfitters, $20; 2. Aztec Fringed Scarf, $12.90, Garage; 3. Dolman-Sleeved Tee, $22.90, Garage; 4. Dollhouse Wedges, $39.99, Journeys; 5. Tribal Bandeau Bikini, Aerie; 6. Geo Printed Tiered Skirt, Aeropostale; 7. Putamayo World Music CD: Mexico, $14.99, Green Earth; 8. Belt, Ardene

1. Preen Pixelated Peep-Toe, $175, ALDO; 2. Pencil Skirt, $59.95, H&M; 3. Kate & Mel Espadrilles, $59.95,Town Shoes; 4. Floral Printed Dress, $86, Cleo; 5. Printed Stretch Trousers, $17.95, H&M

1. Kristin Embossed Python Cross-Body Bag, $238, Coach; 2. Python iPad Case, $39, Danier; 3. Printed Blouse, $34.95, H&M; 4. Python Pumps, $110, Guess; 5. Python Bucket Bag, $52, Cleo; 6. Double-Weave Snake Print Pants, $99.95, Le Château

With all of the prints out there, we often avoid them altogether in case we get it wrong.  Well fear not, my budding print-cesses - once you've played with all of this spring's prettiest prints, you'll wonder why you didn't embrace pattern sooner.   Whether you wear these prints as an accent or go full-blown floral from tip to toe, make sure the print speaks to you.  After all, if nothing else, prints are highly personal.

Bird Prints - Let pics of our feathered friends add some interest to basic separates.  Think bird prints are a juvenile trend?  Even Christopher Bailey from Burberry incorporated owls into his Fall 2012 collection. Whoo-hoot!

Aztec Influences - Look to the eclectic prints of Mexico for an instant update to your spring wardrobe.  (Margaritas optional)

Pixelated Florals - Flowers go futuristic this spring, with oversized buds and graphic florals taking over.

Python Prints - The reptile trend is still going strong.  If you've already mastered neutral python prints, look for snake prints in bright colours or pastels to look extra current

Other big prints for spring?  Hawaiian/tropical florals, paisley (yes, it's back!) and tribal, African-inspired patterns.  Stripes, as always, are still totally chic.  Glad to see some things never change!

Article originally appeared on Real Life Runway (http://www.realliferunway.com/).
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