Who would have thought that we would be taking fashion cues from vacationing retirees and hawaiian shirt obesessed just-passed-middle-aged men (like this guy)? Certainly not me, but here were are in Spring/Summer 2012 and tropical prints are making an incredible comeback. Before I show you the latest and greatest, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to see just where the inspiration for this most recent trend resurrection initiated. Ladies….brace yourselves.
If you’re anything like me, the first thing you think of when you hear “tropical print” is images like these, Magnum PI’s chest fluff billowing in the wind, or a 300 pound vacationer chasing his hat and map down the beach. Hopefully with this post I can change that negative connotation to tropical attire. I suspect this trend will be a short-lived one anyway, so why not embrace the fruit and floral for at least one season.
We’ve been seeing florals on the runway for several years now, and designers like Stella McCartney and Prada began introducing the fruit patterns in 2011. It seems to only be catching on this year with designers and retailers alike going all out, and celebs are following suit. This trend is bright, bold, and sometimes a little wacky, but in these images we see just how beautiful it can be.
Proenza Schouler Spring 2012
Salvatore Ferragamo Spring 2012
Beyonce in Stella McCartney pants & Fergie in a Givenchy dress
Like any trend, if you’re not sure it’s for you or if you can’t afford to incorporate a lot of new pieces into your wardrobe, just get a few accessories to test the waters. A hangbag or shoes would be a great way to take part in the trend without going overboard on style or cost. Some tropical print flats or a fruity tote would be the perfect start.
FLEHARTY espadrilles $40.00 THRONDSON tote $25.00 at aldoshoes.com
If shopping IS in the budget and you’re ready to go full on tropical, then try heating up your wardrobe with statement blazers and dresses.
floral silk satin blazer $99.90 printed dress $49.90 at zara.com
Still thnking about Magnum? Here are a few more finds that will likely change your tune!
palm trees tee $27.90, tropical romper $34.90, floral cami $27.90 all at garage.ca
floral v-neck dress $32.94, ruffle cami $10.00, canvas shorts $26.94 at oldnavy.ca
floral print peep toe pump $79.95, satin floral dress $169.95, silk tunic $49.99 at lechateau.com
Keep in mind, just because tropical is “in” doesn’t mean it’s ok to let your father or significant other go out in public in his “Aloha” shirt.
xo Cree
ragstowrinkles 