There are certain designers that we pretty much just accept everything that they send down the runway as a new trend.
Fashion’s favourite duo Dolce and Gabbana fall into this category – so when they detailed their entire Fall 2011 collection with sequin stars and prints, all the celebrities sat up and took note.
Next thing everyone was seeing stars in stars and so the craze took hold. But that doesn’t explain why we, the level-headed consumer, keep wearing them.
Stars are not the only motif to become popular on the street – hearts, birds, reindeers, bunnies and Scotty dog prints have us swiping our credit cards with glee. What gives?
We’re getting in touch with our inner child you see, all those cutesy prints and whimsical motifs we thought we’d out grown in kindergarten. Nope, we want them back.
Modern life is stressful and demanding, we want just a little of that carefree joy we had in childhood. You can’t take life too seriously if you’re wearing a bunny sweater, now can you?
People tend to smile to themselves when they see playful prints, even if they’re shaking their head thinking ‘what next?’, there is always a moment of: ‘Ahhh, how cute’. They’re fun, and we all want to have fun. Cha-ching…Sold.
So how are you going to curb your enthusiasm? Be discreet.
Even though everyone may be smiling at you around the office, brokering a big business deal in a reindeer shirt may not be your best outfit option. Perhaps keep your wardrobe play dates to the weekend.
If you’re lucky enough to work in a casual office environment, then I would suggest neutralising a whimsical piece with a dark solid colour.
For example wear a jacket or a cardigan over it, but unless you’re a teenager you may want to skip the heart printed trousers. There are plenty of more moderate prints like stars or birds, which look perfectly adult in a sheer blouse. Pair these with a skirt and heels if you want to retain your womanhood.
Looking for a slick winter wardrobe? See what 36Boutiques has in stock.
Alexis Chaffe is fashion editor of 36magazine, 36boutiques monthly online magazine providing fashion inspiration and trend advice for online shopping.
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