A Guide to the Awe-Inspiring Ethnic Trend: Floral Prints
Floral prints are the most wondrous motifs, widely prevalent in recent times. These prints never fail to deliver an evergreen and fresh look to one’s appearance, irrespective of the occasion. They are like a beautiful garden that is ready to bloom and flourish in every closet. In earlier times, floral designs were only utilised in western outfits, but now they are seen in the raiment of any happy event that takes place in parts of the world.
A little flashback of the floral prints
The history of floral prints began in the middle ages, when the Europeans took a great interest in the tropical designs their ancestors had used, drawn from what they saw around them, onto what they wore. Floral patterns made on cotton fabrics became the core of that period’s fashion. The earliest known floral patterns were over-the-top, dense and unreal.
Meanwhile, Indians had invented what was called chintz, the handmade floral fabric made on a plain coloured garment. In the 19th century, the artistic designs of the Asian people captured the essence of European artists, and it was replicated beautifully as floral designs of a collective bunch of flowers. After that, there was no stopping the surge of floral prints in every statement look.
Where do the floral prints stand now?
As the 1960s trend of Flower Power is showcased irresistibly in all fashion shows and even in casual footwear, florals are involved in different ways in our daily life. The attire of many weddings and ethnic festivals features coordinated outfits of couples, siblings or even the entire family, and the majority of them opt for floral motifs to be included in at least one of their accessories. Such is the influence of this beguiling pattern.
How can you embrace floral prints in ethnic wear?
We know that floral prints have travelled from the western side to give the other side of the world the same kind of excitement and elegance that comes with flowery attire. Florals in ethnic wear are a sight to watch, but how well can they be used to incite the crowd?
1. Draping the perfect floral saree!
Fabrics like georgette, crepe and chiffon are known for their lightness, and they are most ideal for the summer season. Imagine when a bold collection of florals is printed on a pastel or white saree (appealing, is it not?). It not only gives the outfit a lifelike image of flowers but also sends out a chic vibe for the vintage trend.
Tip: A solid or sequined blouse for a floral saree is the vibrant choice!
2. An interesting twist to the boring salwar kameez suits
Salwar suits are made to showcase how well the grace of a garment can speak volumes about someone. Made for all age groups, when these suits absorb the flowery feel, they dare to clear everyone out of the way. A little variation in this outfit can bring out many differences, like a bow at the hem of your pants, a floral satin lining at the neckline, or even a high-neck blouse.
3. Straight kurtis and plain palazzo pants, an unbeatable ensemble
Cotton or silk kurtis are quite sought after all year round. It is a go-to outfit for any part of the day, and they can be customised in many ways too. Floral kurtis paired with a cute pair of flared pants can make a sweet impression, but when mixed and matched with a floral printed dupatta or shawl, the radiance and pure beauty of your outfit will remain unmatched.
4. The speciality of the gharara
Born in Lucknow, the gharara is like the new-age palazzo pants, with the contrast that it is fitted at the knee and flows widely till the end. It is ravishingly decorated with shiny sequins or antique Mughal motifs that reflect the ancient scenario of when the garment was born. Pairing it with the same floral coloured top and a contrasting dupatta will make for an envious style statement.
5. Glistening with those Patiala suits
Patiala suits are an unmatchable and timeless Indian garment that never fails to win over hearts with simplicity in its purest and most beautiful form, especially in the northern states of India. When a full floral patterned cotton top is paired with plain Patiala bottoms and a velvet dupatta, then everyone in the room would be in for a treat — an eye candy.
6. Western kaftans/tunics with the traditional floral touch
Tunics are short tops that end at your waistline, and kaftans are tunics in the form of a robe. Both these upper-wear garments can be changed into versatile outfits when paired with floral leggings or accessories. Don’t be shy to make a bold statement by dressing in a full-on floral look, playing with print on print.
7. Men can speak the language of flowers too!
One of the common misconceptions in the Indian scenario is that florals are only meant for the beautiful ladies out there and are too feminine for a guy. But how times have changed for the better! When the right blend of colours and floral patterns is picked and put together, even floral men’s wear can be a show-stopper!
Accessorise for that extra glow!
We have all seen many flower-based accessories like ornaments or socks that are just enough to lighten up the day. There are several options to impress with floral prints at all times. If you want to be the star of the evening but are lazy enough to coordinate your garment, then just pick any floral printed accessory and you are ready to rule! You never know — a pretty pink floral headband can give you a sensational look.
Conclusion
Fashion is all about having fun in your own beautiful way and embracing all kinds of trending and vintage styles to flaunt every day. Floral prints are one of those classy ways of expressing your inner self vibrantly. Be experimental in every way possible with floral prints, for they are back with a bang to rock the world!
– Posted by Nikitha Terence
