Fabulous florals

Fashion forward

Trends come and go. But there are a few that remain unaffected irrespective of time. One such is floral prints. Coming in myriad types – either large or small distinctive flowers in bold shades or wispy, artsy motifs — it never fails to impress fashionistas and fashion connoisseurs.

The recently held Amazon India Fashion Week Spring/Summer’17 (AIFW SS’17) was a testimony for the same, where florals ruled the ramp. Designers like Rina Dhaka, Samant Chauhan, Anupama Dayal, Siddhart Tytler, Pallavi Mohan, Ashima and Leena and Kavita Bhartia showcased their collections that incorporated floral work in different ways. Experimenting with different prints, designs and motifs, they established the fact that flowers remain the muse for many.

Be it evening dresses, tops, trousers, skirts, shorts, long or short jackets or even ethnic wear like sarees, lehengas or kurtas, in any colour, there is no restriction on using
florals.

Bhartia, who presented her collection titled ‘Route’d Iznik’, says “Florals are the most acceptable in fashion, not just in India but all over the world. Everybody is inspired by it in one or the other way.  People believe that a particular trend comes back after some time. But florals have always been there.” Bhartia’s collection of gilets, tiered skirts, draped dresses, tunics and pants, was inspired by the 15th century     
Turkish Iznik pottery, and included intricate floral motifs embellished with resham, Pearland embroidery in zardozi.

However, when it comes to opting for this evergreen fashion, it is said that a person who is on the heavier side should not go for big prints because it may make them look even fuller.

But designer Leena Singh, from the label Ashima-Leena, says, “It’s not true.” Singh, who showcased her love for floral prints with her collection titled ‘Romance of the Florals’, says, “It’s a very personal choice. One should wear what looks nice on her. And when it comes to floral dresses or any other ensemble, it gives you a feeling of freshness and freedom. It should not be categorised depending on body shape or weight.” Her collection was a combination of soft fabric and pastel shades of pale blue and pink, with white lotuses and leafy greens.

Women love this concept, but it is not just confined to this gender. Men, of all ages admire the flowers and try to include it in their wardrobe. Designer Siddhart Tytler brought his collection of ethnic menswear including bandhgalas, suits, blazers and trousers, in white, gold, champaign and earth tones, with lively and big floral prints.

He believes, “There was a time when floral signified women but now the men love it equally. Anyone who is confident enough to pull off this fashion can flaunt it at any occasion. Choosing one such attire, a man of any age and personality can easily carry a formal or casual look.”  Be it on the shirts, t-shirts, blazers, ties, handkerchiefs, trousers or shorts, a dash of flowers can add that extra liveliness to your wardrobe.