Unapologetically Feminine: April Showers Bring May Florals
When it comes to prints, there’s nothing more classically feminine than florals, especially during warm weather months when it’s totally acceptable to match your outdoor environment. We’ve got some great floral finds to share from our recent fashion show and personal shopping adventures, and we’re holding nothing back in the way of conspicuous patterns and girl power. With tasteful editing and smart wardrobe pairings, sometimes it’s okay to be loud in your style and make a statement. And if you’re feeling more reserved, our floral picks offer a good range of minimal to splashy.
If you recall our animal prints blog post from this past February, there are a couple of tricks to wearing prints that apply across the board. Here are the Cliff’s Notes: Our go-to rule of thumb for wearing prints is to select a print that is on the smaller side if the item is larger, such as a coat or pants, and a larger print for smaller items, such as a shoe or handbag (although the smaller print works here, too). Larger prints on larger items just tend to be less flattering, as they exaggerate shape and size, and smaller prints still stand out but don’t dominate your whole outfit.
BABY SPROUTS
We adore these muted, “baby”-sized floral accents! The Marble Floral Mesh Strap Watch in Rose Gold by Olivia Burton (left) is such an elegant and soothing-colored time piece for your spring and summer wardrobe, and the Mireille Floral Drop Earrings in White by Anthropologie are a beautiful pop of nature.
FLOWERS AFOOT
A floral print shoe is such a nice, bright complement to a monochromatic outfit, whether it’s a little black sundress or a neutral top/bottom combo. And if floral alone were not enough, we’ve got bows in spades, too! The Floral Mules in Multicolor by Zara (left) are comfortable flats that easily transition from day to night, and the Rosa Floral Bow Mule in Poppy by Lewit have date night written all over them!
DAISY CHAINS
Oh my goodness these basket-style bags! We can’t hardly stand their cuteness. Interesting florals on bags (and accessories in general) are a strategic way to incorporate the print into your outfit without drawing too much attention if subtle is your thing. Try the Beverly Floral Embroidered Straw Tote Bag in Nude Multi by Topshop (left) or the Floral Miniaudiére in Black Multi by Zara with its handy chain cross body strap.
CREAM OF THE CROP
This Printed One-Button Jacket with Tie Sleeves in Rosebud Multi by Nine West (left) is a team favorite! We recently used it in a fashion show, as well as a presentation we led. Pale pink typically looks good with many skin tones, because it brings out our rosy cheeks, and the tie sleeves are such a sweet and delicate touch. The Floral Kimono in Mint Jade Blossoms by Nordstrom is an excellent alternative for a less structured look.
BLOOMING ALL OVER
Floral print can be overwhelming, but this Lace Floral Midi Dress in Black/Floral by Tadashi Shoji (left) breaks it up nicely with sheer horizontal panels. The flattering fit-and-flair cut on this dress is a huge bonus. Go even bolder with the Ankle Skinny Floral Jeans by 7 for All Mankind. These work because the floral print is on the smaller side, and the color palette is a versatile neutral.
