Shop Spring's Bold Take on Floral Prints (Which Is Anything but Garden-Variety)

By Alexandra DeRosa
Updated Apr 13, 2015 @ 2:00 pm
Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

"Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking." Does that line from The Devil Wears Prada ring a bell? We thought so. It is true: florals for spring are a perennial choice, but this season's offerings are far from the traditional buds. The prints have a tougher look—they aren't ultra-fem with an overload of sweetness. Instead, florals bloomed with a strong, wild feel—and a slightly abstract vibe.

The colors are moodier, like navy, burgundy, and orange, and the silhouettes (think crop tops and pencil skirts) are decidedly playful, thanks to sheer insets and oversize blooms. What's great about this trend is that, because of the deep colors and attention to detail, the pieces will seamlessly transition from day to night. The styles also pair well with staples you likely already own, like crisp white separates and denim. The trend has also made its way into the accessories arena. You'll find sneakers, backpacks, and strappy sandals all doused in the print in the gallery ahead.

So yes, while florals for spring may not be groundbreaking, this season's take feels incredibly fresh.

PHOTOS: Get the Look: Jungle Prints

Start Slideshow

1 of 9

Welcome to the Jungle 

Credit: indigitalimages.com

How To Wear It

Big, lush  blooms can swallow you whole. Seek out silhouettes that nip in at the waist to avoid muumuu vibes, or simply add a belt. Tropical-tinged heels add effervescence to an outfit that needs oomph. Don't be afraid to mix prints. Just stick to a similar scale, and include one unifying color for cohesion. Nothing set off summer whites like these vivid patterns.

Runway inspiration (from left): Fendi, Valentino, Erdem, Mary Katrantzou

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 9

Karen Walker 

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$575; karenwalker.com

3 of 9

Cynthia Rowley

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$195; cynthiarowley.com

Advertisement

4 of 9

Express

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$88; express.com

5 of 9

Noon by Noor

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$690; noonbynoor.com

6 of 9

Michael Kors

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$895; michaelkors.com for stores

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 9

J.Crew

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$70; jcrew.com

More spring fashion: Click here to shop key pieces in crafted spicy colors.

8 of 9

Vince Camuto

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$228; vincecamuto.com

9 of 9

Elizabeth and James

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studios

$265; shopbop.com

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Up Next

By Alexandra DeRosa