How to Wear Bold Prints Like the Stars

Marisa Tomei, First Lady Michelle Obama, Claire Danes, Scarlett Johansson, and Rose McGowan are gravitating to prints this spring—all from the same British label, Preen. Launched by English duo Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi in 2001, the brand became famous for its sophisticated, cool designs and patterns, as exemplified by the women wearing them above. “Our prints say, ‘I’m modern, I’m sexy, I’m cool,” Thornton told InStyle.com. “We design them to offer women something they may not have worn before, but with this a sense of romance.” Even if you are tentative about the graphic look, Thornton has advice: “Mix them up with solids such as a simple jacket or pencil skirt, and then accessorize with minimal items,” he said. “Don't be afraid of bold prints they make you look both current and appealing. They say ‘I’m interesting and fun!’” Preen is available starting at $240 at net-a-porter.com.

See who else loves Preen in the gallery!

MORE:• Photos from the 2012 Big Red Carpet• Designer to Watch: Honor• Spring Trend We Love: Nature Prints

— Nikki Ogunnaike