The world of fashion is undeniably complex, with countless trends shooting off in different directions and criss-crossing at unexpected intervals. The results of these sartorial intersections are oftentimes unexpected, but there are some combinations we just flat out never expected to see. Example: the words “glamorous” and “screen-printed” applied to the same garment. Screen printing is for concert tees and family reunion sweaters, not the runway, right? As you’ve probably surmised by now, not any more. The fashion world has taken screen printing and bent it to its will; several of our favorite designers have made show-stopping photo prints their newest runway weapon. From historic, architectural trompe l’oeil to photorealistic nature prints, screen printing is adding an entirely new dimension to this season’s latest looks.
On the Givenchy Fall 2011 runway we saw fierce black panthers on ladylike separates like the Black Chiffon Blouse with Pant Print Satin Border and the Black Panther Print Skirt. Drawing inspiration from historical architectural, the Moschino Cheap and Chic Fall 2011 collection included homage to the four fashion capitals of the world, New York, London, Milan, and Paris, featuring national landmarks from each on simple silhouettes of shift dresses.
As expected, a number of fashion elite have already been seen stepping out in the trend, proving you can turn heads in simple, comfortable style by allowing an oversized print to make the statement in your look. According to Who, What, Wear, “Teen Vogue's Fashion News Director, Jane Keltner de Valle, wore a Carven dress to the Boom Boom Room in New York this past August, and showed how photographic prints can instantly modernize a timeless, ladylike silhouette. Though it's a black and white photo, the large picture adds interest to the frock's otherwise understated silhouette, giving it an of-the-moment look. We saw a similar effect at an after-party celebrating Jason Wu during NYFW when model Karlie Kloss turned up in the Floral-Print Jersey Shirt. The orchid print was designed in collaboration with graffiti artist KAWS-and peplum skirt from Jason Wu's S/S 12 collection.”
Also spotted in more colorful ensembles: Poppy Delevingne and Solange Knowles. Delevingne rocked Christopher Kane’s gorilla dress to Barneys New York for Carine Roitfeld’s book celebration, (Carine Roitfeld: Irreverent debuts October 18th) styled with a sleek Jo Sykes leather jacket, a Meli Melo fringed bag, and Prada platform heels. Knowles was seen attending Mulberry’s 40th Anniversary party in New York wearing an eye-catching Mary Katrantzou number featuring a scenic Grecian landscape. She paired her look with Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte wedges, Mulberry bag, and Lia Sophia accessories.
Here’s the part where we tell you how to get the look for less. For graphic black and white, get Zara’s Panther Dress ($25.90). Pair with subtle but unique black booties and statement jewelry a la Jane Keltner. Achieve an ode to the city with Topshop’s City Devore Mini Dress by Unique ($300) featuring a ladylike peter pan collar. This colorful nature-scape Printed T-Shirt (25.90) found at Zara is perfect paired with black jeans or with a pleated maxi skirt. We love this silk AllSaints’ Stallion Yavhi Top; it’s draped neckline and muted sunset hues are perfect for fall.
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