Laws of Couture: How to Pluck This Season’s 3-D Floral Fashion Trend From the Runways and Incorporate it Into Your Spring Wardrobe

Friday, May 10

How to Pluck This Season’s 3-D Floral Fashion Trend From the Runways and Incorporate it Into Your Spring Wardrobe

Oscar de la Renta

"Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking!” Miranda Priestley’s famed catty retort from The Devil Wears Prada may live on in infamy, but its been proven false time and time again.

Fashion’s ongoing love affair with floral prints continues for Spring 2013 with a myriad of designers offering up their take on the iconic pattern. Be prepared to embrace your inner lady with floral print dresses, swimsuits, shoes, and even sunglasses. This season’s florals come in soft pastel colors and vibrant hues, all of which are some variation of the garden theme.

While the floral print trend has been in full bloom for as long as I can remember, Spring 2013 brought with it oversized floral motifs that even included 3D designs. Titan of floral prints, Oscar de la Renta, showed appliques so big, they were virtually life-size. For those less willing to live in bloom all season long, the floral trend still continues from previous years with printed pants, mini-dresses, skirts, and everything else retailers can put a flower on. Florals are all about having fun with fashion and embracing the joy and romance of Spring. Perhaps this is why the floral trend is one that just won’t go away.

Build the look: To translate this trend from runway to real-way, start by choosing separates. Hone in on one piece or detail—whether it’s a top, sweater, oversized collar, a cropped jacket, skirt or pair of shorts. Then mix in with your signature wardrobe essentials, like a navy blazer or slim black pant.

It’s possible to recreate this 3-D runway look without overpowering the rest of your ensemble. It’s about balance. Choose something bold, such as a larger lace pattern, a great bright color, or something with an unexpected detail, like a sheer overlay or inset. With a 3-D-statement piece, pare down to basics for the rest of your outfit. Shoes and accessories should be clean, feminine, and minimal. Avoid chunky shoes and busy jewelery. Try pairing your look with simple and fun accents, like a colorful necklace or pearls, and a bright, sleek clutch or clean top handle bag.