If the dark mornings, storms and cold winds are anything to go by, this winter is going to need a healthy dose of colour to brighten things up. The autumn/winter runways gave us plenty of new hues to work into our wardrobes for the season ahead (and baby blue, chocolate brown and arctic white are top of my list), but for those looking for something a little more exciting than head-to-toe tonal, it's time to talk about some VIPs. That's very important prints.
Remember the year everyone was "hot for the spot" and that Zara dress became a worldwide sensation? Or how about the most quoted line in The Devil Wears Prada? (and yes, florals for spring will always be groundbreaking). Such is the power of the perfect print that personally, my wardrobe doesn't feel complete without one, and whilst I patiently wait for Kate Moss to step out in another leopard-print coat to signal the true start of winter, it's well worth looking at the other print trends causing a stir right now.
The season's biggest trends tell us that more is more in 2023, and even the most minimalist brands are working printed pieces into their collections (see micro-dots from Sacai, painted florals from Lanvin and some very abstract moments from Victoria Beckham). So if you've already got your winter coat, stocked up on knits, and are looking for an exciting way to elevate your wardrobe this winter, keep scrolling.
Here are the six new print trends that you're about to see a lot more of over the next few months, and there's something for everyone.
1. CRAYON COLOUR-BLOCKING
Style Notes: Now, when we talk about colour blocking, there's only really room for punchy brights. Pastels have been enjoying a moment this autumn (and buttermilk yellow still looks impossibly luxe), but according to the likes of Alhuwalia, Stella McCartney, Roksanda and Fendi, ultra-bright Crayola colours look even better layered together in graphic, colour-block prints and we couldn't agree more.
SHOP COLOUR-BLOCKING:
Jigsaw's latest collaboration with Roksanda is exactly the kind of colour-blocking dream you would expect from a designer known for her use of unexpected tonal pairings.
Orange, pink and white shouldn't make sense together, but they absolutely do.
How to style up a white tee and black jeans.
2. CHECKERBOARD
Style Notes: What started out as a major interiors trend over the last couple of years has now extended into fashion, and checkerboard is the statement print that we predict will be big into 2024 too. Take the Valentino and Undercover A/W 23 shows for example: monochrome, chessboard prints made up no less than eight of the looks, setting the tone for what is shaping up to be a very bold season. It's also the first of two check references in this list (more on that later), but if you're looking for a head-turning print that's a guaranteed conversation starter, it's check mate.
SHOP CHECKERBOARD:
There's a reason this dress is an influencer favourite.
Faux fur and checkerboard? Sign me up.
Just add a red lip and a pair of slingback shoes.
3. CARTOON FLORALS
Style Notes: It goes without saying that we expect ditsy florals for spring/summer and dark florals for autumn/winter, but what about a fun, bright floral lifted straight from the retro archives? These lurid cartoon florals come supersized in fun colours—perfect for a dreary winter. Wear layered up à la Benetton (pictured above) or opt for one statement piece like Molly Goddard's floaty maxi (below). Either way, you'll feel happier just by wearing this print.
SHOP CARTOON FLORALS:
Thank you, Acne; this may well be the cutest knit of the season.
There's so much to love about the beautiful colours in this dress.
The subtle way to add a pop of print to your look.
4. POLKA DOTS
Style Notes: Yes, you guessed it, polka dots are back (if they ever left), and thanks to cute dresses from Jacquemus, Marni, Alessandra Rich and many, many others, it's also a great option for party season. After all, what could be cuter than a Minnie-Mouse-inspired minidress worn with opaque tights and slingback shoes? It's the elevated way to style polka dots to perfection.
SHOP POLKA DOTS:
I cannot believe that this dress is under £20.
Perfect with a chunky, cream knit and black loafers.
I can see this on an Italian holiday or as the perfect wedding-guest dress.
5. SUPERSIZED CHECKS
Style Notes: We flirt with tartan and houndstooth every autumn and winter, but in 2023 we're turning up the volume on simple checks and making them bigger and better than ever. Take tips from new Burberry— master of the heritage check—and swap micro grid prints for bold stripes in fun colours that stand out from the crowd.
SHOP SUPERSIZED CHECKS:
A fresh new take on checks from Burberry Creative Director Daniel Lee.
This is so good with knee-high boots.
Clash with another check print or wear with your everyday jeans or tailored trousers.
6. WATERCOLOUR PRINTS
Style Notes: Loud prints not your style? How about a soothing journey into calming watercolours instead?Soft, blurred edges, tonal colour palettes and all of the artistic flow of a Moran painting; this charming take on florals, landscapes and even the abstract is the most romantic print on this list, and pairs well with knits, denim and leather—basically, a must for print-lovers in winter 2023.
SHOP WATERCOLOUR PRINTS:
Julia Sarr Jamois' collaboration with Frame makes clever use of the effects of tie dye.
Just about as fashion-forward as it gets.
A street style favourite in the making.
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