HEY THERE,
When you think of printed fabrics, what pops into your head? Right now, we’ve got floral patterns on our mind, which isn’t surprising considering floral are perhaps the one of the most ubiquitous motifs in fashion. Inherently beautiful, and available in a million different colors, textures, and styles, most of us likely have at least one floral dress or shirt hanging in the closet.
Long ago, flowers held deep meaning and symbolism, which people wished to imbue into their clothing. In addition to being a universal symbol of femininity, a “language of flowers” was prevalent in different cultures and time periods, and allowed for diversity in the design of patterns.
The origin of the floral fabric can be found in Asia, where flowers are an integral part of the culture.
Floral Fabrics in Japan
In Japan, the chrysanthemum featured heavily in textile motifs, particularly in kimono fabrics. It’s naturally long, slender petals radiated similar to the sun’s rays, and so the flower became synonymous with the sun, as well as a symbol of the royal family.
Floral Fabrics in China
In China, flowers were woven into stunning, brightly colored brocades or created in detailed embroideries. Symbolic imagery featured heavily in Chinese textiles, the aesthetic being bold and bright.
The famous lotus flower was another common motif. An important symbol in Buddhism, this particular flower represented purity, as it rises from the mud to bloom. Incidentally, Classic Ottoman textiles were partly inspired by the Chinese aesthetic. These fabrics were characterized by stylized floral repeat patterns, often in heavy woven velvets. Motifs included, carnations, fruit and of course, peonies.
Floral Fabrics in India
India is also home to a rich history of not only textiles, but also ornate and dazzling floral designs. With this in mind, it is unsurprising that European traders were eager to bring these rich and beautiful pieces back with them.
The fabric that is perhaps most responsible for bridging the gap between the east and west in terms of floral is chintz.
You might also recall chintz’s popularity in 17th century European or American fashions. However, prior to its appropriation into western culture, chintz was a stunning handmade textile primarily used in Indian home decor.
In the original production process, the entirety of the plain cotton fabric would be coated in wax, with the exception of the floral motif that had been drawn on. The fabric would then be dipped in various natural dye baths, including indigo and madder. Once washed and dried, areas requiring yellow or green would be hand-painted with saffron.
Floral Fabrics in Europe
By the 1400’s and 1500’s, florals began to spread globally as European traders started purchasing the extremely ornate and detailed fabrics. Italy frequently traded in textiles with the Ottoman Empire, and the gorgeous velvet florals became a coveted design in Italian cities. As for chintz, Dutch and British merchants brought the fabric to the west, where its popularity exploded.
The Season Style Tips
Let your Floral piece stand out by pairing it with an all neutral outfit. For example, if you have a pair of floral shorts matches them with a plain solid top and accessorize simply with bag and statement watch. If going for Floral top or shirt then keep lower simple and plain color.
You can also steal my look, a pastel floral dress pair them with floral wedges, hoop earrings and solid color bag. This is looking perfect to carry for every day look.
BRAND I AM WEARING
DRESS & BAG – FOREVER NEW INDIA
EARINGS – KOOVS
SHOES – SNAPDEAL
This all about Floral Pattern in PATTERN & STYLE, I hope this is educating enough about the prints. Keep styling and experimenting with pattern you can also tag me @jannatsorathia on Instagram.
Till then wear what is in THE SEASON STYLE.
Happy Shopping