Move over, florals. Take a hike, gingham. Paisley is the hot new print in town. Here's how to wear it now...
It's been gathering pace on the runway for a few seasons, and now the street-set are sold too. The 70s power print is officially back on the fashion map. Cast aside thoughts of paisley-emblazoned cashmere shawls (the kind you lovingly brought your aunts for Christmas, circa 1995), because thanks to the likes of Joseph, ETRO, and House of Holland the new aesthetic, in all its guises, is strictly stylish.
It's origins might be a little disputed (Celtic, Persian, Indian or Welsh and, depending on which stake the claim, the design represents a pear, mango or cypress leaf) but one thing is clear, the twirly tear-drop has captivated designers across the globe, and this season there's a paisley to suit all. The only question left is which way will you wear it?
Bohemian Dream If like us, you've fallen head-over-heals for the 70s, then paisley is your hero print. Its relaxed, bohemian roots perfectly capture the spirt of the season. Make ETRO your example and splash it across a billowing maxidress; perfect for festival season and your holiday wardrobe.
Etro SS/15
Smokin' Style Trust JOSEPH to take paisley into the dapper-sphere. For SS15 its take is truly smoking-jacket chic. We can't fault its silken tailoring and with a paisley repeat this ditsy, you can get away with wearing it head-to-toe. If you're investing in just one piece, go for the blazer jacket; we guarantee it'll update any tired shirt and trouser combo, not to mention make desk-to-dinner dressing easy peasy.
Joseph SS/15
Do the bright thing
Earthy tones and intricate swirls certainly aren't for everyone, so all hail Mr Holland for his unexpected but thoroughly modern take on the trend. His neon, crochet-cum-lace offerings for SS15 are about as far away from auntsville as you could get, and we can't get enough! Follow the high-low dressing rules and team a lady-like paisley lace with a fine-gage slogan knit (Bella Freud is our current obsession FYI) and you're good to go.
Henry Holland SS/15
That 70s Show If you're just coming round to the 70s look but a loose bohemian silhouette isn't your thing (Florence Welch-worthy dresses can be a step too far for some) then use the busy pattern to break up the seasons sturdy separates (tan suede skirts/dark denim flares we're looking at you). A sheer shirt with a pussy-bow neck tie will elevate your 70s status but if sheer and blouson is off-limits then this flared, A-line skirt from Zara is your answer.
Zara
The Cool Girls Choice Minimal repeat, normcore colour-way and a definitive Thelma & Louise bandana design: this is the paisley print of the understated. Add in the fact it's super-affordable (thanking you, Topshop) and has Cara's seal of approval, and it's a fashion girl's no-brainer. We'd wear this shirt buttoned to the top and tucked into a high-waisted wide-leg trouser. Done.
Topshop