Pattern clash and exuberant colour pops have been a designer favourite for a while now, and with painterly looks appearing all over the catwalks this season it seems that the vogue for statement-making style is entering an arty phase.
In New York, Prabal Gurung embellished sleek cigarette pants with drips of metallic lilac paint whilst Chris Benz daubed wide-brush ink stains on oversized jackets to stunning effect. London boy Duro Olowu gave us total-look outfits brightened by rainbow hued splashes.
But whilst those catwalk get ups appeared effortlessly cool, working this mood requires an ability to walk that fine line between ooh la la and OTT.
The good news is that by following a few simple rules you can look as pretty as a picture in no time.
1. Prep the canvas: pick a garment that makes an arty statement then chose accessories that complement without overwhelming. Plain but killer heels and a dainty clutch which echoes a print detail in a subtle manner add harmony without clashing.
2. Add the finishing touches: When it come to your jewellery, avoid anything overtly patterned as this will appear too fussy. Instead select two or three pieces whose colour is a tonal match and which work with the lines of your dress. If the neck is high, swap a necklace for earrings, for example.
3. Consider the form and silhouette of each piece. Dainty and intricate will just get lost, so select pieces that are simple and architechtural. These paint drip earrings by Oscar de la Renta and the aptly named “Arty’ ring from YSL are the perfect case in point.
Shopping List
Vera Wang silk dress at net-a-porter
Miu Miu pumps at Saks Fifth Avenue
Charlotte Olympia ‘Pandora’ clutch at My Theresa
Drop earrings by Oscar de la Renta at net-a-porter
Gold plated bracelet by Marni
‘Arty’ ring by Yves Saint Laurent
Maia Adams
