Prints or Patterns?
We’ve heard about the revival of Y2K fashion, or the rise of Timberlands–the iconic shoe brand that gained popularity in 90’s Hip-Hop culture, now walking its way back into our closets–along with the return of bows and ribbons. . . but let’s talk about another trend. As we near the end of 2024, it’s time to chat about a fashion trend that never goes out of style, but has had a major resurgence in our wardrobes: prints and patterns. Prints and Patterns have been around since the beginning of time. They are a fun way to express our interests, creativity and individuality through various mediums.
Like any other fashion trend, there’s always an origin story. Alongside this, any confusion regarding the differences between prints and patterns will be cleared.
The origins of prints dates back to ancient China, where textile printing first began, along with woodblocking printing (also known as Ukiyo-e), screen printing, and manual painting. So, what are these methods of printing? Textile printing is the process of applying pigments to fabric to create pattern or design. Wood-block printing is when artists use carved wooden blocks to press their designs onto textiles or paper. Screen printing transfers a design onto a piece of fabric using a mesh screen, ink or even a squeegee. And manual painting is only done by hand. Patterns, on the other hand, first dates back to Spain between 1589-1618, throughout time patterns began to become more versatile by culture and beliefs. In African culture patterns resembled tiger and leopard coats, while in India they admired patterns that featured elephants.
So what’s the difference between the two?
Well patterns are a repeated design that is woven into or embroidered onto a clothing garment. A few examples of pattern designs are shapes, stripes, polka dots, and more. Anything that falls under the geometric shapes is considered a pattern. Where prints are similar to patterns, they aren’t woven into or embroidered, but applied onto garments through digital and /or screen printing. A few examples of this would be florals, graphical elements, abstract art, and, of course, animal coats.
So why are prints and patterns trending all over again? Why are they making a major comeback?
Well, the answer is pretty simple: because we love them, we’ve loved them in the previous decades, and we still love them today. They allow us to express ourselves in many different aspects and moods. Whether we want to feel romantic and sexy, bold or loud, classy or fancy, funny and free. There will always be a print or pattern that will signify our feelings.
Wanna feel a little risky?? Then clash and mash these two beauts together!!! Focus on balance and the proportions of the print or pattern design. You can either go simple with an easy print, like florals or stripes, then layer with a bolder print on top. Another method could be focusing on the color of the garment rather than design, or the inverted color. Or, mix small and larger prints together. My personal go-to is a long black midi-skirt with tiny floral print and a dark, comfortable, subtle striped sweater pattern. Keep in mind that it’s okay to mess up, or it looks a little wild. The two key things to remember are balance and having fun with your style.
By Paige Bell
Design by Victoria Lechon
