FOR EVERY OCCASION
PRINT INSPIRATION by Leanna Adams
From Navajo-inspired prints to rich African mud cloths, to Japanese Shibori dye techniques, at this year’s Spring 2012 Fashion Week in New York, there were loads of sartorial inspiration strutting down the runway in the form of bold geometric patterns, animal prints and florals. What does that mean for your event décor? It means it’s time for printspiration!
SHOWN ABOVE Large: Toile dress by Lynn Lugo available at Lily & Iris, Salt Lake City, Utah; Small: Paisley linen pattern by I Do Linens
32 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
These days, there’s no bigger trend than awakening all the senses of your guests through tastes, smells, touch and exciting visuals. This does not mean you have to go crazy and try to use every print you ever liked, but it does mean that a tasteful use of pattern, print and florals alone or mixed together can add that extra visual interest to your event.
GO BOLD
Embrace this new wave of fashion forward design for your next special occasion. Instead of just going with two colors, consider Proenza Schouler’s ode to Native American tribal patterns, screen prints, versatile fabrics and a whole lotta gorgeous!
SUBTLE ACCENTS
An easy way to add interest to a room or your entire event’s décor is to add decorative accents. Incorporate your chosen prints through the use of pillows, napkins, placemats, table runners, and even backdrops. Or consider specifically draping fabric on a table, under the centerpiece, or over pieces of furniture.
RULES FROM THE RUNWAY
Dress your party like you dress yourself. A well-considered outfit using tasteful mixology will always be in style. And the same goes for your event’s décor. Choose your favorite pattern ideas and work with your event planner to create something unique and sophisticated. A geometric pattern can be combined with another pattern or a floral with complimentary shades, but proceed with caution when combining florals and contrasting tones. A designer or event planner can steer you in the right direction. Ikat is huge right now. And why not? Even though it’s one of the oldest forms of textile decoration, within ikat there are multitudes of different patterns and color combos. There are ways to do big splashy bits of printed structure at an event and maintain haute sophistication. Consider geometric linens, or Liberty floral invitations. Take colors that you love and find a pattern that displays them in a new and interesting way. Each element of your event could use a bit of print-spiration, but be sure not to overdo it. And when you’re unsure, seek expert help.