Image courtesy of jsscamrtn’s Polyvore.
Digital prints are taking the fashion world by storm this spring. Striped, floral, animal, mod, geometric and tribal prints are all in this season, and they’re sure to be eye-catching, no matter which graphic print you choose to wear. Try out the vibrant printed trend by rocking a vivid pattern this spring, or take a shot at mixing prints if you’re looking for something bolder.
Graphic prints are the perfect way to make a statement with your ensemble. If the print you’re wearing is all-over and bold, remember to keep the rest of your outfit to a monochromatic scheme. With loud prints, it’s best to pair the graphic piece with something solid to balance the intensity. Mod prints were a smash hit on ready-to-wear runways at spring/summer 2013 shows a la Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors and Louis Vuitton. Mod inspired graphic prints are especially classy when worn on a dress. Dresses are an easy way to wear prints, since a dress can be styled with lots of different pieces. Check out some printed dresses below.
Looking to mix patterns? Mixing graphic prints can be intimidating, but it is possible to do without looking too busy or clashing. Start out simply by choosing prints that have similar colors in them, and use only one dominant print. Scale is also an important thing to consider. If your top has big, bold geometric shapes in the pattern, make sure your second printed piece has patterns that are much smaller so you don’t appear overwhelming. Lastly, remember to limit your graphic prints to two separate pieces, such as a top and bottom or a scarf and shoes.
If you aren’t ready to mix patterns and you think graphic clothing might be a little too loud for you, try accessorizing with graphic prints. It’s easy to incorporate the trend into your accessories because there are so many ways to accessorize. Shop graphic accessories below.
Still unsure of how you can best pull off the graphic print trend? Try wearing printed shoes as a statement piece! Color-blocking your ensemble will allow you to play with color, and follow the previously mentioned rule of color palettes. You can easily add a punch of intensity by slipping on printed shoes that have similar colors in their patterns. Remember that no matter how you try the trend, you want to look and feel confident in your ensemble.
Looking for more trends to try this spring/summer? Check out these CL articles:
Spring 2013 Trend Alert: Pastels
Summer 2013 Trend Alert: Tassels
This three-piece outfit will win you looks and be so comfy you could sleep out in the yard under the warm summer sun (Ooo, idea?). This gray halter top gives you a casual yet fun top to wear (comes in white too) without being too low cut for those snack trips to the corner store, and don’t get me started on needing the perfect denim shorts for summer – in the words of my friend “everything goes with denim.” And I had spied these sandals at Payless when I went shopping earlier; two words: soooooooooooo comfy!
I randomly was surfing my online shops when I saw this shirt, it’s super cute and casual and perfect for summer. Pair it with this season’s newest obsession jeggings and these gladiator (but not totally ridiculous) heels. 
I saw these two items and almost died from need! If you are looking for the perfect classy going out outfit to show off your curves – this is it. It’s the little black dress times 100! And these colorful zebra printed pumps, forget about it; it’s your homerun hit for summer.
Liz is an intern for College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior Print Journalism major at Point Park University and a proud sister of Alpha Sigma Tau. Is going to have a blast this summer – what about you?
