jonathan simkhai

Textured prints take a turn for the lighter side in this nature-driven trend. Some examples resemble cracked ice, some look more like striations found in marble, others even take on the swirling formations found in radar images of weather systems. What they all have in common are their intricate, organic details and simple, limited color palette.

The example we used in our background was made with watercolor paints, but manipulating photographs of tree bark or experimenting with paints designed for a crackle effect would be great places to start when you’re ready to make your own Cracked Ice print.

Jonathan Simkhai, J. Mendel, Tory Burch all via Style.com
Background print © Aaryn West

We are such big fans of this bold, colorful trend that has been going strong for well over a year. Traditionally, color blocking originates more from the side of fashion design and sewing construction rather than textiles, but there’s no reason you can’t incorporate this look into your print designs. It’s even a little like the collage / Matisse trend that’s been growing in popularity, although more simplified and dramatically enlarged. Be sure to check out the Resort collections from Missoni, Roland Mouret, and Prabal Gurung for additional examples on how to apply this look to your own designs.

Novis, Jonathan Simkhai, Roksanda Ilincic all via Style.com
Background print © Aaryn West