Happy New Year, friends! I am predicting that 2015 will be our grooviest year yet, so I made this little illustration to celebrate the feeling. I just love beginnings, so full of inspiration and imagination. The new year is like a virtual reset button where you can take a pause and begin to breathe new life into everything you do. Whether or not you believe in the magic of fresh starts, I’m wishing everyone peace, love and all around good vibes in the upcoming year!
vintage
With all of the psychedelic flower power found blooming in the Spring ’15 runway shows, we had to wonder just how many designers were drinking from the same well of acid-laced Kool-Aid? (Um.. and where can we get some?!) This may just be the trend we are most excited to see emerging from the newest shows. With dizzying and playful motifs, and colors that nearly surpass louder-than-life status, these vintage florals are sure to be the life of the Spring print party.
Kate Spade New York, Jeremy Scott, House of Holland all via Style.com
Background print © Aaryn West
One of our absolute favorite eras in textile design turned out to be a major theme on the runway this season; the groovin’ 60s and 70s. Today we’re featuring quirky geos that would give any Mod a good flashback. For additional examples of this hip trend, check out collections from Trina Turk and Orla Kiely.
Isa Arfen, dsquared2, Libertine all via Style.com
Background print © Aaryn West
I heard Kimbra’s new song, 90s Music, on the radio the other week and recently decided to pull it up on Youtube for my listening pleasure. Oh, my god, Becky. I had no idea it would come with a bomb-diggity video filled with kitschy, neo-psychedelic, in-yo-face visuals. It’s filled with SUCH great inspiration for textile designers! It kind of reminds me of an updated version of Deee-Lite’s Groove Is In The Heart, which itself was a 90s throwback to the 70s. Kinda makes me wish I hadn’t thrown out my wide-leg Jnco jeans and Cross Colors gear. Below are some stills from the video but you should definitely take the time to check out the whole video here.
Here’s a transitional print concept that spills over from Fall 2014, but with a lighter, more springlike color palette. One part floral, one part Ukrainian embroidery, with a dash of fairytale whimsy thrown in for good measure, these prints bring a fresh, bohemian take on a trend your Grandmother would likely adore. To keep things really authentic, make sure to include references to traditional embellishment techniques such as cross-stitch or beading.
Alice + Olivia, Valentino all via Style.com
Background print © Aaryn West