Are You Ready To Get Your Chinoiserie On?

By Brian Maynor

 

Not only is print on print a hot trend for the summer, there is one particular style of print that seems to be the most popular, and that’s Chinoiserie (pronounced SHēnˈwäzərē)

So what is Chinoiserie? It’s the imitation of Chinese motifs and techniques typically in Western art, fashion, furniture and design. Fortunately there are a lot of Chinese influences in fashion this season so you have a selection of how you embrace your own Chinoiserie. Here are some of the more popular options:

1.    Prints. Whether you prefer dragons, tigers, flowers or architecture any Chinese themed embroidery will work to fit this trend. You also have the option of choosing the proportions that work best for you, because the pattern can be a repeating one gives the effect of making an area look larger, or a single large print or scene, which will pull focus from the rest of your outfit yet keep larger areas in proportion. Everyone can pull off prints, just remember the rule of thumb is to keep them proportional to your size.

2.    Fabrics. Whether it’s silk, satin or lace, the luxurious materials are featured heavily in separates and sets.   There were a lot of silk pajama pants seen on the runways as well as full suits and jackets. These options can work great to step up your basic jeans and t-shirt or downplay your suiting to be more relaxed and playful. It all depends on your mood and what you need for the situation.

One of the easiest ways to incorporate this trend is a silk embroidered baseball or bomber jacket, also called a souvenir jacket. The fabric elevates while the embroidery balances. They look just as appropriate with a pair of black dress pants as they do with shorts.

Lace was also a popular choice for tops, shorts, suiting and dresses.

3.    Colors. Colors abound when it comes to Chinese art, so don’t feel regimented to traditional pairings like red/black or black/gold. The variations are endless and even have monochromatic options for people who prefer a little more subtlety.

This trend started with menswear for the summer and was carried over more heavily into women’s wear for the fall, so if you invest in a piece you’ll be at the pinnacle of trendsetting for a year. So it may not be something you want to break the bank on, but one or two solid pieces will be enough to carry you through.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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