From vertical and horizontal stripes to circular and triangular shapes, when it comes to geometric patterns in fashion, you can never wrong. This season, accentuate your body type with the right kind of designer prints and patterned silhouettes that are not hard to emulate.
Geometric patterns cut across both fashion and style to enhance visual interest. The trend is becoming increasingly popular on red carpets and formal dos, and when correctly applied, it can be a great way to give your outfit a modern and unique touch. Too many patterns in an outfit can be overwhelming, leaving no place for one’s eyes to rest. Therefore, let your geometric patterns play more of an accent role than a dominant role, suggests designer Vidhi Singhania. “Use patterns to draw attention to a particular aspect of your outfit. Also ensure that you choose a proportionate print or pattern that won’t overpower your overall outfit. Choose a design that evokes positivity when you look at it. Geometric patterns continue to be trendsetter therefore some of our saris have stripes and other geometrical patterns which, if accessorized well, can be worn for any occasion.”
If it’s a boardroom, then one should stick to lighter colours however these days many corporate women are making a statement in bold colours. If you have a long, lean frame, opt for large and bold prints. If your lower body is heavy, go for a bold blouse or busy print top. One can also opt for diagonal prints for slimming effect. Other great classic geometric shapes for office are square checks. Also, circle dotted dobby fabrics, in cotton are a great option for summer office attire.
New York based fashion designer Tina Tandon believes that vertical stripes look flattering on various shape and sizes. They elongate your silhouette and create a slimming effect. “White and Blue pinstripes are a classic in office attire, and offer a great professional look for the board room. The new takes on the traditional pinstripe shirts in more feminine silhouettes offer a great option for women to express their powerful professional stance and still be feminine. Horizontal stripes on the other hand can be tricky. Avoid wearing them in your heavy areas, as they create a widening effect. Do diagonal stripes instead for a more flattering effect,” recommends Tina Tandon.
With women stepping into an era where functionality beats fluff, there has been a major personality overhaul for modern contemporary women right from the way they talk to the way they dress. With the need of functionalist designs accentuated by clean cuts and minimalistic silhouettes, it is geometry which is re-surging in the fashion department. Designer Aashmika Jain says, “A classic style, geometric pattern work very well in summers because they convey the maximum flair with minimum drama. There is one golden rule to keep in mind when donning geometric silhouettes and prints — keep it simple. If you have a loud top, pair it with a simple bottom. The idea is to let the subtle give attention to the center piece of your ensemble. Also, it is very easy to overdo when it comes to bolder outfits, and we need to balance the number of accessories we put on.”
Not just in prints or cuts, geometrical inspiration for fabric manipulation is also a fabulous way to make every inch count. Designers Silky Ahluwalia and Prithi derive inspiration from architectural designs, visual arts and Japanese origami to create some avant-garde looks for summer. The duo revelas, “Geometrical fabric manipulation is an inextricable part of our brand aesthetic. Instead of using embroidery and bright colours to embellish our clothing, we believe in using neutral colour palettes and geometrical patterns to make our clothing truly perfect fit for all occasions and body types. The beautiful and intricate geometric details on neutral colour apparel, when coupled with bold accessories, can be worn at a brunch, a cocktail or even a boardroom meeting.”
