Style trend: Give us a swirl

It's a print that's steeped in fashion history; from the traditional arts and textiles of India and Iran, to its distinctly groovy associations with the psychedelic 60s and 70s. But this season (and next, trend-spotters) (1) paisley is the print you need to have on your fashion radar.

The S/S12 runways were packed with the distinctive swirling pattern, reinterpreted for summer by everyone from Raf Simons at Jil Sander (his last show before being snapped up by Dior), to Matthew Williamson, Emilio Pucci, Paul & Joe and Stella McCartney (2).

Reworked into all manner of silhouettes, from scuba-esque minis and mid- century wiggle dresses to luxurious jumpsuits, pyjamas (3) and smoking jackets, whether classically styled in rich tones or given a wholly modernist edge in bold brights offset against stark white, bohemian or futuristic, paisley's packing the biggest fashion punch it has done in years. Ignore at your peril!

Footnotes

(1) We've got our eye on the ladylike paisley suits, as seen at Oscar De La Renta, as a next season workwear inspiration. Chunky stack heels add just enough contemporary edge. 

(2) Stella's modernist paisley print cutaway dresses have been the toast of Hollywood since they sashayed down the runway last September. Her bestie Gwyneth, along with Nicole Kidman and LeAnne Rimes, were among the first to rock them on the red carpet before the fashion hoards followed. 

(3) Silky pyjama pants meld seamlessly with the exotic heritage of paisley's past. For a super-relaxed look, team with a silk blouse and flat pumps for timeless global-traveller chic, or wear with heels and a slinky cami for boudoir glam that's cocktail-hour perfect. Voila!

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