DORÉ

Is there a more profoundly feminine archetype than the flower? On a cultural, artistic and downright biological level, flowers have become synonymous with the female form and the very essence of femininity. So it comes as no surprise that flowers and floral patterns are a hallmark of the female wardrobe by proxy. Sartorially speaking, florals are traditionally thought of as a shoe-in staple for any closet circa April-August. And let’s be honest, how many of us were shoved into some form of a floral dress as young girls? While I have no complaints to register with flowers themselves (love them, if anyone wants to send them over to me that would be great!), I have to confess… I am just not a floral pattern kind of gal.

Or at least I thought I wasn’t. My style has never been “traditionally” feminine. I’m sure there is much to be said about what that means, but for our purposes let’s just say, the last time I donned something floral was that flower crown at Coachella… I mean, um… my cousin’s wedding. Needless to say I never thought a floral print was something I could get behind. For whatever reason, it just didn’t feel like me.

Now I don’t know whether it’s the new year or the FW17 collections, but I have to say… I’ve changed my mind. This season the Winter Floral trend has resurfaced looking a bit darker, a bit more mysterious, and like all of us a bit more complex.

The Winter Floral is all about contrast. Try a darker heavier fabric with whimsical floral embroidery, a bright and airy dress with a thick structured jacket, or even a glossy latex solid paired with a softer traditional floral pattern. In any interpretation of the trend, the prevailing constant is the juxtaposition of tradition and modernity. Rather than keeping it one note, the Winter Floral highlights the dichotomies that I believe all women have within them. A little bit edgy, a little bit sexy, and a little bit mysterious, the Winter Floral has a lot to say. I, however, have already said enough – time to test it out for yourself!