Head-to-toe print

As the fashion-bold continue to take over the world of apparel, there is a trend that is new to the West, although it has always been a staple tradition in Rwanda. This season, fashionistas all around the globe are wearing head-to-toe print. Designers are using this trend in a variety of ways, from classic to spunky to make a statement about print. American designer Michael Kors, famous for his role on Project Runway and his variety of bridge brands, created a stunning blurred rose leaf print shift dress. It has a sleeveless high neck cut, reminiscent of the 1950’s era, but there is substantial fold pleating around the waistline of the slight pencil skirt to give it a modern feel. Hollywood favourite Oscar de la Renta has several block print dresses in his collection. The most innovative is an indigo blue strapless top with a balloon overlay on the fitted skirt. The entire ensemble is out of one print, giving drama and depth to the floral blue pattern. Fashion designer Erdem, who can be claimed by Canada, the United Kingdom and Turkey, also has several block print dresses in his collection. The first is a fitted floral high-neck piece with a peplum hem. The nuanced floral fabric has an extra kick because of the sequin incorporation. Keeping with the floral block print theme, Erdemalso created a polka dot floral tea length dress. Although the fabric is modern, the dress has a high ruffled neck, and ruffled cap sleeves, giving it a Victorian feel. Let’s not forget the Rwandan designers – who could create stunning block print pieces in their sleep! Designers like JoJo or SuhaaShmitz of Ikanzu can create beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces for their customers. The runway darlings have picked up the theme with class. Australian actress Nicole Kidman, and wife to country star Keith Urban, wore a floor length strapless L’Wren Scott gown to the Cannes Film Festival. She paired with matching edgy cuff bracelets and drop earrings. American actress and comedian Krysten Ritter, known most famously for her roll on Breaking Bad, wore a floor length Reformation dress. The casual fabric and loose tressed hair was given a bit of drama by the dress’ side cut-outs. Ukranian-born American actress and model Milla Jovovich wore a sequined, full print Chanel gown on the red carpet. Her smoky eyes and chandelier earrings were a brilliant contrast to the white panel around the neck of the dress. The key to wearing this trend? Pick only one print, and use it everywhere. Also be careful not to let the intricacy of the jewelry compete with the business of the dress. Form fitting styles are the best option, and it’s best to show some skin! That’s the fashion scoop for this week. Got a thought? Trend? Style you hate? Send it my way. Rachel Breaux is an American living in Rwanda