NYFW AW20 trends: Print power

New York Fashion Week offered up some clear directions on the print and pattern front with dark background florals the clear winner.

They came through for day and evening in vivid multicolours, or as striking duotones, as busy allovers or as simple placements. However bright the flowers themselves, most were found against the deepest black backgrounds. But reds and blues also proved popular foils for this spring and summer staple that designers think will appeal in the colder, darker months too. And with winter being all about party season, these deep florals were key for after-dark.

Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors Collection, Tory Burch, Elie Tahari, Marc Jacobs, Red Valentino

Meanwhile checks made the second biggest impact with the newest coming as checkerboards for coats and dresses in retro black and white. But more traditional plaids looked strong too. Think of classic tartans, tonal checks in shades of grey or the heritage checks of menswear tailoring, working well on more formal daytime pieces such as careerwear pantsuits.

Kate Spade, Longchamp, Marc Jacobs, Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford

And of course, we can’t ignore that timeless perennial — animal print. It wasn’t as widely used as in some other seasons but it was picked up by some big names and its widespread consumer appeal should keep it on retailers’ and brands’ design studio mood broads for the season ahead. It looked strongest for outerwear with puffer jackets, capes, and coats in statement leopard or zebra.