Tricky Trend: Optical Prints

Optical prints were big news in 2012. Like many trends, it can be difficult to know how to incorporate them into your everyday look without risking the item becoming an orphan in your closet. A cruel reminder of your failed journey into something outside your clothing comfort zone...

New to prints in general, late last year I decided on a pair of optical-print pants from Country Road in black and white silk. Teamed with a plain black top, simple pointy-toe heels and a single item of jewellery (a chunky gold chain bracelet from Moochi in my case), they're a winner. They're tapered in the leg and sit slightly cropped on my ankles. If you have shorter legs, I'd suggest getting pants like these shortened: the gap between shoes and trousers breaks the print, making them less overwhelming. Mine have great drape but are not too billowy. Hip pockets add curves where I naturally have none. The print is interesting but not over the top:

Pants: Country Road; Top: TK Store; Shoes: Zara; Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Bracelet: Moochi

 Photos by Paul D