Read between the stripes

Sarah Young

Advertisement

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice! Just like clockwork, stripes have returned to the spotlight as they do every spring, but this time round, they’re bigger and bolder than ever.

While the monochromatic trend may conjure images of everyone’s favourite veteran scaremeister, designers have taken it upon themselves to give the print a polished spin.

Super-sized, black-and-white bands that come vertical, horizontal, or a mix of both, the look that Michael Keaton made iconic will soon be making its way into your wardrobe. On the runway, designers gave the look a fresh, high-fashion makeover with the likes of Gareth Pugh offering up a sculptural feast of shapes for his spring/summer 2017 collection.

The British designer used graphic optical art to evoke beams of light on sunburst-patterned looks that included structural two pieces and linen kaftan dresses. This was an era that defined Carolina Herrera’s collection too. In a debt to her inaugural 1981 collection, the designer rooted black-and-white candy-stripes on classically girlish strappy taffeta dresses and ball gowns.

Brave enough to go bold or go home? We recommend a striking two piece paired with a black plain tee. But, should a full-on striped look intimidate you, simply introduce small doses at a time and remember to pare down your accessories.

— The Independent