NYFW Runway Trends: Dots & Stripes

Stripes, and particularly polka dots, got so big this year that it was unclear if they make make it through another few seasons.
If one does take heed of the runway, however, it shows that they are here to stay through 2014! Stripes are going to be integral to the season’s look. while polka dots, still a popular choice, may not be as prevalent as it was this season, but don’t worry – you’re still on-trend with them. Below are some of my favorite examples of the trend, and catch up on the others from NYFW Spring 2014, including the colors orange, black and white, pastels, paint, and embroidery & ethnic prints.

[Images via WWD.com]

Inspired by all things mod, Ralph gave this look a bout of masculine edge with a fitted, collar shirt and a necktie; pair stripes with some slightly quirky accents for a stylized look.

Reem Acra
Not your average polka dot, mix the pattern with something else in your wardrobe; just be sure that the colors line up perfectly so that it looks more sophisticated than wacky. Hounds tooth is a great choice, since it’s regained its popularity this past season.

Y-3
Although the triple stripe is part of Y-3 Adidas’ DNA, making it the focal point of this dress shows how prominent stripes will be in fashion for spring 2014!

Tommy Hilfiger

There’s no denying the sporty nature of stripes, and here it is made truly sportswear-ready by the choice of vibrant hues paired with a cropped pantsuit.

Clover Canyon

Pairing different gauges of stripes together, as well as with different patterns, is one way to make the trend less dominant and more approachable for other pieces in your wardrobe.

Altuzarra

Rethink the way you wear your stripes, and by that, I mean vertically or horizontally. It’s okay to even mix both together, but just be sure to do it in a fashion that matches color-wise to keep pairing it with other accessories most manageable, and as you start to feel more adventurous, you begin to add in one new color way of stripes!

[Image via LATimes.com]

Just when you thought polka dots had been done every which way, Juan Carlos Obando shows that they can look absolutely stunning for evening. Keep everything else neutral to pull off the look, keeping makeup light and accessories in neutral tones.