This season, be the curator of your own wardrobe by taking artful, graphic looks out for a spin.
Fashion — Feb 28
Art and fashion hold many parallels. For one, dressing each day is a form of self-expression, just as the act of sculpting or painting can be. And since the inspiration behind a collection often derives from the art world, a wardrobe can also take cues. Liken yourself to a canvas where color-blocked pieces and vivid accessories are the supplies. Here, we break down styling methods or little “masterclasses,” if you will, to spark endless creative outfit ideas.
Color-Blocking 101
In art: This technique is an exploration of different solid hues placed together comparatively. Recall Yves Saint Laurent's famed "Mondrian" dress, which took inspiration from Dutch painter Piet Mondrian. Then there's abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, who also used blurred blocks of color in his most well-known work.
In
dressing: Color-blocking had a major moment with the mod subculture in the '60s, and still makes a striking statement today. Wear various colors together via bold separates or all-in-one with a punchy dress, as seen with our Olivia Palermo Collection.
Mixed Media
In art: A term used to describe works composed of a combination of several materials or any mixture of things. Think the cubist collaging oeuvre of Pablo Picasso, popularized in the early 20th century.
In
dressing: When various textures are worn together, the juxtaposition of different fabrics truly elevates a look. Try pink tweeds against smooth leather culottes or a patent bag draped over a fully woven dress. The final result? Visual interest at its finest.
Pattern Player
In art: The repetition of particular arrangements is quite frequent in contemporary art, especially with leading figure Damien Hirst who creates kaleidoscopic designs. Whether altering geometric shapes or creating an optical illusion, pattern art is as clever as it is distinctive.
In
dressing: To achieve the best print on print display, wear two patterns together that share similar shades. Neutrals are foolproof as are beautiful mixed florals that guarantee you'll pull off the look.
Lines & Dots
In art: Russian painter and art theorist Wassily Kandinsky once said: “everything in art starts from a dot.” Fashion has a similar analogy where each garment begins with a sketch, and later a single piece of thread. One of the most viral examples of polka dots in art comes from conceptualist Yayoi Kusama, and with lines, it's the fluorescent installations of Dan Flavin.
In
dressing: Stripes and dots may cycle in and out of trend reports, but these simple patterns will always be en vogue. Wear various sizes of the shapes together or get experimental by combining dots with crafty plaids.
'Composition in Blue, Red and Yellow,' Piet Mondrian, 1921.
Image Credit: Getty Images
'Bowl of Fruit, Violin and Bottle,' Pablo Picasso, 1914
Image Credit: © Tate, London / Succession Picasso / DACS 2020
'Contemplation,' Damien Hirst, 2007
Image Credit: Michael Bowles/Getty Images for Sotheby's
'With All My Love for the Tulips, I Pray Forever,' Yayoi Kusama, 2011
Image Credit: Getty Images
'Untitled,' Dan Flavin, 2007.
Image Credit: Getty Images
Fashion
— Jul 20
The perfect look for seasonal nuptials.
Fashion
— Jul 02
An elegant base.
Fashion
— May 27
Hit the sand and surf with style.
Fashion
— May 06
Haute handbags with verve.
Fashion
— Apr 20
Laundry day became more chic.
Fashion
— Apr 01
Sip in style.