Seeing Patterns in Summer ‘23

You might be seeing a pattern trending this warm season. Actually, you’ll probably be seeing countless patterns everywhere you look. Whether you find yourself on the beach or interning in a big city, there’s no doubt a printed midi skirt or tessellated bikini top will pass you by. Spring and summer seasons mean brighter days and vibrant stylings, so why not lean into the current, colorful trend? To get you started, below are a few recommendations for donning this summer's decorative prints.

Bold Bottoms

If you’re looking to sport a more outstanding style, there are endless options for shorts and trousers made to fit your bold personality. Checkerboard print has been a popular choice in the last year, but other prints pulled from comic books, world maps and ancient pottery decoration can speak more to your own style and interests. Choosing a print that represents something within your interests serves as a visual guide to your persona. On the other hand, what’s cuter than a pair of 90s-esque shorts with an adorable patchwork assortment of fruits?

Mosaic Moment

Become a walking gallery by mimicking the intricate details of a majolica clay tile with delicately-detailed tops that draw from artistic movements. Whether it be a fine-line pattern that matches the gem-covered tabletop of a café in the summertime or a 19th-century oil painting by Monet, you truly can’t go wrong here. Pair a delicate mesh top featuring Van Gogh’s sunflowers with a pair of light wash boyfriend jeans or a white mini skirt for warmer afternoon walks sure to turn heads.

Bright bathing suits

Color-blocked and minimal black bikinis have had their moment in the sun, but it’s time for the tides to shift towards some more eye-catching beachwear. Lush floral prints and twisting paisley patterns are reaching the far corners of the fashion world, making their way onto the runways of Agua Bendita, Zimmerman and Ulla Johnson. Even if you don’t plan on visiting the beach this summer, you can still pair tops like the one below with any summer fit. Tile-like patterns are especially popular along the European coast and particularly in Spain, where the original style of majolica was developed on the island of Majorca. A majolica bikini top pairs wonderfully with a crochet mini skirt and a knitted straw bag, with a hat and cold drink to match. A one-piece suit is also a great alternative to a traditional bodysuit while allowing you the freedom to drop trou and dive headfirst into the water (if it’s calling your name).

Flowing florals

Floral midi skirts are drawing everyone’s gaze this spring. There’s something about a floral pattern on a lightweight skirt that lets you know summer is approaching, and it’s time to start admiring the blooms popping up in the meantime. You can opt for a fuller skirt to tune into your prairie style or a sleeker, darker-hued design for evening drinks at a swanky outdoor bar. Whatever speaks to you, there’s a wide range of affordable midi skirts sure to put a spring in your step this season.

At our core, Rouge Magazine is about inspiring readers to dress boldly. With Summer 2023 approaching at full speed, now is the perfect time to work your creative eye and add your own artistic touch to your outfits. By playing with various patterns and mixing prints you’ve never tried before, you can head into the season with your personality on full display. If nothing else, you’ll spark good conversation and intrigue onlookers with your attention to detail and personal flair.

Photos from left to right / kikiboulevard, @Tulipsfordinner, FARM Rio

Written by Lily Baldwin

Copyedited by Mary Renfroe

Graphics by Sophie Baker