folk

Here’s a transitional print concept that spills over from Fall 2014, but with a lighter, more springlike color palette. One part floral, one part Ukrainian embroidery, with a dash of fairytale whimsy thrown in for good measure, these prints bring a fresh, bohemian take on a trend your Grandmother would likely adore. To keep things really authentic, make sure to include references to traditional embellishment techniques such as cross-stitch or beading.

Alice + Olivia, Valentino all via Style.com
Background print © Aaryn West

As a lover of all things bohemian and folksy, I pretty much died when I came across this collection of Ancient Ukrainian Embroidery over on the blog 50 Watts. I followed the link back to the original Picasa album, which is absolutely worth a few minutes of your time. I really don’t know which I prefer more – the bright, angular geos, or the dustier organic floral motifs? It’s so hard… I love them all!

Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West
Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West
Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West
Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West
Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West
Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West
Ukrainian Embroidery via Aaryn West

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