Paisleys bloom this spring

The small intricate paisley prints that originated in the looms of ancient India and Persia have evolved over time. These much-celebrated prints are back in vogue again, and international designers like Stella Mccartney, J.W. Anderson and Emilio Pucci have generously used this motif in their Spring/summer 2012 collections. From time to time many designers have used paisley prints in various combinations to rev up their traditional and Western outfits.

Designer Preeti Ghai says that paisley prints have been in vogue for quite sometime but they are making their way back like never before. She says, “You can easily find many international designers taking inspiration from the same and designing clothes around the iconic print. The best thing about paisley print is that it is suitable for all ages. Moreover, one can use it in saris, suits, shirts, skirts, scarves, dresses etc. This season, paisley prints can be found in everything; from pajamas to classic suits, dresses, jumpsuits and long flowing dresses, they are everywhere.”

The twisted teardrop or ambi prints are woven using gold or silver threads on silk or other high quality textiles for weddings and special occasions, says designer Pam Mehta. She says, “Paisley is very popular with French artisans and also American fashion designers, as they are universally considered trendy. The print has evolved over the years with use of two or more techniques to adapt it onto textiles, be it part woven and then textured with embroidery and even print. Psychedelic interpretations of paisley are finding their way into the designer’s inspiration i nter nat i o nal l y, whereas in Pakistan and India its traditional avatars are highlighted with the use of zari and dabka.”