Prints - Breaking All the Rules

Photo by Lee Oliveira
Ok, so I like to look at prints and I like to see them on other people, but on me, I'm not so sure.  I am still finding it very difficult moving beyond stripes.  But, it is hard to deny the impact prints are having on me lately.  
Photo by The Sartorialist
Photo by Lee Oliveira 
Photo by The Sartorialist
Prints were all over the Spring 2011 runways, so it's no surprise that they are being worn everywhere now.  
Image via Fashionnews.com
What I have noticed most about the prints being worn now is how there are simply no rules anymore.  Wear your prints anyway you like to because everyone else is and guess what?  It seems to be working!  Abstract, tribal or  animal, plaid, tartan, gingham and Liberty are all being worn with block colours, stripes, paisley, florals, polka dots, chevron, you name it.  
 Photo by The Sartorialist
 Photo by Lee Oliveira
Photo by The Sartorialist
It's all about mixing it up, which I think is great because let's face it, most of the rules we follow in fashion came about in the days when there was no personal style per se.  Strict etiquette ruled when and wear we wore what we wore.  Rules such as when to wear hats and gloves, is it black tie or white tie, green and blue should never be seen, always match your handbag with your shoes and only black should be worn to a funeral. 
Image via The Man Repeller
Watching street style from my favorite cafè or via the lens of the many wonderful street style photographers such as Lee Oliveira and Scott Schuman or Vanessa Jackman, has taught me much, but there is one thing I have learned that I see over and over again and that is that personal style is truly about being yourself.  I've said it before and I will keep on saying it because it is so true!  What you wear is an extension of yourself, it says so much about who you are, and no, I'm not talking about wearing labels. I'm talking about dressing for yourself, using your wardrobe to project an image that says "here I am!" 

For those of us out there who are willing to take that risk you will discover a sense of freedom and individuality that will spur you on each day to keep at it.  Take solace in the knowledge that the rules no longer apply, that you have the freedom to wear your clothes however you like and you will feel an amazing sense of self when you do.
Kisses!
Heidi