FORGET galleries full of Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh masterpieces – this season, art is hanging in wardrobes rather than on walls.
Designers like Basso & Brooke, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana and Marni all splashed paint-style prints across the catwalks, making artwork a key trend for spring/summer.
Basso & Brooke even emphasised the trend by parading models down the runway with qu
irky art palette hats on their heads.
There's a gallery of different artsy patterns to peruse on the high street, from bold paint-effect splashes to muted watercolours.
Coleen McLoughlin recently plumped for a painted floral Balenciaga work of art for a girly day at the races.
You don't need a qualification in fine art to appreciate this trend. Ditch the dull museums and peruse fashionable art prints on the high street and you'll be sure to look like a masterpiece this summer.
Prints are all-important for this trend and, just like art, it's all down to your individual taste.
Wish-washy watercolour prints are perfect for chic daytime summer ensembles.
Keep the colours to a pale and pastel palette for maximum romantic impact.
For an edgier look, head for brighter, bolder prints in jerseys; opt for cotton fabrics to keep the look dressed down.
Dramatic dresses are really where the artistic trend hits a masterstroke.
Looking for a statement dress to turn heads? Art's where it's at.
From voluminous prom dresses to sleek silk shifts, the paint-style print works on any frock shape or length. On the catwalks, Chloe showed figure-hugging mini paint-smear dresses while, as a contrast, Zac Posen took on the trend with waterfall-like, long, flowing gowns.
If you're not keen on dipping your fingers into the fashion art palette, you can still work the look with choice accessories.
Keep your clothing to neutral colours like black and navy and just one statement art accessory addition will make your outfit pop with colour.
Don't make an exhibition of yourself. The arty trend is a busy one, so it's essential your look is styled the right way to avoid looking like an art attack mess.
Follow these trend tips to create your own fashionable portrait.
A picture tells a thousand words. Avoid accessories like big jewellery, bags or hats and let your arty fashions do all the talking.
If you want the look to work for your autumn/winter wardrobe, pick out bolder art prints in monochromes, hot pinks or midnight blues.
Dainty shoes won't cut it with bold statement dresses. Head for chunky platforms in a block colour.
Busy patterns like art prints are great for disguising lumps and bumps, so if you're feeling less than svelte, go for floor-length styles.
Whether you're a fan of romantic watercolour or modern graphic prints, keep your hair and make-up simple and understated to show off your arty masterpiece to the max.
The full article contains 487 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
