HOW TO WEAR IT :: TROPICAL PRINTS

If you happened to peek at the last issue of Rue, you may have noticed my infatuation with the tropical print trend. It speaks to my inner sunshine girl, and my totally amends my aversion to florals. Because somehow, tropical florals seem way edgier. Naturally, I've got to find a way to squeeze them into my wardrobe for summer...

I've been doing my homework, and I've decided there are clearly a few ways to do this. My favorite looks are paired with leopard and chambray, but I like the risky addition of lace too. And then, of course, there's just good old fashioned nudes, which look fabulous with a summer tan.

I'm a safety girl (name that movie!) 85% of the time. On an average day, I would totally rock something similar to this. Peek-a-boo floral bustier with high waisted shorts, covered with a chambray blouse (because I'm 30 and I can't just go traipsing around in a bustier) and leopard print sandals. Little pops of pattern, just enough to feel edgy. But the rest of the time?

I'd go bold and badass with a totally tropical print dress and for my 'lace'? This laser-cut McQueen jacket (this isn't reality, remember?), a pop of yellow in a skinny belt to tie in the tropical print Proenza Schouler clutch (that I've been lusting after for months) and some cheetah print kitten heels. Rowr. I know, I know. It's a little much. But that's the point, right?

How would you wear your tropical prints? I think I'm going to have to do some hunting for vintage tropicals for the wardrobe... those ones are always the best!

*inspiration images via street peeper, atlantic-pacific, stockholm streetstyle, elle