Australian designers are embracing big, bold, and unapologetic prints this season, turning everyday outfits into wearable art. From vibrant tropical blooms to psychedelic swirls, statement patterns are everywhere—on dresses, swimwear, and even tailored suits.
Whether you’re a maximalist at heart or a minimalist dipping your toes into print, this guide will show you how to wear Australia’s most eye-catching patterns with confidence.
Ready to make a splash? Let’s dive into the print revolution!
**1. Tropical Florals (The Aussie Classic)
🌺 Why It’s Everywhere:
- Perfect for beach-to-bar dressing
- Seen on Zimmermann, Matteau, and Spell
- Pairs effortlessly with tan leather sandals
👗 How to Wear: A midi wrap dress with block heels
**2. Abstract Brush Strokes (Wearable Art)
🎨 Designer Spotlight:
- Aje’s painterly silk dresses
- Bec & Bridge’s watercolor prints
- Gorman’s artist collaborations
🖌️ Styling Tip: Keep accessories minimal—let the print shine
**3. Animal Prints (Beyond Leopard)
🐆 2024’s Fresh Take:
- Zebra stripes in neon (Dion Lee)
- Snakeskin on swimwear (Triangl)
- Croco-embossed leather (Mimco)
👠 Edge It Up: Pair with chunky black boots
**4. Graphic Checks (Retro Meets Modern)
♟️ Why It Works:
- Oversized gingham (think picnic-chic)
- Bold windowpane suits (for power dressing)
- Color-clashed tartans
🧥 Top Pick: A checkered blazer with denim
**5. Psychedelic Swirls (70s Revival)
🌀 Groovy Details:
- Op-art hypnotic prints (Alpha60)
- Tie-dye gone luxe (Bassike’s organic cotton)
- Kaleidoscopic knits (Camilla)
🕶️ Complete the Look: Round sunnies and platform sandals
**6. Native Botanicals (First Nations Art)
🌿 Cultural Connection:
- Collaborations with Indigenous artists
- Wattleseed motifs (Liandra Swim)
- Desert flower prints (PaaMano)
🙏 Important: Buy from authentic Indigenous-owned brands
**7. Stripes (But Make It Unexpected)
〰️ New Twists:
- Asymmetrical stripes (Christopher Esber)
- Rainbow nautical (Double Rainbouu)
- Pinstripes with a curve (SIR.)
⛵ Beach-Ready: Wide-leg stripe pants + bikini top
**8. Polka Dots (Super Sized)
⚫ Why Go Big:
- Playful but sophisticated (see Aje)
- Head-to-toe dots for drama
- Contrasting colors (black/white or pink/green)
🎀 Sweet Touch: Add a silk scarf in the same print
**9. Digital Mash-Ups (Futuristic Prints)
💻 Tech-Meets-Fashion:
- Glitch prints (Dylan Cooper)
- AI-generated patterns (new-gen designers)
- Pixelated florals
👽 Style Hack: Pair with metallic accessories
**10. Folkloric Embroidery (Global Inspiration)
🧵 Artisan Details:
- Mexican floral embroidery (Rowie)
- Indian block prints (Suku)
- Balinese batik (Spell)
✈️ Wanderlust Vibes: Layer with a denim jacket
How to Wear Bold Prints Like an Aussie
✔ Balance Is Key: Pair a loud top with neutral bottoms (or vice versa)
✔ Color Clash Carefully: Stick to 1-2 additional colors max
✔ Scale Matters: Petite? Opt for smaller repeats. Tall? Go oversized
Top Australian Print Designers
| Brand | Signature Print | Price Range |
| Zimmermann | Romantic florals | $$$ |
| Gorman | Artist collabs | $$ |
| Liandra Swim | Indigenous patterns | $$ |
| Double Rainbouu | Retro stripes | $$ |
Print Mixing 101
- Same Color Family: e.g., navy stripes + sky blue florals
- Vary Scales: Tiny polka dots with giant checks
- Anchor with Neutrals: White tee under a crazy-print blazer
Conclusion
Statement prints are the easiest way to inject personality into your wardrobe. Australian designers lead the charge with technicolor visions, cultural storytelling, and fearless combinations.
Start Small: Try a printed scarf or tote before going head-to-toe.
Disclaimer:
Dry-clean only for delicate prints. Some artisan designs require handwashing.