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Style It Up: Ikat Print

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April 3, 2014

Ikat is all over the spring runaways and in storefronts everywhere.  So what is it and how can you use it?  It’s not as hard as you might think to work this bold design into your daily wardrobe.  Using these tips you can keep it simple or do it up big. Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to experiment with this adventurous style.

The Lowdown

Ikat design is a tribal print from a variety of South East Asian and South American cultures.  It is largely made up of triangular shapes and is typically seen in vibrant shades.  Most often it is used on scarves, headbands, handbags and now, with this season, everything else! Find the print on shirts, skirts and shoes – just to name a few.  Lately you can find it in designs that move beyond the standard triangle and into waves and more intricate patterns.  It all depends on the maker of the Ikat. All that matters is that the colors and design speak to you.  That makes it easier to wear often and keeps it from being a one hit closet wonder.

How Do You Wear It?

You have two options with a pattern like Ikat. First, use Ikat to accentuate a basic look whether it is a casual day or weekend outfit or at the office.  Either way working with Ikat accessories makes an outfit pop.  Second, take a single Ikat piece like a skirt or dress and create your look from there.  The choice is yours.

Accessorize

Ikat accessories are the easiest and safest way to wear this print.  Find an Ikat print on a purse, pair of shoes, scarf or headband in a color that favors you and brings a smile to your face.

  1. Layer an Ikat scarf over a basic white t-shirt and pair it with a pair of slim pixie style khaki pants, boyfriend or skinny jeans or mix it in with crisp, tailored trouser style denim.  The neutral background shows off the print and color of the scarf.  The same applies for wearing an Ikat scarf or headband in your hair.
  2. Bright orange, blue or red Ikat print Ked-style kicks look pretty sweet when paired with a set of navy or black shorts or mini skirt.
  3. Add an Ikat design clutch or tote to your weekend look or date night for extra flair on a classic combo of white button down and midi skirt or a solid color wrap or sundress.

Ikat All Over

If you love this tribal trend then let it out!  Find a simple style dress like a wrap dress or pencil skirt in Ikat and keep the rest of the look neutral.  Incorporating heavy, tribal-style jewelry is overkill.  Look for small, elegant pieces in one metal or wood or leather to keep it clean.

Shop this set at Polyvore

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