Hello Paper Dolls!
In honor of our new floral themed window displays we decided to do a post on the history of the floral print. Throughout history flowers held deep meaning and symbolism which people wanted to incorporate into their clothing.
Floral prints first made their appearance in 12th century East Central Asia with a square panel embroidered with silk thread showing flowers, birds and animals.
In China, flowers were woven into stunning, brightly colored brocades or created in detailed embroideries. Symbolic imagery featured heavily in Chinese textiles, the aesthetic being bold and bright.
In Japan, the chrysanthemum featured heavily in textile motifs, particularly in kimono fabrics. It’s naturally long, slender petals radiated similarly to the sun’s rays, and so the flower became synonymous with the sun, as well as a symbol of the royal family.
India is also home to a rich history of not only textiles, but also ornate and dazzling floral designs. With this in mind, it is unsurprising that European traders were eager to bring these rich and beautiful pieces back with them.
During industrial revolution, when machine printed chintz could be produced en mass and in the early 20th century, off the rack floral print dresses became hugely popular.
At the start of the Victorian era, the art of floral designs on fabrics had become a sign of elegance and distinction. As the Aesthetic, Arts & Crafts, Anglo-Japanese and Art-Nouveau movements took their place in modern design, floral patterns followed. From detailed woven tapestries to finely hand-painted wall papers, floral motifs had claimed a purpose in all forms of design.
By the 1400’s and 1500’s, floral's began to spread globally as European traders started purchasing the extremely ornate and detailed fabrics. These textiles would fetch very high prices, and subsequently, were considered a status symbol in Europe.
Come down to the shop and see our new floral windows as well as retro reproduction and vintage fashions in a floral print for both men and women! Or find some great floral dresses in our Etsy store!
Sources:
http://startupfashion.com/fashion-archives-floral-fabrics
https://islandwindowcoverings.wordpress.com/2013/06/15/flower-power-a-brief-history-of-inspiring-fabrics
