Snake Charmers

Spring '13 at Proenza Schouler, Gucci & Erdem - photo credit: Fairchild Photo Services

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Snakes suck. I mean, not literally (I don't think?) but let's face it: they're cold, and creepy and can kill you. And so, I've never really been a fan. Now that I think of it, I don't think I know anyone who likes them. The sad part? It's so not their fault. A little baby snake with its cute little baby snake diaper is probably pretty sweet and I'm fairly certain it doesn't actually want to hurt anyone. It's just that, if someone was coming at me with a pitchfork or a shovel, I'd probably lunge, too, wouldn't you?

As it turns out, most people are almost as afraid of snake prints as they are of the slithery beasts themselves. And I'm here to tell you, as a full-blown ophidiophobic (yes, I looked that up), that when it comes to python, it's just not that scary. In case you missed the memo, 2013 is the Year of the Snake - that's right, the year where we celebrate all things serpentine - so I can't think of a better time to face our fears head on. So how do you wear python print? Think of it as the leopard's slightly edgier younger sister, something that's good in small doses, say in a shoe or a bag or a statement blazer, to add an instant dose of cool to any solid ensemble. Want to go all out? Try pairing a neutral python with a summer floral or opt for snake print done up in a pretty pastel or bold bright.

Before you know it, you (and maybe even I) will be sssimply sssmitten for snakes. Well, the print at the very least... 

Hope you have a fantastic weekend!

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Pattern Play

1. Feather Chiffon Skirt, $24.90, Garage; 2. Bird Print Blouse, $27, Smart Set; 3. Bird Print Scarf, $17, Smart Set; 4. Sleeveless Crepe Blouse, $29.95, H&M; 5. Feather Scarf, $19.90, Dynamite

1. Geometric Cradle Bag, American Eagle Outfitters, $20; 2. Aztec Fringed Scarf, $12.90, Garage; 3. Dolman-Sleeved Tee, $22.90, Garage; 4. Dollhouse Wedges, $39.99, Journeys; 5. Tribal Bandeau Bikini, Aerie; 6. Geo Printed Tiered Skirt, Aeropostale; 7. Putamayo World Music CD: Mexico, $14.99, Green Earth; 8. Belt, Ardene

1. Preen Pixelated Peep-Toe, $175, ALDO; 2. Pencil Skirt, $59.95, H&M; 3. Kate & Mel Espadrilles, $59.95,Town Shoes; 4. Floral Printed Dress, $86, Cleo; 5. Printed Stretch Trousers, $17.95, H&M

1. Kristin Embossed Python Cross-Body Bag, $238, Coach; 2. Python iPad Case, $39, Danier; 3. Printed Blouse, $34.95, H&M; 4. Python Pumps, $110, Guess; 5. Python Bucket Bag, $52, Cleo; 6. Double-Weave Snake Print Pants, $99.95, Le Château

With all of the prints out there, we often avoid them altogether in case we get it wrong.  Well fear not, my budding print-cesses - once you've played with all of this spring's prettiest prints, you'll wonder why you didn't embrace pattern sooner.   Whether you wear these prints as an accent or go full-blown floral from tip to toe, make sure the print speaks to you.  After all, if nothing else, prints are highly personal.

Bird Prints - Let pics of our feathered friends add some interest to basic separates.  Think bird prints are a juvenile trend?  Even Christopher Bailey from Burberry incorporated owls into his Fall 2012 collection. Whoo-hoot!

Aztec Influences - Look to the eclectic prints of Mexico for an instant update to your spring wardrobe.  (Margaritas optional)

Pixelated Florals - Flowers go futuristic this spring, with oversized buds and graphic florals taking over.

Python Prints - The reptile trend is still going strong.  If you've already mastered neutral python prints, look for snake prints in bright colours or pastels to look extra current

Other big prints for spring?  Hawaiian/tropical florals, paisley (yes, it's back!) and tribal, African-inspired patterns.  Stripes, as always, are still totally chic.  Glad to see some things never change!