Why cartoon prints make great fashion
Some time back, as part of a work assignment, I got the chance to review and write about Mario Miranda's prints that veteran designer Rajesh Pratap Singh was incorporating in his limited edition t-shirt collection. That was when I got drawn into the charm of cartoon-y prints on clothes.
There’s Quirk Box setting the Indian runways on fire for a few seasons now and in the international fashion landscape, it is difficult to forget Moschino’s delightful display of cartoon prints a few seasons back. Within the more affordable price points, there’s Chumbak that has gathered a great fan-following with its quirky motifs. It definitely seems there are takers for such fashion.
Personally, I am not a fan of bright colours. I am not a prints fan. However, when I came across these Mario Miranda prints on scarves and bags during a recent trip to Goa (pics are flooding Instagram), it took me less than 5 minutes to decide I need them in my wardrobe.
Here’s are some observations about why cartoons make great fashion:
They are great conversation starters: When you wear these prints, you suddenly become easy to talk to. It becomes easy to break the ice by spinning discussions around them. Personally, I’d put my money on one of these prints as a style choice for a date to exchange those awkward discussions around weather or traffic for an engaging talk on pop culture.
They reflect your pop culture preferences: The prints on your outfit actually say something about you. Whether you are wearing a Wonder Woman crown on your tee, a Mario Miranda print on life in Goa or a generic artsy print it shows who you are and what you’ve learnt to love.
They add colour to your look: Most cartoon prints come in bright doses of colours, although there are a few monochrome versions or even line drawings. If you are a lover of colours, throw them on for adding some fun elements in bright hues.
They offer a great range of styling options: These prints are easy to control, crank up or down as per your wishes. Pair them with more prints or go easy with some elements toned down with a monochromatic outfit as per your convenience.
The cartoon prints are not really an on-trend phenomena. It’s more of a ‘hey let’s look a little different today’ kind of a statement. And, as far as I am given to believe, there’s a print for everybody - from the geeky nerd to the fancy fashionista.
