Wearing Patchwork: A Guide to Being Fashionable

From catwalks to the wardrobes of fashionable girls, the patchwork style is becoming more and more prominent. In denim, on a quilted jacket, or on a simple shirt, the flagship print of the seventies leaves no one indifferent. But while its bold style is applauded, it is not always easy to know how to make it your own. Are you a fan of vintage-inspired clothing with an artisanal touch? Do you want to wear patchwork, but don’t want to make a fashion faux pas? Then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will take a look at the patchwork trend: the colorful print that promotes upcycling and craftsmanship.

What you need to know about the Patchwork trend

Characteristics of the patchwork style

Once known for its old-fashioned style attributed to old quilts, the patchwork style has never been very successful, at least in the fashion world. But as we know, vintage spirit is totally in vogue, which gives credit to all these past inspirations, including patchwork. Today, the print is brought up to date in a more contemporary version.

So, how do you recognize patchwork?

Patchwork is nothing more than a sewing technique that consists of assembling squares of fabrics of different colors and patterns to create a blanket, jacket, jeans, top, and even accessories. In terms of style, there isn’t really one, although the trend is more towards light colors, pastels, or floral patterns (inspired by the seventies).

The importance of detail in the patchwork trend

Patchwork has redeemed itself. Today, clothing made with this mishmash of fabrics is sold as unique, artisanal pieces whose craftsmanship is recognized. Because yes, patchwork is above all a technique. And brands know it. They strive to create made-to-measure pieces, choose noble materials to produce even more exceptional pieces, luxury pieces that are intended to stand the test of time.

Why wear patchwork?

There are several reasons why you might want to adopt the patchwork trend. The most obvious one is that it is a fashionable style, to the point that this type of clothing is elevated to the status of a new object of desire for fashionistas. So, if you want to be fashionable, you should turn to patchwork. But there are other, less “superficial” reasons that might appeal to you. Among them:

• Investing in a timeless piece: if you are looking for a meaningful, high-quality piece with beautiful artisanal finishes, patchwork will not disappoint you. As mentioned earlier, today’s patchwork clothing is decidedly high-end. Brands like LSJ Studio or Jess Meany excel in the design of patchwork clothing. The jackets, cropped tops, and coats they produce are worthy of a goldsmith’s work. The pieces are designed and assembled by hand with the utmost respect for the materials. The result is simply divine!

• Having style: patchwork is fun and colorful. With its mix & match of fabrics, this print has a unique touch. By wearing it, you ensure that you have a style that few others dare to embrace. Nothing better to stand out and assert who you are!

• Supporting ecological values: patchwork is also based on the principle of upcycling: reusing unused materials to transform them into something new: clothing, accessories, jewelry, etc. To wear patchwork, you can buy new from committed and artisanal brands, turn to second-hand (thrift stores, online platforms, or grandma’s attic), or even create your own garment!

Which patchwork pieces should you adopt in your wardrobe?

The Quilted Jacket

Coming straight from across the Channel, it is the favorite overshirt of the English. But the trend quickly crossed the border, as the quilted jacket has become THE trendy jacket of the autumn/winter season in the past two years.

By quilted jacket, we literally mean a quilted jacket. It is appreciated for its lightness and comfort. When worn, it gives a chic yet casual look. And even though it has been seen a lot in khaki or black shades, it’s now the turn of colors to make their entrance, and under the patchwork trend. Yes, for spring or the upcoming autumn season, the quilted jacket will be worn in a more folk style, showcasing the combination of pretty colorful fabrics.

Denim

Denim is a timeless staple in our wardrobes. To wear it with style and a touch of originality, there is now the patchwork jeans trend. It is characterized by patches of different shapes and colors of denim. It is deconstructed to create a characterful pair of jeans.

And as mentioned in our article on the three vintage jeans trends of 2022, patchwork jeans are a strong piece that contrasts perfectly with a basic white top. By opting for this combo, style is guaranteed.

How to dress with Patchwork style?

Wearing patchwork by playing it subtly

Do you like the mix & match inspiration, but prefer to go easy on it? Then, dissociation is a good option. Choose a patchwork piece that catches your eye: a jacket, jeans, knitwear, skirt, coat, handbag, and combine it with the rest of your outfit, which is more sober, even monochrome. It’s a clever way to highlight your colorful garment.

Daring the total patchwork look

Are you a true fan of the vintage folk look and not afraid of total looks? Then you can combine several pieces in the same print, such as a shirt and jeans in the same tone or a jacket over a patchwork skirt. You can also wear a jumpsuit that serves as a single piece. Be careful to master the art of layering, and to avoid overloading your outfit, opt for similar shades rather than contrasting patchworks. Unlike the Color Block trend, here we focus on similar tones.

So, are you tempted to wear patchwork? As you can see, the patchwork trend is not a clothing style that suits everyone, but if you are drawn to bohemian folk inspiration, have a taste for handmade pieces, and love colors, chances are you will fall for one of the pieces with a patchwork print.

➡️ To complete your folk look, discover our article on the bohemian dress, an iconic piece from the 70s!

Featured image: © Sandra Semburg