Melbourne's best statement print fashion

Banish Melbourne black and drape yourself in bright colours and wild prints this spring.

Archival designer prints

For retro fashion with an emphasis on luxe, head to Reina. All pieces are one-off archival gems so pop into the boutique to see what you can score. It might be a hibiscus number to fit your ‘90s revival, or a classic kaleidoscopic Pucci print. For more rare and high-end treasures, visit dot COMME. On our wishlist – Yohji Yamamoto’s psychedelic marbled pants and yarn-dyed ‘chains and chrysanthemums’ print.

Painterly prints

For canvas-worthy prints, look no further than local ethical fashion legend Elk. The latest print we’ve gone gaga for is the ‘Kayra’ range. A black base splashed with vibrant swirling paint strokes, the maxi party dress demands a moment. The pieces are made in a silky, floaty and biodegradable viscose fabric.

Deadstock checks

Kuwaii creates timeless designs right here in Melbourne, with a focus on sustainability. That means quality craftsmanship, low volume runs, limited edition prints and trans-seasonal staples. The breezy mint checked Orchis top from the local brand’s latest collection has caught our eye. A cute crop with a twisted detail, it’s made from a Japanese designer deadstock silk and cotton blend. And it’s reversible!

Technicolour dream prints

Vow Studio’s small-batch statement pieces prove that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to be beige. Lean into the dopamine dressing with the colourful and whimsical playground print denim jacket. The Melbourne brand’s unique aesthetic shines through in this structured jacket. Only 30 pieces were made, so you know you’ll have an (almost) unique look.

Gingham dresses

Our gingham obsession is going nowhere this spring. If you prefer something sleek, Lumi’s Japanese gingham Mirabella dress is bias-cut to drape over your curves.

Handmade in Melbourne

After opening on International Women's Day in 2020, Queen Victoria Women's Centre Shop has been a hub for the city's best female and non-binary artists and designers. Love quirky textiles? Togetherness Design’s dreamy dresses, skirts and even PJs will have you swooning. The rambling florals and bold geometric prints are illustrated and sewn right here in Melbourne using mostly natural fibres.

All eyes on you

Prints don’t get much more eye-popping than this iris print shirt from Incu. Designed by iconic British label JW Anderson, the long sleeve top features a graphic digital eye print and exposed seams for an edgy look. Made from a sheer mesh, it’s guaranteed to draw attention. Layer it up with a bright tank or a cute bralette.

Famous poppy prints

It may not be groundbreaking, but flowing florals are a tried-and-true formula for spring. Especially when it comes to Marimekko’s iconic Unikko poppy print. Designed in 1964, today the iconic flower represents creativity. Wear it on the lovely lightweight ‘Janetta Pieni’ dress. This drapey midi ties up with an adorable bow at the back. Or get through the transeasonal chill with a cosy vivid pink sweatshirt.

Update a classic

The breton stripe tee is a timeless wardrobe staple. But if you want to bring it into 2022, update your look with a little colour-blocking action. Seek out Comme des Garçons in Somerset Place for the perfect primary-coloured basic. The play long sleeve t-shirt has yellow striped sleeves on a blue striped bodice. With, of course, the iconic CdG heart logo.