We’re just a stone throw away from the beginning of a new year. In the spirit of being optimistic, we’re diving into a fruit bowl of bright and bold prints. What better way to liven up any summer event?

Yes, while Omicron and La Niña are threatening our holidays, going out – albeit safely – is still very much on the agenda, and so is party dressing. Here’s what’s new and cool in the land of bold prints.

THE SCARAB DRESS, ANNA ANTAL, SHOP SIMILAR. UNREAL! EXCLUSIVE SUNGLASSES, LE SPECS, SHOP NOW. PRIMAVERA FLORENCE EARRINGS, RELIQUIA COLLECTIVE, SHOP SIMILAR. VINTAGE CHRISTIAN DIOR BRACELET, CONSTANTINA VINTAGE, SHOP SIMILAR. BANJI FOREST PHOENIX HEELS, TONY BIANCO, SHOP NOW

LOOK 1

Reacquainting yourself with the ritual of dressing up is so important! Long silhouettes and vibrant evening kaftans that strike a balance of being dramatic without pretension are in this season. A full length dress is no longer limited to the red carpet or black tie events. Look for jersey velvets, lurex, crepe silks that shape the body without too much cling. Like this scarab print dress by newcomer designer Anna Antal who designed the gown with the intention of making a glamorous entrance. She succeeded.

THE SCARAB DRESS, ANNA ANTAL, SHOP SIMILAR. UNREAL! EXCLUSIVE SUNGLASSES, LE SPECS, SHOP NOW. PRIMAVERA FLORENCE EARRINGS, RELIQUIA COLLECTIVE, SHOP SIMILAR. VINTAGE CHRISTIAN DIOR BRACELET, CONSTANTINA VINTAGE, SHOP SIMILAR. BANJI FOREST PHOENIX HEELS, TONY BIANCO, SHOP NOW

LOOK 2

Express yourself with a floral print that says escapism – we are all well overdue for our share this summer season. Whether it’s tropical, provincial or a resort-like destination you’re seeking, there’s everything from maximal to micro printed dresses to compliment. Don’t forget the finishing touches, like these mini-chandelier drop earrings, and gold chain high heel mules to take you from dinner to dancing.

GIEVRA BLOOM CREPE PLUME DRESS, BIANCA SPENDER, SHOP NOW. VALENTINA EARRINGS, VALET STUDIO, SHOP SIMILAR. SANDALS WITH CHAIN DETAIL, SCANLAN THEODORE, SHOP NOW. THE MILA BAG, BRIE LEON, SHOP NOW

LOOK 3

Tropical shades of palm print green and tangerine packaged in a sun dress isa style you’ll wear for several summers ahead. The key to striking the right balance between your day-to-after-dark look sometimes lays with the accessories you choose. Dial up the glamour with eye-popping, colourful bangles – no one does it better than Dinosaur Designs.

I’m feeling in a match-my-heels-and-handbag mood. This season’s fun, citrusy orange shade, as seen here with Brie Leon mini patent handbag and Scanlan Theodore strappy heels, is everything.

TROPICAL PRINT DRESS IN TANGERINE, SHoP NOW, LEATHER KNOT SANDALS, SHOP NOW, SCANLAN THEODORE. RETURN ECLIPSE BANGLE, SHOP SIMILAR, RESIN SATURN BANGLE, SHOP SIMILAR, DINOSAUR DESIGNS. THE MINI CAMILLE BAG, BRIE LEON, SHOP NOW

LOOK 4

If you prefer to ease into prints, opt for a blouse with a water-coloured floral finish, like this top by Ginger and Smart. It radiates romance but when teamed with flamingo pink pants, I can’t help think I’m in a Slim Arrons poolside society portrait.

AQUARELLE TOP, GINGER & SMART, SHOP NOW. LOLA PANTS, SHEIKE, SHOP NOW. RESIN TRIM BELT, SCANLAN THEODORE, SHOP NOW. OSCAR DE LA RENTA EARRINGS, FASHION ALTA MODA, HIRE NOW

Fashion Director: Aileen Marr
Photography: Sean Slattery

Hair & Makeup: Desiree Wise
Fashion Assistant: Kelly Harty
Model: Maise / Priscillas

LOOKS WE LOVE:

LEO LIN, TROPICAL BUSTIER DRESS, $799, SHOP NOW

SZADE RECYCLED, MABO SUNGLASSES IN GRADED COCA LIME, $79, SHOP NOW

AJE, EAU ASYMMETRIC DROP EARRING CUFF, $255, SHOP NOW

PACO RABANNE, PIXEL SMALL CHAINMAIL-MESH SHOULDER BAG, $1,400, SHOP NOW

AWAKE MODE, ELEA HANDBAG, SHOP NOW

AJE, PELICANO CITRUS BLOOM RACER ASYMMETRIC TIERED DRESS, $595, SHOP NOW

ROMANCE WAS BORN, FLORAL GARDEN PRINT DRESS, $1,200, SHOP NOW

ZIMMERMANN, POSTCARD PUFF SLEEVE MINI DRESS, $1,100, SHOP NOW