Patterns Galore!

Prior to shelter-in-place, I observed the general student body at SJSU and found that a large portion of our population gravitated towards patterns; rather than simple colors and wearing the “basic” t-shirt with a singular color. This totally made sense, as San Jose really capitalized on name brands and is huge in the streetwear side–so I wanted to document some of the most popular patterns that I saw on campus.

The first pattern that comes to mind is none other than the palm leaf or tropical leaf patterns! Although we often think of vacation brands like Tommy Bahama when we hear “palm leaf pattern”, this has also been recently featured on a variety of products in places like: Alo Yoga, American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, Levi’s, and more. This particular pattern is totally “summer-ready” and is often sported in the form of Hawaiian shirts, leggings, crop tops, swimsuits, and even hoodies. Part of the reason why people likely gravitate towards this look is because it gives people a summery feel that is not the traditional hibiscus flowers and coconuts. The palm leaf can actually look incredibly classy with a light blue backdrop, or even on a type of silky fabric, when worn correctly. I actually have yet to pick up something with this gorgeous, classy, but laid-back leaf pattern–to celebrate the summer weather, but inside my house. Thanks, quarantine!

The second pattern that I frequently saw on campus was particularly interesting, but it was cherubs. That’s right, those fat angel babies you’d often see in old European paintings. I believe this is a popular pattern for people trying to achieve the “artsy, cute” aesthetic. In other words, it makes the wearer seem like a total art geek or a “Kawaii” girl trending on the cuter, but elegant patterns. These are often seen on t-shirts to tight fitting, long sleeved crop tops. The pattern is often containing various cherubs floating through a blue sky, some shrouded by white, fluffy clouds–and others playing a harp. I’m not sure if this is borderline insulting for religious people–but it certainly achieves a cutesy look on a crop top or a bikini, or a oversized t-shirt for the guys.

The third and final pattern that I believe deserves mentioning is none other than roses. I genuinely thought the rose phase was passé but I guess these flowers, symbolic of romance, will never die? I’ve seen them all over both men and women clothes, whether its on some sexy lingerie or on a pocket t-shirt. My personal favorite way the rose pattern has been worn, is in the form of a spaghetti strap tank top, with a little bit of lace on the top. This is both grown-up, but girly and so fun for the springtime! However, as I stated previously–to be enjoyed inside my house.

All in all, I’m honestly such a fan of the patterns over the plain colored clothes. Why? Well, college is the time to really enjoy the graphic tees and designs before we enter the working world, where it’s all sweaters, cardigans, and less exciting outfits to really show our personality. Going forward, I hope to see more of a shift with seeing this kind of stuff in the workplace–as palm leaves and roses aren’t really that offensive–and really make the outfit more fun.