Prancing around in a print that dates back centuries may just be the dose of romance and whimsy your spring wardrobe is calling for. Toile de Jouy originated in 1760, but now is cropping up amongst designers both established and up-and-coming, making toile the 2019 spring fashion trend worth investing in. After all, if it survived more than two centuries already, surely it'll make it the next two.
The delicate pattern features thinly sketched landscapes and figures, usually in a color scheme of blue and white, though iterations in other hues like red are common as well. And although traditionally the print is something along the lines of a simple pastoral scene, today designers are finding ways to put their own quirky spins on the classic.
You may recognize the modern take on Toile de Jouy from key Spring/Summer 2019 runway collections that showed in September of last year — most notably, New York-based line Tibi. Founder and Creative Director Amy Smilovic sent models out swathed in the historic pattern in cheerful palettes of purple and blue in fresh silhouettes like a gathered-front midi skirt, resort-ready button down, and other wearable separates. "We're always thinking of ways to make something classic with an abundance of heritage into something modern," Smilovic tells TZR. "For Spring 2019, the idea was very much about how we merge pieces of our world seamlessly; heritage with modernity. What we love about Toile is that it tells a story."
Tibi Spring/Summer 2019
"The story of our toile combines the softness of nature with the realities of city life; birds with coffee cups, and flowers with the Brooklyn Bridge," notes Smilovic. "The beauty around us combined with the reality of our busy urban lives; this is the life we live. Why not completely acknowledge it and make into something great?"
Ahead, shop more Toile de Jouy pieces to wear this spring and see street style looks to help give your wardrobe a mood of modern romance.
If you're particularly smitten with Toile de Jouy, then consider wearing it head to toe. A matching blouse and wide-leg slacks evoke a pajama dressing-inspired look, which is always a stylish direction to go in. Finish off the combination with a pair of strappy sandals or low-heel pumps for a stylish soirée-ready look in less than 30 seconds.
Acne Studios Spring/Summer 2019
Jonny Johansson's riff on Toile de Jouy for Acne Studios felt in line with the brand's irreverent aesthetic. The pattern was splashed onto everything from leggings to sheer tops and often worn with other printed separates in contrasting colors.
Camille Charrière's Toile de Jouy pants add excitement to classic staples, like her shearling bomber and cardigan. If you're planning to try the trend with trousers, too then simply style them with solid neutral layers for a quick and easy spring look.
Tibi Spring/Summer 2019
Contrast a dramatic Toile-print frock with a menswear-inspired layer, like an oversized vest.
Sofie Valkiers epitomizes modern romance with Toile de Jouy prints punctuated by a wide leather belt. The soft pattern contrasted by a slightly subversive accessory gives the look balance. Finish it off with cool cat-eye sunglasses and chunky hoops.
