10 Fresh takes on floral prints — trust us, they don't have to be basic

From patchwork blooms at Peter Pilotto to oversized tropical flora at Michael Kors, designers showed look after look of statement florals on the spring summer 2018 runways. Dainty, sweet prints will always be popular, but the best newest patterns are brightly coloured and almost mesmerizing in their repetition and scale. These are florals to feel bold and joyful in — who wouldn't want that?

Palm spring

The tropics and surf culture continue to be popular design influences this season. This pretty, water-repellent bomber from Montreal-based Mackage perfectly toes the line between polished and sporty.

Treva Satin Aviator Bomber Jacket, $450, mackage.com

3D vision

Mixing allover embroidery with colourful appliqué flowers, this airy tulle skirt would look extra-special styled with a botanically-printed blouse or bodysuit.

Embroidered Tulle Skirt, $149, hm.com

Mixed blooms

A flirty, pleated dress that you can wear to any of the weddings on your summer calendar? Yes, please! Plus, you can always rock it with sneakers and tees for less formal occasions.  

Kenzo Ruffled Floral Dress, $985, simons.ca

Pyjama dressing

Wear this breezy, pyjama-inspired top with matching, printed shorts on the weekend, and under your favourite tailored jacket for the office. The vintage-feel floral pattern and pure silk fabric can really go anywhere.

Babaton Rorik Blouse, $145, aritzia.com

Bright side

A floral maxi dress is never a bad idea. Pair this bold yellow style, featuring a large-scale pattern, with a flower-print tote or botanical-inspired jewelry for maximum impact.   

Floral Tiered Maxi Shirt Dress, $195, bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca

High tied

This edgy, asymmetrical top features an eye-catching, multi-coloured print that is sure to become a popular addition to your summer wardrobe.

Floral Print Ruched Top, about $50, topshop.com

Bigger is better

Éditions de Robes specializes in beautiful, made-in-Canada dresses. This silk wrap dress features a painterly, very oversized rose print that feels both timeless and modern.

Madeleine Dress, $755, editionsderobes.com

Plant world

Elevate your denim game with these textured, botanical-print jeans, which would look as good worn with heels as they do with flat slides.

Hudson x Baja East Heartbreaker High Rise Bootcut Jeans, $358, shopbop.com

A new leaf

Whether or not you choose to style it with the matching kimono jacket, also available at Zara, this vibrant, wide-leg jumpsuit is guaranteed to be a conversation starter.

Tropical Print Jumpsuit with Knotted Straps, $49.90, zara.com

Tee time

Swap out your basic t-shirt for something more playful this summer, like a graphic floral tee in a quirky colour palette. It also doubles as a creative layering piece for all your spaghetti strap dresses and slightly-sheer tops.

Flutter Sleeve Floral t-shirt, $55.90, rw-co.com

Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.