The Budget Fashionista

Who’d have thought that your old paint-splattered t-shirt reserved only for DIY could become the trendiest item in your wardrobe? This season, designers have delved into their paint boxes and splattered blouses, dresses, skirts and pants with Pollock-like prints.

Ad hoc expressionist designs were kept chic on simple shift dresses at Chloé, and Marios Schwab featured vivid prints on floaty chiffon dresses with edgy cut-out detailing, whilst Pringle of Scotland showcased A-line frocks fit for summer garden parties in fabrics decorated with delicate, crayon-like scribbles. Clashing is a big style statement this summer, as seen at Dries Van Noten, who set off dripping paint-patterned skirts with blouses featuring magnified florals. And it looks like this isn’t a one-season wonder, with gorgeous ombre prints crossing over into Fall, at Christian Lacroix.

Bring out the art student within by opting for a top in a popping paint splatter print, such as this one, £18 ($36) from Topshop, or pick up this vest for £9.99 ($20) in the Urban Outfitters sale. Tick all the boxes with this scribbly dress from Miss Selfridge (£28/$56) complete with this season’s drop waist. Put your best foot forward in these paint-splattered Converse sneakers, on sale for £25 ($50) at ASOS, or better yet, do it yourself with some fabric paints from your local hardware store, and wear your art on your sleeve, literally.