Familiar Patterns That Raised Us
💌 Written by Poppy
How do I explain the nostalgia I just felt?
Remember a time that was a lot simpler, where fashion and textiles were unapologetically lively, creative and fun. They weren't reduced to some fashion influencer's opinion of what's chic, every pattern had it's own unique charm.
Get in girlfriend, we're traveling back in time to where these patterns were found everywhere!
1. Pink & Green Geometric
This retro-futuristic, mod-style pattern was big in the 60s-70s revival fashion in the late 90s/early 2000s.
Often found in mid-century modern design, this geometric textile adds extra dynamic and character to any room. You may hate math but this fun geometry pattern is fun to have. ✨
You may even see this print often on bedding, purses, and clothing. Super reminiscent of Lizzie McGuire's outfits and commonly seen on Bratz Doll fashion!
2. Orbit Polka Dots
Not your conventional polka dots!
A 1950s-inspired, kitschy, maximalist take on polka dots that resurfaced in the 2000s, blending retro with modern in fashion and home decor.
You probably seen this a lot in your childhood bedrooms and even in present day. As the Y2K fashion it girls are bringing this funky pattern back, paired with chunky silver accessories and you have a complete look!
3. Red & Black Floral Swirl
Calling all the Evanescence alt goths, this one's for you. 🖤
These Floral Swirl patterns can be found on your cool older sister's graphic tees, alternative fashion, and wallpaper.
Celebrities like Avril Lavigne, Evanescence’s Amy Lee, and Christina Aguilera (in her “Stripped” era) often wore designs with bold black and red contrasts, embodying this aesthetic. Goth kids felt seen with this one.
4. Brown Paisley
Wanna hang at that grassy knoll over there and talk about the meaning of life?
Kidding. Paisleys are a nod to bohemian and indie sleaze aesthetic of early 2000s, as you can tell by it's flowy pattern and mesmerizing motifs, it feels like you're in a trance.
This flowy pattern belonged on flowy accessories like bandanas, skirts and boho handbags. Popularized by known brands such as Abercrombie &. Fitch and Juicy Couture.
5. Black Confetti
Party in the Valley at 10?
This black confetti is screaming retro arcade and teen magazine covers, it's chaotic, neon, it's present at every event.
From Limited Too notebooks to Lisa Frank folders and Trapper Keepers. It also has a vibe similar to MTV’s Total Request Live (TRL) graphics and arcade aesthetics.
Celebrities like Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, and Destiny’s Child were often associated with this fun, futuristic look in their music videos and promotional material.
So, do these patterns ring a bell of your childhood?
