Psychh!

In the 1960s, there were enormous social and political transformations in the fashion industry. The use of chemical stimulants was mainstream and fashion was going along for the ride.one of the major effects of an LSD “trip” was a heightened appreciation for color, texture and line. Psychedelic fashion enhanced the whole hallucinogenic experience with its bright colors and bold patterns. Around the middle of the decade, fashions arising young people in a few urban centres received large amounts of media publicity, and began to heavily influence both the haute couture of elite designers and the mass-market manufacturers. 

Geometric patterns, folkloric motifs, bright colours and ecological sensibility that were popularized then are a swing that never faded away. Since the trend started, there have been hints of escapism in the form of psychedelic t-shirts, tie dye shirts and long-flowing floral kaftans.Adaptations of psychedelic patterns have been used a lot in many other fashion forms. Mostly, the kind of clothes that came under this category were camisoles, shrugs, loose t shirts, skirts - generally a more casual style of clothing.  

Basically, the “hippie” , “boho” look is accepted all over for travel outfits or beach outfits. But if these styles are used correctly, with the right patterns and colours, they can also be used in more up town, classier outfits. Recently, due to the increase in usage of digital printing, these bright contrasts and graphics were digitally printed to t-shirts and hoodies, giving it a more hip and urban street style look. 

But now, I feel we should explore the intricate side of psychedelic patterning. Entanged, maze-like designs can be made using semi-bright, dark tones of brighter shades and a whole repetitive pattern can be obtained. Mandalas are a total hit in the artwork world in 2020 and they can be well incorporated in clothing. Hallucinatory pattern-work, kaleidoscopic designs can all be used to make breath-taking collections for the ramp.

The question that remains is, what clothes to put these patterns on? In order to make them more sophisticated and up-market, the bohemian concept has to be thrown out the window. One can use these patterns on silk or satin shirts, straight fit knee length skirts, palazzos, short kurtas, blouses, etc. The amalgamation of a street concept from the 1960’s and modern patterns and silhouettes can churn up a whole new style of clothing for parties or events.