Whether you know it or not, you have probably seen the Aztec print trend in high fashion magazines, runways, red carpets, and your favorite store’s clothing racks. In the fashion world, Aztec prints and tribal prints, in general, provide a trove of stylish possibilities.
There are many tribal prints, each with a unique color palette, patterns, and design. Aztec prints stand out as a mixture of Mesoamerican design influences based on geometric patterns, bright colors, and a dynamic flow. Explore this exotic style that is becoming more than just a passing trend.
What is the Aztec Print Trend?
The Aztec print trend has remained relevant for years in the fashion industry due to its versatility, color, and complex patterns. Generally, this tribal print trend features bold geometrical shapes, striking color combinations, and an array of eye-catching designs.
Aztec prints often feature a recurring pattern of geometrical objects such as triangles, diamonds, straight lines, chevrons, circles, and rectangles.
In terms of color, all is fair game. Aztec prints come in an array of hues, from bold and bright neons to subdued and neutral earth tones and everything in between. This print can seamlessly fit into your wardrobe when paired with a solid-colored garment.
History of the Aztec Print
Beyond the modern-day tribal print found on nearly every clothing piece imaginable in today’s fashion world, the Aztec print trend has a rich history and tradition dating back to the Aztec civilization in central Mexico. From the 14th to 16th centuries, this Nahuatl-speaking tribe came to create an empire in Mesoamerica.
Aztec apparel varied depending on a person’s age and class. Aztec nobility would wear an array of colorful jewelry and feathers to represent wealth and status. Symmetry and geometrical shapes played a significant influence in Aztec design across architecture and clothing.
Aztec design materials of choice were obsidian, pearl, jade, shells, and colorful feathers. Bright colors adorned garments of the elite. Turquoise was a particularly beloved color. However, the lower class would only be allowed to wear colorless and drab clothing.
In the modern era, the Aztec print made its high fashion debut with designers Emilio Pucci and Matthew Williamson’s Spring-Summer 2009 collection. From there, the Aztec print trend caught like wildfire in runways and street fashion.
Why We Love the Aztec Print Trend
Aztec prints can completely transform an outfit into an exotic work of art. Here are a few reasons why we think the Aztec print trend is here to stay.
Wide Range of Colors
Aztec prints are traditionally known for their bold and colorful patterns and designs. These can liven up your spring or summer wardrobe. However, many print variations come in neutral tones, too, perfect for your autumn-friendly attire.
Eye-Catching Patterns and Designs
Aztec prints feature a series of geometric shapes, lines, and striking designs will turn heads. In some cases, these printed garments feature beads, sequins, metals, and other embellishments to provide a striking contrast in textures and colors.
Versatile and Comfortable
These exotic prints can be found in a variety of clothing items and accessories. Whether you need a warm and cozy layer for winter or a breezy and lightweight top for the summer, Aztec prints are suitable for any season and can be dressed up or down as needed.
How to Wear Aztec Print Apparel and Accessories
Aztec prints were designed to be bold and colorful, although more muted versions exist, too. There are many ways to style this trend from head to toe.
Choose a Statement Piece
Aztec print apparel is inherently bold, colorful, and eye-catching. When adding this trend into your ensemble, choose one piece of clothing with the Aztec print and pair it with a subtle and neutral-colored item such as a plain t-shirt, sneakers, and minimal accessories.
Aztec Printed Tops and Bottoms
Aztec prints can be found in both tops and bottoms and, in some cases, in a matching set. Aztec print skirts can provide a whimsical and feminine touch. A colorful Aztec print button-up or blouse can add a burst of color to any look. During winter, a subtle Aztec print graphic on your sweater or cardigan can provide warmth and style.
Fall-Friendly Aztec Prints
Summer is the perfect time for these colorful and vibrant prints but they can also make a subtle appearance during the fall. Everything from layers such as cardigans and sweaters to fall-friendly accessories such as scarves and beanies can sport the Aztec print. Add a hint of print to give your fall outfit a boost of color and life.
Aztec Print During the Winter
You can find the print everywhere during the colder months, especially as Aztec print leggings, scarves, beanies, sweaters, and cardigans. Pair an Aztec printed sweater with your favorite jeans to make a simple and casual fashion statement.
Aztec Trend for Men
The Aztec print trend can apply to menswear, too. This tribal print can be found in men’s socks, t-shirts, button-ups, backpacks, and handkerchiefs. The Aztec trend can be featured in an understated manner, such as printed pockets and other subtle touches.
Western Wear
Western wear and Aztec prints go hand-in-hand. Add a hint of color and pattern to the traditional Western snap shirt and finish off the look with flared jeans and cowboy boots. When the temperatures get cooler, an Aztec print softshell vest can bring your cowgirl look together with a wide brim hat and bolo-inspired jewelry.
Aztec Print Dress
Aztec print dresses are an ideal statement piece that speaks volumes, especially when worn alone. An Aztec print dress is versatile enough to be worn during the day with a pair of neutral-colored wedges and a simple necklace and can transform into a nighttime outfit with a sleek blazer or jacket.
Aztec Print Footwear
Add a splash of color and whimsy to your footwear with an Aztec print design. Aztec print western boots can pair perfectly with dark denim jeans, a solid colored shirt, and a denim jacket, or layer a blazer for a smart-casual aesthetic.
Minnetonka, Ladies Torrey Lace Up Gray Aztec Slipper, 40144
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Bags
Purses, tote bags, backpacks, and wallets can all sport the Aztec print trend. Whether the entire item is splashed with Aztec print or just a few touches highlight the accessory, this design can provide a fresh and fun element to your look.
Aztec Accessories
Aztec printed accessories are in right now. From Aztec printed skirts to Aztec printed cell phone covers, you can add this colorful and head-turning style throughout your outfit. Mix Aztec printed accessories in a variety of ways and cycle through them to keep your wardrobe interesting.
M&F Western Ladies Aztec Hoop Earrings, 29014
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Aztec Nail Art
While the Aztec print trend may seem too complex for someone with zero art skills, it is easier than you think to paint your nails with Aztec patterns. Aztec nail art can be easy to paint on your own or at the salon. Aztec nail art can be as simple or as complex as you want.
Brighten Your Look with Aztec Prints From Wilco
Give your ensemble the Aztec print treatment with a wide range of shirts, sweaters, joggers, boots, and vests available at Wilco Farm Stores.
Show us your Aztec print outfit, use #mywilcolife on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram and tag Wilco farm stores.
