IN THE world of fashion, few things are constant – but when spring rolls around, we know we’re in for some form of the prairie trend.
This season is no different, and the warmer weather ushers in new takes on the look, with plenty of puff sleeves, floaty skirts and pastel colours.
Modern takes on the prairie trend might seem somewhat ethereal, but the look is firmly grounded in workmanlike origins. Worn by American pioneer women who made the journey west in the 1700s and 1800s, the original dresses mixed practicality with fashion: long hemlines and high necks to protect modesty, muted tones and hardy materials to suit farm work, and ruffles and puffy sleeves to add a feminine sensibility.
Here's our pick of looks if you want to style the prairie look the 2021 way…
PUFF SLEEVES
There’s nothing like a puff sleeve to bring a bit of drama to an outfit – and the best thing is, you can tailor the volume to how extra you’re feeling. Some people might not like how feminine a big sleeve can look; if this sounds like you, balance out the rest of the outfit with darker tones and biker boots.
:: Omnes BCI Cotton Puff Sleeve Midi Smock Dress in Poppy Print, £75
:: River Island White Spot Mesh Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, £65
TIERED DRESSES
Tiered dresses aren’t exactly out of the homesteader playbook: instead, this detail is more inspired by the 1970s take on the trend. The style is universally flattering – whether you choose a longer dress or a mini – and is an opportunity to get whimsical. We particularly like mixing up the patterns on each tier, giving your outfit a DIY vibe.
:: Accessorize Puff Sleeve Poplin Dress in Red, £45, Very
:: FatFace Asha Daisy Patchwork Maxi Dress, £65
FLORAL PATTERNS
Ditsy prints are delicate and perfect for the prairie trend. It’s another chance to tailor the look to your personality – either leaning into pale, pastel colours, or choosing a darker colour scheme for an edgier vibe. To really channel the cottagecore aesthetic, combine florals with other elements of the trend – like puff sleeves, big collars and tiered styles.
:: Oliver Bonas Orchid Print Black Midi Dress, £75; Superga & Oliver Bonas Embroidered Flower Trainers, £75
:: Aniston Casual Floral Print Wrap Maxi Dress, £62, Freemans
PRAIRIE TOUCHES
Fashion is all about attention to detail, and small touches can really help you embody the prairie trend. Details like broderie anglaise, gingham patterns and supersized collars will help elevate any look.
:: Joe Browns Broderie Anglaise Top in White, £35
:: Accessorize Gingham Print Smocked Jumpsuit Blue, £45
