Flower girls storm the runways for Resort 2017 collections

As the 2017 resort collections come thick and fast, a major trend for florals is blooming on the runways. 

Christian Dior set the tone, with the French house's English-inspired show replete with country florals in the form of draped tea dresses and sheer blouses covered in springtime patterns, mixed in among all the pictorial jacquards, rich velvets and silks. From the miniature print splattered over a scarlet midi dress to the trio of plant-based patterns that divided the sections of a formal shirt, petals worked their way into every corner of the collection.

The humble garden pansy formed the basis of Christopher Kane's entire collection, recreated as a larger-than-life photo motif that was splashed over everything from oversized knits to floaty dresses, at times even dictating the shape of the garment. Petal patterns were embroidered onto gingham checks for a bold and simplistic contrast that summed up the progressive vibe of the collection. "When I researched the pansy more, it took on a deeper meaning; it stands for thoughtfulness and is ultimately a symbol of freethinking," the designer explains. "The idea of freethinking is very important to the way I work, and it's more essential to fashion than ever."

Meanwhile it was a more exotic flower, the tropical herbarium, that took center stage at Rochas, where it was nestled among prints of palm leaves, orchids, hibiscus, jasmine and wild geraniums. On a background of sky blue, lime yellow and black, the flowers covered light and languid pieces featuring dropped shoulders, bare backs, bows and drapes for a laidback holiday look.