Butterfly Motif: Spring/Summer 2009 Fashion Trend

No doubt in different cultures butterflies may mean or symbolize different things to different people but in the universal language of fashion it has always been associated with femininity and beauty.

It is not just about the print of the butterfly used on fabric but also about the use of georgeous and luxurious silks and georgettes to create the soft floatyness, dreaminess and fairy tale romance that the butterfly conjures up in the imagination.

American fashion label - Badgley Mischka captures the floatiness of the butterfly not only in the use of the butterfly wings sewn onto the dress but with the creative use of the organza overlay which is as light as a butterfly's wings.

American fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg, known for her iconic wrap dress, offers more dramatic appeal in this black and white butterfly patterned dress that is almost as timeless itself as black and white polkadots and Furstenberg's very own iconic wrap dress of the 1970's. The bordering detail on the hem, sleeves and neckline softens the large butterfly pattern.

This fusion of the oriental collar styled dress with brightly patterned butterflies from the Tibi Collection may have been influenced by the fact that in the Japanese culture butterflies are thought to be representative of young maidens and marital bliss. Many Japanese families use the butterfly in the family crest design.

Butterfly Silk Jersey/Drape Sleeve Wrap Gown by Australian based fashion designer Colette Dinnigan. Photos from http://www.fashionising.com/

Accessorize with Munique Fashions' handcrafted Purple Amethist, Swarovski Crystal and Silver Necklace and Bracelet jewellery set with butterfly motif.


The high street captured this butterfly motif in their spring/summer 2009 collection through both cut and style as well as the use of butterfly patterned fabric which together maintained that floaty, feminine appeal with a touch of sophiscation.

Marks and Spencer captures the butterfly theme in this Rose Print Butterfly Top through its layered sleeve butterfly sleeve which appears to be winglike. This is an original '70s Zandra Rhodes Rose print with hints of metallic detailing. The waist tie is a flattering feature and it comes with a camisole to wear underneath. This layered sleeve butterfly style top makes a striking statement in monochrome.

Get dressed up in this season's frills for a striking and timeless look in this Spiral Butterfly Frill Trim Dress. This mock wrap dress has Zandra Rhodes' original '70s Spiral Butterfly print, a flattering crossover neckline and figure-defining waist tie. Very feminine and sophisticated indeed.

This gorgeous prom dress from Autograph Occasions Butterfly Print Dress with Silk is beautifully styled with a flattering waisted shape and butterfly print. A gorgeous style statement, perfect for elegant occasions and very reminiscent of the butterfly design of american fashion label - Badgley Mischka.

A striking design featuring Zandra Rhodes' original '70s Spiral Butterfly print. Ruched detailing and fluid waterfall layers make this feminine Spiral Butterfly Print Dress flattering and up to date while the print has hints of metallic detailing for a touch of eye-catching glamour