Once a means of using up left-over fabric scraps, today patchwork is a favourite of the fashion world. Here, we explore the origins of the perennial trend and how to wear it now
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Returning to our roots, fashion took a turn for the folksy this season. Odes to craftmanship were seen on the runways from New York to Copenhagen. Among the many artful techniques, patchwork was a clear favourite for the fashion set. As shown in our December - January issue the patchwork trend is certainly one to embrace now.
Patchwork was initially a technique of economy. The use of patches harbours a rich fashion history, from the historical art of Japanese 'Boro' – where poor farmers and fishermen in northern Japan would lovingly mend and patch worn cloth out of necessity – to modern interpretations such as Swedish designers Rave Review reusing fabric. The technique has become part of a distinct fashion fabric.
Leather coat, €9,500. Chloé. Photo: Noel Quintela