From on trend hair clips and earrings to handbags, boots and sweaters, here are some of the best butterfly print designer fashion and luxury home décor buys of 2021. And tips on how to wear this back to the future iconic print effortlessly.
the butterfly is back as a top fashion trend of 2021
McQueen made butterflies a runway staple
The late Alexander McQueen’s runways were frequently brightened and enchanted by butterflies. A symbol of metamorphosis and transformation, the butterfly was a leitmotif to which he returned throughout his life. Milliner Philip Treacy was his partner in this endeavor, creating gorgeous and whimsical hats for McQueen’s most famous shows.
Powerhouse design maisons Valentino and Givenchy have historically adopted a butterfly motif from time to time, as well.
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after a hiatus, the butterflies are back
Now butterflies are back, big time, as part of the rediscovery of all things late ‘90’s and Y2K. Pop star Dua Lipa is one of the most visible devotees of the motif. “Only butterfly energy in 2021” she posted on Instagram as 2020 was drawing to a close. Bella Hadid is in on this, too. The model’s Instagram bio features a butterfly emoji and she’s frequently adorned with the winged creatures in her apparel or accessories.
What’s the appeal? Well, it plays into the whole grannycore look that we’ve previously reported on. It’s a hopeful symbol at a moment when the world seems to be waking up from the nightmare of COVID-19. Actually, Billy Porter summed it up pretty well. Referring to a temporary butterfly tattoo he sported at an awards ceremony, he commented: “The butterfly is my theme for [the year], which is being released from the bondage of masculinity and flying free.”
And remember, the great Elton John sang these lyrics lo these many years ago in his hit Rocket Man: “Butterflies are free to fly . . . fly away . . . high away . . . ” We note that this tune is now back on the top 40 charts in a remix of Cold Heart in which – wait for it – Dua Lipa sings the refrain from Rocket Man.
Mind. Blown.
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how to play the butterfly trend in 2021 like a boss
As you can see, resistance to this trend is futile. So we say its time to jump on board! Because there’s a butterfly print out there for everyone.
Butterfly prints and appliques can be sugary sweet. They can also be sophisticated and sexy. They come in bright colors or muted hues. Sparkly or subdued. Over the top maximalist to sleek minimalist.
And they’re not just for fashion. You can choose to adopt the trend in your home décor, instead (or in addition!) From hair clips and earrings to handbags, boots and dresses, here are some of the best butterfly designer fashion and luxury home décor items sure to meet the moment.
15 Butterfly Buys to Love that are Essential to embrace the 2021 Fashion Trend
1. Jil Sander long-sleeve top.
This fitted top from Jil Sander is a way to play the butterfly trend like a boss. Style it under a blazer and you’re ready to hit the office – or the Zoom.
BUY NOW: $1,050.
2. Blumarine off-the-shoulder sweater.
One of the “it” tops of fall winter 2021-22 is this pink off-the-shoulder plunging neckline butterfly sweater from Blumarine. Dua Lipa has been spotted in it – say no more, we want one.
BUY NOW: $615.
3. Jennifer Behr earrings.
These gorgeous hand-made Loretta earrings from Jennifer Behr make a statement alone or paired with another butterfly motif.
BUY NOW: $1,024.
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4. Undercover ankle boots.
Butterfly prints don’t have to be sweet. Japanese brand Undercover takes the idea in a noir direction with these black butterfly print boots.
BUY NOW: $1,350.
5. R13 crewneck sweatshirt.
There’s dark romance in this butterfly-print sweatshirt from R13.
BUY NOW: $503.
6. Goyard tote.
This vintage pre-owned St. Louis white tote bag from luxury brand Goyard has round top handles, a monogram pattern, a butterfly print, an open top and a hanging matching pouch in addition to the spacious main compartment. It’s circa 2000 – further proof that the Y2K days are back.
BUY NOW: $6,318.
7. Collina Strada socks.
Dip a toe into the butterfly trend with this pair of Collina Strada socks, which are exclusive to SSENSE.
BUY NOW: $70.
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8. Brandon Maxwell Wool-Blend Coat.
This butterfly print wool blend coat from Brandon Maxwell’s resort ’22 collection features a wrap silhouette with a painterly blue butterfly motif developed in collaboration with New York design studio Voutsa.
PREORDER NOW: $3,790.
9. Cinq A Sept embellished blazer.
This blazer from French contemporary brand Cinq A Sept features embroidered beaded butterfly patches, classic rear English vents and notched lapels. Style it with cropped pants or jeans for an effortlessly chic ensemble.
BUY NOW: $730.
10. Missoni Home Beach Towel.
This best-selling beach towel from Missoni Home is the perfect companion for your next day by the sea.
BUY NOW: $235.
11. Tata Christiane cardigan.
In the mood for extra? Then go for this butterfly button cardigan sweater from Tata Christiane.
BUY NOW: $755.
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12. Saint Laurent suede belt.
Straight from the runway, this black suede Saint Laurent belt features an abstract butterfly buckle.
BUY NOW: $1,250.
13. Chopova necklace.
This necklace is part of a collection of butterfly-inspired jewelry and apparel from the brand.
BUY NOW: $199.
14. Gucci embroidered wool pillow.
This Gucci throw pillow is made of wool-blend tartan embellished with a floral logo and an embroidered butterfly and flowers, then finished with a lustrous black fringe and a blue moiré back.
BUY NOW: $980.
15. christian lacroix butterfly parade vase.
Made in Portugal and created with notable porcelain makers Vista Alegre, this fine porcelain Butterfly Parade vase from Christian Lacroix is part of a collection of tabletop and home décor items featuring colorful butterflies.
BUY NOW: $301.
the butterfly is a major fashion trend for 2021
That’s our take on how to wear a butterfly print or embellishment if you want in on this 2021 trend. From hair clips and earrings to handbags, boots and sweaters, these are some of the best butterfly print designer fashion and luxury home décor buys of fall 2021. What do you say, dear reader? Ready to take flight?
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This article contains affiliate links to products independently selected by our editors. As an Amazon Associate, Dandelion Chandelier receives a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links.