This story is part of Ensemble’s colour week, presented by Resene

Prints influenced by the art world are a longtime fashion favourite, but this autumn we’ve noticed a new direction: patterns that reflect the textures of paint itself.

From expressive brushstrokes to watercolour washes and abstract florals, designers are turning fabric into canvas — so as part of Colour Week, we’re spotlighting local designers who are bringing these painterly masterpieces to life.

Zambesi gown, $850

You can always rely on Zambesi for a cool take on a glam gown, and this wrap option with brushstroke print has it in spades.

Juliette Hogan silk top, $429

The designer has made abstract floral prints a signature. This one, called Floral Veil, might be digitally altered and blurred but it still conveys a painterly mood.

Rory William Docherty crushed silk turtleneck, $495

Clever Rory’s crushed silks top will become a go-to in your wardrobe, with a variety of prints available — this one is called ‘paint collateral’ and is based on the brushstrokes and colour dabs of a drop cloth, celebrating “spontaneous marking, unconscious compositions and colour combinations”.

Kowtow T-shirt, $139

Another digitally altered print that touches on the feeling of brushstrokes, Kowtow's 'cityscape' print takes inspiration from a blurred photograph of Wellington city.

Untouched World dress, $499

Inspired by linen flower fields, this modest dress will bring some art-like prints to a workday look.

Twenty-seven Names silk shirt, $520

Not so much paint-like but screen-printed*, this sweet pink shirt offers an abstract take on a floral.

(*OK it’s actually a photogram but it still works here, right?)

Caitlin Crisp crop top, $325

This coastal watercolour is like a holiday in a print. There’s a matching skirt, for the full set, and a floor-length gown.