Colorful prints were the theme of the London spring/summer 04 shows and have become an important element in British design. For all the patterns of the shows, they are strikingly different, from Hamish Morrow's graphic-check sportswear, to Eley Kishimoto's bold diagonal stripes and polka dot bandanas.

Patterns in fashion seems to be a British heritage. The Ossie Clarke exhibition at the V&A of his 60s & 70s designs shows that geometric intrigue isn't a fascination of late. A 1920s art deco exhibition held at the same museum shares the same geometric spirit. At this season's shows, British design talent showed how patterns can we worked in different ways

The Burberry check and Pringle diamond have, in a best-of-British way become household brands and are distinctly recognized around the globe. Pringle designer Stuart Stockwell used the signature looks and flirted with bright colours on diamond flapper dresses.

If this is the fashion moment where wearing plain black is the antithesis of fashion, the question to ask is what makes a great print? A love of drawing, colour and balance, quips Eley Kishimoto designer Wakako Kishimoto. While wearing a bold pattern is not easiest of affairs, it is all about the way it moves on the body and uplifts the spirit.