Looking for the next IT print? It's all about ikat. It started out with Balenciaga's Fall 07 collection, which had multiethnic fabric references from Eastern European folk to African, Balinese and Peruvian. Then there's Oscar de la Renta who always seems to do a signature piece in ikat. His Spring 08 shiny ikat print dress had everyone buzzing. But that's not all.

It's hitting the high street NOW big time in London and has been abuzz in many Spring 08 collections. In particular, take a look at Pollini by Rifat Ozbek, who executed his entire Spring line based on ikat and took it everywhere from transparent sheath pants to delightful ikat inserts. Yes ikat is about ETHNICITY, and indeed there was spice from Africa on the runways. But another factor that makes ikat right for collections into Spring 09 is the brilliant colors that can be used together. Indeed it also looks rather stunning on a long maxi dress. See for yourself.