The Smiley Face Comes Back to Fashion

The yellow smiley face has been an insurance company mascot, a newspaper's good-news symbol and the logo of an entire rave generation, and now it is back on sweaters. Fashion keeps returning to it whenever the mood needs lifting, and this fall's crochet and embroidered versions are as cheerful as ever. Here is the AQUA x Smiley collaboration for anyone who wants to wear a grin.

Sweaters With a Grin

Harvey Ball drew the original yellow smiley in 1963 for a Worcester insurance company, and in the early 1970s Franklin Loufrani registered the Smiley name in France to flag good-news stories in France-Soir. Decades later the face turns up on rugby stripes, crochet cardigans and ombré crewnecks. The embroidered hoodie is the easiest way in.

Sets, Slips and Small Surprises

Matching sweatpants, pajama sets and a smiley-print blazer push the collaboration further. A lace cami and smocked mini dress keep it from being too literal. Mix one graphic piece with plain ones.

The Smiley Face Comes Back to Fashion

By the late 1980s the smiley had become the symbol of acid house, and it keeps returning because it does exactly what it promises. In a season of serious coats and quiet colors, it is a welcome bit of levity. Wear it on a gray day.