I

t was only a matter of time before Coachella's colorful, do-it-yourself-inspired, fun festival style grooved its way into high fashion.

The Dries Van Noten collection that's currently in stores is a kaleidoscopic take on the haute hippie trend, with rainbow stripes, bandanna paisleys, frayed silk chiffon, brocades and more splashed onto maxi-skirts, fringe tops, surfer shorts and pajama pants. And denim has gone luxe at Gucci, Chloé and Louis Vuitton, with 1970s-inspired flares and sundresses that are both relaxed and refined.

Closer to home, several labels are using denim as a canvas for artistic expression. Erin Feniger started hand-painting jeans after being inspired by Venice artists and their paint-splattered clothing, and has since moved her Rialto Jean Project studio to New York's South Street Seaport, an up-and-coming fashion destination. Her one-of-a-kind painted styles also sell online and at Barneys New York.