Design + DIY

Behind the Print: Papaya Paradise

Printfresh’s newest pattern, Papaya Paradise is a dream come true for our founder, Amy. Featuring playful douc monkeys snacking on sweet papaya as they perch in the treetops, this print uses bold colors and takes the wearer to a far off locale.
By Printfresh Staff
July 2021
Behind the Print: Papaya Paradise
Behind the Print: Papaya Paradise

Amy has wanted to include a papaya in one of our prints for a long time. Pairing the brightly colored orange fruits with contrasting shades of rich purples and vibrant greens was the perfect way to create a really dynamic pattern.

“I think papayas are such fun fruits. It’s a fruit that we always avoided in my previous career in commercial print design, but that’s all the more reason why we love having the opportunity to highlight them in our newest print,” says Amy.

Papaya’s Rich Symbolism

The papaya is a symbol of health, adventure, passion, love, and good relationships. Some people say that papayas are one of the more sensual fruits to look at and eat. Even just looking at a ripe papaya brings joy to many.

Health Benefits of Papaya

Papaya is used in many cuisines including Vietnamese and Thai food. And for good reason: in addition to the symbolism and beauty of the papaya, there are some potential health benefits when they are consumed. These include a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. 

Eating papaya can aid in digestion, improve blood glucose control in people with diabetes, and may help with lowering blood pressure and improving wound healing. In Ayurvedic teachings, the papaya is celebrated for its many benefits. 

Rich Colors of Purple and Orange

The color purple symbolizes magic, mystery, spirituality, the subconscious, creativity, dignity, and royalty. Different shades of purple may have different meanings - light purples tend to feel light-hearted, floral, and romantic, while darker shades evoke a sort of dignified intellect. This is why we used the rich violet tone in this print, it makes the print feel so regal. 

The interior of our papaya is a bright orange color. Not only does it complement our vivid shade of purple, but it also has strong meanings of its own. Orange symbolizes energy, vitality, cheer, excitement, adventure, warmth, and good health.  While some people don’t enjoy too much bold orange, in a pajama print (almost) anything goes.

Playful Douc Monkeys

To bring some personality and life to the print, we added a douc monkey to the mix. The monkey is perched in the treetops enjoying the fresh fruit of the papaya. The douc in our print was chosen specifically for its beauty. With its long curling tail and friendly face that almost looks like it is adorned with pastel makeup, it’s hard not to fall in love. 

We are also grateful for the opportunity to bring more attention to these incredible animals. According to the Douc Langer Foundation, “Douc Langurs are among the most beautiful and endangered primates in the world. They are only found in three countries in the world: Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Like so many primates worldwide, poaching, trapping, and illegal trade are threatening their survival in all three countries.”

Shopping the Collection

Papaya Paradise is available in a variety of styles, both long and short to accommodate different heights and preferences. The cami and short set are perfect for a summer weekend escape. 

Where in the world will you wear your Papaya Paradise pajamas? Tell us in the comments, or tag us in your Instagram photos.

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PF MAG: Founder Amy Voloshin is passionate about creating a space that speaks to our brand, shares unique perspectives from pattern enthusiasts and finds ways to promote more sustainable living. Our blog PF Mag covers creative topics on all things lifestyle - including behind the scenes looks, fashion, design, travel, and home decor, as well as interviews with some of the people who inspire us most. 

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Papaya Paradise