Renata Espinosa Fri Nov 2, 11:42 AM ETNew York - In 1978 when the founders of Banana Republic, Mel and Patricia Ziegler, launched the company in California, they turned safari military looks into a fashion statement.
But stepping into a Banana Republic store now, the high-end brand owned by Gap Inc. since 1983, very little aside from the name would ever hint at this travel and adventure focus of the past. When the Ziegler's company was acquired, the company rebranded it as the city sophisticate's go-to for runway style and upscale quality at accessible prices, which is what it continues to do today.
For the Spring '08 collection however, presented during a runway show on Nov. 1, Banana Republic revisited its safari roots, updating khaki classics like the trench - as a chic belted sleeveless shirtdress or vest - and included military-inspired blouses and jackets. For both men and women, there were also relaxed wide-leg trousers.
The fashion-forward Banana Republic customer with her eyes on looks she saw come down the New York runways for spring - high-waisted voluminous short skirts at Proenza Schouler, sleek racerback tank dresses at Calvin Klein, or bold knits in '70s-inspired colors at Marc by Marc Jacobs - will find plenty to love in this collection. A swingy black and brown printed linen pleated skirt looked smart when paired with a white military-inspired buttondown shirt, while maxi-length silk tank dresses popped in bright purple, and exuded Saint-Tropez elegance in a yellow geometric print version.
And while three-quarter length sleeve coats in mustard yellow and dresses in hunter orange may not find many takers, a key for any spring wardrobe will certainly be the inclusion of jolts of bold color.
For men, Banana Republic offered crinkled cardigans, loose khaki trousers or slim seersucker pants. Compared with the women's collection, where things were kept structured but loose, the men's collection consisted of a more body-conscious, trim silhouette.
No comments:
Post a Comment