In the Market Report: “Cheap Thrills Continued…”

Banana Republic and Marimekko Crew-Neck Sweater in Kivet Print, Mid-length Patio Skirt in Kivet Print, and Ankle-Strap Sandals

No discussion about “Cheap Thrills” would be complete without mentioning the launch of a limited edition capsule collection which marries Banana Republic’s iconic designs with Marimekko’s signature prints (www.bananarepublic.com).The 25 piece limited edition summer capsule, comprised of printed separates, tunics, maxi dresses, a romper, zippered clutches, ballet flats and sandals, will retail from $39 to $149. It’s available online starting Wednesday, and will reach the stores on Thursday.

Banana Republic’s Vice President of Women’s Design, Melloney Birkett, admitted, “Marimekko’s unique design of pattern and colour has always inspired me as a designer”. “We were inspired by Marimekko founder Armi Ratia’s motto of, ‘Stand out from the rest,’ and we designed a collection of must-have summer standouts.” And there’s no question one will stand out in the collection’s highly distinctive patterns, created by three of Marimekko’s famed designers, Maija Isola, Maija Louekari and Aino-Maija Metsola. The “intriguing landscapes, folk-inspired art, and circular dots that dance in a single file”, play out in bright hues and in striking and graphic black and white, the latter of which is, alas, my personal favorite.

On my ‘must buy’ list is the Kivet printed crew neck sweater ($69.95) and mid length dramatic ‘patio’ skirt ($98). The top is in small circles and the skirt is done in larger circles. They will be perfect worn together or taken apart and mixed and matched. It doesn’t hurt that I already own Marimekko’s black white Kivet printed large silk scarf and cotton canvas bag, (from several years ago), and the Mari long sleeved t shirt in black and white horizontal stripes, which is a classic, always available at the store or online, and my summer standby, $95. www.marimekko.com.