“Banana Republic Issa Collection in 3 Weeks!”

By Laura Medina

 

As soon as it hits the press back in Spring of this year, right smack dabbed in the middle of Kate, Duchess of Cambridge's pregnancy, people have been asking, "Is the blue dress part of the Issa for Banana Republic Collection?"  The answer is out like the royal prince.  Yes, that blue wrap dress that Kate made iconic is part of the upcoming Issa for Banana Republic Collection in three weeks, on August the 8th at select Banana Republic retail locations worldwide and online.

   

Issa for Banana Republic isn't a directly copy of Issa's own solid jewel-toned satin silk wrap dresses and halter gowns.  Remember, Banana Republic is an American store that outfitted Glided Aged explorers with jungle-worthy safari clothes heading for a hunting and exploring trip in Africa.

This limited edition collaboration between Issa of London and Americana Banana Republic celebrates "the safari roots of Banana Republic’s heritage and the spirit of an exotic journey."

The company's globe-trotting roots formed the mentality of today's jet-setting customer...

“We were immediately inspired by Banana Republic’s heritage of safari adventures when we dreamt up this collection together,” says Banana Republic Creative Director and Executive Vice President of Design, Simon Kneen. “Issa London’s effortlessly chic style complements our global Banana Republic consumer who is on the go and needs to transition her look seamlessly from day to night.”

The August 8th release reflects the timing of their customer, who seeking transitional wear that is chic and globally appropriate that can be packed and rolled into a carry-on in a jiff.  Banana Republic further elaborates on this.., 

"The Banana Republic Issa London Collection marries the iconic Banana Republic covetable sense of effortless modernity with Issa’s feminine shapes and use of signature prints. The collection infuses romantic colors with elegant draping, creating a desirable style that easily transitions from summer to fall."  In other words, great from Beverly  Hills to Manhattan to London and everywhere in between.

Speaking of honoring and respecting "the safari roots of Banana Republic’s heritage and the spirit of an exotic journey," the "polka dots" are actually leopard prints done up in ocean blue and African sun rise and sunset.  The stripes are a riff on zebra stripes, the African dyes, sunsets, and native patterns.

The nearly 40-piece collection includes apparel and accessories in Issa London’s signature figure flattering silhouettes that are bold, yet tastefully refined. Exotic prints of zebra and leopard are infused with neutral and jewel-tone hues, creating a well-balanced collection. Covetable women’s pieces range from zebra print kimono-sleeved dresses, to bold, rich pebbled leather envelope clutches. Jewelry includes statement gold chain necklaces and bracelets as well as leather wrapped bangles. Apparel includes petites and will range in price from $69.50 (sweater) - $150.00 (dress); jewelry and accessory pieces range from $39.50 (bangle) - $150.00 (tote).

Think of this Issa limited edition collection for Banana Republic as the American Collection.