Banana Republic and Marimekko Announce Limited-Edition Capsule Collection for Summer 2014.

Banana Republic Marimekko Collection Brings a Pop of Color to her Summer Wardrobe 

Banana Republic and Finnish fashion and design house Marimekko announce the Banana Republic Marimekko Collection - a limited-edition capsule that uniquely marries Banana Republic’s modern, American style with some of Marimekko’s most iconic textile designs - offering a spirited collection of dresses, separates and accessories for women that will make her summer wardrobe “pop.” The women’s capsule collection launches exclusively at select Banana Republic locations worldwide and online beginning in late May 2014.

We would like to share this video that captures surprising, “Share Happy” moments with unsuspecting New Yorkers: 

Marimekko first made headlines in the United States when Jacqueline Kennedy donned a number of the brand’s iconic printed dresses during the 1960 U.S. presidential campaign. Today, Marimekko’s vibrant designs still resonate with celebrity tastemakers and consumers alike.

The Marimekko brand has become world-renowned for an artistic approach to print-making. Marimekko’s team of artists juxtapose cheerful, fresh prints, creating whimsical patterns and textiles that are rich in variation, yet timeless in design. 

“Marimekko’s unique design of pattern and color has always inspired me as a designer,” says Banana Republic Vice President of Women’s Design, Melloney Birkett. “With this summer capsule, we wanted to create a collection that marries Marimekko’s iconic prints with our signature silhouettes. 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.”

The near 20 piece apparel and accessories women’s collection blends some of the most signature items from both brands, including Banana Republic’s iconic Hampton pant in Marimekko’s heroic black and white polka dot print. Items range from an architecturally designed cotton tunic with a plunging neckline, to a billowing maxi dress, to a dramatic full skirt - offering a versatile summer capsule that marries culture with style.

The collection’s featured patterns, created by three of Marimekko’s storied designers, each tell a unique story through distinctive prints. From intriguing landscapes and folk-inspired art, to circular dots that dance in a single file, the prints splash the capsule with bright hues alongside classic black and white.

“At Marimekko, we are inspired by emotions. Life springs from opposing forces, and the desire to contradict emotions - happy with sad, energetic with relaxed - is what makes our prints so unique,” says Marimekko Creative Director, Minna Kemell-Kutvonen. “It was a delight to know Banana Republic finds our designs as striking as we do. Each of the iconic prints selected has a wonderful, joyful story - and with Banana Republic we are excited to continue to bring that joy to countless people around the world.”

Apparel will range in price from 150 AED (tank top) -495 AED (dress); ipad case accessory retail for 350 AED.