Banana Republic Summer 2015 Preview

Marissa Webb’s First Collection for Banana Republic

November 11, 2014

Get ready for the new face of Banana Republic. On Monday, the Gap Inc. owned retailer previewed its Summer 2015 collection for men and women at Milk Studios, marking the debut of new creative director Marissa Webb, who is most recently known for her eponymous label. In short, the editorial buzz at the presentation was unanimous: Webb knocked it out of the park. There was no mistaking Banana Republic’s DNA in, say, a khaki trench dress. But this time around, the trench was worn open as an elongated vest over a little black dress. That same treatment applied to the perennial blue button-down, which got a boost with wide-leg culottes. The designer, who spent a decade in the creative studios at J.Crew, continued to propel the brand forward with an edgier accessories lineup that included huarache flats and crossbody purses in pastel green and cobalt blue.

Overall, the color palette was new for BR, infused with a brighter lineup than days past; so was the print inclusion of bold, floral separates. Webb’s hallmarks were also evident. Her harmony of masculine and feminine, best seen in a white, eyelet shirtdress worn with ripped jeans and a leather bomber, was there. So was her expertise at layering. But don’t confuse the new Banana Republic with J.Crew, part deux. It stands all on its own, roping in a new, fashion-forward customer without alienating its loyal client base. And that’s no easy feat.

For a look at Banana Republic Summer 2015 for women, check out the slideshow below.

Images: Joe Schildhorn / BFAnyc.com