Whenever I need lookbook inspiration, I turn to Jane Marple - no, not the elderly English sleuth, but the Japanese Classic Lolita brand that bears her name. Jane Marple always puts together enticing previews, and the one for the Spring and Summer 2008 Collection is no exception.
All of the prints and products are united by a common theme: "Very Merry." Once again, Jane Marple delivers a vivid range of fabrics: the Beatlemania-inspired "British Logo" series, spilling cherries, a breezy "Liberty Print," and "Angel Lace" reminiscent of metallically-printed curtain laces from the early 20th century.
Jane Marple's promo shots are perhaps the most striking among the Lolita-affiliated designers (with stiff competition from h.NAOTO and Peace Now). I wonder if Photoshop is responsible for the backdrop and dress prints?
I've compiled fabric swatches and sample items from Jane Marple's spring/summer 2008 collection. (For more, check out the flash lookbook and series concept.)
"Chelsea Cat" is "full of nostalgia and smiles." This is my favorite of the bunch - and the brown cat purse is too cute for words! (It should be called the Basil Farrow bag.)
The "Big Dot" series carries on the bright, poppy 1960s vibe.
"Rose with Flowers" is inspired by colonial table cloths and high-summer picnics.
Part II of the collection is titled "Dans Le Salon." The mood: "stereoscopic and free expressions with layer patterns on deep, picturesque flower prints." This one - "Wallpaper Flower" - is not my cup of tea. It looks like something a New Age granny would wear.
The "Handkerchief Collection" pieces together six different handkerchiefs into a giant panel print. Not my favorite either.
"Fruit Picnic" evokes a 1970s wistful romanticism.
"Trick Ribbon Stripes" goes preppy with ribbon motives hidden in hand-drawn stripes.
Out of the above, I say "groovy, baby!" to the British mod prints. What are your picks and pans?
