Following in the footsteps of H&M and Target, which have offered low-price collections from up-and-coming designers, Banana Republic has a new limited-edition line from L'Wren Scott.
Known mainly as the longtime squeeze of rocker Mick Jagger (they have been an item since 2001), the 46-year-old model/stylist-turned-fashion designer is not exactly a household name. But within the fashion world, she has a strong following among the A-list crowd for her slinky, sparkly gowns.
The L’Wren Scott for Banana Republic holiday collection will include slim-fitting dresses, ruffled blouses, printed pants and fitted jackets in an array of fabrics.
Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Angelina Jolie and Amy Adams have worn Scott-designed gowns to the Oscars. Other celebrity clients include Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama and Madonna, who popularized Scott's "headmistress" dress (a black sheath with white collar).
The L’Wren Scott for Banana Republic holiday collection — the designer's first collaboration with a global fashion retailer — includes 50 pieces, such as slim-fitting dresses, ruffled blouses, jeans, printed pants and fitted jackets in fabrics ranging from brocade and velvet to sequins. Other attention-getting items include striped berets and a clutch purse with a removable strap that can be worn as a necklace.
The collection, in Banana Republic stores and online December 5, will range in price from $39.50 to $165 for clothes in petite and tall sizes. (Scott is a towering 6-foot-3 in flats, so she understands the need for clothes in different sizes.) Accessories will run from $39.50 to $198.
In teaming with Scott, Banana Republic appears to be seeking a more glamorous clientele. The retailer has previously collaborated with designers like Trina Turk, Issa and Milly, whose aesthetic is more in keeping with its sensibly minded core customer.
The L'Wren Scott for Banana Republic Collection includes printed slacks and fitted jackets.
