A new summer collection from Nordstrom looks decidedly Texas-chic, which is no accident given its Dallas connection.
Cassie Freeman, who runs the popular Dallas-based lifestyle blog Hi Sugarplum!, has collaborated with Gibson on a limited-edition collection of women's apparel sold exclusively on Nordstrom.com.
Freeman describes the collection as “pieces that feature bright colors and punchy prints, each with their own feminine detail. They're fun and flattering, and versatile enough to take you from the office to the beach.”
They're also surprisingly affordable. Pieces range from $39 for a ruffled tank to $69 for a ruffle-trimmed dress.
Have we mentioned ruffles? Yes, the line is full of flouncy, flirty details like ruffles, pleats, stripes, and florals. Those who are into goth need not click.
The mix-and-match pieces also are wearable for many shapes and sizes — even XXS- and XL-petites.
Standouts include a Maroma halter top available in hot pink, black, ocean-blue with white polka dot, and "coral floral;" a Monterey easy skirt with a draw string, which comes in black or "cool breeze floral;" and a super cute Captiva shorts romper, shown in black, black floral, or "bright floral" with a blue background.
Freeman is a popular, longtime blogger who describes herself as "a style and decor-obsessed Texas girl and lover of travel, fashion, sarcasm and Mexican food." On Hi Sugarplum!, she blogs about her own style tips, travel recommendations, room makeovers, DIY projects, and more. As with any blog worth its words, readers can pin from her site and shop from her Instagram posts and Insta-stories.
Los Angeles-based Gibson is known for designing casual pieces that can be dressed up or elevated items that can be dressed down. Versatility is key.
Suzie Turner, founder of Gibson, says the brand started looking for influencers to collaborate with in early 2017 and liked what they saw on Freeman's blog.
“We began working with a few who shared our brand identity of versatile, accessible style," she says. "We wanted to bring their personality to our brand in collections that would reflect their lifestyle. We found Cassie and knew immediately that a collaboration would be authentic to both brands.”
For her part, Freeman says she was surprised and delighted that Gibson came calling.
“I remember the day Suzie emailed me about 'a possible collaboration.' I thought she meant an Instagram campaign or some small sponsorship," she says. "So you can imagine my shock and excitement when I learned she actually meant an entire line of clothing based around my style. Since I was already a fan of Gibson, I couldn't say yes fast enough.”
The collection, which will not be sold in stores, will be available online through the end of summer.
A ruffle-trimmed dress is the most expensive piece, at $69.
