Marimekko Corporation, Press release, 23 January 2014 at 9:00 AM
Banana Republic and 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 in late May 2014.
“Marimekko’s unique design of pattern and colour 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 25 piece apparel and accessories women’s collection blends some of the most signature items from both brands. 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, Maija Isola, Maija Louekari and Aino-Maija Metsola, 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.”
Further information:
Marimekko Press Inquiries
Maarit Heikkilä, Marimekko
Tel. +358 40 828 1019
maarit.heikkila@marimekko.fi
Banana Republic Press Inquiries
Amanda Garrett, Banana Republic
Tel. +1 212.886.7449
Amanda_Garrett@gap.com
For Sample Requests
Janelle Wiggins, Banana Republic
Tel. +1 212.886.7139
Janelle_Wiggins@gap.com
Jessica Miller, LaForce + Stevens
Tel. +1 646.374.0835
BR@LSagency.com
DISTRIBUTION:
NASDAQ OMX Helsinki Ltd
Key media
Marimekko is a Finnish textile and clothing design company renowned for its original prints and colours. The company designs and manufactures high-quality interior decoration items ranging from furnishing fabrics to tableware as well as clothing, bags and other accessories. When Marimekko was founded in 1951, its unparalleled printed fabrics gave it a strong and unique identity. Marimekko products are sold in approximately 40 countries. In 2012, brand sales of Marimekko products worldwide amounted to approximately EUR 187 million and the company's net sales were EUR 88 million. The number of Marimekko stores totalled 108 at the year end. The key markets are North America, Northern Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. The Group employs around 500 people. The company’s share is quoted on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki Ltd. www.marimekko.com
Banana Republic is a global apparel and accessories brand focused on delivering modern American style. Dedicated to helping customers achieve their best in life’s moments big and small, both personally and professionally, Banana Republic offers covetable clothing, handbags, jewelry, eyewear and fragrance at accessible prices. Founded in San Francisco, Banana Republic is located in over 700 company-operated and franchise retail locations worldwide. Customers also can shop online or at (888) BR-STYLE. For more information about Banana Republic, a division of Gap Inc. (NYSE: GPS), please visit bananarepublic.com