SPRING marks a new beginning, a time when flowers regale with lovely blooms.
With this in mind and inspired by beautiful English gardens and British ornithology heritage, Ted Baker has put together a fun and vibrant Spring/Summer 2010 collection.
Nature-inspired prints like butterfly clusters, tropical florals and poppy blooms are prevalent. These little nuances provide that uplifting feeling.
A particularly cheerful design is an elbow-length balloon sleeved blouse in butterfly cluster print with front ruffle design, paired with a dark, short skirt, that makes you feel right at home in the meadow.
Floral designs feature in both a print blouse with front-pleat design and a sassy, red bloom motif dress.
The collection offers colours that are vivid and varied, ranging from lawn greens, tangerine oranges to cornflower blues.
Feminine appliqué details, corsages and scalloped edges create a sense of romance and lend individuality to the pieces. Have an afternoon tea party to go to? Check out the beige layered, scalloped dress that portrays a sense of innocence.
Overall, the outfits are playful, with hemlines rising above the knee and dresses designed with soft, flowy fabrics.
On the other hand, a bleached denim and leather jacket, toughened up with utility details or exposed zips, add an edge to otherwise predictable ensembles.
There are also structured silhouettes and modern shifts in contemporary and versatile fashion. Examples include a puffed, bustier dress and a green sleeveless dress with shoulder ruche design and matching belt.
Chic and contemporary, a pleated round-neck top with scarf-belt teamed with dark pants is a safe option for the office or a day out with the girls.
Voluminous, built-up shoulders also form part of the collection and new trouser shapes are in this season, whether cropped 50s-style or slouch fit.
What’s even more interesting are the accompanying shoes and bags in store which come in basic earthy tones colours as well dynamic light green or bright metallic blue. Choose from totes that come with matching flats, or stilettos and platform heels.
For the men, the collection is about bold, strong colours like burnt orange, fuchsia and floral-inspired prints. New checked shirts are updated in clashing tones while classic polo tops are awashed in bright colours.
Linen and cotton blends are great for relaxed, outdoor wear while chinos and preppy shorts are essential fashion items for those hot days.
Look out also for waffle effect knitwear, along with hooded leather jackets and T-shirts to create that cool dude look.