Like many brands, J.Crew always creates very interesting, slightly edgier looks for their Collection line, and the upcoming Spring/Summer 2014 collection is no different.  According to a briefing, the collection was inspired by two stories, one of surfing at a California beach and another influenced by the “lido lifestyle of the Venetian coast” – think walking along the boardwalk in flowy white, lacy pieces, just like something out of a mid-20th century Italian film.   The softer, more romantic looks from the latter inspiration definitely caught my eye more.

While I’m not a fan of the way the looks were styled, especially on the women, I can tell that the individual pieces can look good paired with other items (not a fan of the white top, stripped pants and neck piece, for example – the model’s head looked like it was being eaten up).  There were, however, some very shapeless pieces – especially those that were brightly coloured.  It’s as if the stylists wanted to hide the models’ shapes with the boxy tops and matching shorts.  Do I have some favourites?  Sure!  They include a floral skirt with a flouncy hem (paired with a jean jacket), a white dress with yellow and cranberry patterning, a white eyelet mini-dress as well as the one and only LBD in the collection.  Another piece I like was the white midi circle skirt that was paired with cropped black top.  However, the length does not look ideal on everyone – it would work best if it was around knee length.  Least favourite?  Definitely the look that resembles an Easter egg!

J. Crew needs to remember that even the Collection pieces are meant to be for a more general consumer and not “wearable art.”  While looks at Fashion Week should definitely be edgier and more fashion-forward, they still need to think about the consumer and looks should be more reflective of that.  Stylists must ensure that the looks are going to not only work well on these 5’11”, ultra-slim women, but also on someone more average – perhaps 5’5″ and a size 8 or even someone very petite.

Images from style.com/courtesy of Jane Gill PR