The dominant theme at the Spring shows was a return to simplicity following a Fall season of opulent brocades and printed suits. Banana Republic creative director Simon Kneen tapped into the cleaned-up mood with his new collection for the brand. Guests at today's presentation were greeted by models in graphic striped patio dresses that hinted at the French Riviera, worn with mid-heel stacked leather sandals. The IAC building's atrium was divided into four different tableaux, and it was the "fifty shades of white—or rather, one hundred shades of white"—moment, as Kneen put it, that felt the freshest. Noteworthy here was a sharp, single-button tuxedo vest paired with pleated trousers, piled up with chunky gold chain necklaces. There was also a vibrant monochromatic section that incorporated what Kneen called "colors from my salad," like heirloom tomato red, spring mix green, and bell pepper orange and yellow. For the boys, tailored shorts suits and chambray jackets offered updates for the wardrobe, emphasizing basics with a twist.
