Penneys collection springs into life

VALUE retailer Penneys previewed its spring 2012 collection at the Art Gallery of Dublin’s Morrison Hotel yesterday with an taster of their upcoming womenswear range.

The overarching mood ranges from retro femininity to modernist androgyny with an equally diverse colour palette. Seaside sherbet hues take centre stage, with mint, candy pink and lemon sorbet finding expression in louche blazers, laser cut shorts, colour pop skinny jeans and dip hem pleated dresses.

Vibrant hues and pared back monochrome tones also make their presence felt — especially in 50s and 60s pencil and shift shapes. The vintage vibe is further parlayed across an assortment of conversational prints: meadows, daisies, puppies, birds, not to mention details like bows and Peter Pan collars.

While the girlie girl retains her star status, the tomboy’s cameo is equally strong. Think streamlined, collarless jackets and tailored, cropped trousers paired with pink tuck blouses and sharp, triple-collar shirts. Textured accessories like reptile print contrast clutches and block heel sandals provide the perfect foil to masculine cuts and make playful partners for play-suits and prom dresses.

Have we forgotten those April showers? Of course not. The collection’s yellow patent rain jacket has an Alexa Chung appeal, while the turquoise and hot pink wax jackets are defiantly weather-appropriate. Likewise, boat shoes and Breton stripes provide sea-faring fixtures for sportier gals.

Whatever the skies hold, one thing is for certain — Penneys has spring all sewn up.