Let's dive into spring/summer 2014! Nothing says summer like sailboats, especially in Chicago. Lake Michigan is full of boats and yachts during the warmer months and though I can't afford to get out on the lake, I can easily get behind this pattern.
The journey of this print was definitely an adventure. As a team, we at Mata Traders decided that adding a dash of nautical into the spring 2014 mix would be an awesome idea. Like the "Tools of the Trade" dress from Spring '13 and many other textiles designs for Mata Traders, I collaborated with Nora Slavin Howe (the fabulous mom of Mata Traders' creative director, Maureen Dunn). Nora is a wonderful artist who hand sketched a bunch of sailboats. I scanned her drawings, took on the role of pattern technician and played around with color, orientation, scale and repeat for over a week before we finally decided on the perfect print.
From left to right: Starboard Dress, Tied and True Top and Summerfest Dress.
Once we got a fabric sample back we knew we had to use this print on a top. The Tied and True Top matches the print beautifully. The tie in the front carries a nautical element while still looking work appropriate. The Starboard Dress on the left and the Summerfest Dress on the right are enhanced with yellow piping and trim which brings out the bright sunny feel of summer. Both dresses are super comfortable, fun and a perfect warm weather outfit!