'Anna Karenina' inspires Banana Republic collection
NEWYORK — Banana Republic is launching a special holiday collection styled by Jacqueline Durran, the Acadmemy Award-nominated costume designer for Anna Karenina.
Designed by Banana Republic, the capsule takes its inspiration from the 19th Century fashions featured in this fall’s theatrical new movie vision of the epic love story, re-imagined through a modern fashion lens. The Banana Republic Anna Karenina collection launches exclusively at Banana Republic North America retail locations and online this October, building up to the much-anticipated movie’s U.S. debut this November. Anna Karenina reteams Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley, starring in the title role, with acclaimed director Joe Wright (Pride & Prejudice, Atonement).
“As we began designing this Holiday collection, we found ourselves very inspired by the elegance typical of the Anna Karenina time period,” said Banana Republic creative director and EVP design, Simon Kneen. “With Jacqueline’s clear expertise and extensive knowledge of the era, it was a dream to have her as part of the styling and editing process, which allowed us to curate a capsule that embodies the film’s mood. Working with Jacqueline has been an incredible experience. Her understanding and passion for the project added a genuine dimension to the capsule.”
The Banana Republic Anna Karenina collection includes statement accessories and apparel fashioned with velvet, faux fur, lace, and a touch of sparkle that embody the style of the era. Working alongside Kneen, Durran pulled a selection of her favorites from the collection, which would become the capsule. These looks were most reflective of the film’s aesthetic, whether representative of a specific character personality or a modern translation of one of the film’s elegant costume pieces.
“Working with Banana Republic and Simon to curate and style a capsule collection inspired by looks from Anna Karenina was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Durran. “I was given the unique chance to apply my passion for period styles to a collection that translates to fashion today.”
The capsule will be featured in Banana Republic’s November advertising campaign which will appear in select print, outdoor, online, direct mail and in store.