Band of Outsiders Spring 2014: Impractical But Interesting

What began as the instant go-to label for the coolest kids seeking out updated prep has evolved—indeed, Band of Outsiders’ latest collection bore little of the brand’s previous signatures. The look’s always been about traditional silhouettes with a healthy dose of humor and quirk injected within, but for spring, designer Scott Sternberg seemed to all but abandon this formula.

Though there were some touches of signature prep—on tennis dresses with delicate collars and oxford detailing kissing a few pieces—it felt like a real shift. This new Band of Outsiders silhouette is longer, more drapey and more dramatic. Forget about too much menswear-inspired detailing here (though there are some key tailored, long vests), it’s all about loose, flowing looks. Think tank and short-sleeved dresses that balloon out at the lower hem, a sheer poncho in an unlikely (but kinda cool) floral print and floor-skimming maxi dresses and skirts. Even a few sporty touches permeated the collection, like the aforementioned tennis dress, as well as a cool mesh-overlay skirt and a bright yellow rain slicker.

It’s kind of all over the place (note the silky haltered jumpsuit) but it’s still kind of exciting to see where Sternberg is headed, and how he chooses to evolve. Was the lack of borrowed-from-the-boys looks a bit of a disappointment? Sure, but if it means we’re in store for more of this impractical but interesting direction (see: zippered nylon skirts in cobalt and print), then we’re at attention.