Encountering this season's Apiece Apart collection required some adjustment of the eye. It wasn't quite sensory overload—designers Starr Hout and Laura Cramer are way too measured for that—but this outing definitely set a standard for the brand in terms of its use of pattern and print. Which is to say, there was pattern and print—a winning tile work-inspired graphic, for one, and a tonal grid in Italian jacquard, not to mention a broderie anglaise. The shapes, too, hinted at a loosening of Apiece Apart's signature reserve, with some shorter hemlines and girlish touches like a ruffled sleeve. The feel of the collection was more peppy and youthful, overall, but with enough of the brand's endemic function-minded adult-ness to make this outing seem more an evolution than a blind leap. And there were simple pieces to satisfy fans of the pared-back Apiece Apart look, as well; surely many of them will be eager to add this collection's lightweight chambray dresses and skirts to their wardrobes, not to mention the clever cape-sleeve tops. All in all, a nice progression.
