Taking Gypset to Preppy

by Mikka Padua April 16, 2013

Inspiration for our anchor brands spring-summer collections came easy, having always been intrigued by the so-called "Gypset." Julia Chaplin, author of Gypset Travel best describes this newly coined term I am so fondly amused of as:

"Gypset (Gypsy+jet set) is about an emerging group of artists, musicians, fashion designers, surfers, and bon vivants– who lead semi-nomadic, unconventional lives. They are people I’ve met–or been inspired by– in my travels who have perfected a high-low approach to life that fuses the freelance and nomadic wile of a gypsy with the sophistication and global references of the jet set. It’s an alternative way of traveling and living that’s based more on creativity than money. Instead of a luxury hotel in St. Tropez or St. Bart’s, you might find a Gypsetter in Montauk, Cornwall, or in a teepee in Ibiza.”

My favorite part here is her take on it as an alternative to traveling and living based more on creativity than money. Giving an unconventional, bohemian approach to life. The carefree wiles of a gypsy mixed with the sophistication of the jet set. Isn't that simply amusing? So off goes my imagination to Montauk off New York, Lamu in Kenya, Keia in Majorca to name a few..

The colors are so vibrant, the textures so rich! I think the gypset lifestyle infused into either fashion or interiors is punchy and refreshing at the same time. It lends some global exoticism like no other.

But to go head-to-toe is not my intention. It is always more interesting to mix up looks. Looks you'd never think would actually go well together. Think neat and understated preppy fused with the exoticism and down-to-earth ease of the gypset..

Keia Pompom Pouch, Crochet Turquoise Bib Necklace, Goa Crochet & Leather Clutch, Embellished Lucite Bib Necklace, Lamu Shoulder Bag

The idea was not to get a closet overhaul but rather, to update what you already own and just make those pieces in heavy rotation look new and fresh again. Get better style mileage out of pieces you normally would think is only suitable for the beach.. but lo and behold, can actually work its way well into your city or sometimes even corporate wardrobes!

Take the Cruz Alta for example. Looks pristine beach side and pool side paired with virtually any bikini out there. Come back from your vacay and layer it over your closet staples. You won't only be sporting a gorgeous tan but a good dose of very chic global magpie, the most sought after style set oh so masters.

Go ahead take gypset to preppy or the other way around, which ever way you fancy.

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