Pretty in Preen Resort 2020

The Japanese concept of kawaii- an over-the-top, saccharine cuteness that is very unique to Japanese culture- originated with ukiyio-e, or the art of woodblock printing popular in Japan during the 18th and 19th centuries. This cartoon-ish style was used to depict snapshots of Japanese life (think that one famous paining of the big wave, or geishas with pretty, painted faces) and gave rise to the manga and anime we know and love today. This art also helped to usher in the age of modern art in the west that became popular in the 1900s. I know what you’re thinking- “great, thanks for the art history lesson, but what does this have to do with Preen?” I’m getting to that!

This concept of this classic, Japanese art style influencing western pop culture is the inspiration for the Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Resort 2020 collection, which brought us on a journey through a plethora of pleasurable styles that are sure to shake up any winter wardrobe. The kawaii influence of Japan is obvious in what I think are the collection’s most memorable clothes- the fluttering, fluffy, pink pieces that shimmer in sequins, or luxuriate in lace. While the sequins and lace themselves are enough to make these dresses the most eye-catching of the collection, the addition of feathers that snake from shoulder to hem only adds to the appeal of the overall extra-ness of these looks.

And the pink doesn’t stop there- it can also be found in a long, floral piece that pays tribute to the flowers of classic art, styled with a karate-like belt. It is also seen in contrast on a pretty, floral print sweater thrown over a sheer, turquoise dress (an outfit I plan on emulating sometime soon!). These little, sweet touches of pink bring an overall softness to the collection that gives it a more whimsical, carefree vibe that I really relate to.

And while pretty, pink, flowery sweetness seemed to be a big theme for Preen this season, there were a lot of other looks to love, including a black, A-line dress with puff sleeves and a ruffled waist (witchy vibes anyone?) and a preppy, check print, long sleeve dress that I would love to incorporate into my fall wardrobe. I also enjoyed the ’70s-esque outfit with the printed skirt paired with the herringbone sweater, showing us in inoffensive way to mix prints.

Overall, the collection was incredibly wearable, with many ways to pair each piece for layered, winter looks that looked fresh and stylish, but also fun, which, in my opinion, is the most important aspect of our clothes. Even if our lives are serious and full of adult responsibilities, it doesn’t mean we have to give up the whimsy and fun that made us fall in love with life in the first place.

Check out some of my favorite looks from the collection below:

All outfit photos are from Preen by Thornton Bregazzi via Vogue.com.