Do you love anything seersucker? What about sailboats, starfish and all things nautical? Are you a “Lily girl" or a J. Crew aficionado? If you answered yes to any of these, or you're just a #basic sorority girl like me, it's time to update your wardrobe! These three brands are up and coming designers with clothing lines full of bright colors and ridiculous patterns, enough to make any sorority girl squeal and break into a recruitment cheer. So watch out Lilly Pulitzer, these designers are taking over the prep scene one sorority girl at a time.
1. Haley and the Hound
Haley and the Hound is what I consider to be a “mature" spin-off of Lily Pulitzer, mature being used lightly (you can only be so sophisticated wearing elephant and starfish dresses). Haley and the Hound has a variety of dresses, tunics, tops and bottoms that are perfect for a variety of events. Check out their T-Shirt Dresses or their line of tunics for an easy and stylish outfit. What's really great about this brand is that their pieces can be styled for events as simple as everyday errands, to social outings such as going out to the bar with your girlfriends.
My personal favorites:
Coral Floral Haley Tunic
Lime Seersucker Madeline Dress
2. Duffield Lane
For those of you skeptical of the preppy lifestyle, Duffield Lane is for you. While their line does embrace a nautical and beach vibe, they stay away from the crazy patterns that are intimidating to girls who aren't comfortable pledging their undying devotion to seashells and seahorses quite yet. Summer weddings, fancy dinners and graduation parties are where Duffield Lane items will really shine. Their dresses are simple, neat and sophisticated. Try their Blaire swing dress (pictured above) or their Grace shift dress. Wearing Duffield Lane people will think you are one classy lady, even if you're really taking shots behind the bar.
My Favorite Pieces:
Grace Dress in White with Sea Foam
Blaire Swing Dress in Sky Blue
3. Dayton K
Now here is a store that has something for everyone; Dayton K offers a line of dresses that are suitable for all ages and are more versatile than anything you've seen at Vineyard Vines. Their dresses are great for literally anything. Work at the office? Sure. Dinner with the grandparents? Absolutely. Day Drink? Definitely! The best part of Dayton K's line this year is that they really do attract to women on either side of the preppy spectrum. There are styles for those who love to stick out with pieces like a sea creature dress, but there are also more subtle designs for those who may not want fingers pointed at them (also known as black).
Try these:
The Emma Dress in Black
The Harper Dress in Pink Polka Dot
Whether your summer plans consist of working 24/7 or watching every episode of Gilmore Girls on Netflix, these three fashion brands can help you take your collegiate wardrobe to the next level. After all, there is such a thing as having too much Lily right? Probably not, but regardless these designers can help you live out your dream of being your pledge class' Jackie Kennedy. Happy shopping!
