Fad*ish- fashion and design

What can we learn from Paramitas? Their ability to adapt proper use of hearts and bright colors in women’s clothing makes Popeye’s ‘Olive Oyl’ chic. Though I never thought to derive my fashion sense from a cartoon character, apparently someone thought it was a good idea, so much so that they placed the moderately priced clothing collection in a brightly decorated store, with snobby sales associates to boot.

On first glace Paramitas seemed like a children’s play land. I expected to see a pool of balls or pizza served to juvenile clientele. But this mess of red hearts, and cartoons splashed in a haphazard fashion on everything from cotton to leather was intended for adult use. But once you get pass the clothing that one can only hope no one makes a whole wardrobe, there exists an interior design that is a successful experiment in primary colors. Of course it picks up where their clothing failed miserably, white walls accented with cherry reds, sappy greens and sunflower yellow. Tying the colors together are whimsical cartoons affirming the playfulness of the brand.

What I learned from Paramitas was that even though I wouldn’t want to dress like a childish billboard, the integration of whimsy in store décor is refreshing. I have seen this trend attempted in other retail outlets, but usually it is not suitable. Since graffiti has become fashionable--thank to “Sex and the City”-- more people have been interjecting a bit of ‘G-fab” into their lifestyles. Paramitas has achieved it a way that in one of the most politically correct fashions. I wonder what new trend ‘Olive Oyl” will inspire next season.

*Originally Posted on Word on the Street 8/27/06

Labels: Retail Report