Chicago - June 05, 2007

Who’s the Hoss

Hoss Intropia

When traveling in Europe, Americans stick out like sore thumbs. Sneakers, baggy T-shirts, fleece crewnecks, baseball caps — we’re easy to spot (and not in a good way).

Fake some European sophistication with Hoss Intropia, Spain’s new spring and summer line, now making its way overseas.

Paloma Vázquez de Castro, a former costume designer for Spain’s National Ballet, heads up the design team with a slew of inspirations — food, architecture, music, Vermeer — that make for a romantic, feminine, elegant collection.

The voluminous, retro-like dresses use minute detailing, ethnic prints, and a neutral palette (white and pearl gray with mauve, green, and blue tones). The materials — cotton, silk, organza, linen — breathe during humid days yet still work for night.

So whether you’re gaping at Gaudi or motoring down Michigan Avenue, your clothes will say hola rather than scream holla.

Available at Koros, 1019 West Lake Street, between Carpenter and Morgan Streets (312-738-0155 or korosartandstyle.com). To see styles, go to hossintropia.com.