March 7, 2007

Going Dutch

Tony Cohen Spring Collection

Tulip fields? Check. Bikes? In critical mass. Unfortunately, ten-foot lap dances hardly constitute a red light district. And Seattle’s only over-the-counter buds come in bottles or cans.

Fine. Score one for the Netherlands. (Besides, wasn’t a certain study abroad weekend high-flying enough?)

Time to indulge in a more appropriate Dutch treat: the just-debuted spring collection from Amsterdam-based designer Tony Cohen.

Breezy and feminine yet decidedly grown-up, the line balances high-maintenance details (ruffles, gauzy layers) with a minimalist palette (black, ivory, beige). We’re especially enamored of a sweet, empire-waist linen coat and a flowing, milkmaid-gone-metro top.

They’re the kind of clothes that get you stopped on the street.

Only this time, in a good way.

Available at Merge, 5000 20th Avenue Northwest, at Ballard Avenue Northwest (206-782-5335). To see styles, go to tony-cohen.com.