March 28, 2008

Don’t Worry, Bi Happy

Bi La Li Clothing

This season, everyone will be wearing bold florals, gladiator sandals, and leopard skin.

Everyone minus one.

You’ll be marching to your own beat, thanks, with Bi La Li’s spring collection — a parade of timeless, architectural pieces designed by Bavarian-turned-Brit Nelli Turner.

Turner’s clothes stay understated while playing with structure and proportion. Her London-based label has a strong cult following (Björk and author Zadie Smith are fans), despite the fact that she’s never hired a publicist or held a runway show.

Take note of killer details like handmade glass buttons and softly swooping shoulder seams. A black viscose jersey dress is jaw-dropping but looks like you just threw it on. The geranium cape-like cardie makes a great jacket for spring.

The collection’s not loud, but it speaks volumes.

It says you — and your wardrobe — are one of a kind.

Available at Impulse, 3516 Fremont Place North (206-545-4854 or impulseseattle.com); online at net-a-porter.com.