It's funny how Anthropologie appeals to almost every woman out there in the way that it captures the imagination. It's some very powerful brand management that communicates a single, cohesive idea: a well-lived and beautiful life. Everything from the whimsical details (flowers and pearls on a cardigan?) to the lush weight of the fabrics to the jewel-box setup of of the stores works together to create this feeling of romance, creativity, and luxury. And yes, I love their clothing--but can only afford to buy it on sale.
So whichever marketing manager came up with the idea of teaming with self-taught fine art photographer Barbara Cole ought to get a raise. What a stroke of genius! When the gorgeous May 2009 catalog landed in my mailbox, I was intrigued by how Cole's style brings the clothing to life. And the cover looks almost like a painting, reminiscent of the Pre-Raphaelites, fairy tales, and the Lady of Shalott.
I don't know a lot about the photographer herself, but I poked around her site a bit and found some more arresting images of dreamy water-color fabrics and burnished floating hair.
To see the "making of" video, visit Anthro's website.
Posted simultaneously to: stephanie.posterous.com
