MULBERRY RESORT 2012

PATRICIA VAN DER VLIET (NEW YORK MODEL)

MULBERRY RESORT 2012

Unbeknownst to Americans (or at least this one), beachside donkey rides are apparently a major facet of English seaside life. Accordingly, burros show up on sweatshirt-style jumpers for Mulberry's sea-and-sand-inspired Resort collection. The British label has always gone in for a bit of a giggle, so don't be put off. Strict realism isn't in the cards, anyway—hence the new collection's assortment of "Googly Fruits," goggle-eyed produce that appears on conversation knits. Need we even start on a "Beach Bonkers" print, on rompers, bikinis, and mini-shorts?

Bonkers indeed. But the reigning dictum at Mulberry is cute, and once the incidental oddities are stripped away, the offerings are mostly just that. A new mac comes in a shortened, car-coat length with elasticized cuffs, and little day dresses in black broderie anglaise pick up the crafty vibe we've seen elsewhere this season. A-line skirts (in button-front and elastic-waist versions), cotton tweeds, and plenty of light denim round out the seasonal offering.

It's a little tough to imagine Mulberry becoming the go-to denim destination, but there's no denying it sets the bags off nicely. They're what really make the girls go googly, anyway. This season, the object of their affection will likely be the slouchy, metal-handled Evelina, in hobo or satchel form. Want one? Get your ass in gear.