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"    Photo: Courtesy of Banana Republic   While it was November of 2010 when Kate Middleton wore the iconic Issa London blue wrap dress to the party announcing her engagement to Prince William, it feels like her romance with Prince William has gone by in a flash. Now, she has a day-old son, and we&amp;#039;re still anxiously waiting to hear what the Prince of Cambridge&amp;#039;s name will be (with James taking the lead amongst those taking bets). Feed your royal fascination come August 8 when Banana Republic launches a 40-piece collaboration with Issa London including a recreation of her famed frock. Expect a bevy of dresses in jewel-tone colors and animal prints as well as sweaters, jewelry (like leather wrap bracelets), accessories, and totes (all ranging between $39.50 to $150).   We have an exclusive first look at the collection as well as a quick chat with Banana Republic creative director Simon Kneen on how to style the looks and which piece is fit for a princess. What is the inspiration for the line? The collection is a nod to safari chic. It&amp;#039;s all about versatility and being able to play with bold prints and feminine silhouettes. Issa London&amp;#039;s design is effortless and chic and perfectly compliments the Banana Republic consumer who is looking for that instant pick me up in her wardrobe. Do you think Kate Middleton will wear some of the pieces? If so, which one? We would be honored if Kate donned a piece from the Banana Republic Issa London collection. I could definitely see her in one of the kimono dresses\u2014they are youthful, beautiful, and so flattering. For those who want to copy the Duchess of Cambridge&amp;#039;s style, which of these dresses would work best as an engagement party dress? The collection is very versatile and can be worn for various occasions. All of the dresses are great party options, [and] the wrap dresses are especially flattering. The red ceramic dot is my favorite fabric; it almost looks like an animal print because it&amp;#039;s bright, bold, and flirty. I love the woven leather and gold jewelry paired with a bold printed dress. It&amp;#039;s such a modern way to interpret the safari theme. What is your styling advice for the collection? This collection easily translates from day to night. For the chic and sophisticated, a jewel-tone dress paired with a blazer can easily take your style from desk to date. For the bold and daring, a zebra print kimono dress paired with a neutral cardigan creates a balanced look. The trick for transitional dressing, especially for pre-fall, is layering.   Photo: Courtesy of Banana Republic  Photo: Courtesy of Banana Republic  Photo: Courtesy of Banana Republic "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
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