This just in: We’re teaming up with Finnish design house Marimekko to bring the brand’s bold prints and cheerful colors to Target starting April 17. Moments ago, the collaboration was announced live on "Good Morning America."
“When it comes to our partnerships, we travel far and wide to find designers and brands we think our guests will love,” said Julie Guggemos, senior vice president, product design and development, Target. “For our spring collaboration, that brought us all the way to Finland! We’ve had our eye on Marimekko for quite some time, and can’t wait for guests to have a chance to shop this limited-edition collection in just a few short weeks.”
Why are we so confident Target’s shoppers will love this collection? It’s all about play! Target’s design team spent time in Helsinki, where Marimekko is rooted, and was struck by one observation in particular. Finland has four distinct seasons, and once the cold and dark of winter fade away, the Finns couldn’t be happier to get outside with friends and family to enjoy some much-deserved sunshine. In fact, in the summertime, the sun stays out until nearly midnight! That glimpse into the local culture gave birth to the idea behind the Marimekko for Target collaboration: Two iconic brands joining forces to create the feeling of an eternal summer and carefree outdoor living by offering items that bring people together and encourage them to play!
“Target pioneered the concept of design partnerships and continues to raise the bar with each new collaboration,” said Tiina Alahuhta-Kasko, president, Marimekko. “The Marimekko brand was created to bring color and happiness into people’s everyday lives. There are so many special pieces in this collection, and we are excited to share our storied prints and patterns with Target’s guests across the United States.”
Marimekko for Target features more than 200 playful, print-centric pieces that span outdoor décor, furniture and entertaining essentials, as well as beach and swimwear for women and girls. Standout items include the paddle board, inflatables, hammocks and swimsuits. The collection also features a number of firsts for Marimekko, including the bocce ball sets and parachutes. And best of all? Most pieces can be yours for under $50. Now, that’s enough to mark your calendar for April 17!
Want to know more about the Finnish design house that Target fell head-over-patterned-heels for? Look no further.
Founded in post-World War II Finland by Armi Ratia, Marimekko was created to bring color and cheer back to the country. Armi asked a few of her artist friends to create avant-garde prints for her husband’s oil-cloth printing factory. But people wanted to wear the bold prints and colors and that is how Marimekko – meaning Mary’s dress – was born. Since then, Marimekko’s prints have appeared on everyone from Jacqueline Kennedy (she wore a Marimekko dress on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1960, causing an international sensation) to Sarah Jessica Parker. And in just a few weeks, Target’s guests can add their names to the list!
Check back in later this month for a first look at the full collection.
Marimekko for Target will be available at all Target stores and Target.com April 17. Prices range from $7.99 for sunscreen to $499.99 for the paddle board. Most items are under $50.
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