Props For Prada

Prada can often be established as the epitome of classic, sophisticated luxury. And the new spring / summer 2011 collection is no exception. Prada has gone big on colour pop, nods to nautical and bold - often cutesy - prints.

Often this writer cannot

suppress sighs of exhaustion and

boredom when it comes to spring / summer collections. Designers have been known to trot out the same nautical strips and Riviera themed creations, year after year, summer after summer - leaving us somewhat stuck in a style rut. This season, we must applaud Prada! Although still wandering down the plank-boarded walkways of nautical style, the fashion house has chosen to go with bold blues, ravishing reds and bright yellows to mix up the fabric and styling.

One of the most chit chatted about pieces this season has been the 'banana print' which Prada has draped over skirts, dresses and tops. Anna Wintour has even been spotted in the whimsical print, so we know it must be a fashion yes-yes. Entirely wearable, even after the season has ended AND ASOS.com have created a lovely little 'knock-off' which doesn't cost the equivalent of a mortgage payment.

Take a look at the video for Prada's collection, to get more ideas for your own summer style. Here's hoping these trends continue to trickle their way down into the more affordable realms of the high street, for us lesser mortals.