Known for patterned, rhinestone-studded tees and fun accessories, Katydid Collection has debuted a Spring/Summer range that represents a departure from the past. The affordable, vacation-ready shorts, pants, rompers, and more, have us taking a second look at this booming Big D brand.  

  Designer and founder Katy Messersmith has built her multi-million dollar business from the ground-up, taking calculated risks while remaining true to Katydid Collection’s young, casual aesthetic. To date, product offerings have focused primarily on tee shirts in bright and glittering styles, as well as those emblazoned with sports themes. Casual sandals, Sherpa-style boots, and cuff bracelets are also hallmark items. The formula has added up to some 10,000 boutique clients across the nation, and a nod from Inc. Magazine, among other notable accolades. In her Spring/Summer 2014 collection, Messersmith adds boho-style prints and new silhouettes to her time-tested staples. The strategy reflects her clients’ latest point-of-view. “We continue to research and design for our ever-evolving customer base,” she explains of the style shift. “It includes women with an interest in wearing the latest color trends and unique casual designs to set them apart.”  

  In other words, as Katydid’s customer makes a move toward more variety and modern twists in her wardrobe, the brand is with her every step of the way. Like a bestie, Messersmith doesn’t challenge, instead making new styles easy – and wallet-friendly – to embrace. For example, poly rompers in both “Aztec” prints and stripes ring in at under $35. The gentle price-point equals an easy buy for those wishing to experiment beyond typical tees. Likewise, strapless maxi dresses are a bargain at $42.95. Both new styles are travel-ready and would transition from beach to beachside dining with the addition of a few accessories.  

  In the separates category, staples like shorts ($29.95) and Palazzo pants ($39.95) also receive special treatment via bold prints in the new Katydid line. The former represent the designer’s personal pick of the Spring/Summer collection. As for our favorites, gauzy, kimono-style cardigans ($32.95) are subtly sophisticated. Swap out the shorts and tank for an LBD, and once again, a bargain buy proves beautifully versatile. Consider us pleasantly surprised with Katydid’s new direction. We’ll be adding a few items to our own vacation wardrobes, and we’re eager to see what seasons to come bring from this evolving Dallas brand.   All images, courtesy of Katydid Collection.