Urban Outfitters is TOO Hilarious in Spring 2011

As we explored in this past post about thrifted styles that Urban Outfitters copied for Holiday 2010, it's no secret that the company has been successful in marketing a sort of young, hip thrifted style for totally jacked up prices. Not suprising, then, that one of the major new "trends" that Urban is touting for this spring is one that I was thrifting like mad last year—the nautical, color blocked, preppy look. In particular, the "St. James Regatta" "trend" is one that, according to the Urban website, is defined by "colorblock detailing, nautical stripes and classic pieces, juxtaposed with quirky patterns." Puke—any trend that includes the use of the word "quirky" to describe it should be immediately flagged as one that should actually substitute the word "boring" in its place.

I mean, really, check out the "cover" of the Urban March 2011 catalog:


Doesn't it sort of remind you of this:



(note: I've since cropped this top so it is even more Urban Outfitters friendly)

Or this:



Or this:



How 'bout that? A short sleeved sweater (perfect for my spring look) that also follows the Urban rule book of nautical themes and bold color? (Note: there is a sweater very much like this in the "Early Spring 2011" catalog that annoyingly ceases to exist on their website. But trust me, they had one like it).

A bag that would look nice with this "quirky" look:



And if my Bath & Body Works color-blocked bag is too pedestrian, I can always bring out my vintage Dooney & Bourke bag:



And of course these (because long sleeved striped tops=french=classy=rich=what rich people wear=Urban Outfitter's shoppers):




These shorts (including my green ones I just blogged about) would also fit the bill:




Yes, apparently pleated bottoms are still totally in.

Or how about these decidedly preppy shoes I was so into last year (and also the Keds I am continuing to rock this spring):





These dressier sandals of mine also seem to work for the ladies:





Comm'on Urban—give us something to work with here!

On the plus side, however, MPLS's own Annie Larson, who makes amazing knit pieces with crazy colors and patterns has gotten a shout out from the store as being a sweet up-and-coming designer. That in mind, it's nice to see that Urban is at least supporting independent designers. So congrats to Annie!