New & Hot: Lemlem for J.Crew

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Lemlem for J.Crew Adama Dress
What: Lemlem for J.Crew tunics, dresses and scarves

Why it's hot: The Lemlem label is the creation of model-turned-mogul (and devoted activist) Liya Kibede. Lemlem, which means "to bloom" in Amharic, is designed in New York, but made in Ethiopia by local weavers. The label has created jobs for Ethiopian weavers, which is helping to form a path out of poverty for those local artisans.

The pretty, summer-perfect designs of Lemlem have drawn a devoted following since the label's inception in 2007 and were even featured in the July issue of Elle magazine. Now, the label has paired up with forward-looking accessible label J.Crew to offer a capsule collection that shows off three of Lemlem's best-loved designs: the tunic, the dress and the scarf.

What to wear it with: Lemlem for J.Crew has a breezy, relaxed vibe and 100% cotton construction that is perfect for even the hottest days of summer. The dresses and tunics would look just as good at lunch with the girls as they would playing cover-up to your favorite bikini at the pool. The Lemlem Tullu Scarf is the ideal lightweight summer scarf -- take it on your next trip to the beach to help keep warm on chilly nights.

→ Buy the Lemlem for J.Crew Adama Dress, $245.00, at jcrew.com

→ Browse all Lemlem for J.Crew at jcrew.com.