Surprises that come in big bold packages

I don’t know about you, but I love a good surprise! Even more so when it involves unique fashion. There’s nothing better than uncovering a treasure trove of one-off and quirky pieces that no one else has! So that’s why we bring to you the wonderfully outrageous Bombe Surprise; an online boutique with an array of African inspired prints in delectably bold colours.

Exploring Wax Hollandais fabric, Bauhaus graphics are splattered across quirky bomber jackets and chic short shorts. For the girls, a focus on teeny crop tops to tone down the wild prints are key, whilst high hems and nipped in waists create a desired silhouette. For the guys, an eclectic mix of eccentric patterns are present with a nod to the fashions of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air cast members.

The Batik style prints that feature heavily in the Bombe Surprise collection originated from Indonesia before they were adopted by the African nation as their signature style for African fashion. “Essentially I really liked working with the fabric because of its bright colours, mismatched printing and eccentric patterns” says Nina, the curator and designer of the label.

But how does Bombe Surprise fit in with the fashion statements of today? “I actually think it has a very strong association to London and its multicultural identity; that’s how I view the fabric. Not as something that is only allowed to be worn by people from Africa,” enthuses Nina. “So in my collection I have designed garments which I think encompass that distinct London look teamed with the fabric that I associate with multicultural Britain.”

So are you brave enough to make a statement in Bombe Surprise? If so, clash away with print on print or mix it up by teaming a feminine crop top with a guy’s bomber! For the more fainter fashion-hearted, pick a starting piece such as the high-waisted African shorts and team with a bold colour like electric blue or fierce red.

Spring/ Summer 2012 is a fabulous time to get creative with colour and Bombe Surprise should have just been added to your new season wish list – I know it’s now on ours!

Shop online here.

(Nina will launch her Summer collection that will be available to buy online at the end of April.)

(Men’s bomber jackets from £70, Ladies bomber jackets from £65, Ladies shorts from £35.)

Mel Jeffery