Wouldn’t we all like to be the new kid on the block? Most of you would probably say ‘hell no’ in horror.. that is, until you’ve feasted your eyes on Berlin-based designer Franziska Michael’s SS13 collection, suitably titled, “New Kid on the Block.” Her lookbook for this collection brings you almost instantaneously back to a hazy, humid summer, hanging with your friends at the local 711, drinking slurpees and wishing summer was endless. Purple seems to play a prevalent role with tons of lavender, lilac, and plum shades, which create the perfect natural element found in spring and summer’s bounty of lush floral surroundings. The mostly light color palette does lend a bit of shade with some of the print designs. The pastels and dark prints combined really showcase the intensity of youthful diversity. The patterns relate to the intricacies of adaptation; the fitting into your surroundings, reminiscent of a puzzle piece, and trying to find your niche. Each piece’s design manifests individuality through the colors and the textures used, making for strong statement pieces. So with this collection, let’s toast to staying out all night long with the new friends you just made, skinny dipping in your neighbor’s pool, and taking a moment to make shapes out of those fluffy cotton candy clouds floating above your dreamy heads.