From classic scarves to bold beach gear to distinctive women’s accessories, Echo Design never ceases to add pops of color and pattern to our boutique. We talked with Echo’s Kerri Hannen about spring trends and their new swimwear line – just in time for spring break!

BE: What is your favorite part about working for Echo?

Kerri: Since joining Echo in 2013, I’ve found there’s a lot to love about this brand. Most of all, I love the diversity – the diversity of the collection itself and the diversity of the customers who buy our products. I also love how each of my boutique customers curates our collection in a unique way. It’s fun to watch and be a part of that process.

BE: In addition to your classic scarves, what are the other staple Echo items that every woman should have in their closet?

Kerri: I’m most excited about the items in our beach collection, where we take our love of color and print and translate it into swimwear and beach-to-street fashion. Boxy, kimono-inspired cardigans and jackets are also trending this spring. We offer several styles that can work as cardigans or ruanas (a poncho-style sweater) if you release the snaps on each side.

BE: Tell us about your new swimwear. What makes it unique?

Kerri: Similar to the rest of the Echo collection, our swimwear is all about bright colors and patterns. I am in love with our vintage inspired bikinis and our blouson halter one pieces! We also use a “slimming technology” in our one-pieces that features power mesh paneling, which slims in all the right places.

BE: How important are small boutiques to Echo’s success?

Kerri: We love our independent retailers! They are tremendously important to Echo’s success. As a family-owned and operated company, we celebrate entrepreneurs at every level. Our boutique partners provide us with invaluable information including why a particular style is sitting on the shelf or flying out of the store? This helps us tailor our collection to provide customers with a flawless shopping experience.

BE: Why do you think Echo has maintained such amazing success after 90 years of being in business?

Kerri: Ever since our first scarf was created in 1923, Echo has not only been passionate about design, but also about quality. The Roberts family has also been consistently true to their brand. They don’t ride the wave of every passing fad; rather, they interpret trends in a way that is both current and true to the Echo tradition.

In addition to pursuing excellence in design, the Roberts family is committed to philanthropic endeavors. Echo launched our Share the Warmth campaign three years ago, providing cold weather gear to people in need. We’ve helped families affected by Hurricane Sandy and, most recently, we partnered with Together We Rise to donate items to foster homes throughout the country.