High design

Designer collections for the mass market continue to roll out

Published: November 29, 2012 

It has been more than a decade since Target first popularized designer collaborations — the vehicle through which high-end designers create limited edition collections for mass market retailers.

For the designers, the partnerships present a lucrative opportunity to reach consumers. For retailers, the collaborations increase their cool quotient. And for customers, it is a chance to own a garment from a designer they may otherwise not be able to afford.

Over the years many other retailers have launched collaborations including H&M, Forever 21, specialty retailers such as Banana Republic and department stores including Macy’s.

By now, you’d think consumers would be on collaboration overload, but the partnerships keep coming and consumers keep buying.

Kohl’s recently jumped into the game with its DesigNation collaboration series. First up is designer Narciso Rodriguez.

The collection of color-blocked tops and dresses in brights and classic black and white were inspired by the designer’s trip to Istanbul. There are also printed pajama pants, textured jackets and a belted cocoon coat. Priced from $30 to $150, the collection is available at Kohl’s stores and online at Kohls.com.

Here is a list of upcoming collaborations to help you plan ahead.

Now-Spring: Sophie Theallet for the Limited

The collaboration debuted a dress in four colors — ivory, magenta, black and vermillion and a cardigan in midnight blue, midnight purple, brass and tangerine. Theallet also created a belt, a clutch in red, brick, eggplant and gold and five styles of bracelets and two styles of earrings for The Limited collection. Dresses will retail for $108, cardigans for $69, bags for $59, belts for $49 and jewelry for $29. “The Look” for Holiday will be available in more than 255 stores and online at www.thelimited.com.

Saturday: Target & Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection

A mix of gifts and clothing to get you through the holiday season designed by 24 of America’s most-talented designers — all members of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). Categories include fashion and accessories for women, men and kids, home goods, stationery, sporting goods and pet accessories priced from $7.99 to $499.99. The collection will be available at all Neiman Marcus and Target stores as well as online at target.com and neimanmarcus.com.

Feb. 10 - March 23: Prabal Gurung for Target

The collection of women’s ready-to-wear and accessories including handbags, shoes and jewelry will be available for $12.99 — $199.99 while supplies last at all Target stores and Target.com. Standout pieces include refined dresses, mixed-media skirts, edgy blazers and striking shoes.

March - May 2013: Duro Olowu for J.C. Penney

The seasonal collection features fashion and home items from Nigerian-born, London-based designer Duro Olowu. Apparel and accessories for women and home goods including dinnerware, stationery and decor items will range in price from $10 to $100 at most jcpenney stores and jcp.com.

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