A recent trend for haute couture design houses are collaborations with more affordable retailers. This season alone, Lanvin for H&M has been released, and William Rast for Target and Karl Lagerfeld for Macy’s is in the works.
Personally, I love these lines–to me, fashion shouldn’t be about the price, it should be about the artistry of a piece and styling outfits in new and creative ways. Some might say that this outlook is contradictory–after all, you’re buying a piece that still has a “brand name” on it. To me though, it’s not about labels. It’s about appreciating the craftsmanship of a design house. Just because they’re selling their product for a more reasonable price shouldn’t take away from the style factor!
Target has been a front runner in these collaborative lines, pairing up with huge names like Zac Posen, Rodarte, and Jean Paul Gaultier. When they announced their alliance with Mulberry, I was pretty excited but not pumped enough to wake up at the crack of dawn and get to Target. I’d addicted to shopping yes, but I never have too much extra cash. Consequently, when I do have a little money to spend, pieces in these lines are usually sold out.
Last night, I was at Target and stumbled upon the display for their like of Mulberry bags. There was one large patent and velvet satchel left…and I had to have it! I forget that here in Norman, although there are some trendy OU students, big design houses might not be common knowledge.
Yes, it was an impulse buy–but at $50, not a devastating one. I actually have not bought a purse in 2 years. The last one I purchased was a red Marc Jacobs quilted leather satchel, and I’ve been carrying it ever since. This new purse is plenty large enough, durable, and even comes with cute dangling charms! My only complaint is the “Mulberry for Target” etching on the buckle, but I guess since I paid $50 and not $1,500 for the bag, I don’t exactly deserve full Mulberry credit.
Be on the lookout for Justin Timberlake’s William Rast clothing line, hitting Target stores and online on Dec. 19. I’ve checked out the lookbook here, and the collection looks awesome. Lots of jackets, denim, and a perfect cross between western and urban styles.
Now, I want to know what you think. Do you buy any designer collaboration lines, or do you think they’re “cheating?” Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment!
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