I love, love when high-end designers do lines for mass-market retail. Target (Calypso, Tucker) was among the first to make this happen in a big way partnering with contemporary (and very, very expensive) designers to create limited-edition lines for the majority of middle-class America. H&M has also done some extraordinary pairings – Karl Lagerfeld and Lanvin are just a couple. With these surprising collections, the average Jane can experience the spirit of a fashion week-level brand.
Yesterday, I discovered that Uniqlo has jumped on this train when I strolled in on Saturday. I saw three tremendously chic names hanging on the racks – Vena Cava, Charlotte Ronson and my favorite, Costello Taglipietra. Each priced under $30, these Costello frocks at Uniqlo aren’t the runway-ready designs, but offer the essence of the designer through a small collection of simple pieces.
I couldn't grab each image individually (Uniqlo has a lock on their site). What I can tell you (since I was there) is that each of these pieces looks architechturally complicated but they're actually soft and stretchy, and made extremely well. A soft palette of neutrals and simple T-shirt styles with perks, this collection is worthwhile and a first step toward the runway silhouettes of traditional Costello.
CallaStyle 