{Fashion} LOTC: Jason Wu for Target apparel and accessories

I've fallen in love with Jason Wu slowly - from the dress he created for Michelle Obama for the inaugural ball to the wallpaper newspaper in his apartment to his close connections to his (Taiwanese, go Asian men!) family.  I am also loving him a bit more because his collection for Target is getting closer by the day (I'll be setting a calendar reminder on February 5th!)

These Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC) designer collaborations can certainly be hit or miss. But I like that Jason Wu has stated that he didn't just want to make designs from his runways in more affordable fabrics.  He created new pieces for this collection  - "an American girl in Paris" - and while they retain his touch for delicate details, they are also more casual and whimsical.  I love the brightness of the striped pieces and the fun prints (the cat tote is both cute and chic!)  These looks definitely translate from a more casual work outfit to the weekend.  I'm just crossing my fingers that Target's website is prepared for the traffic!

I've included my favorite picks from the collection below:

Textured Pleated from Gold Peplum top - $32.99, Pleated skirt in black - $29.99, floral lace clutch in black - $29.99

Straw and Canvas clutch in cream - $29.99

Short sleeved tee in navy/red stripes - $19.99, cuffed shorts in admiral blue - $26.99

Flared dress in white with black patent belt - $59.99

Cat tote in cream - $39.99

Poplin dress in navy - $39.99

Trench coat in black - $54.99, Flared dress in black with nude patent belt - $59.99

Long-sleeved sheer blouse in white with black ribbon - $34.99, Pleated canvas skirt in Belize blue - $29.99

{Source}

LOTC: Missoni for Target sneak peek

Missoni for Target may be the ultimate Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC) collaboration for Target to date.  This 400 piece collection launchs Sept. 13 and has both interior designer lovers and fashionistas swooning.  I've wanted a classic Missoni print dress or cardigan for a while now, but was always hindered by the price.  Now that the price is $7.99 to $199.99, I can definitely drape myself with a beloved Missoni print or five.  Of course one should look out for quality (it's been hit or miss in my experience with the designer collaborations at Target).   But shipping is usually free for orders over $50 and returns are easy.

Here are a few favorite picks from the collection so far...

Home decor

Accessories

Women

Kids (and Baby - so.unbelievably.cute)

...and a bicycle...so random and so awesome!

More details on the Facebook page here.

LOTC/Decor Thoughts: Calypso St. Barth for Target Housewares

The vibrant colors and the fun shapes of the Calypso St. Barth collection for Target are the decor equivalent of summer.  The collection launches in stores May 1st and seem to be perfect for patio parties or a fun, tropical vibe in your kitchen/living room all year round.

Here are a few favorite picks from the collection.  Will you stop by to check it out?
Hmm I have absolutely no reason to get the elephant tea pots but they are so adorable!  I'm wondering if I could use it in alternate ways - perhaps as a penholder in the office?

What do you think of this collection?

Elephant teapot in coral, Target, $12.99

Elephant teapot in turquoise, Target, $12.99

Two-tier tray in coral, Target, $19.99

Two-tier tray in turquoise, Target, $19.99

Pouf in gold, Target, $59.99

Pillows, Target, $24.99

Pouf in silver, Target, $59.99

Metal candle holder, Target, $24.99

4 great stores for designer collaboration collections/apparel

I'm constantly surprised and impressed by the number of savvy and chic options available for a lady on a budget.  I would have never considered buying clothing and facewash at the same store.  But today that is not only an option, but one that is attached with designer labels.

Here are four surprising stores for Chic 'n Cheap wardrobe options:
1. Target
I have always loved Target for its everyday low prices and enviable selection of housewares and personal care items.  But I only started wandering into their apparel section in 2006 when GO collections was launched in collaboration with various hot designers.  I've gotten a few pieces like a Behnaz Sarafpour jacket for which I'm constantly getting compliments.  I've also highlighted their collections with Zac Posen, Eugenia Kim, Anna Sui and Temple St. Clair.  William Rast just launched their collection for Target recently so if you're looking for great denim, check it out!

Luckily for us, Target is releasing 34 GO Collection dresses from past seasons next year.  Keep an eye out for some options at your local store!

Anna Sui for Target

2. H&M

Their designer collaborations have been well publicized and highly successful at making luxury a bit more accessible - Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Sonia Rykiel, Lanvin - need I say more?  I'm still stalking the Lanvin for H&M pink ruffled dress and tuxedo.   Luckily I actually have most pieces on my wish list through a combination of my lovely brother and online shopping.

The awesome thing about these collections is that they always retain a signature of the original designer - zipper pulls by the ankle for Jimmy Choo shoes and large oversized ruffles typical of Alber Ebaz's Lanvin.  As Alber said, it's pretty cool that H&M can go luxury as well.

I just got this on eBay and for a discount too!

3. QVC

I never quite understood the allure of QVC, but they must be doing something right, especially if they pull in big names like Rachel Zoe and Janie Bryant (costume designer for "Mad Men").  There is a large selection of accessories endorsed by these big names.  If you love prints, particularly animal prints and faux fur, this is the place to go!

Rachel Zoe watercolor print scarf $32.18 here

4. Wal Mart
I first brought up their Norma Kamali collection here and it continues to be simple, chic, and super affordable.  It's great everyday wear and possibly work wear!  Walmart? Clothing?  Don't reject it immediately especially if you are offered super versatile options from a known designer like Norma Kamali.
Oh and this collection has great clothing for traveling or even for bridesmaid dresses too like the one below.

Less than a nice lunch at $10 here

Do you have any favorite designer collaboration pieces?

FFF - Mulberry back at Target, Christian Louboutin and Vera Wang sales in NYC, and housewarming parties

Happy Fun, Free, Friday lovelies!

US Sales (or get it if you can get an international shipping service!)
It's bacckkk!  Mulberry is restocking at Target this weekend, Nov. 14 both online and in stores.  If you were looking for a cute Mulberry purse for your own holiday gift (or hey you can be generous), now is the time to snatch one up!

NY Area Sales
NYC friends, think about dropping by/smuggling your way into these two sales:
Christian Louboutin
Need I say anything really about the most coveted brand of women's shoes?  Technically it's invite only though in past years ladies have managed to sneak their way in.

Vera Wang

Then the queen of bridal gowns is having a sample sale.  Why bother going?  A few years ago a friend bought 5 cocktail dresses here for $100.  Yep I had to pick my jaw off the floor too.  I don't necessarily know if they have the same kind of deals but a Vera Wang cocktail dress for $100-$200 would still be amazing.

Otherwise, I am...
...going to a housewarming party.  I already got them a Mikasa platter (though I wonder if they thought this was part of their wedding gift?)  Anyway it will be fun times and we'll bring along some wine and snacks to make sure of it!

This is not what I got them but isn't it just a fun candy dish (also from Mikasa)!

What are you doing this weekend?

Have a fabulous weekend!

LOTC: Holiday Gift ideas from Lauren Merkin, Rachel Pally, etc. via the Red Hot Shop at Target

Have you seen the Red Hot Shop from Target?  This monthly collection of Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC) goodies are "chic, unique, & sometimes offbeat".  It's an eclectic mix of designer apparel, cool decor, and seasonal gifts.  I'm impressed with the mix of items here; they've picked some really fun things suitable for a variety of ages and interests and made the price point very attractive for someone looking for a designer or unique item for less.

Lauren Merkin clutch with chain, $74.99

Rachel Pally convertible dress, $79.99

MOMA Wooden speakers, $36.99

Scratch 'n Sniff Cards/set of 6, $19.99

Vintage Ornaments, $24.99

Have you found anything fun at Target lately?

CnC Living Recommends: October Breast Cancer Month shopping finds

Cool items + proceeds for a great cause = perfect time to shop!

October is breast cancer awareness month and a great time to indulge your love for pink.  Many retailers have created exclusive items this month that are not only styling, but also contribute funds for breast cancer research.

Here are some favorites:

Sonia Kashuk "Circle Around a Cause" brush set - love the pink bristles, and her Target line is know for its great quality!

$19.99 here

Ralph Lauren stretch cotton polo - the site has a great selection of apparel and accessories with funds going towards breast cancer

$49.50 here (as opposed to $125 for other polos) - use code RLGIVE2010, save 25% and they'll give 10%!

Pink lemonade lip balm - yum and anyone can use it!

$3.49 here

Estee Lauder pink lipstick trio - what lovely shades!

$25 here

Loft Kara Ross bracelet - cool geometric shape!

$39.50 here

OPI Pink of Hearts - what a great neutral shade!

$8 here

Do you have any favorites from these designer Breast Cancer Awareness items this month?

LOTC: John Derian for Target dinnerware and decor

Nature was the inspiration and star of John Derian's Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC) line for Target.  I love the offbeat, whimsical, and chic designs.  It's in stores and online now!

Here are a few favorites.

Honeycomb mug set of 4 $19.99 here, Moth mug set of 4 $19.99 here

Home Sweet Home Serving Plate $12.99 here

Apple Salad plate set of 8 $19.99 here

Floral salad plate set of 8 $19.99 here

Dragonfly square tray $14.99? here

What do you think of this collection?

LOTC: Temple St. Claire jewelry for Target

Target has collaborated with a jewelry designer for this edition of Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC): affordable and chic jewelry for all (she's normally at Saks and Bergdorf Goodman)!

The line consists of Temple St. Claire's subtle Mediterranean influences apparent  in her use of yellow gold and boldly colored cabochons.  This collection definitely grew on me - at first it seemed disarmingly simple, but the more I looked, the more I loved the vibrant colors and elegant styling of the stones.

Temple St. Claire for Target is in stores Aug. 29 and everything is under $50.  Perfect for gifts or rounding out your jewelry collection.  I used to be a jewelry snob (silver or gold only) but I've really learned to embrace good costume jewelry and all its fun possibilities.

Images from the Budget Babe

I'll take one of each please.

What do you think of this collection?  Are the brightly colored stones something you'd wear?