Before:
After my Missoni meltdown, it was hard for me to imagine having motivation for another Target brand launch. That was until I found out their next big designer was Jason Wu. Wu, a favorite of Natalie Portman and Rooney Mara, has catapulted into the fashion industry in the past couple of years. His mix of symmetrical lines and clean cuts are not only flattering, they embody sophistication. Wu’s collection will feature trench coats, party dresses and blouses fewer than sixty dollars, and it will not be a one-time collection, a bonus to all of us who missed the Missoni boat.
In this day and age it is refreshing to see young designers cater to the working class. Something that was once considered taboo in the fashion world is now the norm. Although the cache behind the name may be less, designing for a mainstream company opens your exposure to not only the elite. Wu’s collection is key to the ultimate wardrobe for any
fashionista looking for professional attire. I recommend checking out the collection before waltzing into Target and making a list of what you may be missing in your closet. Whether it is a basic pencil skirt or a form-fitting blazer, Wu’s pieces will add a pop of designer appeal to your wardrobe. If you miss the first collection due to under production or die hard fans, do not fret, there will be others-Wu is here to stay.
After:
I went to Target last Sunday morning, the day of the launch, with high hopes for this collection. First problem: almost all of the clothes were sold out, it was only 8 AM. Second problem: the remaining pieces that were on the racks, were mostly XS or XL. I snagged a few smalls (I am usually a medium), and began waiting in line for the dressing room. As shoppers walked out, I asked them for their leftover items that they were not planning on buying. The collection was fresh and spring appropriate, but the fit was off. I sized down in almost every piece that I tired on and found the material to be thin and overly manufactured. I have realized that these brand launches have caused more disappointment than excitement for me. Designers I love at discount prices, has translated into frustrating lack of merchandise and no pieces worth fighting for, or waiting in a line for 45 minutes for. The price is more enticing than the clothes themselves. Therefore I will not be participating in the hype from here on out. I still love Jason Wu and Missoni but having a collection become that mainstream is a major turn off in my book.