Each season, I longingly wait to see which designer Target is going to choose next for their GO International line. Flipping through one of my fashion magazines, you can imagine my excitement when I learned that Target was not just picking one designer, but 17! Granted, they have all collaborated with Target in the past, but still…17 DESIGNERS!
This line has not only struck a cord with consumers, but also celebrities such as Natalie Portman, who looked amazing in a Rodarte for Target dress last year. And with standout lines such as the Gossip Girl inspired line by Anna Sui, it’s no wonder why this series has been so successful.
A Short History of the GO International Line
For those who are unfamiliar with Target’s GO International line, here’s the scoop. Formed in 2005, Tar-zhay started the line to appeal to women (college fashionistas like us!) looking for upscale fashion at budget friendly prices. Coming out with a new collection every season, each line is available for only 90 days.
In the past, the collections have included everything from casual wear (drapey tees, camisole dresses, printed shorts) to formal wear(smart blazers, crisp white tuxedo shirts, silk/chiffon dresses). As an extra bonus, swimwear and accessories such as lace tights and skinny belts, have also appeared in numerous collections.
If you ask me, the best part of the GO International line is its collaboration with emerging and renowned fashion designers. Ever since their first designer partnership with Italian fashion label Fiorucci, GO International has been thriving. Some of the biggest designers and labels to collaborate with the line include: Proenza Schouler, Thakoon Panichgul, the late Alexander McQueen, Anna Sui, Rodarte, Jean Paul Gaultier, Zac Posen and more!
Thanks to Target, many other major retail chains (Lanvin for H&M, Vera Wang for Kohl’s, etc.) have followed in its footsteps, producing affordable, high-quality fashion. Not only is the GO International line a great way for collegiettes™ like us to own clothing by our favorite high-end designers, but it also gives fresh designers a way to make a name for themselves.
Now’s the Time to Start Your Collection!
If you missed out on the GO International line in the past, don’t fret! In celebration of their five-year anniversary, Target is re-issuing 34 of GO International’s most popular dresses. Yay! With spring almost here (March 22 – mark your calendars!), the arrival of this collection is perfect. Everyone knows what spring means to a collegiette™: dress shopping!
With 34 equally fantastic frocks to choose from, there is something for everyone. While some of the previous GO International lines have had pieces costing up to $200, all of the dresses featured in their capsule collection are under $50!
From personal experience, I LOVE the GO International line. In addition to being fabulously priced (especially when it’s on sale!), all of the clothes are fashion-forward and designed with an attention to detail. Feminine silhouettes, fun prints, and an array of fabrics are all things that can be expected. With the exception of a few flops, the line has been fairlyconsistent; I highly recommend that everyone check it out!
The GO International Designer Collective will be available March 13 through April 10. Run (don’t walk!) to your nearest Target and invest in one (or many!) of these spectacular dresses before they’re gone! Below are some of the dresses that are sure to be an instant hit on campus!
Afternoon on the Quad
Designers: Thakoon and Libertine
Price: $39.99 and $24.99
Why I like them: Since bright colors and stripes are two prevalent trends this season, both of these dresses are a must! Not too casual or too dressy, they are perfect for walking to class and basking in the sun on the Quad. Pair with wedges, your favorite thong sandals, or Havaianas and you’re all set!
Night Out in the ‘Burg
Designers: Erin Fetherston and Luella Bartley
Price: $44.99 each
Why I like them: Cascading ruffles, a huge bow and Tartan print…need I say more? The epitome of fun, both of these dresses are chock-full of personality. Whether you’re going to dinner or crashing a party, being chic is always a must!
Dress-to-Impress
Designers: Rodarte and Jovovich-Hawk
Price: $39.99 each
Why I like them: Chanel puts it best… “A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous!” I love the lace and polka dot prints on these dresses; they are timeless. Whether you have a class presentation or speech to give, these are sure to give you that extra boost of confidence.
Pretty in Pink
Designers: Tracy Feith and Luella Bartley
Price: $39.99 each
Why I like them: Perfect for Foxfield races! If you are looking for a Lilly Pulitzer inspired dress, but for a fraction of the cost, try one of these. Infused with Lilly’s signature pink and playful prints, both are fun and uber preppy. Reach for a pristine white cardigan, your most extravagant Kentucky Derby style hat, and black shades and let the races begin!
Weekend Fun
Designers: Jovovich-Hawk and Thakoon
Price: $39.99 each
Why I like them: On the weekend, I want to be the three c’s: comfy, cute, and casual! Laidback and bohemian, these dresses are easy to style. Simply throw on a belt or accessorize with vintage stacked bangles and you have the perfect look for lunch downtown or an afternoon at the Arboretum. Bottom line: nothing says spring like a floral print with splashes of colors.
Here’s to a future of many more designer collaborations and must-have clothes!