Designer collaborations aren’t new, but for awhile they were relegated only to core sizes or Target customers. If you were outside that size range, it wasn’t that satisfying picking up a colander with a pattern that you’d rather keep in your closet.
There are two critical elements to making a designer collaboration work. First, it has to look like the full priced stuff. It’s not exciting to pick up something that feels a little like a designer piece in a cheap polyester. You want to feel like you’re wearing the full priced stuff. Secondly, it needs to be made well for the price point (which will be much lower than the original). Most designer collaborations fail this simple test. So it’s notable that this season gives us several that pass it with flying colors. Many are also size inclusive, which makes them even more exciting.
Looking for a classic party dress that will be fashionable for years to come? Pick up a piece of real Jason Wu from Eloquii or Anna Sui from ModCloth. Want the same look you’ve seen on your favorite celebrity? Try Draper James and Eloquii. Want lingerie designed by your favorite celebrity blogger? Gabi Fresh x Playful Promises is here to help.
Today we’re going over some of my favorites designer collaborations and best buys so you can stock your closet full of pieces for the upcoming holiday season.
Anna Sui x Modcloth:
All 90s and early 00s fashionistas will recognize the iconic Anna Sui look, which combines classic design elements with whimsical prints and flourishes. Scores of celebrities like Madonna and the Duchess of Cambridge have been seen wearing Sui's pieces. But she’s also produced some collections along with Hello Kitty, Sailor Moon, and Ladurée. Her look is unmistakable, which is why the whole idea of a collaboration with Modcloth made me nervous.
Could they do justice to her unapologetic design sense? Amazingly, they did. ModCloth designers went through the history of Sui’s runway looks. They attempted to channel them as carefully as possible, all while expanding the size range. Sui has never put out plus sizes before, but this collection runs from 0 to 24---without any dilution of design. They shot each piece on both a core size and a plus-size model. That way you get an idea of how it would look in your range.
I used an early birthday gift certificate to pick up the Unforgettable Flair A-Line Dress and have nothing but good things to say about it (and I have a picture as proof). It’s well made, and I’m going to wear it for every holiday daytime event this season.
ModCloth x Anna Sui Thriving Style Midi Dress Available in Sizes 0 - 24 via ModCloth ModCloth x Anna Sui Charisma Calls Velvet Dress Available in Sizes 2 - 22 via ModCloth Anna Sui Unforgettable Flair A-Line Dress Available in Sizes 0 - 24 via ModCloth Anna Sui Enigmatic Mood A-Line Dress Available in Sizes 0 - 24 via ModClothGabi Fresh x Playful Promises:
It isn’t the first time Gabi Fresh has worked with Playful Promises, but this collection is full of fun holiday pieces you shouldn't miss. There’s no better time to break out your sequined lingerie than over November and December! The Celeste Basque could even be worn with pants as lingerie as outerwear look.
Gabi Fresh Celeste Sequined Embroidered Basque Available in Sizes 34C t0 42H via Playful Promises Gabi Fresh Carmen Pink Lace Satin Longline Bra Available in Sizes 36B - 44G via Playful PromisesDraper James x Eloquii:
Reese Witherspoon’s fashion line seemed like a novelty when it launched until it took off in a big way. There aren’t a ton of designers that specifically produce Southern style fashion, which frequently does look and feel different than what people wear in New York.
Draper James has given women ways to dabble in the preppy southern look without living in it. And it has become wildly popular as a result. The line didn't do plus sizes until last season when it produced a summer line with Eloquii. I was surprised when they released a holiday line, but it’s great. They’ve combined southern style prints with party-ready styles that work.
Anna Hayman x Harlow & Fox:
Self-described “pattern addict” Anna Hayman is the perfect collaboration choice for the latest Harlow & Fox mini collection. In this case, their 1920’s loving powers combine to create a line of fringed silk robes that would look at home on Phryne Fischer and in an Agatha Christie mystery. Each doubled sided piece uses two unique print designs that create a print mixing effect when worn. These robes would make for decadent lounging. But they could work as showstopper pieces over some wide legged pants for a fancy night out as well.
Anna Hayman Celeste/Pearl Fringe Kimono Available in S - L via Harlow & Fox Anna Hayman Siouxsie/Giraffe Fringe Kimono Available in Sizes S - L via Harlow & FoxJason Wu x Eloquii:
Jason Wu will forever be associated with the timeless dresses of Michelle Obama. But he’s dressed a whole host of other celebrities along the way. His latest public fan is Meghan Markle, who has worn several of his pieces on prominent occasions recently. Notably, a dupe of one of her favorite looks is actually in this collection! While Wu designed a small group for 11 Honore recently, this is his first full collection that includes plus sizes. It focuses on classic holiday party wear, mostly in shades of black, metallics and reds. If you want to buy a party dress that will never go out of style and will always have your back, this is the collection to buy.
Jason Wu x Eloquii Sequin Wrap Gown Available in Sizs 14 - 28 via Eloquii Jason Wu x Eloquii Drape Front V-Neck Dress Available in Sizes 14 - 28 via Eloquii Jason Wu x Eloquii Point D'esprit Dress Available in Sizes 14 - 28 via Eloquii Jason Wu x Eloquii Belted Coat Available in Sizes 14 - 28 via Eloquii Jason Wu x Eloquii Sweetheart Sheath Dress Available in Sizes 14 - 28 via EloquiiWhat do you think of these designer collaborations? Which one would you wear?