Ee gads! I'm speechless. Renowned American designer Norma Kamali is bringing her expertise to Wallyworld. I didn't see this coming, although come to think of it, she already has a collection for Spiegel and the lower-priced Norma Kamali for Everlast collection. But still, it's like, Diane von Furstenberg for Target or something. Eerie, right?

Either way, we like the sound of this collaboration, and yes, Wal-Mart will have effectively seduced this frugal fashionista to cross that murky consumer threshold and shop their depressing big-box once the collection hits the racks.

From WWD.com: In a deal via Cherokee Inc., Kamali will create an exclusive collection that will include women's wear, children's clothing, accessories, footwear and home items.

"Through the Wal-Mart stores and Web site I can reach more people and affect more lives than in any other venue." —Norma Kamali

Image source: WWD.com

On today's Oprah Show, a bunch of frumpy suburban moms were given complete makeovers using - get this - AFFORDABLE clothing from budget-friendly stores! Instead of heading to high-end boutiques, they hit up stores like Kohl's, JCPenney, Gap, and Old Navy for cheap, chic finds.

All we can say is it's about time. Too often, these makeover shows trade some poor sap's dirty sweats for pricey, impractical designer duds - which means the victim might look good in the moment, but go back to their errant ways once the cameras stop rolling. And people at home are left with big question marks hovering over their heads.

If you missed the show, there's amazing play-by-play coverage on Oprah.com of all the makeovers, plus stylist Lloyd Boston's wardrobe essentials, no-fuss hairstyles from celebrity stylist Ken Paves, and makeup essentials for gals on the go from makeup artist Joanna Schlip.

Other highlights include a how-to video for tying a scarf using a hacking knot (accomplished by halving a long scarf, feeding the straggling ends through the resulting loop, and cinching the knot up to the neck), a fab ensemble from Old Navy's new spring collection (we told you it was cute first!), and five ways to wear a white button-down shirt.

Bravo to budget makeovers. Who knows, maybe next time they'll enlist the help of budget fashion bloggers...

Bebe's fashion sensibility as a store has really slipped in recent years (it's overpriced and kinda skanky to be completely honest), and yet, whoever's in charge of their marketing is doing a first-rate job. For starters, they enlisted starlet Mischa Barton to model the brand, followed by Rebecca Romijn and Eva Longoria, and now they've teamed up with Imitation of Christ's Tara Subkoff to produce a limited edition exclusive collection.

The lookbook certainly makes a statement, but we wonder if these clothes will uphold their glamorous edge once you remove the gorgeous model with blood-red lips from her stark white environs. The prices also leave something to be desired (the dresses hover around $120). With the whole heart theme, it smacks ever-so-slightly of Erin Fetherston's GO collection for Target. And frankly, we'd rather pay Target prices for so-so pieces that may lose their luster after one season.

Scroll down and tell us what you think!

From bebe.com: "Subkoff's style signature is her effortless blend of avant-garde trends with retro glamour - definitely seen in her collection with bebe. Calling it 80's Feminist meets 40s Hollywood Glam, Subkoff mixed dramatic black, white and red hues with sexy heart-print patterns and flirty ruffled trims."


















* Editor's Pick: So very Elizabeth Hurley in Bedazzled!

Model-cum-designer friends Milla Jovovich and Carmen Hawk are partnering with Target to create the next limited-edition collection for GO International. Arriving just in time for spring, Jovovich-Hawk's exclusive collection for Target launches at Target.com/go and at most Target stores nationwide beginning March 2, 2008.

While Jovovich and Hawk's L.A.-based namesake label is popular among the socialite/Hollywood set, the pair often receives lukewarm reviews from fashion heads. But that's not to say the stuff isn't cute or that these young designers don't have good taste - because it is and they do. Previously, Jovovich-Hawk collaborated with Spanish-based Mango and the line was decidedly young and hip.

Also worth noting: Milla is one bad-ass actress (not to mention mama-to-be!). We think she cemented her status as a fierce fashionista when she rocked Jean-Paul Gaultier's out-of-this-world costumes as "Leeloo" in the science-fantasy flick The Fifth Element (which was a great movie, btw, co-starring Bruce Willis. Gautier designed 954 costumes for use in the film. Better than Devil Wears Prada for the fashion, imo).

So yeah, we're super excited to check out this collection in person. (When are we not jazzed about a new GO designer?!) The smocked dresses look especially promising...

From the Target pressroom: "The Jovovich-Hawk for Target collection offers a variety of flowing, graceful dresses and tops touched with whimsical details. Floral print dresses and lace-detailed blouses add to the elegance of women from coast to coast, while flirty swimwear is ideal for spring getaways. The collection ranges in price from $12.99 to $39.99, including must-haves such as smocked dresses, printed vests, active shorts, denim jeans and miniskirts.

Standout pieces include a denim linen vest, scoop-neck sweater cover-ups, floral bikinis and a gold lurex minidress. Accessories include an oversized linen bag in navy, as well as a perfect beach-time black floppy hat. Eyelet dresses and cropped jackets are perfect pieces to stay on trend this spring."

Scope out the pics below and tell us what you think!














Image Source

Recently, we reported that Old Navy was undergoing a facelift to present shoppers with quicker turnarounds and more fashion-forward options. After visiting one of their stores over the weekend, we're pleased to announce that their latest safari-inspired collection for Spring delivered and is nothing short of delightful.



Immediately upon entering, we were greeted by mannequins sporting these effortless modern safari frocks. You can't go wrong with any of these looks. The colors are perfect for making a smooth transition from Winter to Spring. The cuts are updated classics that flatter most figures. Best part is you could easily dress any of these outfits up or down with the right shoes and accessories.

When the agenda calls for casual chic, try these leather gladiator sandals - they looked super cute in person, and definitely appear pricier than their $19.50 pricetag. Ditto for these sexy strappy platform sandals which are just $34.50. We'll probably end up buying them later.




Other highlights for us included this brilliant orange sleeveless shirtdress (left) with origami-inspired pleats at the neckline. Breezy, soft cotton and a lovely price of $29.50. Says "safari" without being too literal. Also available in khaki or black.

Not for the shrinking violet, this colorful, tribal-print maxi dress (right) is certainly an eye-catching look for Spring - yet the fabric and cut is really laid back. Love it, fits great. At $34.50, it easily rivals dresses that cost five times as much.




In addition to this sharp shirtdress (left), Old Navy had a solid selection of urban safari jackets, shorts, and rompers that looked as good - if not better- than anything you'd find at a store like Banana, but at a fraction of the cost. The khaki shirtdress ($34.50) we tried on looked great with skinny jeans, too. Just make sure to cinch it with a stylish belt, a must-have for Spring (and for showing off those curves).

This feminine belted frock (right) with a smart print and simple silhouette added a vintage flavor to the collection. Perfect for running errands on the weekend, catching an outdoor movie, or browsing a used book sale. Just really effortlessly-chic, and something so comfortable, you'll always be reaching for it. ($29.50)

Bottom line: If you like the modern safari look (and honestly, who doesn't?), this is your one stop-shop to get it. From shoes, handbags, and scarves to dresses, tanks, jackets and cardigans, it's Spring fashion made simple.