Today marks the launch of the Gap CFDA Design Editions khakis collection designed exclusively for Gap by finalists of the 2008 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund—Alexander Wang, Vena Cava and Albertus Swanepoel. The launch coincides with last night's CFDA awards, aka the Oscars of fashion, where Wang won the 2008 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award while Lisa Mayock and Sophie Buhai (the ladies behind Vena Cava) along with Swanepoel were runners up. The collection, which ranges in price from $39.50 for a khaki fedora to $88 for a printed khaki dress, is available at www.gap.com and select Gap stores nationwide.

My two cents: I love the detailing on the Vena Cava dresses and could use that khaki moto jacket. But Alexander Wang's pleated, high-waist, tapered khaki trousers aren't exactly something my wardrobe needs at the moment. Nor am I clamoring to get my hands on one of five khaki hats. What do YOU think?

See the whole collection after the jump...

Over the past 6 months or so, Marshalls stores have been slowing rolling out "store-within-a-store boutiques" called The CUBE, which are basically glorified juniors departments where all the latest contemporary brands are supposed to be housed. If your nearest Marshalls has a CUBE, you'll recognize it by the bright pink signage and different music track that plays within its bounds.

My past trips to the CUBE have been disappointing (at best), but during a recent trip to a CUBE location in Chicago, I was pleasantly surprised to see a CUBE clearance section and just a better selection of clothing overall. I spotted brands like Free People, Guess, DKNY, Jessica Simpson and Kensie Girl, and a lot less Baby Phat and Rocawear (no offense to anyone who wears those brands but Marshalls should not assume that's all teens wear, ya know?).

I ended up buying a cotton plaid shirt-dress ($14.99), two-in-one tank dress ($14.99), striped hooded tank top ($11.99) and a BB Dakota navy blazer ($16.99). My sister bought a Kanye West sunglass case and Forever 21 jeans (yup, F21 at Marshalls) for $7. And my nephew got the cutest Dr. Seuss board game, but that's not fashion related. Anywho, here are some photos I snapped of my loot as well as other awesome items off the racks.

Have you noticed any improvements at the CUBE locations near you? What would you still like to see happen?

MORE PHOTOS AFTER THE JUMP

BB Dakota piped navy blazer, $16.99. It's made of the softest sweatshirt fabric which makes it a fun casual take on a somewhat austere preppy look.

Soft, thin cotton jersey tank top with a little hood and grommet details along the neckline. Something semi-stylish for hot weather. ($11.99)

Here's a coupon for Lord & Taylor's Friends and Family sale which is taking place RIGHT NOW. There is huge savings throughout the store including 10 percent off ALL cosmetics and fragrances so you can stock up on fresh looks and light scents for the summer! I picked up these Dolce Vita sandals for myself, definitely head to your nearest store this weekend if you have the chance. I've noticed Lord & Taylor is really stepping up their game lately with current designers at affordable price-points, it's rather exciting...

One of my favorite, incredibly addictive fashion blogs called The Look 4 Less recently featured this blouse by Aqua (a relatively affordable clothing label carried by Bloomingdales) as a great budget-alternative to Alice + Olivia's "Bianca" ruffle blouse ($253). This fab Aqua blouse is on sale now for $57.80.


J's great find reminded me of another lovely blouse that I had seen at Target. This Xhilaration Cascade Blouse in Hardware Grey is another option to help you get this look on a budget, and it only costs $12.98 at Target.com. Pair it with white jeans and heels for a chic going-out look. DEAL ALERT: $5 Off Purchases of $50 or More at TARGET.com • Enter Code TC6543RT at Checkout • Ends 6/13

The Deal: Wednesday 6/10 ONLY: Today! Patagonia Clothing, Select Styles, now 75% off!


Why You Need It: Patagonia is the epitome of eco-friendly, outdoor gear for the cool kids, and it doesn't come cheap. Now's your chance to get a piece of Patagonia at an affordable price, so shop soon for the best selection!