During a recent trip to Target, I strolled down the near-barren shoe aisles to see what, if anything, was new and noteworthy. Most of the boots and slippers had been cleared out and there wasn't much new stock to speak of, but I did spot a few cute pairs that could brighten your day, including leopard print kitten heels, studded flats and a sexy (although very uncomfortable-looking) pair of nude platforms. I didn't buy anything this time but I'm sure I'll be back before Valentine's Day when I always find myself craving the most impractical, precipitously tall heels I can find. On a budget, of course.

This weekend I finally got to see the Rodarte for Target collection, which launched with much fanfare at the end of December.

Many of you felt underwhelmed by the collection and questioned the underwear-as-outerwear theme that ran throughout.

I nonetheless approached the collection with an open mind and a fashion martyr's devotion. Here's how it went:




Highlights included an assortment of tulle skirts, a lace screened tee, and a kimono floral-print raincoat. Chic and affordable.




Pieces I had expected to love, like the crepe lace slip dress ($39.99), too closely resembled lingerie and suffered from major static cling. Pass.




Other pieces which I had expected to hate were surprisingly fabulous in person, like this leopard print lace dress ($44.99). In fact, it's the one piece I splurged on. I will probably wear it with opaque tights and flat boots during Fashion Week (er, if I get invited).




Model types like Erin Wasson could make this sequin leopard print dress ($44.99) work, but I could never go out in public in this.




Good concept, poorly executed.

Overall, I think the Rodarte collection was geared more towards the Tavis of the fashion world. (See the pintsize blogger looking absolutely brilliant in her Rodarte for Target dress here.) But I'm happy with my purchase, too. Let's just hope I can sit down in it…