Kohl's sent me a few items from the upcoming Derek Lam for Kohl's collection, and I'm so excited to be able to share this sneak peek! I get so psyched for these designer collabs but to be honest, I had forgotten Derek Lam was teaming up with Kohl's (it was announced back in June). The Derek Lam for Kohl's DesigNation Collection is a budget-friendly fashion line inspired by Rio de Janeiro, "drawing from the city's fusion of urban and jungle, past and present." These are looks that transition from beach to cafe, swimwear to daywear, day to night. I can see Lam's inspiration right away with the tropical prints, easygoing silhouettes and easy-to-care for fabrics (everything is machine washable in an effort to be eco-friendly, according to the clothing tags) on the three pieces I received.

The mixed print colorblock shirtdress (shown above) retails for $70 and is made from 100% polyester. I received a size S and it fits like a glove, with enough room for my growing baby bump. If I weren't expecting, I would belt this dress to give it more shape. You could wear it now with leggings or in the spring with sandals. Cute.

The khaki top (see it below) is 100% polyester and retails for $48. I received a size S and it fits me perfectly, gently skimming my baby bump. The armholes are a bit snug, causing the sleeves to poof up every so slightly, so this top looks more voluminous on top than my photos show. Khaki isn't the best color for my skintone but it's very summery and will be easy to wear.

The third and final piece I received in size S is a muted orange print shirtdress which retails for $70. It fits me well but just barely with my bump because it's 100% cotton with no stretch. The cotton is smooth and soft and I expect it will feel lightweight and breathe easily in the spring and summer. Again, I'd belt this to give it more shape. I love the hidden buttons on both shirtdresses and the pockets - nice touch!

Lam is the second designer to team up with the Kohl's DesigNation collection; the first as you may recall was Narcisco Rodriguez. Nothing in the Derek Lam collection is over $98 and you know things will go on sale quickly (it's Kohl's, after all). I can't wait to see more.

Shop this collection at Kohl's stores and online at Kohls.com beginning April, 2013. Initial thoughts?