McQ Alexander McQueen for Target

Over the past few years, the democratization (or desnobification, as we always think of it) of design has given frugal, fashion-loving shoppers lots of reasons to rejoice. Whether it's high-style, low-cost linens from one of our favorite home furnishing brands or a budget-friendly bag collection by an amazing accessory designer, we've been spoiled by excellent choices. But just when it seemed like the offerings couldn't get any better, an unprecedented collaboration is giving us a whole new reason to celebrate. Much to our delight, the immensely talented Alexander McQueen partnered up with Target to create an incredible 44-piece line, the results of which surpass even our wildest expectations.



The unexpected pairing of cult designer and mass merchant marks the launch of Target's new Designer Collaborations program, an ambitious initiative featuring ultra-affordable, limited-edition collections created by well-established fashion talent. Starting March 4th, you'll be able to shop the first installation of this program, the McQ Alexander McQueen for Target, for invaluable pieces. Don't miss the Zigzag-Print Gathered Dress ($69.99), featuring fantastic draping, and a perfectly timeless High-Waist Gore Skirt ($49.99), which could have been ripped from the designer's own inspirational Fall 08 runway.

Lest you think it's all cocktail frocks and girly looks, McQueen also included some tougher pieces, like a gray Studded Denim Jacket ($59.99) and a Zip-Shoulder Mesh Sweater ($44.99) in a stunning cobalt blue. Also notable are the graphic prints McQueen used in this collection—as seen on Tattoo-Print Tee ($22.99) and Portrait-print Tee ($22.99)—selections that turned simple t-shirts into standout pieces.

As for us, we're already battling it out over the perfectly cropped Studded-Leather Vest ($129.99), modeled above with Studded Shirt Dress ($39.99), as it's very posh punk and in the style of Alice Dellal. Also on our list: the Sleeveless Harness Top ($26.99), as seen above with a pair of Studded Denim Jeans in Gray ($44.99). The tank's gray trim elevates the simple shape, making it an interesting and highly desirable piece. Of course there are many more items that will amazing and excite you, dear readers, but we'll stop with the details for now. After all, you should have a few shopping discoveries of your own! Just know that the entire McQ Alexander McQueen for Target collection is highly shopable, stupendously cool, and definitely worth seeking out.

One last note before we go: New York readers, you're particularly lucky, as you can buy all of these looks, and more, before the rest of the country. Visit the Target McQ Market—a special pop-up store stocked with the entire collection—on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15 and shop yourselves silly. The store is located at 330 West Street (cross street: W. Houston) and hours are from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. both days. See you there!


1. Studded Denim Jacket ($59.99)
2. Tattoo-Print Tee in Blue ($22.99)
3. Zip-Shoulder Mesh Sweater(44.99)
4. Portrait-Print Tee ($22.99)
5. Studded-Leather Vest ($129.99)
6. High-Waist Gore Skirt ($49.99)
7. Zigzag-Print Gathered Dress ($69.99)