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Nowadays, any given Tuesday will see a tidal wave of designer collabs.
But back in 1999, when Michael Graves, the esteemed postmodern architect and Alessi frontman, released a line with Target — it was a revelation. Excluding a disappointing Neiman Marcus line, Target has both pioneered and perfected the high-low mashup, largely avoiding snafus like the Adidas 99-cent sneakers made in the image of an Arizona Iced Tea can, released in July.
The home goods — and, well, everything else — store is about to celebrate 20 years of designer collaborations with the Saturday re-release of the greatest hits — which they’re dubbing “Design For All.” Isaac Mizrahi, Jason Wu and Zac Posen are just a few of the bold-faced names that have lent their aesthetic to the strip-mall staple, and will make their return to the racks. Lilly Pulitzer, Anna Sui, Rodarte, Altuzarra and Philippe Starck will also be featured, among others.
Those who scoff at the idea of high-end cuts alongside kitchenwares and changing tables, should consider this: Target’s 2011 collaboration with Missoni crashed their site, and spawned about 30,000 eBay listings, up-charging for the cardigans, boots, bags and more.
Rick Gomez, Target’s chief exec, told Vox, “This will sort of be like a Black Friday moment for us. We are very focused from a dot-com business and from a store experience. It’s all hands on deck.” Prep for lines, and depending on the proximity of your store to fashionistas and re-sellers eager to make a buck, elbows being thrown.
Here are some of the best picks from almost 300 pieces from 20 designers, ranging in price from $7 for baby flatware to 50-buck Anna Sui baby doll dresses to $160 Missoni luggage. The limited-edition looks for less will be available Saturday in stores and online — while supplies last. (Click the item names for details.)
Paul WeberTrendy tea kettle by Michael Graves
This version of the best-selling Alessi item replaces the whistling bird with a swirly doo-dad. Still, the streamlined design of this stainless steel teapot will elevate your kitchen without breaking the bank. $50
Michael Graves ice bucket
An ergonomic ice bucket is the type of adult object that guarantees oohs and aahs at your next cocktail party, or at least lends some credibility to your pregame. $40
Paul WeberStephen Sprouse swimsuit
Target is a go-to for cheap swimwear, so snag this USA-printed suit for next summer. $40
Stephen Sprouse skateboard
Scumbros and street kids will delight in punk icon Stephen Sprouse’s skateboard, with his signature graffiti look on the deck and star-spangled wheels. $50
Neil DeKreyStephen Burrows dress
Bright designs chock full of color blocks is a signature for Stephen Burrows, and his off-the-shoulder dress doesn’t disappoint. $30
Stephen Burrows skirt
Zip-closure pockets and a drawstring make this skirt as functional as it is cute. $25
Neil DeKreyRodarte tulle bow top
LA-based Rodarte just released a line with Universal Standard, but they’re paying homage to the OG with this see-through top. $25
Rodarte slip dress
While it’s not quite Gen-Z yellow, this minidress in mustard is fashionable all the same. $40
Sean MeszarosPhillip Lim shirt dress
Phillip Lim has 31 items coming to Target, a nod to his brand’s name “3.1 Phillip Lim.” Among the steals, which includes backpacks, sweaters and blouses, is this khaki, floral button-down dress. $40
Phillip Lim drawstring carry-on bag
This summer was the season of the leopard-print midi skirt. Will the trend carry on into fall with this spotty bag? Target is betting on it. $40
Paul WeberHunter backpack
Target’s collab with Hunter came out last year, but you have another chance to snag the British brand’s fannypacks, carryalls and backpacks on Saturday — including this yellow one. $35
Hunter bum bag in navy
The hip pack trend doesn’t seem to be losing steam. This cute, durable one is an affordable in. $20
Neil DeKreyHarajuku miniskirt
Target’s cute kids clothes have long drawn envy from adult shoppers, and the Harajuku line is no different. This ruffled number also comes in a dress version. $16
Harajuku mini overall dress
Perfect for layering your little one this fall, the Harajuku mini overall dress for toddlers is $20. The girls’ version is $25.
Paul WeberJohn Derian tiered tray stand
There are 17 pieces in the John Derian for Target collection, including cups, storage bins and trays. This tiered stand levels up tea time. $20
John Derian app plates
This may be the one time to welcome a bug on your plate. These four cute critter plates are $8, while apples and leaves adorn the other nature-themed sets.
Paul WeberLilly Pulitzer dress
Hoping to impress the ladies who lunch? This LP dress will leave you with cash left over for country club dues. $38
Lilly Pulitzer drinkware
Sip in style, or at least out of a gold-accented cup. Snag four for $30 for cocktails, or a set of the colorful espresso cups for the morning after.
Sean MeszarosMarimekko beach towel
Marimekko towels usually retail for close to $50. These ones by the Finnish design house are $25.
Marimekko beanbag
Who needs a couch when you could have a polka-dot beanbag chair? What’s more, UV-resistant fabric means it can be used outside. $60
Sean MeszarosMissoni luggage
The priciest item in the “Design For All” collection is this wheeled bag. But it’s a steal compared with the Louis Vuitton ones, and will still earn nods of approval from the jet-setting set. $160
Missoni cardigan
The 2011 Missoni collab is perhaps Target’s most sought after, and the reprise will have shoppers clamoring for the famous zig-zag print. This cardigan will serve you until the next Missoni drop. $55
Sean MeszarosIsaac Mizrahi coat
Isaac Mizrahi had clothing in Target from 2003 to 2009. Among the outerwear in his “best of” capsule: hats, gloves and this long collared coat. $55
Isaac Mizrahi dress
In addition to the pleated skirt and square neck that make this dress a winner, it also has pockets. $50
Jeff KruegerAltuzarra blazer
A velvet power suit? Yes, please. This red blazer comes with matching pants for $40. $55
Altuzarra olive trench coat
In time for fall and in a universally flattering color, this green trench coat with black sleeves will likely fly off the shelves. $70
