Designer collaborations seem to be a fool-proof way for fast-fashion retailers to create a buzz — if not a full-blown frenzy — among their customers. We mean, who among us hasn’t stalked Instagram for a sneak peak of a Target collab or waited in an around-the-block line to grab exclusives at H&M? Welp, you just might start having those same kind of reactions to the team-ups at Dress Barn. The retailer best known for its modest, affordable workwear is partnering with a trio of designers to create a brand-new line of budget-friendly, high-fashion-inspired dresses. And from what we’ve seen so far, they’re pretty darn cute.
The concept is called Dressbar, a designer-only pop-up store and e-commerce site set to launch March 4 that, at the onset, will feature up to 10 looks from each of its first three collaborators: Carmen Marc Valvo, Heidi Weisel and Michael Smaldone from Adrianna Papell. The names are admittedly not as instantly-recognizable as say, Alexander Wang or Lilly Pulitzer, but according to WWD, these designers, each known for creating luxe, feminine garments, were tapped because they understood how to dress Dress Barn’s current customers: busy, accomplished women in their ‘40s.
Based on the preview of Dressbar dresses featured in a Huffington Post report — a blown-up floral print midi, a mixed-print fit-and-flare dress and a pleated wrap dress — the frocks feel particularly ageless (really, the floral prints look surprisingly straight-outta ASOS and need we remind you, tea-length dresses are big on the red carpet right now). So, while you shouldn’t anticipate the Dressbarn selection to forge the way for any bold new trends, you can expect that the garments will be functional, transitional and modern. And after all who doesn’t have space in their closets for pieces like that?
What designers do you hope team up with Dress Barn in the future? Tell us about your dream retailers x designer collabs in the comments below.
Wesley Brinkhurst, VP Head of Marketing at Office Depot
