Libertine for Target, and the Cheap-Chic Trend: Yea or Nay?

As we all know, Target's GO! International has been having a lot of success lately. Between Behnaz Sarafpour, Proenza Schouler, Patrick Robinson, countless major designers who have created short-lived lines for Target, and the latest of those was announced recently - the duo at Libertine. One would think that Libertine would probably be refreshing, right? Sadly, you would be wrong. A lookbook for Libertine's new Target line was revealed to the masses recently, and it is disappointing. The line has been receiving mixed reviews across the board, but I don't get it. Some of the clothes are cute - but some are just plain ridiculous. Yes, there are TOP HATS in the line. And vertically-striped pantsuits. here are some of the images, in all their kooky glory.

I will admit, there are a handful of pieces in this line that are fresh, funky, and unique. But it seems to be that whole idea of bringing high end designers to the masses almost - almost - contradicts itself. Why? I mean, I love the idea in theory because those of us who are perpetually broke, but adore fashion are given access to clothes we will love and can't otherwise afford. But, the average American consumer who shops at Target is hardly the type to go for standout pieces that pose a fashion risk. The average American shopper just wants to get some basics that are cheap and blend in to the crowd - and look nice. Of the consumers that shop at Target and view these lines, who will have the guts to wear some of the more artsy designs? High fashion designers view designing as an art form - and it is, by all means. But middle-class suburban Americans don't want risky pieces of art as clothes, they want to be the billionth person to wear a denim mini and screenprint tee. They don't want style, they want to follow trends, rather than set them. Individuality in style is a wonderful thing, but most people lack it - so how can they truly appreciate some of the more unique designs that designers bring to Target? That is why Proenza Schouler for Target pieces - PROENZA SCHOULER, for the love of God, one of the greatest design teams ever - are still selling on the clearance racks months later. No one who shops at Target wants them; designers and American consumers are clearly not seeing eye to eye on that.