Richard Chai for Target Review, Part 2

So I was at Tar-jay around 9:30 am to check out the complete Richard Chai new GO Collection. Its a telling sign of these recessionary times that they weren't many shoppers out trying to get the goods on opening day. Past collections like Jovovich Hawk and Alice Temperely had little crowds of fashionistas waiting for the clothes to be placed on the racks. There was nothing like that today.

So here's my report on the top picks and the misses. First, the hits & well worth the spend.

The Hits

The long cardigan sweater in Indigo Blue (pictured above). This is a great bargain, with nice fit. The gathering around the button placket is a nice touch and provides distinctive details. I also like the blouse and the racerback tank top with the Blue Graffit Rose Print.

The jackets from the line are very well done, but run small. With the exception of the lavender swing jacket, which is a roomier cut, with a beautiful rouched collar. This is a good deal at $44.99 USD!

I also liked the knit tops--particularly the Pink Henley with ruffled collar.

The knit racer back tops and the knit short sleeve tops with the gathered drap at the bust are also winners. They run small, so just size up . Remember GO is a "juniors collection". So its sized smaller than their regular Mossimo or Merona Women's collections. Its interesting that Target does GO in Juniors size. Rarely, have I seen teenagers looking at this stuff. Its always adult women who know the designer labels who are shopping this line (like me)! The jeweled neck white top is a perfect example of this. Its a knock-off of Chai's couture line, selling for $1,599 USD. The Target version is under $40.00, but runs SMALL. Size up if you like it.

I don't think Target can profitably sell these for the under $50.00 price tag + allow for extra fabric, or larger woman's sizing.

The Charmeuse Moss Satin Spaghetti Strap top is very cute, although I passed on it. It would be cute for a casual summer night on the town.

The Lavender Check Trench Coat was not in stock yet, but that showed promise.

The Misses

I didn't care for any of the print dresses /or solid dresses with the racerback tops. This includes the pretty purple graffiti print dresses. Love the print, didn't like the fit of the dress.

Also, not a fan of the rufle shirt dress or top, although if they had been in different colors, I might have liked them. The white/reddish-orange color combo was not for me.

To see for yourself, and read other reviews on the collection, visit: www.target.com/go

There's also a great review with pictures on the Fashion Trend Blog.

Botton line from this Recessionista: Evaluate the collection before parting with your cash. There are variances in fabric, sizing and fit from piece to piece.