Corridor40

After purchasing a few pieces from Rodarte’s new collection for Target, it was only a matter of time before my fellow C40 writers and I asked the obvious question: what style represents the real Rodarte? Is it what we see on the runway, or the ready-to-wear looks most every American can now afford?

The Rodarte from the runway is known for small, clashing prints, collages and sea monsters with lipstick cases. But, as stressed in the new line, the designers can also do most everything feminine–including an abundance of delicate textures like silk, tulle and lace.

The construction of the Target line is what was to be expected; after all–it is Target, not Barneys. My choice purchase? Two swimsuits–with Rodarte’s signature lace.  Both cheeky, girlie and cheap enough to wear at any poolside or beach this summer.

Aside from the Target collection, the two sisters have been busy at work on another project: menswear.

First up? A four-piece lightweight sweater collection that coincides with the current layering trend.  If you’re worried working the looks might have you looking like you’re straight off an alpaca farm, fear not; the sweaters are hand-knitted–57 percent superkid mohair, 10 percent alpaca, 5 percent polyester, 5 percent metal polyester, 5 percent silk, 3 percent viscose and 3 percent rayon.  Nice, but what’s disappointing in the collection is its similarities to Junya Wantanabe’s FW06 collection–which leads to me to my original dilemma: what style represents the real Rodarte?

Images via Opening Ceremony

Junya Wantanabe 2006

Image via Style.com