Target isn't letting the pandemic get in the way of another designer collaboration. Five months after the launch of their Spring 2021 Designer Dress Collection, they're launching a Fall 2021 collection featuring four designers: Rachel Comey, Sandy Liang, Victor Glemaud, and Nili Lotan. The new collection features fall looks in of-the-moment marble prints, classic wardrobe pieces, and budget-friendly price points under $80. Set aside your 2020 fleece and say hello to fun dresses, chic trousers, playful accessories, and cozy outerwear.
The launch day is coming soon! Set your calendar alerts for September 25.
Keep reading for a peek at the spring 2021 Designer Dress Collection lookbook, and get expert tips on how, when, and where to shop the collection.
Shopping notes: All sizes (XXS - 4X or 0- 30) and styles will be available on Target.com for a limited time. Selections will vary by store. Items must be returned within 14 days of purchase for a refund. RedCard™ holders receive an 30 extra days for returns. Unfortunately, international shipping is not available.
Due to the pandemic, I encourage you to shop the collection online. Crowded stores are not appealing, however, if you plan to shop in stores, please practice physical distancing, good hygiene, polite behavior, and wear a mask (or two) for the safety of everyone.
Quick to do list:
1. Bookmark this page now to review the lookbook and prepare to shop.
2. Log in to Target.com.
3. Save your payment and shipping info.
4. "Heart" your favorites to make shopping easier.
Preview the lookbook below.
The In-Store Strategy
1. Know where to go. Plan your shopping well in advance. Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth, and be ready to stand in a physically distanced line.
2. Phone it in. Be extra prepared by calling your local store the week before the launch to confirm exactly where in the store it'll be located. It's helpful to know if it will all be merchandised together, or throughout the store.
3. Be an early bird. You know what they say about the early bird, so be prepared. Stores open at 8am on launch days. I've found in the past that if I arrive by 7:30 am or earlier, then I'm able to get what I want due to decreased demand in my geographic region. For shoppers who live in large cities, I recommend going at least 1-2 hours before the store opens if you're really motivated to be the first to shop. For shoppers in more suburban or rural areas, the competition and crowds are reduced, but the selection of goods may be as well. In my experience, stock varies widely from store to store.
4. Bring a buddy. A family member, friend, or significant other might be able to help you get the pieces you want and help you make purchasing decisions. Or even better, have a dedicated friend tackle one store while you visit another. "Divide and conquer" should be your strategy! Arrange to meet in line (while practicing physical distancing) or go to the store together so you're not cutting in line.
5. Check for go-backs and barter. If your favorite pieces disappear from the racks in a flash, be courteous, be patient, and don't be afraid to chat with employees and other shoppers (from a distance) to politely trade to get what you want! Please respect the rules that they have in store.
6. Persistence pays off. Target does not restock these collections, but you can still score your favorites. If you don't find what you want after the launch, check back for returns in the coming days, as many shoppers make returns. Don't forget to check the customer service desk and clearance racks for returns in October. After four or so weeks, the collection might be discounted to 30% (and eventually to 50% or 70%) off, so frequent visits to Target after the launch could really pay off. Call your local stores to ask what they have in stock or use social media to buy/trade/sell with others.
7. Consider main line instead. With high resale prices after the launch, you can likely buy main line Rachel Comey, Sandy Liang, Victor Glemaud, and Nili Lotan for less than the marked up resale prices. Consider shopping the real deal if you aren't able to get your wish list items.
The Online Strategy
1. Learn the lookbook. Study the lookbook carefully to select your favorites, get outfit inspiration, research the sizing, choose colorways, see online exclusives, set a budget, and check the prices.
2. Play favorites. Make a list or collage of your favorites to help you stick to your budget and prioritize your potential purchases.
3. Know when and how to shop. Be extra prepared by using more than one web browser, mobile device, etc. Refresh your browser often and have patience. I use Chrome for optimal performance. Expect some glitches and be persistent. Remember that patience is key.
The collection goes live at midnight Pacific Time. Set an alarm if necessary, as some items will sell out within minutes.
4. Save your checkout info. As the time to shop online approaches, log onto target.com and have your checkout and payment details saved ahead of time. I've found that Chrome works best on my desktop computer. Clear your cart of any items in order to streamline the checkout process. This reduces the chances of having your cart emptied of any out-of-stock items before you can click the "complete order" button.
5. Click quickly. Shop your top pick(s) first and submit your order right after placing in your cart. Do not shop and fill up your cart. Why? Once an item is in your cart, it's not reserved for you. In order to avoid an item being removed from your cart because it's sold out, you need to click quickly and complete your order! That's why I create a prioritized wish list and try to buy my top picks first.
6. Multi-task. While shopping online, be extra prepared by using more than one web browser, mobile device, etc. Sometimes items become available first on the mobile site, and sometimes they don't. Sometimes some shoppers can see certain items while others cannot. Refresh your browser often and have patience. Items tend to pop up and then disappear during the initial launch. Expect some glitches but don't give up. Remember, persistence and patience are key, and you may have to sacrifice some sleep if you're really motivated to snag your favorites.
7. Save your info and get a RedCard. If you don't have one already, then consider getting a RedCard. Why? Target RedCard users enjoy free shipping, an extra 30 days to return certain merchandise, and a 5% discount on purchases.
This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if purchases are made by clicking links.
Preview the Fall 2021 Target Designer Collection looks and get ready to shop:
