A Match made on Madison

I love Anna Sui. She has a way of designing that balances beauty with an edge. There always seems to be a hint of attitude in her clothing that adds another level of interest to pretty prints, flowing fabrics and layers of accessories.
Her boho charm seems to be founded in the brand's connection to music, art and history. Though Anna Sui's fabrics and designs are quite recognizable, each season showcases a variety of influences.

I think Target's designer collaborations, with Alexander McQueen and now Anna Sui, are genius. Fashion we love from the runways has been made affordable and available to all fashionistas no matter their budget. And to top this collaboration off, Target has been doing an amazing ad campaign pairing Anna Sui designs with Gossip Girl. I love it!

So in honor of Anna Sui's line at Target, here's a look at her runway inspirations and some of my favorite Anna Sui looks.
Paul Poiret freed women from corsets and embraced a new style that used Orientalism, flowing fabrics and decadent prints.

Military-esque. Don't you just love the amazing boots?! Fall 2006.


More great boots, colors and textures from Fall 2006.


This is one of my favorite collections. It's frilly and edgy all at the same time. Can you imagine Marie Antoinette at a New York Dolls concert? Apparently Anna can. Love it!





Tons of texture in Fall 2007. This collection was inspired by interior decor fabrics.

Spring 2008 channeled musicals and Biba designs.


Medieval romance makes an appearance with the dark color palette and connections to Pre-Raphaelite art.



During the Belle Epoque, "Beautiful Era," (from the late 19th century until WWI) Expressionist art became the new avant-garde.



And now a look at the new collection inspired by the bad and the beautiful Gossip Girl.






I think Gossip Girl and Anna Sui are a match made on Madison Avenue. Perfect!
Until tonight's new episode...xoxo.


Runway photos: Style.com
Target photos: Target.com