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Calypso x Target Dresses Cause a Fashion Editor Feeding Frenzy

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There's less than two weeks before the Calypso St. Barth for Target collaboration hits Target stores across America (and online), but this morning, we were treated to a sneak peek of most of the collection at the Calypso St. Barth boutique in New York. We had a chance to see the samples back in January and we were pleasantly surprised to see that the signature Calypso details, silhouettes and premium-fabrics were well-translated into an affordable and accessible collaboration. However, the true litmus test is seeing—and feeling—the final products produced and hanging on the racks.

"It was a feeding frenzy over there", marveled a Target executive gesturing at the aftermath left by grab-happy editors near the two maxi-dress styles hanging on the racks. After that endorsement, we decided to take a closer look at the styles for ourselves. The fuchsia tie-dye wrap-front and peasant maxi-skirted number ($39.99) is 100% cotton and is also lined for added coverage. The Talitha Getty-esque flowy batik caftan ($49.99) is not lined (we'd suggest a slip), but the 100% silk does feel quite luxe for something you can pick up while you're on a toilet paper at Target. Sadly, the other silk number—the navy blue tie-dye peasant top with crocheted neckline ($36.99) that we lingered over in January—did not make it in time for us to fondle at this preview.

We got up close and personal with quite a few items on the shelf (which was slightly awkward when we were introduced to a Target exec while we basically had our hands up one of the maxi-skirts groping for a tag) and most everything we came across was 100% cotton, 100% silk or a cotton/linen blend. The embellishments and detail were thoughtfully executed for fast-fashion—we were most impressed with the beads and bling, mixed with chartreuse embroidery on the khaki cotton shift ($42.99) and the Chinese-style grosgrain-adornment and closures on the cotton shifts (in fuchsia and azure-blue for $39.99). Plus, we noted that the summer white ruffle wrap-front frock ($42.99) was 52% cotton and 48% linen, which gave the frock a structured, but soft and light silhouette. We also really liked a cornflower blue and chartreuse-embroidered mini-peasant skirt ($29.99).

The tribal-inspired and resort-friendly jewelry on hand was also super-cute and substantial-looking for the pricing. We admired the leather cuffs in seemingly-hammered gold disk detail ($19.99 each) in black, white, blue and fuchsia and the multi-beaded turquoise necklace ($39.99). The blue tie-dye canvas slingback wedges ($29.99) were quite popular with the crowd, although we think that the tie dye and batik flip-flops ($12.99) might be a more comfortable bet.

Speaking of flip-flops, the little girls' versions are the most ridiculously cute specimens of footwear that we've ever seen. We swear the collective uteri of every female in the room was glowing as they looked over the Lilliputian-sized of tie-dye frocks, bathing suits and flip-flops. And honestly, you could probably buy the entire Calypso x Target girls' collection for roughly the same price as one lone Fendi pint-sized poncho.

Taking accessibility to the next level—the Calypso St. Barth for Target collaboration (womenswear, girls', home, jewelry, accessories and shoes) will be available in all—not just the usual "select"—Targets across the country on May 1. And if you don't have convenient access to a local Target, there's always the trusty Internet.

· Calypso St. Barth x Target: The Complete Lookbook, Price List, Including Womenswear, Shoes, Accessories, Children's and Home [Racked]
· Calypso x Target: Potential Cure for Collab Fatigue Disorder [Racked]
· Backstage at Fendi's Debut Kids' Show: Who Loves Fendi? Meeeee! [Racked]
· Target [Official Site]