Fashion Star Episode 3: Fashion Hits Sell Out

From RetailMeNot

The tastemakers on NBC’s runaway hit Fashion Star are decidedly forward-thinking, bypassing spring altogether and predicting the biggest trends to hit the sales floor come summer. On the third episode, up-and-coming designers got more mentoring from Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and John Varvatos before parading their looks in front of a panel of buyers from Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and H&M. Those buyers literally decided their fashion fate. Here were the winners and their winning looks. Be sure to order soon before they sell out!

Orly Shani

Orly Shani showed a trio of ultra-femme sheath dresses in ice blue, sherbet orange and rich navy with striking neon. Understandably so, Macy’s and Saks engaged in a bidding war over the flattering frocks, and ultimately Saks landed the creations with a winning bid of $120,000.

The Jersey Dress by Orly Shani ($295) has a scooped neck, adorable contrasted waistband in rich raspberry and a center back zipper. This is easy, breezy summer style at its best. (Get Saks Fifth Avenue Coupons.)

Nikki Poulos

Swimwear designer Nikki Poulos walked away a winner when Macy’s made a $50,000 offer on her resort-friendly jumpsuits. The palest shade of cobalt blue sashayed down the runway, followed closely by an energetic watercolor print and tan-enhancing coral. The colors available at Macy’s are a bit different, but decidedly modern and flattering.

Jumpsuits may be considered tricky to pull off, but Nikki’s silhouette proves that with a halter neckline and belted waist, the look can be quite wearable. Her Wide-Leg Jersey Halter ($79) is available in black, lavender and a bold floral. (Get Macy’s coupons and make this all-in-one outfit even more affordable.)

Sarah Parrott

H&M felt that Sarah Parrott’s collection of wrap maxi dresses aligned perfectly with the “glam trend” they’re predicting for summer. Graciously naming her pieces both “sexy and elegant,” the high-slit, high-impact maxis managed to incorporate two major trends: color blocking and print mixing.

The Fashion Star Ep 3 Dress by Sarah ($29.95), available in a graphic cherry print, has a sexy front slit, folded pleats and a cool racer back. This casual gown has “summer staple” written all over it. (Save on your H&M purchases with H&M coupons.)

Nzimiro Oputa

When Jessica Simpson dubs your short-and-swim-trunk hybrid a “Hamptons party in the pants,” you know you’re going to win. And Nzimiro did just that. Paired with classic, open button-down oxfords and V-necks, the board shorts were a no brainer for H&M, which bid $50,000 for the trunks.

The Fashion Star Ep 3 Shorts Designed by Nzimiro ($24.95) combine the saturated color of board shorts with the cuffs of a pant, making these a perfect hybrid for summer. (Get H&M coupons.)

Kara Laricks

After careful nudging from John Varvatos, Kara Laricks included a refreshing ivory-hued trouser that landed her a winning $50,000 bid from Saks. The series of tuxedo pants seem well-suited to the Saks shopper, and the New York–based designer could not have been more pleased to finally catch a break.

These Plaid Pants by Kara Laricks ($225) translate well for the office, yet the roomy fit feels like a trouser you want to live in. Think of them as an investment piece. (Save money with Saks Fifth Avenue coupons.)

The show itself is really campy. LFMAO did a performance. I mean...really? I get that they are going for entertainment, but Paris is laughing at us. So is Milan and London. Not that I expect NBC to care, but the laser beams, smoke, fireworks and dancers really take away from the clothes. It feels like there's too much going on. Do they need to show the mentors dancing in their seats every week?  Oh well, it's just a fun show right?