For the past few years, under the style guidance of Jenna Lyons, J.Crew has been changing the way women dress. But with the latest collaborative effort with the CFDA Fashion Fund, the retailer is changing how women access high-end fashion.


First, CFDA winner Billy Reid presented a menswear collection infused with the designer's signature southern hospitality. Now, J.Crew presents the second limited-edition collection of the three prizewinners, Prabal Gurung -- whose ladylike dresses, skirts and blouses blend seamlessly into J.Crew's aesthetic. (Eddie Borgo, a young jewelry designer will be featured next.)

The garments -- which cost less than Gurung's runways looks, but hit a bit high for typical J.Crew wares -- are a combination of the designer's wholesome shapes and the retailer's new approach to prep. An asymmetrical, crisp white blazer features an unassuming bow, and a pair of tuxedo trousers get revamped with ankle ties.

One motif that can't be missed -- the voluminous "exploding bow" that finds itself on dresses and blouses. Says the up-and-coming designer, whose creations have been worn by Michelle Obama in the past, "If you look closely it's a little bit off kilter, which gives it that lived-in quality that's so important." And what do you pair with such a bold top? Gurung suggests to J.Crew customers either a simple pencil skirt or cinched with an old, weathered belt and a pair of wide-leg, really worn-in jeans. "It makes such a strong statement, it needs that balance."

Make sure to head over to JCrew.com to learn more about the Singapore-born rising star. His mood board provides insight into his east-meets-west style along with a list of things that make him happy. (Included, but not limited to: 4:58 a.m. in NYC, high-top sneakers, dancing and the color red)

Love the capsule collection as much as we do? Hurry to your local J.Crew ASAP -- some designs are so limited that only 50 pieces were created!