Burberry is innovating its iconic classic trench with an interactive, online bespoke program. Burberry Bespoke is the British label’s open embrace of the mass customization that retailers like Nike pioneered, however unusual it may be for a luxury fashion house. Customers can choose the cut, color, and detailing (mink, studs, and leather, anyone?) of the coat, which is simulated on-screen and then delivered four to eight weeks later from the Burberry factory in England. But to prevent any terrible trenches from marring the label’s traditional look, the program automatically removes some choices, so that a studded-sleeve shearling coat with fuchsia accents never sees the light of day under the burberry brand. 

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High-low collaborations may be something we take for granted at the point, but this fall the proven success of big-box and high-profile teamwork is moving up to the next level. Rather than pairing up with the usual “mid-range” designers, standard American stores like Target and Macy’s are getting a temporary spot on the A-list—by association with legendary luxury houses Missoni, Karl Lagerfeld, and Giambattista Valli. Why would such illustrious, established European names pair with American mass-market retailers? Despite a globally sagging economy, luxury brands like LVMH (Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, etc.), PPR (Gucci, YSL, etc.) and Saks have defied the economic downturn and have continued to post gains. But—there’s always a but—shaky stocks threaten to tumble their success; the rich have to cut back on $8000 handbags at some point. So, luxury brands may be partnering up to buffer rising costs and bring in increased revenue—or are they just being nice so we can buy something with Missoni print? 

This fall, mainstream retail and high-fashion combine to create what are sure to be prolific lines. Styles range from crisp and clean from Karl and MM6 to uber-femme Scandinavian looks from the Rodarte sisters. Here’s a highlight reel, so you can strategize the stampede that is sure to ensue upon the release of these collections:

• Target x Missoni (Unprecedented hype…better get in line now! Sept 13-Oct 22)
• Macy’s x Karl Lagerfeld (Aug 31)
• Macy’s x Giambattista Valli (Oct 26)
• TOMS x The Row (Cashmere & Italian wool! Now)

Ok, Opening Ceremony isn’t exactly “big-box,” but these impressive collaborations bring runway prices down to accessible fashion without compromising quality or creativity:

• Opening Ceremony x MM6 Maison Martin Margiela (now)
• Opening Ceremony x Rodarte (Sept)