I marked the launch date for 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target months in advance. I set my alarm to wake me up hours before my closest store opened. So it’s safe to say that this was a highly anticipated designer launch. Now that my credit card is cooling off, I can take some time to review the collection — menswear, womenswear, and accessories!

I usually review a collection based on a couple of factors. It’s for Target, so it needs a little bit of universal appeal than is often lacking in runway looks. It needs to be affordable — $150 at Target just doesn’t make sense, even if a comparable item is $1500 in the designer’s couture line. Then it has to be true to size and make sense for all body types. I would say that this line was successful on all accounts, because with a rich mix of accessories (wallets, handbags, men’s sneakers, and scarves) with perfectly tailored clothes (that run true to size or big, no cheap zippers or junior sizes in sight) there’s really something for everyone — and many pieces are under $30.

Leopard scarf, $19.99

I have to say that I’m little biased because Phillip Lim’s clothes are made for my body. I’m tall, love drapey tops and form-fitting bottoms, and I like a little bit of whimsy in my workwear. But there is enough variety in the shapes, sizes, and offerings that make the collection diverse.

Colorblock French Terry Pullover, $29.99

Ladies, if you’re looking to edge up your look, don’t shy away from the menswear. I got the men’s sweatshirt because it draped perfectly on me, and was a cool contrast of black and gray. The menswear is so good that even the guys got up to stake out the store at opening time — and snap up cartloads of the casual streetwear.

Shirt Dress, $39.99

On to a few specific pieces: the shirt dress is the coolest shaped dress I’ve ever seen in Target — it has a handkerchief skirt and flattering boxy arms. I know that doesn’t sound appealing, but it really is. The skirt is really voluminous, but it’s flat in the back to it will flatter your backside. I notice these things.

The handbag collection would warrant the hype all on its own. I picked up the yellow crossbody bag, which looks great with every single look in the collection. I love when I can incorporate colors into my fall wardrobe, but it takes the guesswork out of the coordination when it’s done for you!

Overall, I think the quality and detailed embellishments of the collection match the quality of the 3.1 Phillip Lim line. I saw similar pieces in Neiman Marcus just the other day for $1000 more apiece. Plus, the line features things like blouses and winter sweaters, the kids of things that people actually wear, so you don’t have to worry about fussy pieces that are difficult to incorporate with the things you already own.

Did you have any luck with the new collection? Were you able to get your hands on any of the great designs? Let us know!