Gabbi Fresh

I am so elated that I can finally share the big news: Target is releasing a new plus size line in February called AVA & VIV!!! was lucky enough to visit their headquarters in Minneapolis to preview the Spring collection and give my feedback about both the collection and the general state of plus size fashion. The Target team was so excited to hear my opinions and super receptive to my constructive criticism. I was able to see first hand how hard the team is working and how much they truly do care about their plus size customer. They hear the feedback of the community and are really putting in effort to making the changes necessary to get it right. They brought Nicolette Mason, Chastity Garner and myself in on separate days because they really wanted to hear our voices individually and spend an entire day with each of us so they wouldn’t miss anything.

I was pleasantly surprised to see the bright colors and youthful feel of the Spring collection, but I also noted where I thought improvements could be made. The entire thing is designed in house, and will run from $10-$79.99. And YES, it will be available in-store–they are dedicating real floor space to AVA &VIV which is a really big deal for plus size shoppers who have few options when it comes to affordable brick and mortar stores.

We also got to preview the Fall collection and give our feedback on ways it could be improved–I know all three of us were really impressed with what’s on the way, and it’s exciting that our opinions will help shape next season’s designs.

There has been lots of criticism of Target over the years, but I have to say that I really am happy they are not only listening, but bringing in plus size women to help them get it right and continue to improve. I can’t wait to share the lookbook we shot for their Spring collection (styled by Zanna Roberts Rassi)! In the mean time, here’s a little sneak peek behind-the-scenes:

This post is part of my ongoing partnership with Target. All opinions are my own.