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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Celebs want to be stars in the fashion world, too

By Suzanne D'Amato
Washington Post

Sweetface, a clothing line launched by Jennifer Lopez in 2005, features off-the-shoulder tops and skinny jeans.

Sweetface photo

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The celeb-as-designer concept is nothing new, but recently even more boldfaced names have started going the "Project Runway" route: Justin Timberlake, Nicky Hilton, Travis Barker. (Travis Barker?) Jennifer Lopez, one of the category's pioneers, is introducing a new line. And high-fashion fiends soon will have a new way to copy Sienna Miller's devil-may-care chic: The actress plans to debut a collection this year.

No matter what your sartorial proclivities may be, there's a celebrity line just waiting for you to try it on for size. Such as:

L.A.M.B.: Gwen Stefani's collection of printed skirts, glamazon dresses, edgy sweats and rasta-stripe handbags first rocked the retail scene in 2004.

Fashion forecast: The singer's clothing line is routinely cited as one of the best. "It's really quality," says Claire Brooks of brand consulting company ModelPeople Inc. "You get a sense of her edgy sophistication." Which could explain prices that have edged into very sophisticated territory indeed: A velvet-trimmed leather satchel sells for a cool $725; a cotton trench, $385.

Sweetface: Jennifer Lopez's line, launched in 2005, features off-the-shoulder tops and tiny dresses perfect for those wanting to rule the red carpet a la Lopez.

Fashion forecast: A mixed bag. JLO by Jennifer Lopez made its debut in 2001 but has struggled at retail. By contrast, Lopez's higher-end line Sweetface, with items such as skinny jeans for $195, is considered pretty, well, sweet. "That really distills the essence of J.Lo," Brooks says. It's "body-conscious in a uniquely Latin way." Another jewel in the crown: A new line, Justsweet, that will offer leather jackets, hoodies and denim at a lower price point.

House of Dereon: Beyoncé's line of slinky tops, cropped pants and denim was created by the "Dreamgirls" diva, with her mother and longtime stylist, Tina Knowles. Launched in 2005, the brand's name refers to Beyoncé's late grandmother, Agnez Dereon.

Fashion forecast: "Everyone wants to look like Beyoncé or be associated with her," says Theresa Watts, owner of Washington boutique Lettie Gooch. Still, Watts is debating whether to stock House of Dereon this spring, citing high prices (a wrap-front pleated jacket costs $216) and inconsistent fits.