While most Spring/Summer 2009 fashion forecasts are focused on crisp whites, ultra-feminine pastels and bold color splashes, affordable chain store Target has the alternative for those who want to hold onto Fall's edginess well into spring.  Alexander McQueen's team-up collection with Target hits stores (and the Target website) March 1st, 2009, where I'm guessing it will sell out by its end date April 11th.  I usually don't bother with Target collections until pieces make it to the clearance rack, but I'll spend the extra pennies to make sure I get my hands on these grunge throwback designs.

McQueen is the first designer to work with Target for their Designer Initiative program.  Separate from their Go International program, which features newcomer designs, the Designer Initiative plans to work with more established designers, with Alexander leading the pack.

Based on his McQ line, the Target line draws Inspiration from British band The Duke Spirit, particularly frontwoman Leila Moss, and their '80s and '90s grunge music, feel, and style.

From WWD,

"The collection has a muted color palette of black, white, gray and tan with accents of cobalt blue and bright pink. Studs and mesh give items an edge. For example, a chambray sleeveless shirtdress has stud detailing, there’s a mesh wrap dress and an open yarn zipper cardigan. Graphic prints and silk-screen photographs give tunics, dresses and T-shirts visual interest. The Leila silk-screen T-shirt with a necklace collar was designed for The Duke Spirit lead singer, while other band members are immortalized on a sleeveless jersey T-shirt."

The looks also include dice, anchors, and mermaid motifs, as well as tattoo prints and studded belts.

Aside from his own collections, Alexander McQueen has also done lines for MAC, Puma, and Samsonite's Black Label.

Photos from: Cherry Coloured, The Pipeline