Resort 2011 Collections by High-End Designers at Low-End Prices

Most of us have Madison Avenue fashion dreams but on a Downtown budget, and most designers are taking note. Many notable fashion designers have launched mid-tier and sister brands to make their beautiful clothes affordable to the masses. Here's a look at two fashion worthy designers releasing Resort collections with the same signature vision but at an accessible price reaching for mass appeal.

RED is the signature color for notable designer Valentino, but it's line RED, is an actual acronym for Romantic Eccentric Dresses; and Red Valentino delivers just that... simply in a more youthful inspired collection. The sister line is the perfect blend between contemporary couture and modern edge while still embodying the sophisticated characteristics of the mainline. Red's resort collection delivers the brand's signature aesthetic with playful pieces featuring tulle-detailed T-shirts and ruffled taffeta party dresses. Other must-have pieces include a classic double-breasted trench coat with lace bow detail above a back inverted pleat ($895) and crew-neck jersey mini shift dress with a contrast, oversized sateen bow at the shoulder ($450).

Acclaimed designer Yigal Arzouel launched a youthful and lower priced line this fall named Cut 25. The name signifies nothing more than the designer's favorite number and word. Famous for his intricate draping and perfect tailoring, the new line evokes the same detailing but with a bit more edge. The collection's price point is almost a fraction of the original's price and sold at retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Intermix and ShopBop. The resort collection features beautifully draped mini dresses in lavender and beige and great sequin pieces cut into tops and hot shorts. Other pieces in the collection include body-con dresses and tailored blazers with leather detailing.

Catherine Malandrino released two collections for Resort at two different price points. Catherine Malandrino is her self- titled contemporary price point line while "Malandrino" will be her designer runway line. Catherine Malandrino's contemporary line features a collection was heavily influenced by the connection of fashion and music with looks inspired by iconic musical artists such as Tina Turner, Chaka Kahn and Donna Summer. What you can expect is a modern rendition of rock and roll edge. Statement collection pieces include cropped leather jackets featuring heavy detailing and stud embellishments, and accessories that include thick cuffs and bib necklaces. To offset the heavy leather rock edge other collection pieces consist of tie dye kaftans, knit dresses and psychedelic floral patterned tops and dresses. Catherine Malandrino is available on Shopbop.com with dresses under $495.