In looking for a fun and colorful way to start my 2013 blog series I thought what better way than with the first designer coloration between J.C. Penney or as they prefer to be called these days JCP and Nigerian-born designer Duro Olowu. Based in London and a favorite of our First Lady Michelle Obama, the partnership will be a first for both Olowu and JCP.

In an exclusive preview with InStyle.com Olowu explained, “This collection is for anyone, from 18 to 80. Everything has a flattering element, whether you mix prints or pull out one piece and keep it simple.” Olowu also explained why he decided to collaborate at this time saying, “I’ve always said no to collaborations, but I thought J. C. Penney was a great opportunity.” Olowu also went onto say, “I’ve always tried to give women a sense of inner beauty with joy, and now it’s just the right time to make that more democratic. When I was thinking about this collection, I wanted to give American classic shapes and ideas a global flair.”

The exclusive capsule collection will include clothing and accessories all priced under $100 and will be available in store and online this March. www.jcp.com