Closer Look: Big K

So remember a few weeks ago when I said that K-Mart was trying to take a turn for the more stylish? I just checked out the video lookbook and it certainly does look like K-Mart is taking a more sophisticated image for Fall while identifying the key trends as menswear, military and boyfriend. I respect that the tag-line of the video addresses their previous unfashionable past by saying, "It's True. It's K-mart." For a closer look at more Fall looks from Big K click here.

One thing that caught my eye however was this pair of Skinny Cargo Pants that looks suspiciously similar to the oh-so-popular J Brand Houlihan that former NY Times fashion critic Cathy Horyn previously raved about and retail stores couldn't keep in stock. I know that you might say these are just Cargo pants, but the pocket shape and diagonal leg seams are very similar. Since we don't have side or back views, I'm not sure if the K-mart version includes side zippers. I'm not sure how much the K-mart pair will run you but the J Brand Houlihan's are currently $231 and available in multiple fabrications and colors.

Big K gets Stylish?

I don't know about you guys but when I picture K-mart, I can't get some of the negative connotations behind the store out of my mind. Linoleum beige floors, unflattering fluorescent lighting, mysterious wet substance on the floor, jogging pants but in a bad way. Yes, I know it's the K-mart of the early 90s in Canada and probably not representative of what you all know! I've since checked out K-mart in NYC and definitely been surprised at the changes in the store but still fashion is the last thing that crosses my mind. But if Target and even Walmart are making/attempting to get in the designer high-low game why not Big K too?

Well according to Style.com they are well on their way with the recent recruitment of "designers from the trenches of Gap, Ralph Lauren, Club Monaco, and elsewhere. (The senior designer apprenticed at Yves Saint Laurent!)". With this kind of pedigree behind them, what can we expect to be hitting the shelves come Fall 2010? "Staple items such as a military-inspired A-line peacoat; a fitted, zip-detailed bomber jacket; and a skinny cargo pant, as well as more daring pieces, like a cropped faux fur vest". Most items will be under the $50 mark while nothing will top $100. I'm def curious to see more and plan to run by stores as this merch is hitting shelves any day now!