Diffusion Fashion Lines

If the tough economic times have made you think twice about splurging or buying on sale, here's another option: designer diffusion lines. Over the past decade there has been an overhaul of high-end designers presenting diffusion lines making it easier to stay in your budget and still carry a piece of couture.

In short, fashion diffusion lines are the ready-to-wear lines produced for mass marketing at lower price points. Fueled by a designer-obsessed culture, these lines have become extremely popular and economically successful. In the past and present, designers had two ways of approaching their new venture.

The first, often called "little sister" or "daughter" lines, are marketed as a younger, more vibrant version of the signature line. Among the most popular is Marc by Marc Jacobs, D&G for Dolce and Gabbana, Armani Exchange for Armani and BCBGirls for BCBG.

Many of these lines have grown to stand on their own, making the "D" word a thing of the past. The greatest example is Miu Miu by Prada. Launched in 1993, the line's sales have doubled in the last four years. Its greatest accomplishment thus far is landing four major magazine covers this past summer with its flower-embellished dress.

Designers have also taken the route of collaborating with major retailers for limited edition lines. Simply Vera by Vera Wang is offered at Kohl's, Christian Siriano has designed for Payless and reality star Rachel Zoe has a line offered on QVC.

Critics may have called many of these lines watered down versions, but the response by shoppers is overwhelming. These collections have been met with lines around the block, as was the case when Karl Lagerfeld collaborated with H&M.

The latest designers to join the diffusion bandwagon are British designer Matthew Williamson who will debut Muse by Matthew Williamson this February. British fashion house Mulberry has recently collaborated with Target to release a collection of handbags. Diffusion lines may just be the perfect solution for the frugal fashionista who wants to own the latest designer duds on a budget.