Nicole Richie to launch House of Harlow 1960 handbag collection for Spring 2011

Of all the celeb-designed lines, one we actually like is Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow 1960. The jewelry line, which debuted first, was full of art-deco style, vintage, boho-chic pieces that were both pretty and reasonably priced. Recently, House of Harlow launched its footwear line – another hit with everything from chunky heels to comfy mocassins, alongside sunglasses. Next on the plate are House of Harlow handbags. It’s the logical next step for Richie’s successful brand. Reportedly, the House of Harlow 1960 handbag collection will consist of 40-50 handbag styles with a range of prices between $295 and $595, and will launch in spring 2011. There are no images yet, but Rick Cytrynbaum, co-founder of Majestic Mills (which produces House of Harlow 1960 accessories and Richie’s clothing line Winter Kate), told Women’s Wear Daily: “If you look at the clothing and you look at the footwear, you get an idea of what the bags are going to be!” I can tell you one thing - I will be waiting “with breath that is bated”!

Photo by Donato Sardella via WWD

Nicole Richie to launch contemporary womenswear line

According to Women’s Wear Daily, Nicole Richie is set to launch her new contemporary women’s clothing line called Winter Kate, taking after her daughter Harlow’s two middle names.

The 37-piece line, which will hit stores in February, will be available in Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Ron Herman, Intermix and Kitson.

Richie said: “It feels as though I’ve always been working on this collection, but officially I started putting it together in early 2009. I’ve wanted to design a clothing collection for a very long time.”

Her collection includes mostly tops, vests and bed jackets in colorful vintage-inspired silk, crepe and chiffon, alongside long slip dresses, asymmetrical short dresses, tunics and a kimono-sleeve maxidress. Richie drew inspiration from her wardrobe, as well as from her favorite animals, including peacocks and other birds.

“I probably wear the same two pairs of jeans every day as the background to a fabulous top,” she said. “Bed jackets are a staple of my wardrobe because they are a gorgeous way to give jeans and a white T-shirt a completely different look.”

Prices range from $35 (wholesale) for a camisole, to $110 for a long kimono dress, and up to $598 for leather pieces.

“Fashion should be accessible,” Richie continued. “That was my philosophy when designing House of Harlow 1960 and it remains my philosophy for Winter Kate.”

We confess – we loved her House of Harlow 1960 jewelry line - but does she have the design chops to churn out a full women’s collection? And will you be buying?

Photo via WWD