America’s longest-running celebrity fashion collection is making a comeback.
Jaclyn Smith, renowned for her role as Kelly Garrett on the “Charlie’s Angels” TV series (1976-1981), has relaunched her fashion line on HSN. The initial offering includes a 10-piece spring collection aimed at women 35 and older. These pieces blend classic and contemporary styles, designed to be versatile for day-to-night wear, and are available in sizes that accommodate “real people,” according to Smith.
“This is thrilling because HSN’s broad reach through its broadcast streaming, website, mobile app, and social media will allow me to connect with many more customers,” Smith told WWD. She emphasized her 36-year dedication to her diverse clientele from all walks of life.
The Jaclyn Smith collection, originally launched in 1985 and sold exclusively at Kmart, was a key factor in Kmart’s survival despite its financial struggles. At its height, the collection included a wide range of products and generated $250 million to $300 million in annual sales. Over the years, more than 100 million items were sold under the Jaclyn Smith brand at Kmart. Her contract with Kmart ended in July 2021, followed by a yearlong sell-off period.
The relaunch comes at a strategic time. As consumers recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, they are refreshing their wardrobes but are mindful of inflation and seeking affordable fashion. The new Jaclyn Smith collection offers all items under $100.
Smith will appear live on HSN’s “Obsessed With Style” show on Saturday during the 8 a.m. hour, again at 1 p.m., and during The List at 7 p.m. She will likely showcase her moto jacket, a nubby tweed design with fringe, a rose gold zipper, and shoulder pads, priced at $59.75. “It looks very high-end and refined,” Smith said.
Other highlights from the collection include a fully lined bomber jacket with cargo pockets and a drawstring, also priced at $59.75. “It’s perfect for spring. It’s light enough to wear indoors but still keeps out the chill,” Smith noted. Another favorite is a short-sleeved knit textured top, priced at $24.75, which she describes as a refined version of a classic T-shirt with added stretch.
The collection also features a cardigan sweater duster with vertical stripes and narrow ribbing, priced at $42.75. “It’s very flattering and moves with you,” Smith said. Despite some skepticism about vertical stripes, Smith insists they can be slimming when done correctly.
Additionally, the line includes a wrinkle-free safari-patterned, short-sleeve button-front shirt ($32) and a matching side-tie wrapped skirt ($49.75). These pieces can be mixed and matched and are designed to be practical for both day and night wear.
The collection sizes range from XS to 3X. “We fit our clothes on real people, not forms,” Smith explained. “If something isn’t comfortable or doesn’t have stretch, it’s not included.”
“I’ve never worked with HSN before,” Smith admitted. “It’s new territory for me, but it’s invigorating and challenges me to improve.” She will discuss her new fashion pieces and the inspiration behind them, including influences from Paris fashion shows she has attended.
HSN is a significant shift from her Kmart days, which involved store appearances, TV ads, and print ads. Now, it’s more about streaming and social media. Smith manages her own social media, sharing glimpses of her personal life and engaging with her followers. “Social media was difficult for me at first because I’m very private, but I’ve come to enjoy it,” she said.
Despite nearly four decades in the fashion industry, Smith’s philosophy remains unchanged: to provide quality fashion at an accessible price.
The collection’s rebirth is thanks to a licensing agreement with RDG Global LLC, a major private label supplier. While the collection was designed and photographed in Los Angeles, Smith’s home, it benefits from global fabric sourcing.
“We took our time to source and develop fabrics from around the world,” Smith said. “The line is more elevated now, with thoughtful detailing like rose gold zippers and toggles. Each piece was carefully considered, unlike the rapid production pace at Kmart.”
Even before the official HSN launch, select items from the Jaclyn Smith label were quietly sold on Nordstrom Rack’s website since last fall. This soft launch helped gauge the label’s popularity and build confidence for the HSN debut. “It’s performed well at Nordstrom Rack,” Smith said. “I’ve built trust and a following over the years.”
“Jaclyn’s vision is realized through carefully crafted fabrics and designs she loves to wear,” added Bridget Love, HSN’s general merchandise manager and vice president of fashion. “HSN leads in live video commerce by integrating entertainment, personalities, and experts like Jaclyn Smith.”
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