UNIQLO, a funky Japan-based fashion company with stores in the US (mostly in the New York Metro area), is one of our favorite stores for updated basics. Picture practical and affordable high-end fashion and sporty outfits with a stylish twist- sort of like Old Navy, but better.  So, word of its upcoming 2009 spring and summer lineup has us excited.

The lineup’s designers include lots of people you’ve probably never heard of, but they’re worth checking out: Shipley & Halmos, Gilded Age, Opening Ceremony, and Steven Alan. Shipley & Halmos and Alan are leading the charge for women apparel. Alan’s collection of bright-colored jumpers, tunics, and dresses will debut in March, while Shipley & Halmos’ summertime separates (as well as another jumper) will come out in May.  What we like best? The price range is from $19-$79: which is pretty all we can spend right now.