Uniqlo launches collection with Inés de la Fressange

Japan's largest fashion retailer, Uniqlo, has launched the first

two parts of the four part collection created in collaboration with french designer Inés de la Fressange.

Known are 'Petite Parisienne' and 'Bleu, Blanc, Parisienne,' the first two debut collections from the range are available exclusively online from today. The collaborative collection is part of Uniqlo's Lifewear 2014 range and de la Fressange is also the face for the collection's campaign.

When she was first approached by the fashion retailer to develop a range with them, de la Fressange revealed that she was "very flattered", as she was a beloved fan of the brand and often when shopping there. "Marriages between different cultures are always interesting. So I thought my collaboration with Uniqlo would be an interesting marriage," revealed the designer.

The first line offers classic pieces, such as blouses, shirt dresses and spring vests, with a hint of subtle detailing meant to "evoke the feel of French work clothes". The second line offers blazers and trousers, in a tricolor selection of red, white and blue with a more contemporary cut.

The other two lines, 'Souffle de Parisienne' and 'Note Parisienne', feature home and casual wear and will be launched soon. Prices range from 9.90 pounds for a Supima cotton tank top to 19.90 for a long sleeved blouse to 99.90 for a jacket.

"We really worked together and understand each other...it's a true collaboration," explains the designer, who believes that clothes should be fun and feels like Uniqlo understands her notion. In the past, the Japanese fashion retailer has collaborated with the likes of Jil Sander, Orla Kiely, Lulu Guinness and Laura Ashley.

The first two lines from the collection will launch in selected Uniqlo stores on March 20 around the world.