“Douglas has a fresh perspective and still maintains an approachable price point, which is so important these days,” said Meghan Mitchell, senior buyer for the Co-op’s women’s division. “Our customers are looking for unique pieces that really speak to them.”

Department stores have recently been making strides to boost their spring and fall lineups with new and emerging designers to appeal to shoppers in search of unique pieces. For the first time this year, Bloomingdale’s hosted an open casting call for new designers, and Barneys and Henri Bendel have long focused on fresh faces.

Barneys could use as much help as it can get. The department store, which has not had a chief executive since last spring, has suffered layoffs, cutbacks, rumors of halting vendor payments, and a downgrade last month to “CCC” status by credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s. Barney’s owner, Dubai-based Istithmar World Capital, recently gave the upscale store over $25 million to pay off debts.

That means part of his job is “researching” this girl’s lifestyle, says Wang, so don’t be surprised if U2 is blaring from his office computer or he’s hitting hotspots on the Lower East Side. “We’re building a brand. It’s not just about clothes and a product. It’s so competitive! We’re building a lifestyle and I have to give a peek into how this girl lives.”

The label Wang launched in 2005 while still attending Parsons The New School of Design is steadily expanding. There’s been a full womenswear collection since 2007 and come July there’ll be men’s. Wang, a 25-year-old California native, says he’s appreciative of the recognition he’s received. (His runway shows are hot tickets: Sarah Jessica Parker attended the last one.

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