Why We'll be Wearing Jessica Simpson Dresses

Jessica Simpson just signed a license deal to create a line of contemporary dresses.

Technically, the Camuto Group, which holds the master license for Jessica Simpson brand products, signed the deal with the G-III Apparel Group and her namesake collection of frocks will launch in spring 2009.

Many of you are probably scratching your heads, saying, "Great - another crappy celebrity line from a starlet who doesn't even know that Chicken of the Sea is tuna fish." Uh-huh - this is a different story all together.

She may not have the sense to keep her dissolving marriage off of reality television, but Simpson had the sense to choose the smarties at the Camuto Group. Camuto is no joke when it comes to working with fashion companies - current clients include Tory Burch, BCBG Max Azria, Nicole Miller and Andrew Marc.

Camuto has hooked her up with licenses for shoes, handbags, swimwear and jewelry that have been so successful, that she is a top shoe vendor at Macy's - the national department store - and Nordstrom, which is known for its great shoes.

I can hardly get my head around this, but yes, Jessica Simpson is a respectable fashion brand.

In study released today, The NPD Group, a market research group, said that American consumers admit that celebrity is important when buying products, so the lovely Jessica isn't going away anytime soon.

Calvin, Ralph and Donna - watch your back.

By Lisa Marsh