CJ O’Shopping, the TV shopping unit of CJ Group, said Thursday it would develop a lifestyle brand for noted U.S. fashion designer Vera Wang and start licensing the products from later this month.

Based on their deal, signed for the first time in Asia, the company will launch lingerie brand Vera Wang Intimates in April, continue with linen line Vera Wang Home in May and expand to garments, cosmetics and accessories through the VW Vera Wang collection in September.

The Korean company expects to generate 400 billion won ($366 million) in sales in the next five years by diversifying the retail channels, from TV shopping to department stores and others.

CJ collaborated with the designer in lingerie development in 2012 and the recent deal is expected to propel the designer as well as CJ’s status across Asia. 

“Working with Vera Wang will take us to the global shopping company status with quality products and design competitiveness,” said Lee In-su, vice president of the TV shopping channel.

New York-based Wang has gained critical and financial success with her bridal collection. Her wedding dresses have been worn by many celebrities and are known as the “ultimate dress.”

She was named the Womenswear Designer of the Year in 2005 by the Council of Fashion Designers of America and features ready-to-wear collections in New York regularly.

By Bae Ji-sook (baejisook@heraldcorp.com)