Just about everyone seems to be partnering on collections these days but the latest one coming right out of France is one that I can jump on board with. Two of my favourite French brands, Carven and Petit Bateau, have confirmed that they're about to launch a limited edition capsule collection.

And it sounds promising. So far, only two images of the nine piece line have been released and as you would expect, the pieces are incredibly chic and incredibly French. Prices are accessible and range between $64 to $320 and the line caters for men, women and children just to make sure that the whole family can get in on the action. 'Our collaborations up until now [with the likes of French brands like Robert Clergerie, Zespa, L’Amyand] were often associated with a collection and a specific narrative, but the line we have developed together with Petit Bateau goes far beyond that,' Carven creative director Guillaume Henry told WWD. 'It’s no longer a story linked to a collection; it’s a story of shared values.'

The line will debut on November 5. at Colette in Paris and 10 Corso Como in Milan and will then be available in as yet unnamed boutiques in London and Brussels before arriving in the US on December 5.

See more images after the jump

Yesterday at the Carven presentation in Florence at Pitti Uomo, menswear designer Guillaume Henry revealed that the brand are planning to open a stand-alone store in New York soon. When asked about timescale he wouldn't budge but it's definitely happening.

The presence of the brand's menswear collection at Pitti this year is big. Aside from giving the brand exposure generally, it has also pushed the menswear limb of the business to the forefront. At present the brand is only available at Opening Ceremony and Barneys so the news is definitely going to be music to the ears of the fans out there.

Are you excited?

With the promotional tour for 'Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted' still in full swing that means a lot more Jessica Chastain, which is only a good thing. Her day time appearances are just as good as her red carpet looks and this outfit is a case in point.

Yesterday morning the actress made a guest appearance along with Jada Pinkett-Smith on 'Live! with Kelly' in New York wearing this outfit from the Fall 2012 Carven collection. The suede cut out peplum top with the white colour is a lot edgier than what we're accustomed to with Chastian but along with the satin tailored shorts and simple Brian Attwood nude heels, it really works.

What do you think of her look?

See more images after the jump

Pitti Immagine Uomo is always an event to get excited about. In the past it has teamed up with brands ranging from Valentino to Rodarte but this year Carven's Guillaume Henry will serve as the guest menswear designer. 'Carven is one of France’s historic labels,' Lapo Cianchi, Pitti Immagine director of communications and events, said in a statement. 'And now, with Guillaume Henry as artistic director, it is enjoying a new burst of strength…We are very pleased that [Henry and Carven] have accepted our invitation.'

Being asked to collaborate with Pitti is a big gig for any designer but this is especially big for Henry considering that he's only served as the creative director at Carven since 2009 and has only designed two menswear collections for the brand. The decision to partner with him definitely cements him as one to watch. 'We were very impressed when we went to see the Winter collection in the Paris showroom last season, it harmonized perfectly with the general trend we are promoting at Pitti Uomo: a new, sartorial elegance and affordable luxury in menswear,” Cianchi said.