Jessica Simpson to serve as mentor on NBC's new show "Fashion Star"

(CBS News) NBC's new competition reality fashion show, "Fashion Star," hosted by former supermodel Elle Macpherson, premieres tonight with Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and designer John Varvatos on the judges' panel.

In contrast to other fashion reality shows, each week "Fashion Star's" winning designers will have a chance for major retailers - Macy's, H&M or Saks Fifth Avenue - to sell their pieces the next day.

The competition begins with 14 contestants in addition to mentor judges and buyer judges. Simpson, Richie and Varvatos serve as the "celebrity mentors" nurturing the contestants through the competition.

But, the buyers have the final vote because of their knowledge of what they think will sell in their stores.The retailer with the highest offer manufactures the outfit and has it available in its stores on the morning after the show airs.

The show premieres tonight at 9:30 p.m. ET on NBC.