What do Donatella Versace, Stella McCartney, Karl Lagerfield, and Lanvin all have in common? The answer; they’ve all collaborated with high street fashion giant H&M. Now Alexander Wang, the first American to collaborate with the store, is readying his collection for its worldwide release in November.
In contrast to other designers who took archived pieces and rejuvenated them for a high street audience, Wang has started from scratch and created a new and exciting collection for both his loyal followers and H&M customers. It encapsulates the Alexander Wang essence, focusing on performance and sport whilst costing considerably less than his usual pieces. Finally one of our favourite designers is accessible to all.
The collection is heavily sport themed; think sweatshirts, vests, shorts, leggings, trainers and even boxing gloves. The latest campaign images feature the likes of model Joan Smalls, kick boxer Rivaldino dos Santos, and even West Ham footballer Andy Carroll. If you want to walk straight from the pitch to the nightclub then look no further; tops are priced at £39.99 on average, with vests at £24.99. Although you can pay up to £69.99 for a pair of shorts, the garments are of a noticeably high quality.
In keeping with the Wang essence, everything is kept classic in black, white, or shades of grey. Although on trend, it would’ve been good to see Wang introduce some colour into this brand new collection, especially seeing as though he’s catering for a brand new audience who may not be familiar with his earlier work. Alexander Wang’s statement style is very on trend this current season. However, it does feel like Wang has gone slightly overboard with his namesake; there’s ‘Wang’ on jacket cuffs, beanies, leggings, and waistbands.
One more thing, Goggles. Yes, you read that right, goggles are going to be a thing, though apparently not worn over the eyes but placed on the forehead. Wang certainly knows how to make a statement.
So, come November 6th prepare yourselves for the crowds and queues as Wang’s collection hits stores in over 250 H&M stores worldwide. Save the date, this is shaping up to be one of the hottest high street collaborations ever, as well as one of the fashion highlights of the year.
Grant Wilkinson