The concept of designer collaborations for chain stores is a tired one. Tired, but not yet dead; in fact it just means that said chain stores have to work extra hard to lock in someone great, someone who’ll still cause ripples in the fashion pond. Enter Alber Elbaz / Lanvin and a capsule for H&M, the first collaboration in a while to have something of an impact.
Having previously seen some teaser images and a video campaign, it was a full parade yesterday that brought the whole collection to light. Elbaz’ expected pieces were there: the asymmetrical ruffled dresses, the intricate jewellery, the statement heels. The overall aesthetic was nothing akin to the sophistication of a Lanvin show, however – with some clashing colours and prints looking downright garish – but then we suppose the point is to create something younger, cheaper, more accessible. And to that end, there are certainly some great pieces worth picking up and styling with your own touch.
The collection hits H&M stores next week. More photos of the catwalk launch, along with some behind the scenes photos, can be found by clicking on the thumbnails below.
