For a decade now the aspiring Swedish fashion empire H&M has been collaborating with the haute couture designers of the world to bring affordable couture to the masses.
With designers like Viktor & Rolf, Roberto Cavalli and Lanvin under its belt, the fashion house is celebrating its 10th year of collaborations with famous Isabel Marant.
Isabel Marant, the founder and head designer, is a Parisian born and bred fashion genious. Her creations are simple enough to be enjoyed by millions, but also unique enough that the trained eye can spot her pieces from miles away. Parisian women possess a talent very few other nationalities possess – the ability to look impeccable and elegant, while still looking like they randomly picked up something from the their desk chair. This is something that Marant captures perfectly in her designs. Supermodel Anne Franke mentions this while shooting the fall collection for H&M in Paris, “I really like the way Parisian women dress, because it’s very stylish, but also very casual. It doesn’t look like they paid too much time to get dressed, so that’s what I like.”
When starting this project, Marant went to her closet and picked out the few pieces that she could not live without; ”my treasures” as she mentions in her interview with H&M online. These are the creations that will pride the hangers of H&M in less than a month. She introduced the wedged heel to the world, and doubtfully will we ever be without it. Yet, to the woman herself, the discovery was not all that new. When she was eleven she eagerly wanted to add some height, so she cut out a piece of cork and added it to her Adidas – et voila!
“I am flattered by this collaboration. H&M works with the best designers, and this invitation is an exciting honor. I aim at creating something real – something women want to wear in their everyday lives – with a certain carefree style. I think this is very Parisian: You dress up, but don’t pay too much attention to it, and you still look sexy. The collection is infused with this kind of easiness and attitude. Everything can be combined following one’s own instincts, and my take on fashion is all about personality,” says Isabel Marant.
This is the first time Marant is making a mens collection, and Lord are we excited to see the men of our cities add a touch of European style to their look! Marant feels there are not enough hours in a day for her to commit to changing the wardrobes of men as well, so seize this moment people!
The collection launches November 14th in 250 stores worldwide. The H&M on Newbury will be carrying the collection, and the line will probably start taking place early in the night, so come early ladies and gents!