H&M’s Versace Collaboration - First Look
Let's hear it for changes of heart!
Three years after saying that a Versace collaboration with H&M "would confuse the brand," Donatella Versace has announced that (psych!) she'll be designing for the Swedish retailer after all.
The legendary blonde will be following in Lanvin's footsteps by designing both a Fall 2011 line (launching November 17) as well as an online-only pre-Spring 2012 collection arriving January 19. (Side note: How's that U.S. e-commerce coming along, H&M?)
Promising a milieu of "leather, print, color, and exuberance," the lines will include menswear, womenswear, and items for the home.
"I am thrilled to be collaborating with H&M and to have the opportunity of reaching their wide audience," Versace says in a press statement. "The collection will be quintessential Versace, perfect for H&M and Versace fans everywhere."
Talk about a change of tune. In 2008 the Italian designer dismissed the idea of a fast-fashion collaboration.
"I respect everyone who does it," she said during a New York Times' TimesTalk session. "But the reason I didn't do it is because I work very hard to put the Versace line in the luxury section. I think to put the Versace line in H&M would confuse the brand."
Photo courtesy of H&M.
Shifting gears: An embellished '60s-style minidress from the upcoming Versace x H&M collection
Thankfully, Donatella's seen the light. And from the sounds of it, Lady Gaga won't be the only one rifling through the label's archives.
"Versace is one of the most important brands of recent times, and their collection for H&M will be glamorous and flamboyant—everything Versace stands for," says Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor at H&M. "Donatella Versace is sharing with us iconic designs from the archives. This is such a celebratory collaboration and it is perfect for the party season."
Oh, we're partying all right.
Meanwhile, read Donatella Versace's recent interview with Riccardo Tisci.
