Sandra‘s Closet

Here comes H&M’s latest designer collaboration with rokh, an emerging cult label known for its deconstructed style.

Korean-born, Texas-raised, UK-educated ’s style is instantly intriguing. It is smart, deliberate, elegant, timeless and iconoclastic — all at once. There’s an experimental quality to his garments: He dissects, examines, reimagines and reconstructs. The resulting pieces are conceptual, even avant-garde — yet eminently refined, fit for purpose and a pleasure to wear.

Rokh, Rok Hwang & H&M, Ann-Sofie Johansson

After designing for some of the most beloved names in womenswear, Hwang founded his eponymous label, rokh, in 2016 and started showing at Paris Fashion Week just three years later. He’s a rising star in the fashion world, with a devoted following.

Together with H&M, Hwang has created a collection that reconsiders and deftly subverts key components of the classic professional wardrobe. There are pieces for men and women, with double-layer trench coats, detachable-hem dresses, corset tops, reworked trousers and denim, a subdued floral print top and pleated skirt set with matching gloves and tights, underwear and logo t-shirts, graphic two-tone metallic jewellery and playful office-inspired accessories, like a briefcase bag and an accordion file clutch.

rokh H&M explores the complexities — and possibilities — of tailoring, with Hwang building extra layers into his clothes, merging and doubling pieces, lifting elements from one style to add to another, as with the trench dress. He presents a quiet kind of radicalism, breaking down established tropes and offering new alternatives.

The collection is highly modifiable. Pieces can be layered, altered and even worn backwards, and many feature detachable, adjustable elements, like hook-and-eye hems and button-up seams. These are interactive details, not simply decorative; they are an invitation to the wearer to experiment, to make the styles their own, imbuing a uniqueness in every piece.

«I always focus on making my collections as timeless as possible, and one way of doing that is with customizable details», explains Hwang. «I’ve seen people wearing panels from our signature multi-button trench coat upside down and inside out, in brilliantly unique ways I never imagined when I first came up with the design. To see my clothes being interpreted by people in their own way is one of my greatest pleasures, and I can’t wait to see how customers engage with this fun and dynamic collection for H&M.»

rokh H&M launches in selected stores and on hm.com April 18 2024. Get your wishlists at the ready to know ahead of what you will be adding to your cart on the launch date.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © rokh H&M
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Since the groundbreaking partnership between Karl Lagerfeld and fashion giant H&M in 2004 for a designer collaboration, it became clear to couturiers that bringing high fashion to the everyday woman was well within arms reach. H&M unveils yet another blockbuster collaboration. This time, it’s Rabanne’s time to shine. The radiant new designer collaboration flirts with fantasy, dances through decades and dreams about the future. Bringing together the carefree exuberance of the 1970s, the optimistic futurism of Rabanne and a touch of retro-inflected romance, the collection channels a modern vision of approachable opulence, joy and confidence.

Rabanne has pushed provocative, unexpected style onto the fashion scene since it was founded by Mr. Paco Rabanne in 1966. Julien Dossena, the house’s creative director, continues to uphold the brand’s reputation for challenging the status quo. With artisanal precision and a dynamic approach, Dossena has reimagined Rabanne for a new generation while continuing to take inspiration from its iconoclastic past. With the Rabanne x H&M collaboration he is opening up the brand, making it more accessible without compromising quality or creativity.

Rabanne fans will get plenty of the house’s signature metallic opulence, but the collection looks in new directions as well. There’s a floor-length tiered chiffon gown bedazzled with crystals, a crisp poplin button-up with broderie anglaise detailing and oversized pleated sleeves, a rich floral jacquard cutout dress, structured wool outerwear, gracefully draped jersey knit separates and lots of leopard print — truly something for everyone to wear to the party.

The collection also features an exclusive H&M HOME selection, available in selected markets, that delivers a sleek yet playful version of laid-back luxury. This is the first time Rabanne has designed for the home, and it represents the most extensive interiors offering ever introduced in an H&M designer collaboration. It includes accent furniture, a gleaming disc curtain, angled vases, playing cards and dice, a water bottle and more — all given Rabanne’s signature sheen.

Rabanne H&M sparkles to its full potential when worn: glittering paillettes catch the light with every step, mirrored discs clink gently against one another, delicate chain mail glides with the body like metallic silk. Each garment is an experience, an exploration of materials, textures and motion — made to dance, laugh and live in.

Rabanne x H&M launches globally in selected stores and on hm.com on 9 November 9, 2023. Rabanne x H&M HOME will be available at selected H&M HOME stores and on hm.com in selected markets from November 9, 2023.

Putting an ‘x’ between two names has simply become a part of the ever-changing news cycle within the fashion industry. I find the endless rollouts of designer collaborations a little tiring. What about you?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M
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Introducing an iconic new designer collaboration … Mugler is teaming up with H&M to celebrate an ode to curves and lines of the body, with each piece possessing the incomparable Mugler appeal. Consisting of sheer details, reworked denim and sharp tailoring, and the usual suspects of sensual bodysuits and cut-outs, the collaboration will not skimp on the brand’s extravagance and its inclusive and boundary-pushing aesthetic. Having broken ground just before the house’s founder, Manfred Thierry Mugler, passed away in January 2022, the project was given an especially significant purpose in realising and honouring his vision.

Casey Cadwallader, who has lead the brand as creative director since 2018, has designed a dramatic and empowering collection that celebrates freedom, self-expression and diversity, featuring a mix of stunning new pieces and signature Mugler looks, including several archive remakes.

Amaarae, Shygirl, Eartheater and Arca worked with producer Ashland Mines to create an exclusive campaign anthem — a reimagined version of Stardust’s 1998 hit ‘Music Sounds Better with You’. The star-studded music video, featuring a brilliant cast of icons, artists and friends of the brand, was directed by Torso and styled by Haley Wollens.

Ann-Sofie Johansson and Casey Cadwallader

«We are proud to celebrate the legacy of Manfred Thierry Mugler with this collection,» says Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor at H&M. «We were all honoured to get to know Manfred, and it feels very special that he was involved at the initial stages together with Casey and the house of Mugler. Casey has done such an incredible job at paying homage to history, and to the archive, while making the collection totally contemporary. Under him, Mugler has become one of the most innovative and exciting houses on today’s fashion landscape.»

Mugler H&M will give fashion lovers a chance to own a piece of the brand’s legendary history and become a part of its dynamic present.

«I was determined that this collection be true Mugler,» Casey Cadwallader emphasized. «The details and quality of every piece had to be exactly as we do them, and I wanted to showcase the energy of Mugler, which has always been about clothes that allow for personal liberation. You can be so many different versions of yourself in Mugler.»

Save the date: Mugler H&M launches globally at selected stores and hm.com on May 11, 2023 (local release dates may vary).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Iris Apfel doesn’t want you to dress like she does. At 100, she’s still embracing uniqueness, wearing what makes her happy and encouraging everyone else to do the same.

«I think part of the problem with the way people dress nowadays is that it’s too generic,» says Iris. «Everyone looks the same, they wear the same things. They wear what’s in fashion, what’s trendy, what they’re being told to wear. That’s terribly dull. I want to see personality.»

And what’s the best way to reveal your personal style, à la Iris? Be curious, have fun, explore yourself. Wear clothes because you love them, pick out accessories because they make you smile, slip on the shoes that give you joy. Your style is an ever-evolving expression of your truest self, and each piece you own holds the magic of your experiences, adventures and memories.

«It’s not about what or who you wear but how you feel when wearing something,» confirms Iris. «Style is about self-expression and, above all, attitude.»

The Iris Apfel x H&M collection enthusiastically embraces this joyful and individual approach to style. There’s delightful print clashing, fabulously baroque aesthetics and colour, colour and more colour. The pieces are playful, eclectic and vibrant, and everything is a little bit over the top — in the best possible way.

Channel Iris in a vivid aquamarine suit with delicate embroidery and pearl peas; a glossy acid green and purple jacquard coat with an oversized feather pattern; a flouncy tiered skirt and blouse set in a stunning iris flower print; or an eye-catchingly voluminous violet jacket made from theatrical tulle swirls. There are also relaxed lounge sets, chic kaftans, fringed trousers, ruffled shirts, and even a swimsuit.

The accessories are equally glamorous and extravagant, just the way Iris likes them. Load up on chunky orange, black and green chains; oversized detachable pendants that become bold brooches; satiny slippers adorned with bejewelled scarab beetles and sparkling frogs; vivid statement cuffs; and stylishly bulky rings depicting Iris’s iconic face.

Dip into the collection to create a dynamic, positive and empowering look that proudly showcases your true style. Congratulations, you’ve found your inner Iris.

The Iris Apfel x H&M collection is available on hm.com and in selected stores worldwide from 31 March 2022. Local vairations may occur.

I love Iris! She is such an inspiration…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M

«Style is about self-expression and, above all, attitude.»

She is my muse, my idol – Iris Apfel is a true inspirational fashion icon and she just turned 100. Reason enough for H&M to collaborate with the birthday girl, who belongs to the world’s 50 best-dressed women. What better way to make a memorable celebration than creating a collection filled with eclectic garments and loud accessories?!

The upcoming collection, which will hit the shelves in the beginning of 2022, got a head start this week as the Swedish fashion giant celebrated and hosted her 100th birthday during New York Fashion Week 2021, cementing her status as a long-time fashion muse.

Imagine that you enter a room filled with eternal flair and a century’s worth of moments: you hear laughter, and chandeliers glitter; you see magnificent shapes and colors as if lifted from an artist’s palette — the smell of summer flowers and citrus fruits gives you goose bumps. That’s how I believe it feels entering Iris Apfel’s wardrobe.

A little preview of the upcoming Iris Apfel x H&M collection.

Iris was born in 1921 in the concrete jungle of New York. She studied art and fashion at prominent universities in the US, and her career is as inspirational as her style. She is a self-made businesswoman, style icon, fashion designer, and interior decorator. She has always succeeded on her different career paths with her oh-so-famous «why be boring?» attitude. If you happen to visit the Big Apple, you will quickly recognize «the Big Apfel.» Her esthetic of bright clothing, layers and layers of fun accessories, and thick, round, oversized glasses are just Iris dressing for herself and herself only. This has inspired people worldwide to create and celebrate their own style that they feel good in.

«Style is not about spending a lot of money. It’s not about what or who you wear, but how you feel when wearing something. Style is about self-expression and, above all, attitude,» says Iris Apfel.

Iris represents the notion that style and inspiration can come from anywhere and anyone, regardless of the price. «I think that H&M is a fabulous outfit worldwide and absolute pioneers in their field — which I love! I love doing high style at affordable prices, which H&M has mastered!» says Iris.

«With this collaboration, we are celebrating a unique and extraordinary woman and her creative and audacious style,» says Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor at H&M. «She shows that style is ageless and keeps encouraging people to show who they are with fashion — and to have fun at the same time.»

The Iris Apfel x H&M collection will include an assortment of clothing and accessories created with Iris’ bold sense of style, designed for all ages and sizes.

«The collection is playful, opulent and rich with vibrant colors, vivid prints and opulent fabric choices. The look is indulgent with a more-is-more attitude and crowned by over-the-top jewelry, which is very much a signum for Iris,» says an excited Ann-Sofie Johansson.

The collection launches at the beginning of 2022.
I hope that you will enjoy all of my favorite Iris Apfel quotes…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M / Iris Apfel

In January, I wrote about the huge impact the Netflix series Bridgerton has on fashion (for the previous outfit post, click here). All of a sudden, corsets, rushed floral dresses, empire lines are all back in the game. The series’ costume with all of their fanciful and over-the-top looks have given us a sweet and much-needed outfit inspiration.

Here is the new H&M collaboration that celebrates those kind of looks. In a whimsical collection made from more sustainable materials, LA-based Brock Collection brings their signature laid-back charm to thoughtfully crafted romantic silhouettes.

Think country florals, corset tops and dreamy ruffles, effortlessly paired with classic denim for a modern touch. All made from more sustainable materials like organic linen, organic cotton, recycled cotton, recycled polyester and Tencel™ Lyocell.

«Brock Collection has always been about connecting the threads between uptown polish paired with a down-to-earth ease, which we are so happy to bring to a new audience. Each piece in the collection is special and carries a certain romantic charm, but is totally effortless,» says Laura Vassar and Kristopher Brock, Designers and Co-Founders of Brock Collection. The pair met in New York City while attending Parsons School of Design and after founding the brand in 2014, relocated to Los Angeles. Since then their emphasis on craft and cut and love of vintage references has gained a cult following.

«We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Brock Collection, who are well-known for their luxe craftsmanship, impeccable fits and structures, and have quite the celebrity following. But there’s also beauty in the fact that their designs always feel down-to-earth, thoughtful and easy to wear — I believe that’s the key to their success. We want to celebrate romance and make it accessible to the many. By adding more sustainable materials, it creates for a collaboration I hope our customers around the world will fall in love with,» says Maria Östblom, Head of Design at H&M.

Brock Collection x H&M is available now in Europe in selected stores and online. It will launch in the US and Canada on June 24, 2021.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Brock Collection / H&M, Netflix
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored.

We all know that H&M is an absolute pro when its come to collaborations. In recent years, I’ve wanted everything from their Maison Margiela range, their Kenzo range and their Isabel Marant range. Now H&M HOME has revealed a partnership with Diane von Furstenberg, and I am loving it.

The iconic fashion designer, who is famous for her wrap dresses, turns her attention to a homeware range full of gorgeous prints and textiles. Embracing powerful visuals and personal expression, there will be vases, cushion covers, blankets, scented candles and more. Key pieces for me include decorative printed boxes, lacquer-like trays and sets of espresso cups and saucers, but the stars of the show for me are definitely the gorgeous coloured glass pink and orange rounded vases. Also keep an eye out for the famed ‘Diane’ print robe, inspirational quote posters and cute cushions.

Diane von Furstenberg on the collaboration, «I’m thrilled to be collaborating with H&M HOME, especially since I have such a passion for interiors. The home is both a relaxing and empowering place where you can really ‘own’ a look or feel. With this collaboration, I want people to take charge of their home decor. The only rule I have is that your home should reflect who you are. The main point is to create a space that you’re incredibly comfortable in and is a true expression of your personality.»

Speaking more about the collection, von Furstenberg added, «The prints in the H&M HOME collaboration are very iconic. The ‘Diane’ print I created 20 years ago when I started the company, while the lips print comes from the painting Andy Warhol did of me. Personally, I love animal prints – zebra is very DVF – and also vibrant orange and pinks, but monochrome black and white is very chic, too. The whole collection is fabulous, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.»

Are you also excited for this? The Diane von Furstenberg x H&M HOME collection will be in H&M HOME and online from Friday, April 16.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M Home, Diane von Furstenberg

Designer collaborations have had their time. Today, it is more trendy that two brands team up together, such as The North Face x Gucci, Jimmy Choo x Marine Serre and many more. However, H&M, the Swedish retailer, that made designer collaborations fashionable, is sticking to its concept, not as loud as before, but definitely something for the fashion-loving customer around the globe, as for the first time, the Simone Rocha universe is opened up and extended to everyone. Meet the London-based Irish designer and get a glimpse of what this year’s collaboration will bring.

Fashion Designer Simone Rocha

History and heritage. Details and fabrications. Family and community. The many facets of womanhood. For fashion designer Simone Rocha, born in Dublin in 1986, her work and collections are a tribute to what she holds dear. She began her career as part of the talent hub Fashion East, where her take on modern beauty won praise as she reclaimed ‘girlish’ elements — florals, embellishments, collars, pearls — in a nuanced manner. Since debuting at London Fashion Week in 2010, she has become internationally renowned for her intricate and meticulously-researched collections, always with a nod to her own heritage: Ireland and Hong Kong.

In creating the collection for H&M, Rocha spent time reflecting on and revisiting her brand’s archive, combing her past collections and carefully reworking beloved pieces into unexpected new designs that feel right for now.

«To be honest, it was really emotional going through all the pieces — it was a wonderful chance to reflect on seasons I was especially proud of, and to revisit collections that felt like milestones, and little gems of ideas that we maybe didn’t push as far as we wanted to the first-time round. The archive is so important to the way I work as a designer anyway. We are not a brand that abandons ideas each season — we often look back on past propositions or continue to evolve a silhouette, or shape,» says Rocha.

The Simone Rocha x H&M collection includes her signature womenswear alongside menswear and kidswear, marking the first time she has offered a wardrobe for the whole family. All the garments are designed to be in conversation with each other. So, what to expect from this year’s awaited collaboration? Delicate tulle dresses, tartan tailoring, beaded shirting, cable knits, outerwear such as trench coats and signature accessories like sparkling jewellery and pearl-embellished shoes. The entire range comes in Simone Rocha’s identifiable and poetic colour palette that mixes cream, pink, red and black. The majority of the Simone Rocha x HM women’s collection goes up to size EUR L=44/46 and UK L=16/18 and US XL=48/50.

«My approach at every stage of the design process was to remember that for some this would be an introduction to Simone Rocha, a chance to enjoy the brand for the first time, while for others this will be a chance to recall the history of a brand that they have followed for a while. Maybe they will be able to buy a version of a piece that they missed the first time, or a piece they always wanted but didn’t get. Through H&M, they will be able to access a new, timeless, special piece to mix in with their existing items from past runway collections. I really hope there is something for everyone — every woman, every guy, the whole family,» says Rocha.

Family is of utmost importance to Rocha, as well as her community of friends and collaborators. Therefore, the Simone Rocha x H&M story is brought to life by the people who surround and inspire her. To name a few: stylist, collaborator and close friend Robbie Spencer, model and friend Tess McMillan, sisters Adwoa and Kesewa Aboah, activist and artist — and acclaimed actress Daisy Edgar-Jones.

«Any time that I’m on set with Simone, or behind the scenes at a show, you just feel this certain warmth — there’s never any stress, and you can tell that she fills her work space with people who really inspire her in her everyday life, and that’s what brings this certain sense of community, and certain sense of ease. I always just feel so comfortable, because you are surrounded by people who are just really fun to be around. I have worked with her for four seasons now, and every time I’m just so excited to see everyone — to see the designers, the stylist, all the people who help me get dressed, it’s the same faces. It’s a really, really amazing community, truly. And I always look forward to laughing and catching up,» says McMillan.

The Simone Rocha x H&M collection launches 11 March.
I love the campaign… reminds me so much of a Jo Malone ad. To see me wearing Simone Rocha, have a look here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M

Your knitwear is about to get a revamp for a great budget with H&M‘s newest collaboration with Pringle of Scotland. The collection makes clever use of recycled polyester and organic cotton along with cosy alpaca wool and smooth viscose fibres — and is showcased by stylist and fashion editor Julia Sarr-Jamois.

When the design team at H&M was first presented with the idea of a knitwear collaboration, their minds fell immediately on Pringle of Scotland. With the brand’s signature argyle patterns and sporty knitwear pairings on the golf course, Pringle – founded in 1815 – is renowned as one of the oldest luxury knitwear brands in the world.

«We fell completely in love with the brand’s history, from their intimate and modest origins from Hawick, Scotland, to their technical innovation in knitwear», says Holli Parkinson, knitwear designer at H&M.

When the H&M team met with Pringle in their design office in London’s Vincent Square, presenting their initial trend idea to them, they went through the archives and one pattern stood out from the rest: the iconic argyle that has been part of the Pringle of Scotland’s DNA since the 1920s.

«Together with our in-house print team, we reworked different scales and colourways of the argyle. Inspired by streetwear styling and sport influences, we developed new designs around the classic pattern, and introduced an acid yellow colour as a highlight accent which brought the whole collection together», says Holli Parkinson.

The key pieces of the collection include a sweater which boasts a patchwork of tone and texture, splicing a retro-inspired diamond pattern with heavy ribbed wool, and a cropped, funnel-necked jumper with balloon sleeves. Traditional yarns are infused with attitudinal appeal in a series of generously oversized, raw-edged sweaters. Sweater dresses with ring-pull zip closures, cosy hoodies, second-skin leggings and slouchy hats and scarves are all printed with athletic logos for an athleisure take.

The in-house design team at H&M had constant contact with Pringle of Scotland throughout the process, and were able to share thoughts and ideas from sketches to samples.

«Pringle of Scotland has a long history of collaboration, and this latest partnership with H&M has been hugely inspiring. We are always looking for new ways to express the DNA of our heritage knitwear and we hope this latest playful, sporty take on our famous argyle and Fair Isle knitwear will delight our existing customers, as well as reach a worldwide audience via H&M», says Katy Wallace, Brand Director at Pringle of Scotland.

TO SHOP THE PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND x H&M COLLECTION ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of H&M

Breaking news at today’s amFAR gala at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc where H&M is announcing their newest designer collaborator Giambattista Valli. Ladies, you have to be ready this weekend. The flash collection, consisting of limited edition party dresses for his Valli girls, and, in a first, tailoring for Valli boys, will already hit the shelves in select H&M stores around the world and on the H&M website on Saturday, May 25. Speaking of firsts, never before has the Swedish clothing brand released a designer collaboration so close to the announcement; typically there’s been six months between the news breaking and the clothes arriving in stores, and never before have they worked with someone doing couture.

Kendall Jenner and Chiara Ferragni tonight at the amFAR

Personally speaking, I find these designer collaborations quite over and fully understand that H&M was looking for new ways to promote this so-called Project Love. Therefore tonight at the amFAR gala, Kendall Jenner, Chiara Ferragni, Bianca Brandolini, Chris Lee [Li Yuchun], H.E.R., and Ross Lynch are wearing the new pieces, transforming the red carpet into a fashion runway. With Kendall’s 111 million Instagram fans and Chiara’s 16.5 million watching, the launch is off to a great start.

H.E.R. in Giambattista Valli x H&M

The larger collection will follow on November 7, 2019. Stay tuned! In the meantime enjoy the looks below. You will see how beautiful the dresses are, quite pricey for H&M though, but better think twice wearing it to the next gala as you might spot many ladies in the same dress.

LoL, Sandra

Look 1 – CHF 349.00

Look 2 – CHF 649.00

Look 3 – Top CHF 179.00 and Skirt CHF 129.00

Look 4 – CHF 649.00

Look 5 – CHF 249.00

Look 6 – CHF 499.00

Look 7 – Blazer CHF 249.00 and Pants CHF 119.00

Look 8 – Blazer CHF 249.00 and Shorts CHF 79.95

Look 9 – Top CHF 49.95 and Shorts CHF 79.95

Photos: Courtesy of H&M