Alexander Wang’s long-awaited collaboration with H&M finally launched Thursday November 7th. The 61-piece collection retails between $10 and $350, and is definitely worth a look. Wang gave us a taste of his sporty and uniquely innovative collection earlier this year with daring ads, featuring models Joan Smalls, Natasha Poly, Raquel Zimmermann and Isabeli Fontana, performing impressive stunts clad in H&M gear. Now available in stores and online, here’s everything you need to know about the highly anticipated new collection:
1. It is sports-inspired
As hinted by Wang’s mysterious Instagram post from July of a mini boxing glove keychain, the H&M collection is an homage to athletic wear. But have no fear, these looks are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Bodycon dresses with crisscrossed front panels, as well as coats reminiscent of ski gear, bring us a new take on the interplay between sports and fashion. The collection’s latest campaign ads even feature models playing various sports, including football and hockey.
2. Crop tops and leggings galore
Rihanna gave us a preview of Wang’s new line while sporting his gear in New York, two months before the collection was officially released. The singer stepped out in grey leggings with a matching long sleeve crop top, both emblazoned with the letters A and W. Sleek lines and brand references are major components of the pieces that can be found in the collection.
3. There is no color
Following this simple, chic aesthetic, Wang’s collection is devoid of color. The designer wholeheartedly sticks to grays, whites and blacks for every ensemble.
4. Unconventional accessories
Wang’s big release includes models donning goggles (that’s right, not stylish shades) this fall. The goggles also seem to be worn on the forehead rather than the eyes. These duds may be more for looks than for practicality. Other accessories include beanies, duffle bags and knee-high tube socks.
5. Quality materials
Each item is composed of materials that were custom-blended in Italy. The durability of these clothes qualifies them as actual sportswear, if you choose to wear them for this purpose. The line even features a T-shirt whose logo only appears when you sweat. The clothes are also original, brand-new designs.
While the collection may be abound with scuba dresses, crop tops, mesh leggings and sports bras, there are undoubtedly some un-sporty pieces featured in Wang’s new line. Killer pointed heels can be found online or in stores. Wang is even rumored to be bringing back his ever-popular “Freja” boots, first featured in his spring/summer 2010 collection. Check out these edgy looks and step into the gym (or simply the Boston city sidewalks) in style this semester.