When you think of the Swinging Sixties, a handful of fashion designers come to mind: Mary Quant, Yves Saint Laurent, André Courrèges to name a few. However, H&M’s latest collaboration pays homage to another iconic sixties name: Richard Allen.
If the name is new to you, allow us to explain. Richard Allen made a name for himself as a scarf designer, who set up shop with his eponymous label in 1962. His distinctive pattern work using a vibrant colour palette earned him legions of fans across the globe, including the Royal family and bohemian hippies.
H&M’s head of womenswear design, Maria Östblom, explained how Allen’s work has been reworked into a collection of “wearable art”.
“By taking these classic vintage prints from scarves and reimagining them in a new context, the pieces from the Richard Allan x H&M collection feel both strong and feminine, yet with a sophisticated touch,” she said in a statement.
His signature prints and colours are at the forefront of this collection with H&M and go way past just scarves. Instead you’ll find silk mini swing dresses, calf-skimming pleated skirts, statement midi’s and boldly-printed polo tops to pair them with.
The 52-piece collection is available online from 22 August and in selected stores worldwide with prices starting for just £9.99, and we have a preview for you on what we’re loving and think you’ll love too. We’ll see you in the queue.
Dogtooth Checked Dress, £29.99
Turn heads in this V-necked long sleeve midi. The dogtooth pattern is a screams sixties, but also makes it a dream to accessorise. Think suede boots, gold earring and a cross body bag.
Chain Print Pleated Skirt, £39.99
Satin slip skirts are out, pleats are in this autumn. This chain-print is bold but doesn’t have to be overwhelming if paired with black over the knee boots and a black polo. Just add a nude lippy for the chicest outfit in your wardrobe.
Show off your holiday tan with this high-necked mini. Or, throw on a pair of black opaque tights and a headband for a nod to the Swinging Sixties.
Printed Blouse, £14.99
This paisley blouse is the easiest way to adopt Richard Allen’s iconic prints into your wardrobe. Tuck into a pair of straight leg jeans and team with a pair of new boots.
Black And White Print Dress, £39.99
This spectacular piece is by far our favourite from the collection. A versatile dress that will see you through the cold weather, party season and beyond, it’s a timeless classic.
Polo Neck, £9.99
Keep your neck war from blustery Autumn weather, while still looking stylish and on trend with this roll neck. We’ll be wearing it with our new midi skirts.
Square Scarf, £9.99
Obviously we can’t not include a scarf from the coolest scarf designer of the sixties era. This one, painted with sunset hues of red and orange will be firmly attached to our handbags all season long.
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