Marni for H&M

I was really excited when I heard that Marni, one of my favourite fashion labels, signed on as the latest luxury brand to collaborate with High Street retailer H&M. The whole Designer/High Street Collaboration trend started in 2004, with Karl Lagerfeld designing a limited range for the Swedish retailer, followed by Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Victor & Rolf, Jimmy Choo and, of course, last month Versace. The Italian fashion label Marni, which was founded in 1994 and is headed by chief designer and founder Consuelo Castiglioni, is known for its idiosyncratic prints and vintage-inspired shapes and fabrics. Today, the company produces a full array of ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, jewelry, and eyewear and due to its easy style and classic, but quirky elegance is a favourite amongst many fashion lovers. The Marni for H&M line will cater to men and women and include accessories, and, not surprisingly, more bold prints than you can imagine. Expect everything from colour blocking to African-inspired looks (which I am very curious to see), plus pleated skirts, cropped trousers, jewellery, shoes, bags, and scarves. “I wanted to create a true Marni wardrobe by revisiting all our favourite pieces in signature fabrics and prints. As always, I love juxtaposing prints and colours, mixing modern tribal with Bauhaus graphic adding sporty utilitarian elements,” said Consuelo Castiglioni. I have to admit, I have never been a fan of designer collaborations; I prefer buying designer items and mixing them up with bits and bobs from the High Street. But this Marni/H&M collaboration looks so interesting that I will definitely get my hands on some items! The Marni for H&M collection will be available in stores from 8th March 2012.