UPDATE: The world is waiting on tenter-hooks for the launch of Alexander Wang's H&M collection, which doesn't land until 6th November BUT! The Swedish retailer has taken to social media to reveal a peek of the forthcoming collab.
The tiny tasters see a punchbag and boxing glove key ring embossed with Wang's initials as well as a branded bag strap. So what does this MEAN? Well, it suggests that the New York label's signature sporty vibe will be in tact and that super-cool monochrome aesthetic we've seen at the designer's recent catwalk shows will filter into the affordable collection.
H&M shared the image on Twitter, writing, 'Gear up! A first look at the #ALEXANDERWANGxHM collaboration w/ @AlexanderWangNY.' Meanwhile, Wang posted the image to Instagram and captioned it, 'Round 1: first look from the collaboration with @HM #ALEXANDERWANGxHM.'
Bring it on!
13 April 2014: Alexander Wang Teams Up With H&M
Jourdan Dunn walks for Alexander Wang [Getty]
The collaboration on the top of our H&M dream bucket list is happening people. One of our shopping dreams has come true as Alexander Wang has teamed up with H&M. Last night the designer posted his first ever Instagram at midnight, which was a simple video announcing the collaboration.
The 15-second video features bright set lights and a countdown clock which announces “WANG X H&M” with the numbers 11.06. You guessed it, this means the line will hit stores on November 6 2014. The partnership was announced during an event at Coachella, and it's big news as this is the first time an American designer has teamed up with H&M.
The creative director of Balenciaga said: 'I am honoured to be a part of H&M's designer collaborations. The work with their team is an exciting, fun process. They are very open to pushing boundaries and to set a platform for creativity. This will be a great way for a wider audience to experience elements of the Alexander Wang brand and lifestyle.'
Mr Wang built his business on his connection with the street, designing monochrome, but edgy, urban uniforms for downtown kids. He knows how to make a piece reach dizzying cult status (see this season's Parental Advisory sweatshirt), so could possibly create the biggest queues in H&M history. So what would we like to see from his H&M collection? Here are the pieces from his brand DNA which would delight his diehard devotees and new high street shoppers....
1. 50 Shades of Grey
Wang is known for his monochrome colour palette - expect plenty of grey, from slate to concrete.
2. The ultimate cult items
Alexander Wang knows how to work a waiting list. From the rocco bag to the Parental Adivsory sweatshirt, he knows how to get us queuing.
3. Shoes made for gawping
If you're going to buy Wang, it's worth investing in the shoes. The shoes are just like the clothes, as it's all about cut-outs and monochrome. We hope to see cut-out ankle boots, chunky platforms and quirky two-strap sandals.
4. Not just a shirt, but an Alexander Wang shirt
Wang's colletions often feature a twist on a classic shirt, with cropped versions with oversized sleeves.
5. Ab-flashing - cut-outs will be certainly be on the menu
Wang is down with flesh-flashing. The H&M collection wouldn't be Alexander Wang without a cut-out or two - particularly rib-grazing crop tops.
6. Oh and label-flashing
For his Spring Summer 2014 collection Wang name dropped, with waist bands and gloves emblazoned with 'Alexander Wang.'
7. A starry campaign
Mr Wang always has the coolest FROW at New York Fashion Week with the likes of Rihanna and Kanye on the front row. His model line-up is also the best in town as Jourdan Dunn, Georgia May Jagger and Liberty Ross have walked for him.
8. A mini range for the Aila Wangs of the world
His niece Aila Wang is his number one cheerleader, often wearing custom Alexander Wang before it has hit the catwalk.
***See Alexander Wang's recent collections in the gallery below...