H&M’s much-anticipated designer collaborations are always the talk of the fashion crowd. Think Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Sonia Rykiel, Erdem, Versace, Alexander Wang and Giambattista Valli – just to name a few, who have all collaborated with the high-street label.
Now, following suit is Lebanese designer, Sandra Mansour, the first Arab designer to collaborate with H&M!
“The first things you notice about Sandra Mansour’s designs are their dreamy qualities and sheer beauty, but then you get further drawn into the craftsmanship, the storytelling and the modern youthfulness.”
Founded in 2010, the eponymous Beirut-based brand balances dreamy aesthetics with a modern touch.“The first things you notice about Sandra Mansour’s designs are their dreamy qualities and sheer beauty, but then you get further drawn into the craftsmanship, the storytelling and the modern youthfulness.” concurs Maria Östblom, Head of Design Womenswear at H&M.
Fascinated with the way a sunflower follows the sun from day into night, Mansour dubbed the Sandra Mansour x H&M line Fleur du Soleil – staying true to her tradition of naming each of her collections. Sheer, delicate fabrics are adorned with dots, floral and sunflower motifs, showcasing the beauty of Mansour’s craftsmanship.
Talking about the line, Mansour says, “the inspiration for the H&M collaboration was nature and natural elements. Especially the sunflower, which represents the cycle of life, and its dependency on sun and light.”
The designer also drew inspiration from female artists such as Toyen, Dorothea Tanning, Lena Leclercq and Bibi Zogbé to create a feminine power play of dresses, blouses and skirts, a tailored blazer, and a printed T-shirt and hoodie.
“I want to talk to women around the world by sending a message of hope, something we really need right now”
Arriving in an earthy colour palette of muted greys, ivory and black, the fit-and-flare shapes and ruffled hems are paired with volume, providing a sweet escape from lockdown reality. “Poetry and painters inspired the selection of fabric – the dark laces, jacquards, and embroidered organza. With the Fleur du Soleil collection, I want to talk to women around the world by sending a message of hope, something we really need right now,” adds Mansour.
Just what we need to brighten the mood this summer, the collection will also include statement jewelry. Think glitzy mega oval-shaped earrings, chunky, gold headbands and colossal rings.
Mansour also took to Instagram to show a sneak-peek of the campaign, captioning, “As a woman, I am proud. As a Lebanese, I am proud. As a designer, I am also very proud. I’m proud to present to you the Fleur Du Soleil collection, and my wonderful journey collaborating with H&M. ”
As for us at Grazia HQ, we cannot wait to wear every single piece (even if it’s to be only while working from home)!
- The Sandra Mansour x H&M collection will be available in selected stores from 6 August 2020
Photos: Supplied
