Even before we touched 2022, certain sartorial collaborations piqued our interest. The mere thought of Balenciaga’s Demna (formerly Gvasalia) and Yeezy’s Ye (formerly Kanye) for GAP has us excited; this is a collision between two different kinds of fashion worlds. If that isn’t intriguing enough, think of the world’s most famous maximalist – Iris Apel, partnering with normcore streetwear giant H&M for a capsule line. Alliances are no longer formed between brands or individuals with similar aesthetics, it’s all about surprising the audience with an odd (yet unique) combination. Scroll below for the top 5 associations that we are most looking forward to.
1. Adidas x Prada
Both leaders in their own genre – Adidas X Prada is all about bringing the best of both worlds. The collaboration features ensembles and accessories made from sustainable materials like Prada’s Re-Nylon textiles – made out of recycled plastic and textile fibre waste. The 21-piece collection leans more towards minimalism, with meticulously crafted sharp silhouettes, bags and shoes bearing intertwined signature logos in a creative way.
2. Iris Apfel X H&M
Iris Apfel, the original fashion icon recently turned 100 – as a part of the celebration she teamed up with H&M for an exclusive line that will drop this spring. The collection will be a series of opulent, over the top, kitsch and campy accessories – everything that represents Iris’ maximalist taste.
3. Balmain X Barbie
The French luxury house has come together with the iconic doll company for a ready-to-wear collection in the real and digital world. For the actual stores, Olivier Rousteing has designed a series of all-pink-everything ensembles and accessories for the dolls and the humans who like to dress up as their favourite dolls. In the metaverse, Barbie manufacturer Mattel launched an NFT auction, offering up three unique Barbies dressed in the virtual version of the physical line.
4. Cardi B X Reebok
Inspired by the nightlife of her favourite city New York, Cardi B is back with her second drop for Reebok. Mixing athleisure with street style in a way that only she can, the rapper has designed metallic shoes, pilates-to-party ready coordinated sets and workout wear in a very size-inclusive range.
5. Louis Vuitton X Nike
Louis Vuitton and Nike will soon launch the much-awaited Air Force 1 sneakers, with an auction to benefit late designer Virgil Abloh’s scholarship fund for Black fashion students. 200 limited-edition sneakers will be available for sale through sothebys.com and the benefits from the same will be going towards the Virgil Abloh Post Modern Scholarship Fund.
Excited about all the new collaborations? Here are some of the major partnerships you missed from 2021.