Here's what's got us talking this week...
Balmain x Netflix
Netflix’s new modern western, The Harder They Fall, is reviving the genre. Olivier Rousteing was commissioned by Netflix to design a few pieces for the film, leading to a limited-edition collection in collaboration with the streaming service. The collection features terracotta hues, elaborate fringing and suede fabrication with a finessed Balmain spin.
Ahluwalia Digitises Upcycling
Ahluwalia and Microsoft have partnered on an app that helps designers crowd-source clothing from the local community. The Circulate app uses Microsoft’s tech analysis to sort uploads into various databases, while Ahluwalia’s team uses their expertise to approve submissions. This collaboration embraces technology, building a community rather than a supply chain as they innovate upcycling.
Nike Prepares For The Metaverse
Following Facebook’s Meta rebrand, Nike is preparing to follow suit as it files several trademarks to sell virtual Nike-branded sneakers and apparel. Additionally, recent job listings show that the company has opened up virtual designer positions, suggesting that the brand is adapting to embrace the metaverse with virtual collections to come.
H&M's Vegan Collection
H&M has unveiled an animal-friendly collection approved by PETA, spotlighting alternatives to animal-derived fabrics across womenswear, menswear and kidswear. Fabrics include Flwedwn, made from wildflowers, and Vegea, a plant-based leather alternative. The collection translates from late-night parties to early-morning hikes varying from partywear to loungewear for the modern city-dweller.
Balenciaga x Crocs
Berlin-based mixed media artists are showcasing Balenciaga’s latest Crocs collaboration in an evocative campaign. Artists Anna Uddenberg and Kristina Nagel highlight the Crocs Madame 80mm Mule and Boot in their works, taking inspiration from the shoe’s sculptural design with models dressed in upcycled Balenciaga. The sculptures designed for the campaign will sit in Balenciaga’s London and New York flagships as the brand incorporates beloved art pieces into its store.
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