Lou Dalton x River Island
London Collections: Men favourite Lou Dalton is bringing her design skills to the high street, launching a 13-piece collection as part of River Island’s Design Forum initiative. The internet has been a-buzzing with snippets and mood boards of the upcoming range, which draws inspiration from a slightly unusual place – Perry Ogden’s Pony Kids, a book about the relationship between working class children and laboured horses. Odd as it may sound, you can expect Dalton’s signature bold and brash shades, luxurious sportswear silhouettes and some striking in-your-face graphics. All with price tags suited to your post-Christmas bank balance. Available at River Island from January 2016.
Walter Van Beirendonck x Ikea
Forget Lack side tables, Billy bookcases and Swedish meatballs – Belgian fashion designer Walter Van Beirendonck has stepped in to jazz up your next Ikea shopping trip. One of the famous Antwerp Six collective, Van Bierendonck has designed five prints for the furniture retailer, which will be rolled out across a range of home accessories. Initial concepts of his work have now been revealed, with the ‘story’ of the prints revolving around five characters that live in the clouds, which then see their homes destroyed by tears from the sun and moon. They’re probably upset about not being able to follow the flat pack instructions. Available at Ikea from June 2016.
Uniqlo x Liberty London
There’s barely a brand Liberty hasn’t teamed up with, so it’s no surprise that one of the world’s biggest fashion retailers is next in line to kick off its collabs for 2016. Utilising the department store’s iconic floral prints, Japanese retailer Uniqlo has adapted a selection of the patterns across pieces in its LifeWear line, including menswear, womenswear and childrenswear. While no imagery of the collection has been revealed yet, the brand is hailing it as a fusion of “British heritage with Japanese innovation”. In other words, down jackets in paisley. Available at Uniqlo from spring 2016.
Kanye West x adidas
We saw West and adidas’ line of tonal brown garments parade down a stripped-back runway mere months ago – with a little modelling help from the Kardashian/Jenner clan, of course – and although this unique brand of scruffy sportswear isn’t for everyone, the range has been a surprising success. However, for season two, the Yeezy clothing line isn’t actually being produced by adidas, but the sportswear brand is still handling most of the footwear. So, if you want to get your hands on the new Yeezy Boost, keep your eyes peeled in early 2016. Footwear available at adidas from spring 2016.
Whistles x Buddy
Since its launch in 2014, Whistles’ menswear line has proved something of a fashion hit. The label is now expanding its offering with a collaborative footwear and accessory collection with Japan’s Buddy, comprising everything from suede sneakers to canvas backpacks. Only teased at the British brand’s press day, the line is all about pared-back silhouettes and functional design, with plenty of bright colours thrown in for good measure. Drawing inspiration from Buddy’s love of dogs and upbeat mantra, ‘make happy’, this line is sure to put a smile on any shopper’s face. Available at Whistles from March 2016, with prices starting at £60.
Mr Porter x Albam
Following in the footsteps of Public School and Cos, London-based label Albam is next to enter a joint venture with e-tailer Mr Porter. The simple, practical 18-piece clothing line includes everything from selvedge denim to day shirts to garden gilets, building a strong and stylish base for the modern man’s wardrobe. With each piece crafted by British manufacturers, this collection showcases one of the UK’s most exciting independent brands at its very best. Get ready to join a long virtual queue. Available at Mr Porter from January 2016.
