Shopping: New H&M capsule collections — Conscious Collection, Swedish Hasbeens and Fashion Against AIDS
April, it turns out, is a great time to shop H&M. The fast-fashion retailer is releasing three capsule collections this month — including chic, sun-bleached day wear; graphic-heavy streetwear; and quaint, boho-inspired shoes.
The brand’s annual H&M Conscious Collection for women and men debuts Thursday and features tailored-but-easy looks (such as a white eyelet smocked baby doll dress) — all rendered in pale pastel and white eco-friendly textiles.
But “it’s not just about organic cotton anymore,” noted Ann-Sofie Johansson, head of design for H&M. “The possibilities for creating a complete fashion statement with eco-smarter materials are huge now.” Prices range from $9.95 for a white organic cotton vest to $49.95 for a recycled fabric blazer.
The second line, the Swedish Hasbeens for H&M collection, is a collaboration between the retailer and cult-favorite clog maker Swedish Hasbeens. Hitting stores April 20, the collection is made up of three summer-ready wooden-soled styles — a gladiator strappy wedge, a heeled summer sandal and a peep-toe slip-on wedge. The playful, daytime collection “fits perfectly with the ‘70s bohemian look that’s so important this coming season,” said Johansson. Prices for the cloggy designs will be $59.95 to $69.95.
The third collection, H&M’s fourth annual Fashion Against AIDS collection, reaches stores April 26. Unisex and downright slick, the collection features T-shirts, jersey pants and slouchy anoraks, among other items, covered in slogans such as “Brain First, Body 2nd” and “Safe Ride Only.”
“We wanted to create a unisex collection with a sporty vibe,” said Johansson. “It felt really liberating to think of the cut, the shape and the fabric first before thinking of what gender it should be for.” Prices range from $17.95 for a simple graphic tee to $49.95 for a coral-colored anorak jacket.
Visit https://www.hm.com/us to find your closest H&M store.
OPENING
Bruno Cucinelli Friday: Italian designer Bruno Cucinelli has opened his first Orange County boutique, at South Coast Plaza. The shop is a 1,700-square-foot space decorated with vintage objects and black-and-white photographs of the village of Solomeo in Umbria, where Cucinelli founded his company. Find an array of Cucinelli classics, from cashmere scarves and sweaters to elegant outerwear for men and women.
3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa. (714) 957-6930. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday.
https://www.brunellocucinelli.it
EVENTS
Surfrider Collection pop-up launch Wednesday: Bloomingdale’s teams with Nylon Magazine for the launch of a pop-up shop benefitting the Surfrider Foundation, which strives to protect and preserve the world’s oceans and beaches. The shop will be stocked with specially designed men’s wear and accessories from brands including Polo Ralph Lauren RLX, Engineered Garments, Paul Smith, Gitman Bros., Altru, Sea Bags, Marc by Marc Jacobs and Industry of All Nations. Hayden Panetierre and Rob Machado will co-host the opening, and 10% of all sales from the pop-up will be donated to the Surfrider Foundation.
Bloomingdale’s Santa Monica, Men’s Store, 315 Colorado Ave., Santa Monica. (310) 985-6400. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Tim Gunn appearance Saturday: The “Project Runway” host and chief creative officer for Liz Claiborne Inc. will moderate a fashion show featuring spring styles from Liz Claiborne brands, including Juicy Couture, Kate Spade New York and Lucky Brand Jeans. The astute style expert also will lecture on the importance of style, proportion and fit — and how to spruce up your existing wardrobe.
Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. At the Neiman Marcus/ Bloomingdales Court. 1 p.m. Seating is open but limited.
lizclaiborneinc.com
Buffalo Exchange’s Dollar Day sale Saturday: In celebration of Earth Day, all proceeds from Buffalo Exchange’s Dollar Day sale (for which select items are marked down to a mere buck) will benefit the Humane Society of the United States, the nation’s largest animal protection organization. Various Earth Day events at Buffalo Exchange stores have raised more than $310,000 for environmental causes since 1997.
At all area Buffalo Exchange stores. See the website, https://www.buffaloexchange.com, or call (866) 235-8255 to find the shop most convenient to you.
Angel Sanchez bridal trunk show Thursday through Saturday: Check out the delicately layered, fashion-forward gowns of Angel Sanchez at this three-day trunk show.
The Bridal Salon on Four West at Saks Fifth Avenue, 9600 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. Call (310) 887-5509 to make an appointment.
https://www.angelsanchezusa.com
