Glenn Martens x H&M: All You Need to Know
Holding the coveted role of creative director at two esteemed houses – Diesel and Maison Margiela – wasn’t quite enough for Belgian fashion designer Glenn Martens, he wanted a third project to add to his – already very full – plate. Enter H&M, and consequently, perhaps the most anticipated designer x high street collaboration of the season.
This isn’t the first time that H&M has joined forces with one of the industries greatest talents – in fact, Martens is joining a coveted list of indisputable icons, including none other than Karl Lagerfeld, Roberto Cavalli and Isabel Marant. If these past collaborations, and the sneak peeks of this all-new collection, are any indication to go by, Glen Martens x H&M will be positively flying off the shelves.
All About Glenn Martens
If the name isn’t quite ringing a bell – firstly, you must have been living under a rock – secondly, allow me to bring you up to speed. Born in the quaint town of Bruges, Martens had no prior fashion experience when he set off to study a masters in fashion design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp – home to the legendary ‘Antwerp Six.’ Starting his career at Jean Paul Gaultier, it was evident he was always destined for greatness, and greatness he undoubtedly achieved, standing at the helm of Y/Project for nine years, whilst taking on the challenge of Diesel in 2020. Perhaps though, the true breakthrough moment of his career occurred in January of this year, when it was announced he would be replacing the one and only John Galliano as Creative Director at Maison Margiela – a true full circle moment as founder Martin Margiela also studied at his alma matter.
All About the Collection and Campaign
Blurring the lines between gender, perfectly capturing the fluidity of unisex dressing and androgyny, this collection has brought a grace of high fashion to the high street retailer. Martens drew inspiration from the H&M archives and his time at the Y Project to produce a range of elevated and versatile basics with bold pops of colour and proportional play. Equally, the campaign has been nothing short of star studded, with actors Johanna Lumley and Richard E. Grant fronting the charge, perfectly fusing British heritage with avant-garde surrealism.
The Top Five Pieces to Shop
1 – The Shoulder Bag (£84.99)
This shoulder bag puts the fun in functional – being entirely malleable, it allows you to customise it to
your own personal preference.
2 – Wool-Blend Blazer (£189.99)
An androgynous wool blazer is an absolute essential for any autumn wardrobe, and the unique tailoring on this one is sure to set you apart from the crowd.
3 – Hooded Wool Scarf (£74.99)
You heard it here first – hoods are back – and this is patient zero. Not only is it entirely practical for the British winter, but it adds a playful, avant-garde touch to any look.
4 – Denim Dress (£119.99)
The deconstruction hem and interesting neckline on this dress sets it apart from others found on the high street. If you want to look high fashion-esque for a lower price, this is your ticket.
5 – Trench Coat (£189.99)
Where British heritage meets Belgian flair – the ultimate way to elevate your wardrobe of basics.
When does the Glenn Martens x H&M Collection Launch?
The question we’re all asking is when does this collaboration actually launch? Well, set your alarms bright and early on Thursday the 30th of October, as the collection goes live at 9am sharp. Nothing gets the fashion crowd going like exclusivity, so this line is almost guaranteed to sell out – so don’t hang around – you’ll have to be cutthroat to ensure you are trotting around in your favourite Glenn Martens x H&M looks this winter.
By Lucy May Ashburner