H&M has a knack for bringing fresh talent and art archives to the fast-fashion forefront including past collections with Keith Haring and Ruth E. Carter, but never has the brand brought both worlds together.
NYC-based designers Ev Bravado and Téla D’Amore of ‘WHO DECIDES WAR’ recently joined forces with H&M for a collection inspired by the works of Jean Michel Basquiat.
The prestigious LVMH competition 2024 semi-finalists are legends in their hometown, known for their intricate colorful glass panel details and tactile approach to structured streetwear.
First collabing with the Basquiat estate in 2022 for a memorable exhibit at the Black Fashion Fair, transforming the exhibition to a full collection was a no brainer for all parties involved.
Over 30 pieces, the collection features an array of Basquiat’s works from his series on the world of jazz, placed punctually on distressed denim canvases with prints and embroidery.
Basquiat’s figures are etched into ‘WHO DECIDES WAR’s signature distressed glass panel designs as well as stretched and reworked as bold graphics for everything from mesh tops to sweat sets.
The collection offers a strategic mix-and-match streetwear staples to dramatic statement pieces, such as trench coats and evening gowns fit for any night out in New York.
“It’s street ready, but also versatile; you could wear it to church on Sunday if you needed to” the duo told Vogue Scandavia in a recent interview.
‘WHO DECIDES WAR’ started in 2018, founded by the couple on a mission to reclaim and redefine Americana. The brand placed in the top 10 for the 2023 CFDA and Vogue Fashion Fund competition, receiving praise from the late Virgil Abloh.
The Basquiat X WHO DECIDES WAR X H&M Collaboration is set to release on Thursday, July 18 at H&M.com and in select stores.
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