July MBF Favorite Picks

We all know by now that traditional ways of doing things no longer works in times like today. In order to develop innovative products and exciting, new services and experiences, brands must think outside the box to stay on top of their game. And to do so, collaboration plays a crucial role. This month, we highlight some of our favorite and latest collaborations in the fashion industry. Bringing two, sometimes completely unrelated companies together, brands have joined forces in interesting ways to revamp their normal look. In no particular order, here is what made the list:

photo via: NY Mag

1. H&M and Versace
Fast fashion giant H&M introduces it's next designer collaboration with none other than Versace. In partnership with Donatella Versace, this collection is expected to be their most glamorous and flamboyant designer collaboration yet. Inspired by the vibrant heritage of the brand, the limited edition styles will include leather, print, color, and exclusive materials at the affordable H&M price. Hitting stores late November, the line will include a range of styles for women, men, and special pieces for the home. Furthermore, a pre-spring collection is expected to follow later in January.

photo via: NY Times

2. Banana Republic and Mad Men
Although Mad Men's fifth season has been pushed back to air later next year, their collaboration with Banana Republic resumes on time. Expected to be one of their biggest marketing promotions yet, a 65 item capsule collection will hit stores this August as the centerpiece of the brand's collection. Designed in collaboration with Mad Men's costume designer, Janie Bryant, all pieces are created based on the look of the Mad Men characters. Even better, Bryant also notes that many of the pieces she brought to Banana for the line came directly from the show, both new and vintage. Priced the same as the regular items sold in the Banana Republic brand but in styles influenced by the 60's trend, the collection will allow Mad Men fans to feel even closer to their favorite show. And as the fifth season is expected to begin a few months after the launch, the collection brings a greater anticipation. Click here to get a sneak peak on the collection!

photo via: WWD

3. Steven Tyler and MESH
At age 65, retirement is a long shot for Aerosmith's Steven Tyler. As one of the latest American Idol judges and author of his recent New York Times Best Seller memoir “Does the Noise in My Head Bother You?”, the singer is keeping busy with various exciting ventures. And to make an addition to the list, Tyler has recently partnered with Music Entertainment Sports Holdings (MESH), a division of LF USA, to launch a new rock 'n' roll menswear line with designer Tommy Hilfiger. The collection will be sold exclusively to Macy's this coming fall. Not afraid to juggle two things at once, Steven Tyler is also reported to be back in the studios recording a new album with Joe Perry and rest of Aerosmith.

 

photo via: Refinery29

4. Uniqlo Collaborations
Uniqlo may be known for their basics and minimal Japanese aesthetics, but their collaborations have always kept their clothes and brand image a little more interesting. Although their line with Jil Sander has come to a close, Uniqlo has quickly moved on in their latest designer collaboration with three of New York's up and coming designers: Vena Cava, Charlotte Ronson, and Costello Tagliapietra. Costello Tagliapietra's collection hit stores late April, while Vena Cava and Charlotte Ronson's pieces debuted in May. With a $29.99 price tag, the custom pieces are a bargain and a staple to beat this coming summer's heat in fashion.
And as a Japanese-based brand, Uniqlo was one of the first brands to show their support after the disastrous earthquake which hit only few months ago. The "SAVE JAPAN!" project is a collaborative effort with Condé Nast Group and the publisher of VOGUE JAPAN and GQ JAPAN. Selling a limited edition collection of t-shirts designed by 10 world famous celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Nicole Kidman, Victoria Beckham, and Blake Lively, a personal message is written across the shirt as a sign of hope and encouragement. Although it may seem that the earthquake has been put in the past, these shirts are a reminder that there is still much work needed to be done.

 photo via: NYMag

5. Cole Haan and Les Toiles du Soleil
If you're looking to add some color to your summer wardrobe, Cole Haan's new limited-edition collection may just be the answer to your prayers. An assortment of ballet flats, boat shoes, chukkas, totes, and wallets, each piece is crafted using the 150-year-old French fabric brand Les Toiles du Soleil. The collection is exclusively available at Cole Haan Soho and online.

photo via: The Washington Post

6. Gap and Diane von Furstenberg
Although the collection won't hit stores till next March, we can't wait to see Gap's capsule collection for GapKids and babyGap designed by NY designer, Diane von Furstenberg. Expected to be sold in almost 30 countries as well as online in 75 countries, the collaboration will display von Furstenberg's "signature approach to print, optimistic color and femininity, mixed with [Gap's] expertise in great quality premium children's clothing at accessible prices." This will be the third collaboration for GapKids and babyGap as their last two designer collaborations were with Stella McCartney.

video via: YouTube

7. PhotoEspana and Loewe
This year, Europe's largest photo festival, PhotoEspana, teams up with fashion brand Loewe to present a vast exihibition of celebrity photographer Ron Galella. Famed for his iconic paparazzi photography, Galella has shared raw, personal moments of celebrities such as Jackie Kennedy, Andy Warhol, and Mick Jagger. Bringing together a mix of his work dated back to the 1960s to present, the retrospective is now on view. Loewe has also made documentary celebrating Galella's career.

photo via: FootLuxe.com

8. Target and Missoni
Expected to be their biggest designer collaboration to date, Target's joint venture with Missoni is one that we are all dying to see. Coming this fall, from September 13 to October 22, Target will debut a 400-plus collection of men's, women's, kid's, and home furnishings all designed by the house of Missoni. Filled with colorful swirls, zigzags, and florals, each piece will be in a true Missoni signature print.

photo via: Telegraph

9. Whistles and Ciel
If you still haven't found your perfect eco-friendly beachwear for the summer, check out Whistle's (one of Kate Middleton's favorite shops) exclusive collaboration with Ciel, an ethical lingerie label from Brighton. An eight-peice collection of camisoles, dresses, and undies printed in 70's inspired Liberty of London prints using organic silks, the collaboration is right on this season's trend. Whistles and Ciel also plan to work together again on a capsule collection of knits for later this fall, hand-knitted in Peruvian alpaca by small communities of workers in Lima.