H&M x Giambattista Valli: what we know so far about the latest high street collab

H&M’s next designer collaboration is with Giambattista Valli.

The Swedish fashion chain announced the news at the amfAR gala at Cannes Film Festival where it called on a roster of famous faces to showcase pieces from the new line.

Italian fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni, Chinese singer-songwriter Chris Lee (Li Yuchun) and H.E.R. were among the celebrities wearing gowns from Project Love collection.

It was Kendall Jenner, though, who was the belle of the ball. The model attended the black tie party in the signature piece from the limited edition drop - a frothy hot pink tulle gown with a detachable train. The spectacular neon design is a slightly more muted version of the oversized Valli couture gown Jennifer Lopez wore last year while promoting her film, Second Act.

Jenner said: “I’m so happy to be wearing one of the first pieces from the Giambattista Valli x H&M collaboration here at the amfAR gala. This dress is everything – gorgeous, dramatic and fiercely feminine – and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the collection will be like”.

What to expect from H&M x Giambattista Valli

Italian-born Valli is known for his extravagant and romantic designs. A respected couturier, expect layer upon layer of tulle and plentiful pretty floral embellishments.

The H&M collection will see red carpet-worthy dresses hit the high street at a fraction of what a Valli couture design would cost. A first look at the pre-drop, currently online at Hm.com, features a handful of dreamy gowns perfect for brides and bridesmaids.

Speaking about the collaboration, Giambattista Valli said in the brand’s promo video: “I’m glad to announce to you an exciting collaboration with H&M. I’m from Rome, but I moved to Paris because I was dreaming of building up a proper haute couture Maison.

“Couture is the art of making beautiful fabrics and experimenting. It’s the freedom of bringing, like, a dream into reality. I’m totally excited to see what is going to happen with the collaboration and all the love stories that are going to start all around the world.”

The Love Dress (H&M x Giambattista Valli)
The Love Dress (H&M x Giambattista Valli)

How much will the H&M x Giambattista collection cost?

The Neon Signature, as seen on Jenner, will set you back £229.99. The most expensive pieces in the collection, The Love Dress, featuring a deep V-neck with a sparkling red heart made of rhinestones; and The Dream Dress, made up of layers upon layers of tulle and delicate embroidered flowers, will both retail for £399.99.. Expect to see a bride or two rocking these this summer.

As well as the princess-worthy frocks, the collab features blinging accessories - from ribbed socks with a love heart for £12.99 to pink sparkling heeled sandals at £149.99.

The Giambattista x H&M collection also includes a selection of menswear, including a two-piece light grey wool suit, a pearl embellished sweatshirt and studded leather loafers.

The Dream Dress (H&M x Giambattista Valli)
The Dream Dress (H&M x Giambattista Valli)

Details

The Giambattista Valli x H&M pre-collection collection will be available in 12 select H&M stores and hm.com from May 25 at 8am, followed by a full collection in November.