Harry Styles’s appearance at Alessandro Michele’s debut collection for Valentino proved that the English frontman’s allegiance to the Italian maximalist would never be tested, even after the creative director’s surprise departure from Gucci.
But in the horsebit-sized hole left in its wake, the former One Direction member has used his time away from the stage and screen to turn his attention to cultivating a new relationship closer to home. Enter: Pleasing x JW Anderson.
Indeed, the 30-year-old has debuted an exclusive capsule collection with Irish wunderkind and current incumbent of the British Fashion Awards ‘Designer of the Year’. While both have multiple creative endeavours at play—Styles as a bona fide pop sensation and burgeoning actor, Jonathan Anderson at the helm of Loewe and his foray into costume design through his work with Italian director Luca Guadagnino—the dynamic duo have collaborated under their whimsical labels.
Styles launched his beauty brand Pleasing at the end of 2021 with their first category, unisex nail care. With glossy polishes, fragrances, makeup, and even apparel conjured up by the musician, it’s only fitting that he teamed up with the visionary who brought us a pigeon clutch and a Guinness sweater.
As posted on their respective social media accounts, Styles and Anderson met over fabric swatches and afternoon treats to unveil the range. Billed as “a collection of fashion firsts for two fashion friends”, the offering involves twelve limited products that are “classic pieces from both camps anchored by representations of the other’s point of view.”
There’s the nail varnishes, five shades of nuanced metallics ranging from deep bronze to lush golds and shimmering pink, a green hoodie sporting both their logos that we’ll no doubt see Styles papped in during one of his runs and even a sheer long-sleeve shirt emblazoned with colourful balloons. The most sought-after item, however, will be the new iteration of JW Anderson’s bumper bag. Often rendered in candy-coloured hues, the style is more subdued deep moss green lambskin and contrasting black accent.
Of course, this partnership is not just a sign of the times, but a moment rooted in the singer’s lore and sartorial history. During the COVD-19 pandemic, Styles sent shockwaves through the cultural zeitgeist when he wore JW Anderson’s M&Ms-coloured patchwork cardigan while rehearsing for a performance on The Today Show.
The garment swiftly became adopted by netizens on TikTok, with users recreating it while showcasing their crochet skills. It was a moment of crafting connections and forging optimism and self-preservation during a precarious time. Styles’s original now hangs in the Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington. We hope they’re clearing (and holding) space for this assortment.
Find your Pleasing online, now.
This story first appeared on GRAZIA International.
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