When Stella McCartney teamed up with H&M for a high street collaboration in 2005, eager fashion fans slept outside of stores, and computers went into meltdown as shoppers tried to get their hands on the collection. And now, 21 years later, we can expect the same frenzy after it was revealed that the British designer was teaming up for a second drop, featuring everything from glittery dresses and hoodies to affordable designer handbags that echo her famous mainline designs.
With a campaign fronted by Renee Rapp, Angelina Kendall and Adwoa Aboah and designs inspired by McCartney's archive, it feels like a catwalk collection rather than a cheap imitation, which makes this revival not just tinged with nostalgia, it actually feels like a chance to get your hands on some serious style buys.
As a young fashion assistant, I fondly remember the scramble to get my hands on the collection and while last time I was unlucky, this time I'm bolstering my chances by doing my research so that I can be ready to pounce on the best bits to add to my spring capsule wardrobe. Arriving in selected stores and online on May 7th at 9am, it's sure to sell out - make sure you don't end up empty-handed.
Shop the collection
Stella McCartney's mainline coat styles are always on the list of the best trench coats, and this one nails the trend for oversized cuts.
This two-toned style is a directional update on a classic denim cut. Wondering how to style wide-leg jeans? Just add a white cotton tee and trainers.
While it might be tempting to go for the twinkly mini dress from the campaign, this snake print midi will work much harder in your wardrobe. Add heels and a leather jacket for evening, or boots and a denim jacket for daytime.
This oversized cotton canvas tote bag will become your go-to style - it's large enough to fit everything from your laptop and gym kit to your lunchbox.
Stella McCartney is known for her excellent tailoring - elevate everyday jeans and blazer outfits with this chic grey double breasted style.
If you're in the market for a new date night outfit idea, you can't go wrong with the classic combination of a stylish top to wear with jeans, and this elegant draped design has a runway-ready look.
If there's an archive piece from Stella McCartney's main collection that you missed, you might be in luck when it comes to this high street collaboration.
Stella says: “I see this collection as a journey through my fashion history. It is a true mix of current classics and some of my old favourites that showcase my first forays into fashion and the development of my signatures. It’s playful, strong, sparkling, joyful, refined.”
Classics are also reimagined in a new way, as seen with the black faux leather bags from the upcoming collection, which mirror the designer's iconic Falabella bags with their chain-detailed sides, and the same chain detailing also appears on clothing within the collection, as well as affordable jewellery pieces.
When the designer first launched her brand, she was accused of being a nepo baby, thanks to her famous father, Paul McCartney. But she has beyond proved her fashion credentials in this tough industry. Stella makes a playful reference to this with a skinny rib vest emblazoned with 'Rock Royalty', a cheeky wink to her former critics who have long conceded that the designer has earned her space as one of the premium British fashion brands.
With everything from dresses and tees to sharp tailoring, this collaboration truly feels like a best of compilation of Stella McCartney's designs and brings her signature style to a new audience, thanks to affordable prices that start from as little as £27.99. I may have missed out last time, but there's no way I'll be empty-handed this time. See you in the queue.
