H&M and Heron Preston launch their second collection together

Among Swedish fashion giant H&M’s most exciting current collaborations is H2, a long-term, multi-faceted initiative co-created with American designer and cultural curator Heron Preston. Through H2, Preston brings his quintessentially cool, conscious, streetwear-infused designs to a broader audience, with the duo’s first joint collection debuting last spring. Now, the pair is back for a second round with an autumn-ready range that hones in on versatile pieces with a distinctly urban flair.

“The second H2 drop features dynamic unisex pieces that can be paired with the foundational styles from the first drop,” says Ana Hernández, menswear designer at H&M. “In the end it’s really up to the consumer and personal taste, how you want to wear and style the garments.” Influenced by the raw, vibrant spirit of New York City, which Preston has called home for two decades, the line-up boasts a bevvy of edgy yet functional pieces, there to be mixed, matched and layered, with endless options for creating eye-catching looks.

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Zeroing in on oversized silhouettes, highlights from the collection feature colourful patchwork hockey jerseys, varsity jackets, baggy crystal-adorned washed jeans and leather cargos – all echoing the street style of New Yorkers in the 1990s and early 2000s. Dress it up with bedazzled corset tops and bralettes, or keep it low-key with slouchy shirting. Heavy with covetable outerwear, from Brat green fleeces and earthy quilted coats to reversible bomber jackets and puffer pieces, there’s a cold-weather staple for every taste. Also on offer, a range of hip accessories, including cream leather knee-high boots, sleek sunglasses, and the Scandi favourite: the dad sneaker.

Wondering what Preston’s personal pick is from the team-up? “My favourite piece from H2 Drop 2 is the reversible hoodie with the word ‘Energy’ printed across the front, as it really embodies the collection as a whole,” he says. “The laid-back design can be worn by both men and women, but still feels really unique to the wearer when styled in their own way.”

The second H2 drop is now available to shop at select H&M stores worldwide and online at hm.com.