Exclusively designed for H&M, this second capsule from Rotate Birger Christensen oozes the Danish brand’s signature style – infused with '80s details inspired by rebellious muses
When Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars, the creative directors of Rotate Birger Christensen, described their second collection for H&M as "a rejection of traditions," it was natural the duo had some rebellious public figures from the '80s – the Danish brand's go-to era – in mind as muses. Think Blondie hanging out at Andy Warhol's Factory studio, Michelle Pfeiffer on the set of Scar Face, or Princess Diana's subversive, doe-eyed spin on royal fashion protocols.
This spirited vision comes to life as a 15-piece collection that launches today in 12 markets – double the number of last year's sell-out collaboration between the brands. "The H&M collection unapologetically celebrates new Scandinavian glamour. It encourages confidence and boldness," Madsen and Valdimars say.
Comprising a range of dresses, coordinating sets, and tailoring, the latest Rotate drop for H&M offers some of its signature styles and 1980s details: bold shoulders, puff sleeves, plunging necklines, vibrant prints, metallic accents and glitzy embellishments. The colour palette combines classic black and oxblood red with vibrant bursts of pink, bright white and shiny silver.
On Vogue Scandinavia's wishlist is the 'Carmen' midi-dress with exaggerated ruffled v-neck collar and sleeves, the 'Mindy' top with puff shoulders and peplum detail, and 'Dula' slit pencil skirt are in a light mesh fabric with zebra pattern sequins. With its high collar and daring mini length, the 'Kim' dress get a shiny black bubble organza treatment, as does the single-button 'Larelle' light blazer.
Denim gets the Rotate treatment too – light grey with silver coating, while the 'Devi' top and 'Deivana' maxi dress are rendered in a soft, stretch oxblood mesh with tonal rhinestones. The collection is completed with a dose of zebra print in scarf and tote bag form.
“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with ROTATE again. Jeanette and Thora have such an eye for joyful, sophisticated design that makes people feel good about themselves. Which is what everyone wants for party season – and beyond,” says Ann-Sofie Johansson, Head of Design Womenswear and Creative Advisor at H&M.
Four of the pieces from the collection will also be available to rent from stores in Amsterdam, Berlin, London and Stockholm – the 'Deviana' dress, 'Carmen' dress, black 'Kim' dress and 'Herla' dress.