Alexander Wang x H&M

Alexander Wang’s H&M collaboration has all the characteristics of a performance-wear collection—quick dry tops, water-repellant fabrics, and hidden messages that appear when the wearer sweats—but it’s not necessarily meant for working out. Of his “sports at night” idea, the designer explains, “When you’re out dancing and running around at night, you sweat as well. You don’t only sweat in the gym or when you’re playing sports.” But don’t expect waterproof versions of the designer’s iconic studded bags and cut-out leather dresses. With the exception of a knit top and dress that reference his Spring 2013 collection and a scuba take on his Spring 2010 Freja boot, the men and women’s capsules are completely new. “I didn’t want it to be a repeat of a [previous] collection,” says Wang. “I wanted to do something that would reinvigorate the audience—not only the H&M audience but my audience—and make it a new audience.” Alexander Wang x H&M, which goes on sale in stores and online on November 6th, marks the Swedish retailer’s tenth year of collaborations and its first with an American designer. “It’s their anniversary and our tenth year anniversary is coming up this year, so all the stars aligned,” says Wang.