October 4, 2017 |
In an industry increasingly fascinated by normality, fashion designer Richard Quinn finds more common ground with the transgressive maximalism of those who came before: Galliano, McQueen, Gaultier, Mugler. Defined by an intricate clash of head-to-toe fabrics and prints, where traditional couture shapes are built up, dismantled or sliced apart to reveal face-covering bodysuits beneath – Quinn’s work has the rare ability to both delight and unsettle.
Tomorrow, the 26-year-old designer’s clothing will end up in what seems an unlikely location: H&M. But Quinn finds himself at the high street retailer because of his extraordinary talent – earlier this year, he was announced as the winner of the H&M Design Award 2017, receiving monetary backing and the chance to see a capsule collection of his work stocked worldwide on hm.com, as well as in their Oxford Circus store. Having graduated from the MA program at Central Saint Martins in 2016, even in current terms: Richard’s moving fast.
“We believe that Richard’s collection is a great combination of creativity, technical skills and ethical thinking,” says Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor at H&M and the jury chair. “This has beautifully translated into outstanding pieces.”
“Throughout this whole experience, I’ve been encouraged by H&M to really hold true to my aesthetic and not water it down,” Quinn told us. “I wanted to create intelligent pieces that people would want to wear – and I think we’ve done that.”
Highlights of the collection include a strapless puffball gown, built up with a corset and tulle, cut from vivid floral fabric inspired by 1960s upholstery. Similar prints can be found on over-the-knee sock boots or in the lining of a trench coat, cut here with 1980s power shoulders.
Shop Richard Quinn for H&M below, or find the collection in H&M’s Oxford Street store.
