Sonia Rykiel, dubbed the "Queen of Knits", is following in the renowned footsteps of Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Viktor and Rolf, Roberto Cavalli, Matthew Williamson and Jimmy Choo to design a capsule collection, Sonia Rykiel pour H&M, for the high street powerhouse.
Straddling two seasons, the partnership will comprise a lingerie line for autumn/winter 2009, followed by a collection of Rykiel's trademark knitwear - for both grown-ups and girls aged 18 months to eight years - to be launched in February for the spring/summer 2010 season. Both collections will be available worldwide, with the lingerie also being sold in Rykiel's own boutiques.
"It is a hallmark of Sonia Rykiel to think of all women because fashion is about a certain spirit more than a question of means," said Nathalie Rykiel, the designer's daughter and president and artistic director of the company, as the news was released. "This collaboration fits perfectly with our philosophy. The Sonia Rykiel pour H&M lingerie collection is the ideal way to offer the essence of Rykiel to a great number of women around the world, and a beautiful way to close the year. The knitwear collection is perfect for welcoming a colourful new season."
The announcement caps a stellar 12 months for the Paris-based fashion house, which celebrated 40 years in the business with a triumphant catwalk show last October.
Picture: A model backstage at the Sonia Rykiel spring/summer 2009 show in Paris.
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