H&M’s Spectacular Return to the Runway: A Night of Fashion and Inspiration in London

Last night marked a bold return to the runway for H&M, celebrated with the extravagant H&M&180 event held in London. Among the star-studded attendees was the multi-talented Emily Ratajkowski, who caught everyone’s attention in a chic black suit. Following her appearance on the bright red step-and-repeat, she expressed her fondness for minimalism in fashion. "I’m really feeling black and simple silhouettes—paring everything down,” Ratajkowski stated, reflecting a desire to move away from the loud and chaotic aesthetics prevalent in current fashion trends. Her championed H&M item was a classic blazer, a staple she believes stands the test of time.

The event was a mix of opulence and intricacy, showcasing H&M’s commitment to style. Ratajkowski was not the only one experimenting with tailored looks; supermodel Sara Choi flaunted a striking brown check suit, while Alex Consani layered hers over a sultry lace top. The highlight of the show featured three models who embodied the feminine evolution of the iconic 1980s Wall Street power suits, proving that style remains timeless yet revitalized. The diverse lineup ensured the show offered a little something for everyone, enticing the audience with a blend of tradition and modern flair.

A total of 700 guests, including prominent figures like Gabbriette, Adwoa Aboah, and the Gallagher siblings, filled the stadium-style seating at the Central London venue. The dramatic runway was split by giant screens and adorned with a cast of sought-after models, including Paloma Elsesser and Lila Moss. Ratajkowski and Gabbriette animated the audience, cheering for friends strutting down the catwalk, creating an electric atmosphere that heightened the event’s energy. No fashion event in London would be complete without a Beckham sighting; middle son Romeo made waves with his runway debut, adding to the star-studded affair.

So, what inspired the choice of London for this highly anticipated showcase? The H&M Studio line drew creative sparks from Brazil’s take on Brutalism—a movement deeply entwined with British architectural history. The collection’s final segment, influenced by H&M Atelier, featured edgy, sci-fi elements, focusing on themes of black leather and lace. Additionally, the collection paid homage to the ‘Cool Britannia’ era of the mid-90s, amplifying nostalgic sentiments for fashion enthusiasts. “It was all the creatives coming out of Central Saint Martins. Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, and all those designers. It felt like it was really happening,” commented Eliana Masgalos, the company’s design director and a Central Saint Martins alum. Her words highlight the rich inspiration sourced from vintage stores and local markets, adding layers of cultural appreciation to the lineup.

This event marked H&M’s first proper runway appearance since showcasing their collection in Paris and collaborating with Jeremy Scott in New York in 2018. The efforts of the design team were deeply rooted in the city’s fashion legacy, and their continued dedication to innovation was evident in the thoughtfully curated collection. The evening culminated in a performance by Lola Young, who made her runway debut earlier that night. Dressed in an H&M blazer and mini skirt, she brought the crowd to life with her hits “Messy” and “d£aler,” as models celebrated their final walks in a joyous display of artistic expression.

Finally, when asked to compare the fashion scenes in New York and London, Ratajkowski offered her perspective. “I think they’re very different. I am going to have to say New York. The commute is often on the street, and that just makes people really aware.” While her preference leaned toward New York, the excitement of the H&M event might have stirred curiosity about London’s unique fashion identity. Guests, including Ratajkowski, later mingled in the vibrancy of a Honey Dijon–DJ’ed afterparty, evidencing that while the show stirred conversations about style, it also reinforced the camaraderie among the fashion elite.

For those eager to explore more about H&M’s latest collections and fashion history, be sure to visit H&M Official for further insights and updates.