H&M Studio’s fall 2024 collection is a testament to the enduring influence of jazz music, not just on sound, but on style. Instead of focusing solely on the music, the design team, led by Ann-Sofie Johansson, delved into the world of jazz legends, drawing inspiration from the unique personas and sartorial choices of figures like Thelonius Monk, Billie Holiday, and Miles Davis. Their journey led them to Geoff Dyer’s book, *But Beautiful: A Book About Jazz*, which served as a key reference for the collection’s aesthetic.
The designers’ journey took them to Italy, where they discovered a repair shop for antique brass instruments, leading them to incorporate vintage brass elements into the sunglass and jewelry designs. This exploration of vintage and craftsmanship further reinforces the connection to the timeless appeal of jazz music.
Known for their emphasis on holiday dressing, H&M Studio once again delivers with a collection that’s perfect for festive occasions. A standout piece is a shimmering set consisting of a Terri Lyne T-shirt top and a Benny skirt, both crafted from sparkling silver sequins. For those who prefer a more subtle approach, the collection offers a flirty LBD sheath with sheer inserts and a wool and Tencel dress with boning that creates an hourglass silhouette.
The Simone dress, a long black turtleneck column with a cut-out back, is a testament to the collection’s focus on simple elegance. This dress sets the tone for a collection that seamlessly blends workwear and leisurewear. Tailored looks in gray and black are ideal for the everyday, while a borrowed-from-the-boys vibe is captured in an oversized checked wool-blend jacket paired with a miniskirt. A boxy pantsuit and a double-breasted blazer with horizontal pockets add a touch of sophistication, while a tracksuit jacket with built-up shoulders exudes power.
The collection incorporates a range of textures and prints, creating a captivating symphony of style. The Billie shearling jacket with its luxe softness and slim cord tie adds a touch of vintage charm, while a color-blocked dress with a pussy-bow neckline and a full flou skirt offers a playful twist.
H&M Studio’s commitment to sustainability shines through in the collection’s use of Eco-Filament Viscose and Spandex. The highlight is the Thelonius coat, crafted from water-repellent recycled nylon and featuring a blown-up photo-print of leopard spots. This statement piece embodies the cool cat aspect of jazz style, while also referencing the idea of status through a modern lens.
As H&M Studio designer Linda Wikell aptly puts it, “symbols of success” have evolved. The super-sized puffer jacket, with its bold silhouette, challenges the notion that looking luxurious requires a hefty price tag. H&M Studio’s fall 2024 collection demonstrates that stylishness can be achieved through design ingenuity and a commitment to sustainability, all while paying homage to the timeless cool of jazz.
