Inspired by the metaverse, H&M have created fashion pieces worthy across all dimensions and galaxies. Although virtual reality, space and the future are key influences for the collection as a whole, designs are seen to have taken inspiration a little bit closer to home. The natural world can be seen in the collection in the form of satellite imagery, blooming flowers and microscopic cells. The decision to incorporate influence from our world as well as others is inspired. The laws of physics are left behind as new, innovative fashion styles are dreamt up and constructed via virtual reality.

The sustainable aspects of the new collection are found within the design process. Materials such as REPREVE Our Ocean recycled polyester created from plastic bottles found in the oceans and 100% recycled sequins from plastic bottle waste are responsibly utilized. Zero-waste pattern cutting has been implemented for the sequin studded dress and selected garments will be available in H&M’s rental service.

Within the women’s RTW range H&M have designed some galaxy gems. Lilac is utilized in a ruffled mini-dress as well as a sequined halter neck dress. Suits, dramatic tulle gowns and corseted bodice dresses are some of the delights that await you on Thursday the 8^th. Ear cuffs, bracelet cuffs and chokers take influence from liquid metal, giving the look of mercury being drizzled upon ears, wrists and necks.

£ 149.99

H&M Voluminous Sequined Bandeau Dress

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£ 99.99

H&M Puff Dress

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£ 199.99

H&M Flounced Mini Dress

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£ 399.99

H&M Beaded Mesh Mini Dress

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£ 139.99

H&M Naia Renew Hourglass Jacket

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£ 79.99

H&M Sequined Leggings

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£ 199.99

H&M Sparkly Gladiator Sandals

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£ 49.99

H&M Twirl Arm Cuff

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£ 34.99

H&M Ear Cuff

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Already spotted at the 2022 Fashion Awards, attendees such as Alva Claire, Irina Shayk and Leomie Anderson gave us a glimpse of the star dusted range. 

The virtual collection, which can be viewed on H&M’s website, as well as tried on with their 3D in-app function, is super cool. Model-less designs are showcased in short video animations featuring use of light, sped up flower and foliage growth, and running water which molds around an invisible figure. The digital world of fashion means that there are unlimited styles possible and we are living in the prime experimentation age of VR. We suspect H&M will continue exploring the digital realm of fashion and fantasy to provide us with more innovative, futuristic designs available both online and offline.

Words By: Erin Wilson

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The post H&M Continue To Explore The Metaverse In Their Upcoming Collection appeared first on Voir Fashion.

The fashion industry has undergone a significant digital transformation in recent years. By 2030, digital demand for fashion and luxury could generate an additional $50 billion in sales, according to Morgan Stanley. 

The rise of the metaverse represents challenges but also a massive opportunity. As digital technology evolves, Zara has sought new ways to remain relevant. NFTs and social gaming could offer fashion powerful opportunities for digital development. The metaverse could revolutionise the way people use the internet, interact, work, and even dress.

Y2K Creatures marks Zara’s third collaboration with the metaverse platform after its first collection with Ader Error and its second ‘Lime Glam’ line.

Many of the pieces have originated from the open-world platform Zepeto. In contrast, other details have been inspired by Zara’s first digital creations, and now some digital creations have evolved into its physical version. 

There are ten pieces in the collection, including a vest, three sweaters, a heart-shaped top, a strapless dress, flared pants with feathers, and two skirts, as well as a variety of different accessories.

As with previous collections, the latest Zara collection will include some digital items that can only be purchased through Zepeto, such as a photo booth, hairstyles, and nail designs. 

In a release, Zara said, “This method of creation emphasises the fact that now, more than ever, the digital and physical universes are interconnected and reinforce each other.”

Additionally, the brand will launch a Snapchat channel with content that customers are able to access and view the newest products available. This will also feature augmented reality lenses inspired by the new collection.

Words by Chanelle Jassim

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Whilst brands like Dermalogica have launched interactive, 3D virtual experiences, labels such as Nars have not only created a collection of NFTs, but have partnered with Roblox to incentivise users to remain engaged with their products – whether physically, or online. From Fenty Beauty’s decision to file a trademark for virtual downloadable goods, to L’Oréal’s 17 trademark applications linked to NFTs, it can’t be denied that the beauty world is set to tackle just about anything that comes its way.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the five beauty brands that are taking the metaverse by storm.

Dermalogica

In July 2021, Dermalogica soft-launched its virtual reality e-commerce storefront, enabling users to purchase featured products. Whilst including an avatar of Dermalogica’s VP of Technology and Innovation, Dr. Angela Murphy, users can employ a Dermalogica aesthetician locator, utilise a free skin analysis face mapping tool, and even watch educational videos on the brand’s latest products. Whilst heightening brand awareness and driving website traffic, it’s Dermalogica that undoubtedly has innovation at its forefront.

Nars

Sold via NFT marketplace Truesy to intentionally coincide with National Orgasm Day, in July 2021, Nars Cosmetics commissioned three artists to create NFTs inspired by their signature Orgasm line, with prices ranging from $50 to $500. To make matters more exciting, Nars further entered the metaverse when they partnered with Supersocial to launch an immersive virtual experience on Roblox. The feature, known as Nars Color Quest, was inspired by the brand’s Laguna and Light Reflecting product franchises, depicted via four different islands. Each is home to a non-playable character, including founder and creative director François Nars, where users can use virtual currency to purchase a plethora of virtual looks and merchandise – building their very own makeup palettes inspired by real-life products. Targeting 13 to 24 year-olds, Nars are inevitably set to conquer the next generation of beauty fanatics.

Clinique

Recently, Clinique launched its inclusive ‘Metaverse Like Us’ NFT project, partnering with makeup artists Sheika Daley, Emira D’Spain, and Tess Daly. Within the brands collection of avatars, 60% depict people of colour and 20% represent those suffering from issues such as Vitiligo and Down Syndrome, ensuring that a wide range of communities receive the representation they deserve in the virtual realm. Whilst the avatars are more than just images and can be used to travel between different metaverse spaces, each of the beauty looks represent an achievable reality utilising Clinique’s staple products. In addition to boosting sales, Clinique is simultaneously opposing the unrealistic beauty standards that are embedded within our everyday reality, taking advantage of new technologies to advocate individuality in all its shapes and sizes.

Byredo

As an increasing number of its counterparts continue to invest in the digital realm, Byredo has caught on. Partnering with Nike’s digital fashion startup, RTFKT, the pair are set to release a series of “digital and physical fragrances.” Made up of 26 different components that reflect a variety of emotions, such as harmony and naivety, the collectable smells are available in limited numbers, solely existing within Web 3.0 and flaunting their title as ‘the scent of the metaverse.’ Both bold and experimental, we wouldn’t expect anything less from a label like Byredo.

Charlotte Tilbury

This April, Charlotte Tilbury launched its 3-Dimensional, immersive virtual shopping world, including a virtual try-on feature as well as the chance to book 1-2-1 virtual consultations. Collaborating with e-commerce platform Obsess to launch the Pillow Talk Party Virtual Wonderland, guests are met by a 3D avatar of Charlotte Tilbury herself, accessing exclusive content and engaging with the ‘shop with friends’ feature. What better way to celebrate the success of a collection as iconic as this one?

Words by Gracie Eastwood

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The post Why The Metaverse Is Beauty’s Greatest Virtual Playground appeared first on Voir Fashion.

A new meta-created fashion marketplace has arrived. Balenciaga, Prada, and Thom Browne were announced to be the first fashion brands at Meta Avatar Store. Starting this week, customers will be able to dress their avatars in iconic brand digital outfits via Meta Avatar Store. It will be available on Instagram, Messenger, and Facebook.

A new research report from the Institute of Digital Fashion suggested that people want more choices for diverse representation in online spaces which represents a huge opportunity for fashion brands.

Balenciaga CEO Cédric Charbit declared in a press release: “Web3 and Meta are bringing unprecedented opportunities for Balenciaga, our audience, and our products, opening up new territories for luxury.”

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram VP of fashion partnerships Eva Chen, announced the updates via Instagram Live on Friday, saying that these capabilities will be available next week, starting with the US, Canada, Thailand, and Mexico.

The items for sale in the avatar store will range from $2.99 to $8.99 to start.

Starting with well-regarded brands was a key first step, said Mark Zukerberg, adding that the vision is to expand access. There are plans to expand this new project to independent creators, so they can sell their designs.“We want to create a marketplace so creators, over time, can design clothing and sell it,” Zuckerberg said. “A lot of the dream is to make it accessible to anyone. If you want to design fashion today, you need the physical materials and equipment, but in the future, anyone with a computer and imagination will be able to come up with ideas for this.”

For brands, this offers exponential ways to sell digital assets to consumers across multiple platforms, scenarios, and identities. Virtual fashion and customizable avatars are slowly becoming the next direct-to-consumer opportunity, especially for Gen Z customers who are increasingly willing to spend time and money in digital worlds.

Words by Melodie Bitala-Samba

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Over 55 labels showcased collections across the four-day digital event; some of which will be available to purchase as NFTs (unique digital assets). While the digital event is innovative and exciting, we know what you’re thinking, what good are garments if I can’t wear them? And while we’ve all pondered the usefulness of digital fashion, this event gave us the ultimate opportunity to express our inner fashionista. From social stigmas to the issue of overdressing, the physical world is full of reasons we can’t wear what we want everyday, but in the digital world, what’s to stop our avatars wearing a flashy two piece on a random Wednesday? Decentraland’s creative director Sam Hamilton said people “dress much more outrageous in the metaverse” – going to show there’s no such thing as overdressing in Decentraland.

The designers showcased at the digital fashion week ranged from world renowned names like, Elie Saab to, emerging designers like The Imitation of Christ. These labels engaged in inspiring panel talks, gallery showings, and even after parties- talk about an authentic experience! Tommy Hilfiger is among the brands with the biggest involvement in the digital event, featuring a digital showcase 3D replicas of Hilfiger’s signature silhouettes, the label said they’re “inspired by the power of technology and are looking forwards to exploring new consumer channels”, going to show this event is as new and raw for the designers as for us.

And, for the shopaholics among us, online shopping takes on a whole new meaning at the event, as Selfridges launches its first ever metaverse department store in collaboration with Paco Rabanne. The department store has been majorly involved in the fashion industry’s digital development after launching physical NFTs in their stores this year; the chain store is dedicated to promoting the benefits of making fashion digital. Even if shopping and styling aren’t your thing, the films and panel talks featuring the likes of Chanel and Lanvin at the CashLabs Space mean there’s something to entertain everyone at the digital event.

The fashion week is like no other in terms of accessibility- opening up the fashion industry to anyone who wants to be involved- attending the event is as simple as joining the metaverse as a guest. Not to mention the lack of waste produced by the digital fashion week. The average fashion week generates up to 48,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide and as the digital fashion week generates 100% less waste, it could be the solution to the industry’s most pressing issue.

The benefits of the digital event are endless, it could be the biggest leap towards reducing the exclusivity and unsustainability of the fashion industry. Decentraland’s Fashion Week was a once in a life time experience; the future of fashion.

Words By Olivia Booth

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The post What We’ve Learnt From The Metaverse’s First Fashion Week appeared first on Voir Fashion.