H&M signs Donatella Versace as guest designer

The collection designed by Versace, which is said to take a look back at the Italian brand’s designer heritage, will launch in 300 H&M stores worldwide with an Autumn 2011 collection available from November 17 and will include womenswear, menswear and homewares.

The womenswear collection will be dominated by dresses, featuring studded leather and colourful prints, with accessories including high heels and costume jewellery.

The men’s collection will focus on sharp tailoring, as well as belts and jewellery for men too. For the first time in a designer collaboration at H&M the collection will consist of some homeware pieces, including cushions and a bedspread.

Additionally Versace has designed a pre-spring 2012 collection that will be sold exclusively online in selected countries from January 19.

“I am thrilled to be collaborating with H&M and to have the opportunity of reaching their wide audience. The collection will be quintessential Versace, perfect for H&M and Versace fans everywhere,” said Versace.

Versace is the latest in a series of designers to collaborate with H&M. Past collaborations have included collections from designers including Matthew Williamson, Jimmy Choo and Sonia Rykiel.

In March, the Swedish fashion chain reported that its profits plummeted by 30% in its first quarter as cotton prices soared. Profits were down to £259m in the 13 weeks to February 28 from £370m in 2010. Despite the drop in profits, H&M’s global sales slipped only 1.3% to £2.42bn, with like-for-likes up 1%.