Mugler For The Masses; H&M Unveils The Body-Conscious Collab

Mugler and H&M are bringing Manfred Theirry Mugler’s signature glamazon aesthetic to the masses, with a collaborative collection. Conceived by Casey Cadwallader, creative director at Mugler, in collaboration with the Swedish fashion retailer, the Mugler x H&M collection acts — in part — as an ode to the late designer, comprising several of Manfred Theirry Mugler’s most iconic pieces from the 1980s and 1990s.

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As is characteristic of Muger, the womenswear styles within the collaborative collection serve to highlight and celebrate the female form, with oversized shoulders and cinched waistlines reigning supreme. Cut-out details and body-conscious silhouettes in the form of corsetry-inspired pieces and catsuits highlight the contours of the figure, while baggy jeans and thong details play with proportions. Mini dresses and jackets feature elongated scarf detailing, while strong tailoring is seen in cinched blazers and leather trench coats. 

Elsewhere, the menswear styles see leather take centre stage, with trousers, blazers, and trench coats utilising the materials. A structured denim jacket shaped the body while an elevated take on leisurewear sees the conventional hoodie get the Mugler treatment in the form of a corseted waist. 

Genderless accessories include sheer gloves and tights, bags, scarves, and silver and gold body chains as well as earrings and necklaces that include motifs such as teardrops and the Mugler star (which forms the bottle of the iconic Mugler fragrance Angel).

The Mugler x H&M collection is the latest in a series of designer collaborations — including the likes of Giambattista Valli, Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Moschino, and Versace — which serve to democratise fashion by making luxury designs available to the masses.

“This collection is a watershed moment for the house of Mugler – a chance for us to celebrate our history and the pieces that we are beloved for today,” says Casey Cadwallader, creative director at Mugler. “The collaboration includes many of our signatures, from catsuits and bodycon dresses to tailoring, denim and beautiful, bold jewellery and accessories.”

The Mugler x H&M collection will be available in select physical H&M stores from 11th May onwards. Sydneysiders and Melburnians can shop the collection at the Pitt St and GPO stores, respectively.


Words by Esmé Duggan