Rei & Celia

What a joy to see the H&M press release for the Rei Kawakubo collaboration yesterday. After Cavalli it could have gotten scarier, like hmm, I want to say Versace here but not after her fall collection. So let's go "complete other spectrum scary," which would be...St. John? But that's just crazy talk!

The Commes de Garcons designer (photos of iconic designs above) is an inspired choice, and one that will be eagerly anticipated. She is one of fashion's most influential designers, so what will she do with H&M? Certainly, with her reclusive nature, she won't be hanging out on an escalator watching as insanity unfolds below her? Doubtful. I'm hoping this collection will be in one of the H&M's on 34th Street.

Speaking of inspired choices, Express in Manhattan Mall will have Celia Birtwell tops and dresses in store on Monday (right, one of her popular dresses from the Ossie Clark days). Lovely bohemiam prints just in time for spring, perfect. Prices will be a little high for Express ($79.50 and up), but I'll be shopping. Her collection for Topshop sold out in hours, and from what I saw online, the Express items (left) look even nicer. I wouldn't miss this.

Commes de Garcons designs from The Metropolitan Museum of Art's "Miyake, Kawakubo & Yamamoto: Japanes Fashion in the 20th Century."

Express, Manhattan Mall level 1, 33rd @ 6th Avenue