Fashion and music come together in Johannesburg as H&M unveil its upcoming Autumn/Winter 2026 collection through an immersive Sound Lounge experience with some of the country’s leading artists and DJs. This capsule event offers guests an early look at the new season’s direction, which draws on a rich mix of cultural influences and nostalgic style references.
For A/W 2026, the brand leans into the glamorous spirit of the 1970s and blends it with the rebellious attitude of the 1990s. The result is a wardrobe designed for experimentation, where elevated pieces sit comfortably alongside everyday staples. The collection will arrive in two drops, with the first chapter drawing inspiration from one of the most culturally influential moments in recent fashion history. Here’s what you need to know:
H&M’s Autumn/Winter 2026 Collection: 70s glam meets the rebellious energy of the 90s
The first chapter of H&M’s A/W26 collection looks back to late-1990s Britain, when musicians, artists and creatives shaped new ideas of identity, style and self-expression. This cultural moment forms the backbone of the collection, with silhouettes and moods that nod to Britpop and London’s vibrant subcultures.
Classic British references appear throughout the range, from heritage-inspired patterns to romantic detailing and sporty separates with a contemporary edge. The collection balances nostalgic elements with a modern sensibility, offering fresh colour stories and versatile pieces that can easily move between statement looks and everyday wear.
Fronting the campaign are models Mona Tougaard, Vittoria Ceretti, Alex Consani, Sora Choi and Angelina Kendall. The imagery styled by Jacob K and photographed in London by Anthony Seklaoui and Mitch Ryan captures the confident, rule-breaking spirit that inspired the collection.
The first chapter of H&M’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collection launches in South Africa on 19 March and will be available at H&M stores nationwide and online through Superbalist.
Win tickets to the showcase and Sound Lounge experience
To mark the launch of the collection and once again unite fashion and music, H&M will host a special edition of the H&M A/W Sound Lounge at Sandton City on Saturday, 21 March. The event promises a lineup of live music performances by Zee Nxumalo, DBN Gogo, Pona & NKLY, Lelowhatsgood, MCHLSN and Deniece Marz.
For a chance to win double tickets to the H&M A/W Sound Lounge, simply sign up to Fashion News. The competition closes on 13 March, and Ts & Cs apply. Visit hm.com/za for all the details.
Customers will also get the chance to connect with Zee Nxumalo and DBN Gogo in person at the H&M Sandton City store. The meet-and-greet sessions with the artists take place at 11am (Zee Nxumalo) and 12pm (DBN Gogo) and are open to all customers.
