Hector Bellerín is well known for his support of the environment and also his love of fashion, and now the Arsenal man is combining both by partnering up with H&M for a sustainable and minimalistic menswear capsule.
Always vocal in his support and passion for conservation over the years, typified by his ambition to tackle climate change within society through his pledge to plant 3,000 trees in the Amazon for every Arsenal victory during ‘project restart’ – a number that fast exceeded over 50,000 trees planted, Bellerín has now taken the next step on his journey. And that step has seen that passion combined with one of his other loves, namely fashion, with the Spaniard teaming up with Swedish retail giant, H&M, for a sustainable collection named ‘Edition By Héctor Bellerín’.
The phrase “Live with purpose (to protect our future together)” is the core message of the collection, and it appears as a graphic theme throughout the new menswear line.
When initially invited to be a part of the Edition project, Bellerín set a firm ultimatum: that the entire collection had to be made from more sustainable materials. It was a challenge that H&M were only too happy to accept, and so Bellerín began working in close collaboration with the men’s design team through all creative stages, giving his input on everything from the look and attitude of the collection to colours, silhouettes, graphics, and styling; always guided by his commitment to sustainability.
“Making this collection as sustainable as possible was important, because to me there can be no other way,” explained Bellerín. “We should not put our creative freedom or greed first when there are many other ways — even though they might be more difficult or expensive to achieve — that enable us to create the same product. This collection proves that you can make beautiful and meaningful pieces from recycled yarns and materials that have been worn before.”
Bellerín describes the new fashion as a very relaxed, genderless and neutral mix of colours and fits that can complement anyone’s wardrobe. Silhouettes are oversized with dropped shoulders and wide-cut trouser legs, making even the more formal pieces seem laid-back and casual. Comfort is another key element to the Spaniard’s distinct personal style, which is why everything in the collection has a loose, unrestrictive fit.
When asked what he’s most happy about with the collaboration, Bellerín replies: “It’s the acceptance of the challenge I had proposed, and the willingness to be better. I enjoyed thoroughly the creative freedom the H&M team gave me; but the honesty and transparency from day one, and the promise of a better future, is what ultimately pushed me to create this collection.”
Edition by Hector Bellerin will be available on hm.com from 18 February.
