Fresh from its latest collection with ongoing partner JW Anderson, Uniqlo has now teamed up with the Danish designer Cecilie Bahnsen for a summer line-up that’s infused with her signature feminine and romantic flair. From Gap x Victoria Beckham to H&M x Stella McCartney, it appears we’re in the glory days of high street collaborations.
An everyday take on Bahnsen’s couture designs, the Uniqlo capsule is characterised by frills, shirring and floral motifs. Starting from just £19.90, it’s bound to sell out – and I tried the full collection on ahead of its launch. Designed to be mixed and matched, the capsule charmed me, but there were a few pieces I’d give a miss.
The Danish designer founded her eponymous label in 2015, fast becoming the poster child of Copenhagen Fashion Week. A finalist in the prestigious LVMH Prize, the label began showing at Paris Fashion Week in 2020. From the bestselling Beth dress to her bespoke bridal wear and quilted silk pieces, the designer is synonymous with voluminous silhouettes, puffy sleeves and delicate appliques – all of which she’s incorporated into the high street line.
“Ive always designed pieces to be lived in, worn and cherished every day, just as all Uniqlo LifeWear embodies,” Bahnsen said. Promising to be comfortable and wearable, the collection uses cotton and elastic materials. It also marks the designer’s first foray into childrenswear. The girls’ line includes dresses, T-shirts and skorts that can be paired with the women’s pieces – one way to make a statement at your kid’s playdate.
Standout pieces include shirring separates in colour block red and on-trend gingham, alongside a frill oversized white T-shirt and a volume sleeve top. After trying on the full collection, these are the pieces I’m keeping from Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen.
When does Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen launch?
The collection launches both online and in-store on 28 May.
What to shop from Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen
Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen shirring volume sleeve T-shirt
This top is about to become the hardest-working item in your wardrobe. Whether styled with the matching skirt (£39, Uniqlo.com) for the office or dressed down with jeans at the weekend, the puff sleeves add effortlessly stylish detail, while the cinched waist is a flattering choice. Made from the same lightweight shirred material, it’s airy for hot weather with sheer sleeves. Complete with ruffled detailing and a frill hem, it feels like classic Cecilie Bahnsen.
A nice choice for anyone not comfortable showing their shoulders, it offers the same versatility as the sleeveless version below – but with this top, you’ll get your wear right into autumn, too.
Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen shirring T-shirt
An elevated top for everyday wear, I took this shirring style home – and have worn it non-stop since. Distinguished by its feminine detailing, from the bow at the back to the frill hem and sleeves, the top boasts a fitted cut. Designed to flare out slightly, the poplin shape creates a nice silhouette. Available in red, white, black or gingham, it’s a steal for your spring wardrobe at £24.
Complete with a matching midi skirt (£39.90, Uniqlo.com), the separates combine into the perfect spring outfit, but are equally versatile when worn individually. I’ve styled the white top with brown capris, jeans and Bermuda shorts – and it passed the heatwave test in flying colours, thanks to its breathable fabric.
Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen shirring dress
A dress that you can throw on with no thought and still look put together? I’ll have one in every colour, please. Unfortunately, while good on paper, this Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen shirred number did nothing for me.
Characterised by its square neckline, fitted body and flared midi hem, the waist sat a little too high to be flattering – but the adjustable straps became too loose if lengthened. That said, I think it’s an easy breezy summer dress for more petite women – particularly the striking red or cute gingham. Style over a T-shirt while the weather warms up, or pair with flip flops in the summer.
Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen graphic T-shirt
You can’t go wrong with an oversized T-shirt – especially when it’s this affordable. This soft cotton style comes in white, grey or black, with a floral motif on the back and a smaller design on the front chest. Cut into an oversized shape, it’s a win from me – whether tucked into Bermuda shorts or styled under an equally oversized blazer. It’s perhaps the most wearable Cecilie Bahnsen piece you can own.
Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen t-shirt dress
This T-shirt style did nothing for my figure. The comfort it offers, however, is undeniable. The cotton blend fabric is soft and lightweight – it’s closer to your favourite pyjama T-shirt than a dress. Available in black, grey and white, the dress is designed in Cecile Bahnsen’s signature billowy silhouette, with a floral appliqué and asymmetrical ruffling adding detail. While it’s a miss from me, I can see the practical and comfortable appeal (it’s a great maternity style, too).
Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen frill T-shirt
The childrenswear line spans sweet tops like this frill baby pink number, as well as dresses, skorts and more – all designed to complement and match the womenswear. Available in years three to 13, the frilly top comes in pink, black or white colourways, and is crafted from 100 per cent cotton.
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