River Island has built a solid reputation for supporting young British talent with its seasonal Design Forum collaborations.
Having worked with names such as James Long, and most recently Christopher Shannon, the high-street chain has assisted in opening up these labels to a wider audience, and in turn given River Island even greater relevance.
Spring's sponsored_longform (available in selected stores and online from today) sees Lou Dalton climb aboard the project - now in its ninth season - with the launch of Lou Dalton x River Island Design Forum. The 13-piece collection, priced between £20-£150, draws inspiration from photographer Perry Ogden's book Pony Kids and films such as The Rat Catcher. Hero pieces within the range include a mesh technical mac and a grey hooded casual jacket with orange/navy nylon external and internal panels.
