With previous limited-run collections from such haute designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney, it really came as no surprise to the fashion community when Swedish mass-marketers H&M announced another coup for Fall 2006. Front-page press headlines were rampant with the news that the Dutch duo of Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren has agreed to be the next high-fashion designers for a capsule men’s and women’s collection, to be available in stores across Europe, North America and the Middle East November 9th, 2006.

“If haute couture is the most sublime form of fashion, H&M is fashion at its most democratic,” said the pair in a statement. “Our roots are based in couture. It’s the heart and soul of our work. But we also love to play with opposites: transformation is a key element of our signature style. For us, fashion is an antidote to reality. It’s a great opportunity to communicate our vision with such a large audience of H&M devotees.”

Renowned for their eccentric designs and unconventional tailoring and cut — in their 1998 Atomic Bomb collection they featured shirts stuffed with helium balloons to mimic mushrooms — Viktor & Rolf carry a distinctive style heavy on artistic sentiments. Their line now sells in over 20 countries worldwide.

So what does this mean for fashionistas eager to transform their wardrobes into something new? Retire Karl’s high-collared blouses and Stella’s oversized cardi’s for awhile. There are a couple of new Dutch darlings on the budget block worthy of your attention … and your money.

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Click here to view the collection!

More great looks here!