English Version | V is for victory

Let's imagine this dialogue, which is probably repeated several times every day, all over the world: “If you could look into someone's closet, who would you choose?”, “Easy, Victoria Beckham's. She has incredible style, she's classic but isn't afraid to take risks with unexpected combinations, she wears colors with the same ease with which she wears a total black look, she uses clothes to express her identity. You can tell she's having fun! But I could only take a peek, couldn't I bring a few things?” Until recently, you could only take a peek. From now on, you can “bring a few things.” The Victoria Beckham X Mango capsule collection, launched on April 23rd, is one of the big surprises of Mango's 40th anniversary and was conceived by combining the sophisticated style and classic luxury of the English designer with the contemporary and feminine design of the Catalan brand. Slip dresses, knitwear, elegant accessories and tailoring, this collaboration is made up of pieces that we all expect to find in the ex-Spice's closet - the silhouettes are reminiscent of the uniform she has defended for decades - wide pants, structured blazers, satin blouses and dresses with ultra-thin straps - all in a palette of soft, neutral pastel tones. Vogue Portugal had access to the details behind this winning partnership, through a very special source: Victoria Beckham.

Victoria Beckham X Mango is surely going to be the most sought-after collaboration this Spring. How would you describe it in 3 words? Sensual, Considered, and Feminine.

Both brands are seamlessly dialoguing on this collection. How did you and your team approached this collaboration? I really wanted to speak to a wider audience in a way that feels relevant to my brand and retains my aesthetic and DNA, and I I am very proud of what we have created together. It feels very modern to bring the two brands together and build on our expertise, and I was very impressed by the Mango teams’ level of execution, attention to detail and savoir-faire. It was an exciting challenge to embrace another creative process without compromising on the creative and desirability. I also feel that we have a shared ethos, aesthetic and values around femininity, quality and a real love of product.

When creating this collection, what kind of references did you have in mind? I wanted to create a conscious modern wardrobe which is perfect for the summer months. There is a cheekiness, but it is also very put together with a sensuality as well. I was inspired by the iconic French film ‘La Piscine’, but more specifically by Jane Birkin’s character and her ease. She is all about natural beauty, is highly feminine and has a real sense of freedom. 

Which pieces do you consider that are the most representative of this collection? I really love the easy slip dresses and the tailoring in particular. I have always played with both the feminine and masculine and want to offer an effortless women’s wardrobe that is versatile and wearable yet rooted in modernity with a sophisticated ease. Something might appear simple but so much thought and execution has gone into how that piece fits or sits on the body, the way it creates a strong silhouette - It’s always about silhouette for me.

Can you discuss the palette chosen for the VBxMango collaboration and the themes you aimed to evoke through these specific hues? The fabrics are very natural and there’s a real lightness and subtleness. It’s a more muted palette, very focused and relaxed, with more island tones for an easy summer elegance.

Accessories always help to build the story. How do they contribute to the overall narrative of the looks? I love how accessories complete the character. They are not only beautiful pieces, but they also need to really function. As women we need these items, whether a bag or a shoe for example, to get us through from day to night and it’s the finishing touch to any look. 

Originally published in The Mother Nature Issue, from May 2024. Full stories and credits are in the printed version.