SLIDESHOW: Versace for H&M Launch

Photography by Sarah Olin and Danielle Levitt

We have to give it to H&M, their annual collaborations have become much-anticipated industry events, and we imagine they're huge commercial successes. We know that by now you all know that latest brought on the extravagant look Versace. After much build-up, last night Dame Donatella threw a launch party that was just as much of a lavish spectacle as you would expect--in fact, it surpassed our expectations.

The festivities took place at an enormous hall erected specifically to house the fashion show and soiree. Upon entrance we proceeded down a long black hallway which let out into a reception area where the walls were covered with mirrors in gilded frames. Virtually everyone in the fashion industry including the likes of Alexander Wang, the Proenza Schouler boys, Joseph Altuzarra, Terry Richardson, and every editor, photographer, stylist you could think of. In other words, Donatella's clout was palpable.

Blake Lively, Nicki Minaj, Prince (who entered to thunderous applause and squeals), newly christened homo brother Zachary Quinto, and other Hollywood players peppered the front row. The clothing was in the vein of the hyper-sexualized, kitchy-meets-gaudy-meets-ironic extravagance we've come to expect from the label, including patterns and prints pulled from the house's archives. As Donatella came out for her bow, she walked the runway and then, in an act of fashion alchemy, the walls parted to reveal a stage and club space, with Donatella beckoning everyone like the Pied Piper. From there, Nicki and Prince took the stage and the champagne was flowing. Needless to say, it was an evening of many excesses.

Check out our slideshow HERE.