Mango's Latest Collaboration Is Channeling Designer Vibes at an Affordable Price.

      Let’s be honest: designer collaborations are no longer a fresh concept. In recent years, we've enjoyed the luxury of high-street brands partnering with both up-and-coming talents and established fashion giants. However, just because we've had plenty of these collaborations doesn't mean the allure has diminished. There’s a distinct pleasure in acquiring a piece that feels more refined, one imbued with intention, without needing to drastically adjust your budget. These collaborations often result in the items we reach for the most: they tend to be a bit cooler, more thoughtfully designed, and simply more enjoyable to style.

      The latest collection that has captured my attention is Mango's collaboration with British-Indian designer Supriya Lele. For those who may not know, Lele is an alum of Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art, and her own label is celebrated for its confident, minimal silhouettes and subtle nods to her dual heritage—imagine sheer layers, asymmetrical shapes, and clever draping. Her designs frequently investigate the balance between structure and softness, as well as the relationship between body and fabric, making them ideal for a summer collection that embraces bold details.

      This collection marks her first collaboration with a high-street brand and introduces Mango Collective, a new initiative from Mango aimed at highlighting emerging design talent. It’s evident from the start that this isn't merely a matter of a designer slapping her name on a few products. The collection genuinely embodies Supriya Lele's aesthetic. It incorporates her signature sheer layers and sporty, '90s-inspired details, but manages to avoid feeling overly trendy or difficult to wear.

      There’s a subtle confidence in the pieces that lends them surprising versatility. One of the standout items for me is a sheer, ruched minidress with cut-out detailing. It definitely makes a statement, yet it could seamlessly fit into a simple wardrobe with the right styling. You could layer it over a swimsuit while on vacation, or pair it with flat sandals and a denim jacket for an outdoor dinner. The stirrup leggings (which can be a polarizing choice) have a pleasantly unexpected sporty vibe that actually works, envisionable with a loose shirt and slides, or even dressed up with one of the sheer tops from the collection. These pieces initiate conversation while remaining practical for real life.

      The two-piece black mesh set is one I can already see being worn more than half the basics in my closet. Additionally, several of the longer dresses—some asymmetric, others more minimal—are exactly what you'd want to wear when it’s too hot to think but you still wish to look like you’ve put in some effort. The color palette is primarily subdued (earthy greens, soft blacks, and the occasional glimpse of skin through sheer fabrics), making it much easier to mix and match items within the collection and with your existing wardrobe.

      I typically dress quite conservatively, favoring structured silhouettes, clean lines, and modest pieces, while steering clear of anything too sheer or form-fitting. However, this collection has encouraged me to reconsider. It strikes a balance of edginess and wearability that could entice even those of us who typically lean towards tailored trousers and oversized shirts. While some items might be bolder and more daring, with a bit of layering, they'll still feel integrated into your wardrobe rather than merely existing on a Pinterest board.

      If you’re interested in viewing the collection in person (and trust me, the textures and details merit a closer examination), there’s a pop-up event running on King's Road in London from June 5 to June 15. Otherwise, the collection will be available in select Mango stores, including locations on Oxford Street, Westfield Stratford, Long Acre in London, and the Trafford Centre in Manchester.

      Check out the full Mango X Supriya Lele collection below, featuring the items I’ve mentally reserved space for:

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Draped Dress With Asymmetrical Straps

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Puffed Open-Back Bodysuit

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Combined Knitted Dress With Feather Effect

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Lurex Body With Openwork Details

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Dress With Asymmetrical Hem and Cut-Out

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Lurex Pencil Skirt With Openwork Details

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Ribbed Top With Asymmetrical Straps

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Leggings With Cutout Waist

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Short Lurex Dress With Openwork Details

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Gathered Dress With Satin Finish

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Satin Crop Top

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Midi Satin Skirt

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Long Semi-transparent Dress With Crossed Neckline

      - Mango x Supriya Lele Lyocell Shirt With