In an age of endless brand partnerships and collaborations, it always feels good seeing a team-up that doesn’t feel forced. Such is the case with For Love & Lemons very sexy collaboration with “A Court of Thorns and Roses” — a collection of corsetry, lace, romantic florals and embellished evening wear that just makes sense.
The collaboration, which launched Oct. 22, arrives just days before the Oct. 27 release of “A Court of Splintered Harmony,” the sixth installment in Sarah J. Maas’ wildly popular romantasy series. Rather than relying on book-cover graphics and branded sweatshirts, the LA-based brand infused the aesthetic of Maas’ fictional world of Prythian into four mini collections based on themes from the books: “The First Bloom of Spring,” “Welcome to the Night Court,” “Under Starfall Skies” and “A Dance of Silver Flames.”
The Spring Court-inspired pieces feature pastel florals and delicate lace, including the $639 Rose of the Manor Gown, while the darker Night Court assortment includes the $629 Night Court Mini Dress and $829 Moonveil Gown. Elsewhere, celestial-inspired Starfall designs and nods to characters like Nesta and the Valkyries round out the collection, with pieces ranging from a $398 beaded mini skirt to a $729 gown.
“This collection has been over a year in the making, and it was born out of true passion,” For Love & Lemons co-founder Gillian Kern said of the partnership. “We love the way Sarah J. Maas uses fashion to evoke a mood.”
The collection also includes several pieces featuring custom embroidery, hand-beaded detailing and intricate embellishments. Produced in limited quantities, the designs will not be restocked once sold out, according to the brand. Several styles, including the Storykeeper Dress and Dance with Fire Gown, have already sold out, while other pieces remain listed as coming soon.
The launch is part of a broader merchandising blitz surrounding the highly anticipated next “ACOTAR” novel. Knix recently debuted a collection of lingerie, sleepwear and underwear inspired by the series, while fragrance brand Fine’ry released four ACOTAR-themed scents. Funko Pop and Loungefly have also rolled out character figurines and accessories, respectively. Meanwhile, Target has launched an extensive assortment of merchandise spanning jewelry, apparel and collectibles, with midnight release celebrations planned at approximately 250 stores on Oct. 26. Barnes & Noble will host similar events at more than 500 locations nationwide.