RHYME & REASON

The poet Yrsa Daley-Ward’s collaboration with H&M is leisurewear writ large

‘The purpose of poetry is to get something across to the reader that they can feel, and know they aren’t alone,’ says the writer and model Yrsa DaleyWard, who has joined forces with H&M to create a series of lyrical loungewear. Dedicated to the theme of self-care, pieces will feature Yrsa’s lines, some newly written and others from existing works.

The collection artfully combines Yrsa’s two professional worlds: fashion and storytelling. She began her career modelling for brands including Estée Lauder and Nike, but explains that she has been writing since childhood. ‘I was lucky to have a Jamaican mum who impressed on me the need to read early,’ says the poet, who was devouring Roald Dahl and Spike Milligan books from the age of three. ‘She died young, and I think it was the biggest gift she gave to me.’

Known for broaching topics including identity, race, sexuality and mental health, Yrsa posts her inspiring verses on Instagram, where she has gained a 179,000-strong following (with fans including Sophie Dahl, Emma Roberts and Jennifer Garner). Though she describes the term ‘selfcare’ as ‘a bit of a buzz-word’, she conveys its message powerfully in the collection, with lines such as: ‘There will always be your heart’, and ‘Be more you, that’s the solution’, scrawled across calming dove-grey sweatshirts and soft sage-green hoodies. ‘One of my favourites is the T-shirt that says: “One day even this will be history”,’ says Yrsa. ‘It speaks to the larger idea that now isn’t for ever, and where we are is not always an honest portrayal of what we deserve or who we are.’ Following the trials of last year, this is a pertinent message for us all and thankfully one we can now proudly wear on our sleeve. bt