Alice + Olivia x Lakwena: a feminist and artistic collaboration

Designer Stacey Bendet's Alice + Olivia brand is preparing to unveil a collaboration with Lakwena, according to reports on Thursday. The London-based artist's murals will provide the inspiration for a ready-to-wear selection that will also feature uplifting messages for women.

At the nexus of fashion and art, this is also a resolutely political collection with strong messages of empowerment for women. "Raise Your Hopes," "Lift You Higher," and "Power" are just some of the bold statements  that appear on the pieces in honor of International Women's Day, which will be on March 8, reports WWD.

Optimism is at the heart of the collaboration which spotlights the work of artist Lakwena. Her ultra-colorful murals provide the inspiration for a long ball skirt, a reversible kimono jacket, and a selection of T-shirts, all of which are proposed in a limited edition.

The collection will be available from a selection of stores and retailers, and online from Aliceandolivia.com at prices that range from 225 to 595 dollars. Specialist website WWD reports that a percentage of sales revenue from the collection will be donated to LifeWay Network, an organization that sponsors a range of programs to combat human trafficking.