A FIRST FORAY INTO FASHION FOR THE GLOBAL MAKEUP BRAND

CULVER CITY, Calif., Oct. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Smashbox Cosmetics is thrilled to announce an exclusive collaboration with Mexico City-based accessories brand ILKA. Previewed at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Mexico City, this partnership marks Smashbox's first venture into fashion, seamlessly integrating the iconic Smashbox branding and colorways with some of ILKA's best-selling styles.

"When beauty and fashion meet, surprising things happen," says Rosine Kalach, co-founder of ILKA. "In our opinion, Smashbox and ILKA are the perfect match to create unique pieces. Everyone who attended our launch event was astonished by the bags and how beautifully the two brands complement each other."

The collaboration began after a visit to Mexico City by Smashbox brand leaders Felix Backhaus and Lauren Aja, who work extensively in Mexico's burgeoning beauty market from their base in Los Angeles.

"We were inspired by the creativity we encountered in Mexico City and saw an opportunity to collaborate with local talent," says Aja. "In June, we hosted a Sephora masterclass with the lovely Ela Velden and were introduced to ILKA. This collaboration is about more than just handbags—at Smashbox, we celebrate beauty and innovation in all forms."

This commitment to creative collaboration is echoed by Lori Taylor Davis, Smashbox's Global Pro Lead Artist: "Smashbox has always used its platform to spotlight emerging talent across fashion, art, and music. We're always looking for opportunities to highlight local talent in the regions where Smashbox is present."

The collaboration launch event, held on 18 October 2024, attracted prominent figures like telenovela star Grettell Valdez and actress/socialite Ana Paula Capetillo, alongside Mexico City's top influencers.

"I love the bags—they feel very Smashbox," says Davis Factor, Founder of Smashbox Cosmetics and Smashbox Studios, known for instilling a collaborative and creative ethos within the brand.

Designed with both form and function in mind, the 4-piece collection showcases stylish shapes adorned with Smashbox's signature branding and ILKA's iconic fringe detailing. The collection is available in-store and online at ILKA, with prices starting at $2,450 MXN, while stocks last.

https://ilka.com.mx/collections/ilka-x-smashbox

For more information, contact:
Hatrik House
Alice Carrett | Head of Communications
[email protected]

ABOUT SMASHBOX COSMETICS: 
"Everything carries out of the studio into reality." – Davis Factor