There are some real gems to be found on the high street at the moment (despite the dregs of the sales taking up space), and who doesn’t love finding elevated pieces that look way beyond their price tag? But finding time to trawl through rails and rails in-store can be tricky, especially if you have a busy schedule, and even then, why waste all that time when I can do it for you? This week, I popped into H&M to see what was new. I tried several pieces from its latest collection and hand-picked nine favourites that stood out above the rest.
H&M knows how to design a great statement dress, often in designer shapes just without the expensive fabrics. Its Conscious range, which focuses on making environmentally friendlier pieces from recyclable or sustainably sourced materials, features great wardrobe classics such as tailoring or modern staples from boxy tees to menswear-style shirting, but there is one downside. They sell out pretty quickly, so if you do see something you love, my motto is don’t delay! Keep scrolling to see the nine new-in H&M pieces that get my seal of approval.
Block-colour dresses in zesty brights are having a moment. It’s such a simple concept, but this ’70s-inspired look is incredibly striking and would make such a great wedding guest outfit. I’ve sized up, as adding more volume to this kind of piece will make it look more luxe, but you can always belt it and wear it with boots in the winter to give it more longevity. Who can argue with that?
This kind of boxy tee can be surprisingly hard to come by. It’s the sort of piece that can be worn with trousers, shorts or a simple midi skirt like this but will add a hint of cool. If you love it, buy one in every colour. You could easily swap out the tee for a cami to create an evening vibe. It is unusual to find this shade of green on the high street, and it will look super premium once it’s had a good steam!
I really loved the shape of this racerback top, and you may have noticed that it’s the basic du jour on many an influencer’s Instagram feed. Cargo pants are also having a moment, and whilst you’re welcome to channel your inner Nicole Appleton circa 1997 in baggier styles that are just as cool, this slightly more tailored pair is a smarter alternative to jeans, and it is actually on sale. Pairing a tonal top like this racerback top will also add more polish.
For me, summer dressing is all about throwing on a fab dress and running out the door. I always look for pieces that require minimal styling, and this dress fits the bill. It appears to be unavailable online at the moment, but the below is a very close alternative.
This boxy linen shirt is such a steal. I was pretty surprised by how great the fabric and cut were. Pairing a more oversized piece over a miniskirt like this gives it a bit more of an edge and is the key to wearing micro-mini hemlines. This outfit is an easy go-to for all the minimalist readers out there.
H&M is known for creating cult dresses that won’t break the bank. This smocked one is such an easy piece to wear to work or when chilling at home on the weekend, and I love that the straps are detachable, as it’s perfect for tanning in the city. It comes in five colours and is only £18, but despite this, the quality of the cotton is really impressive. If you want one, you better be quick!
