Refreshing one’s wardrobe for summer can be a costly business. The swimsuits, cotton dresses, sandals and linen separates all add up, especially if your usual wares are looking tired and you’re essentially starting from scratch.
While we advocate investing in long-lasting foundation pieces, sometimes the budget just doesn't allow for a £100 dress or a £50 tank top. But the good news is you can always turn to high street stores such as H&M to deliver affordable, on-trend clothing. We're not saying every piece from these frugal fashion brands is worth your attention. Often, it's a case of digging through and plucking out the most premium-looking items. Although, it seems that H&M in particular has upped its game lately, and in searching through its new-in section I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of design and fabric choices.
In the process of scrolling, I found myself instinctively pairing certain styles together and assembling summer outfits in my head. Then I thought, why not share my imagined looks with you? Hopefully, the results will inspire fresh styling in your own wardrobe, or prompt you to add some of H&M's chic new pieces to your roster.
SHOP THE 5 EXPENSIVE-LOOKING H&M OUTFITS:
1. Beach Day
Style Notes: Shorts and a shirt are a truly classic pairing, and this summer I'm looking to linen fabrications and knee-length silhouettes to fully embrace that 2024 feeling. Chuck the separates on over a bikini, add some strappy sandals and a tote bag and you're seaside-ready.
Shop the look:
A classic white shirt can go from everyday staple to a beachside cover-up in a moment.
Longer length shorts are the sophisticated staple of the season.
There's something so elevated about two-tone swimwear.
A classic straw bag will be part of your summer wardrobe every year.
This understated pair feels considerably premium.
2. Warm-Weather Workwear
Style Notes: Dressing for the office is tricky at the best of times—throw in a heatwave and it becomes doubly difficult. Opt for tailored pieces in breathable fabrics like linen, then complete the look with some smart yet summery accessories.
Waistcoats are a modern staple in every fashion person's wardrobe.
The green shade is particularly inviting.
Chic sunglasses are a year-round essential.
I did a double take when I first saw this bag.
Minimalist trainers are big for 2024, and this pair comes in at under £30.
3. Coffee Dates
Style Notes: When looking to our off-duty wardrobes, simplicity is the easiest way to look elevated in the summer months. Stick to monochromatic shades and let our wardrobe heroes like a classic tank and elegant skirt do the hard work.
Shop the look:
A reliable tank top will become a layering staple throughout the milder months too.
Summer 2024 is all about skirts, and I have a feeling this one will move quickly.
No look is complete without jewellery as the finishing touch.
I've already added this designer-passing tote bag to basket.
Pair with shorts, trousers, skirts, denim and more.
4. Saturday in the City
Style Notes: For a typical weekend afternoon, you want your outfit to feel relaxed, comfortable and put-together. Start with denim, then choose classic pieces you can wear all summer long and be confident you won't tire of.
Shop the look:
Simplicity can be so impactful, just look as this jacket.
H&M's beloved wide jeans have now been restocked.
From the sculptural shade to the minimalist shade, this bag is sure to go the distance.
It's a flat shoe summer, and Mary Janes continue to be a fashion person favourite.
5. Best Dressed Guest
Style Notes: Garden parties, dinner dates and celebrating nuptials, there's plenty to get dressed up for this summer. Lucky for us, H&M has so many beautiful event dresses to choose from and an array of striking accessories to add that fashion flourish.
Shop the look:
Mark my words, spots are back in a big way this summer.
Bold, brilliant and sure to inject joy into all your looks.
Bring that polished feel with a classic pearl necklace.
The summer finishing touch.
Elevate any outfit with these chic heeled sandals.
Opening image: @aidabadji_
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