I Can Always Detect Designer Items, These H&M Items Made Me Do a Double Take

I’ll admit it: it’s been a while since I’ve given H&M a proper look. With the excitement of the holidays and major designer sales, I sort of neglected one of my favorite one-stop-shops for affordable trends. That was until a few weeks ago when I found myself browsing the store IRL and quickly ran to a dressing room with 10 items in hand.

Everything I saw (and eventually tried on) looked like pieces I’d spot on fashion people that cost three times more. From the color palettes to the fabric choices and the tailoring, H&M isn’t pulling any punches with its latest drop. I would even dare to say that it’s one of the retailer’s most impressive collections yet. And lucky enough the retailer has extended 20% off sitewide, so there’s even more incentive to drop everything and scan the new arrivals for yourself. But if you don’t have time, I’ve already sourced the most dazzling and worth-it items for you. From cool sweaters to really great boots, keep scrolling below.

How to look like luxury on a budget.

My pants selection is 50% H&M at this point.

Mark my words, these will be gone soon.

Cargo pants make everything look cooler.

I tried this on in person and loved it.

No other basic gets more use right now than my long sleeve shirts.

H&M jeans constantly receive rave reviews from my editor friends.

So chic.

Another piece that made it into my dressing room. The contrast stitching is so elegant.

These pants were one of the first things I grabbed in the store. The color is simply stunning and really looks expensive.

I didn’t see the matching blazer IRL, but now that I’ve found it online this is immediately going into my cart.

This type of top is super versatile—wear it with jeans or trousers, and you won’t lose.

One can never have enough turtlenecks in January.

The perfect office dress if you ask me.

Bank stripe shirts are an office-wear essential.

Is it me or are tweed jackets popping off majorly right now?

Wear these with denim jeans, skirts or jumpsuits.

I dream daily about this red-on-red combo.

For those chasing after the French girl look, you’ll want to start here.

This entire ‘fit is simply everything.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, check out their higher-tier selection of trousers. The material is a bit thicker and more substantial to last season after season.

Here’s a great basic that will get a ton of use.

Thanks to the new Ferragamo relaunch, red is a hot color right now.

If you told me this was designer, I wouldn’t think twice.

Keep that selection of party tops robust.

I mean, c’mon!

A shacket is my favorite layer during the cold-weather season.

Meet your new going out dress.

Another thing H&M does well—denim shirts.

Although I have the top linked here, I really recommend just buying the whole fit. 

Unfortunately the bomber is sold out, but the skirt is still available in several sizes.

A little known secret: H&M’s premium selection which offers designer-level quality at great prices.

Next up: I Was Shocked Too—These Low-Key Luxe Items Don’t Cost More Than $100