Words I don't normally associate with my wardrobe: any variation of "feminine," "delicate," "romantic," "whimsical," or "bohemian." So when I assessed my gut reaction to the latest drop from H&M's incredibly covetable, incredibly responsible Conscious collection—filled with ruffles, frills, lace, and floral prints aplenty—I had a temporary identity crisis. Who is this person who's suddenly been overcome with an all-encompassing desire to get all decked out in a floaty maxi-length and swan about the English countryside? I wondered.
After recovering my senses and rifling through the bounty of fresh picks a second time (not to mention perusing the campaign imagery starring one of my eternal favorites, Rosario Dawson), I've practically reconstructed my entire wardrobe around a look that's modern but also full-on Victorian romance novel heroine (and also admirably sustainable, thanks to the collection's use of organic fabrics and recycled materials). Keep scrolling to see the stunning mix of must-haves I've added to my cart ahead of the new season, from floaty co-ords to breezy dresses.
(Psst—if you want to keep on shopping sustainably, you'll also want to read up on H&M's garment-recycling program, which rewards eco-friendly action with a friendly 15% off.)
Seinfeld's puffy shirt, but make it fashion. (Also upgraded from the '90s version? The eco-friendly material.)
A winning one-piece that's easy to dress up or down (just add a blazer for those workdays where back-to-back meetings bleed into mandatory team bonding sessions over rooftop cocktails).
The Victorian trend has never been more intriguing—pair with lace-up boots to really max out on the Samantha Parkington vibes. (Yes, I did just reference my O.G. American Girl doll.)
Practically made for a lovely spring "sick day" (just don't tell your boss).
(Practically) mandatory: the matching wide-leg pants.
Well, isn't this darling?
The start of a winning Sunday-at-the-flea-market look…
Just add this fun little piece and you're good to go.
Apparently I never met a breezy co-ord I didn't like…
(See what I mean?)
I'm into this peachy take on florals.
Also available in cute crop-top form.
Who doesn't appreciate a good romper every now and then?
Does this delightful dress not scream spring?
I see a lot of music festivals in your future, friend.
Made even better with the matching skirt.
And finally, the pièce de résistance. (You're welcome.)
Visit H&M.com to see and shop more of the retailer's Conscious collection.
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