H&M x Balmain.
Photographed by Alix Coburn.
Designer high street collections don't usually hold my attention - there's never been a designer I liked enough to get excited until recently. When H&M x Balmain was announced I knew I had to own a part of the collection. I'm a bit of an Oliver Rousteing fan girl - I love what he's done for the brand and how fresh his attitude is - it makes the brand feel more accessible. And this launch is one more step in that direction.
There are some designers who I swear are so out of tune when it comes to the fit and shape of women's clothing - but the majority of pieces from their ready to wear collection look amazing on everyone - regardless of body type. It's sexy and mature but fresh and young all at once. And I have been praying that the H&M x Balmain collection would follow this.
Now I was all ready and prepped to be up early on Friday, in the queue, elbows at the ready, for even just a belt from the collection. But H&M kindly sent over a couple of pieces (including the belt - I die.) to style for you! Seriously, H&M, you've made my year.
I instantly fell in love with the black velvet mini dress, despite a long term fear of anything with any kind of shoulder pad. Yep, shoulder pads. This dress has them like I've never seen before but I was actually amazed at how much it accentuated and balanced out my figure (I'm like a slightly uneven hourglass). I love it. I'd even go as far as to say that my "the one" of little black dress world has been found. Whist the dress is gorgeous alone - the addition of the green waist belt synchs in the waist, whilst also making the perfect festive accessory. This whole outfit just basically screams Christmas to me.
Despite being terrified of spilling something on my brand new dress, I threw this on during a whirlwind outfit change on Monday for a launch party (and also a visit to Pizza express where I consumed two plates of dough balls and a pizza - an all time record - well done Suz). I added tights and my suede black boots which I'd been wearing earlier in the day along with my leather jacket. These items relaxed the look and worked perfectly for the evening, but I cannot wait to go all out and wear these with some over the knee boots for a full on Balmain vibe.
So the big question, will you be purchasing anything? Do you have a favourite piece?
The collection will be ready to shop HERE on November 5th - a.k.a tomorrow morning! 9am GMT - happy shopping ladies.
