I Gasped When I Saw H&M’s New Collection—4 Elegant Outfits That Could Pass For Designer

July 24, 2025 / Swedan Margen /

At this point in the summer season, I always like to take a step back and analyse my wardrobe. Already, it’s been faced with a flurry of heatwaves and a few cooler moments, and now I’m searching for new ways to mix and match my pieces for fresh outfit inspiration. With the sunshine set to return and a series of holidays in my calendar, taking stock of my wardrobe is at the forefront of my mind, and searching for a few new pieces to refresh my looks and create an elegant edit that I can pack in a suitcase is currently all I can think about. On my lunch break, I headed to the high street to explore the new arrivals and found myself spending an hour trying on four chic looks at H&M.

As a shopper, I’m incredibly cautious when I add any new piece to my wardrobe. Each item goes through a thorough check before reaching my wish list, let alone moving to my basket. Any new style under consideration has to be able to be styled in various ways. Take a great blouse that can work with linen trousers, pair with denim shorts, or match a floaty skirt, offering a variety of possibilities. Or a pretty dress (and I’ve found a real standout below) that can be thrown on with sandals for day or elevated for dinners out. Of course, a timeless appeal is always expected, as even my high street buys are expected to earn their keep for years in my wardrobe (and they do). Truthfully, I hit the jackpot on my recent trip.

Below, I’ve put together four sleek summer outfits. Whether you’re looking for a reliable capsule for your upcoming weekend away, or simply need a few more looks in your summer-in-the-city rotation, I hope that these give you plenty of inspiration. For those searching for an elegant dress, I’ve found the one for you. Alongside, a pretty blouse and linen trouser combination that can be pulled out for a weekend spent in a local café or strolling through the cobblestone streets of Provence. I’m always drawn to a touch of tailoring, and a polished combination of a crisp shirt and tailored shorts is one I’ve turned to for years. Finally, a mix-and-match top and skirt brings an elegant feel with plenty of versatility to be restyled with your favourite staple buys.

Keep scrolling to explore the four elegant summer looks I just created at H&M.

Shop The 4 Summer Outfits I Just Tried On at H&M

1. Blouse + Linen-Blend Trousers

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: I, for one, have been leaning into the return of the boho aesthetic with various pretty blouses this season, and H&M’s khaki, balloon-sleeve style is the latest to catch my eye. It’s a shade that always feels incredibly premium, and is even better when paired with white linen-blend trousers. To complete the look, I chose a pair of tonal sandals faux suede finish for an added premium feel.

Shop the look:

H&M

Balloon-Sleeved Blouse

H&M

Linen-Blend Drawstring Trousers

H&M

Crossover-Strap Sandals

2. Easy Dress + Chic Bag

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: This was the first piece that I tried on, and immediately I knew we were on to something good. This dress did in fact join my forever wardrobe. With an pretty scoop neckline, short puff-sleeves and a comfortable elasticated waistband, this is the kind of dress that can be styled for day or night as you please, and always looks high end with a smattering of jewellery. For everyday, I’m styling this with a sleek tote bag and easy sandals.

Shop the look:

H&M

Off-The-Shoulder Poplin Dress

3. Classic Shirt + Tailored Shorts

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: Tailoring features heavily in my wardrobe, even through the summer months, and my blueprint for the warmest days is a crisp shirt and tailored shorts. This burgundy and white striped style is one that can transition easily through the months, with an elegant twist that can lend itself to the office or a beachside cover-up. Here, I’ve paired the shirt with tailored shorts, but I’m also planning on styling it with the a-line skirt below and easy denim cut-offs.