High Street
Jun 22, 2023

I Just Assembled 5 Expensive-Looking Summer Outfits Entirely From H&M

by Bébhinn Campbell

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.

H&M summer outfits: beach day look featuring shorts, a linen shirt and bikini

Photo:

Who What Wear

Style Notes: In 2023, a linen shirt and matching shorts is the go-to combination for a beach day. Chuck the separates on over a bikini, add some strappy sandals and a tote bag and you're seaside-ready.

Shop the look:

H&M Linen Shirt

The short sleeves are ideal for balmy climes.

Padded Bikini Top

Padded Bikini Top

I think this looks much more expensive than it is.

H&M Cotton Shorts

Don't these look incredibly comfortable?

H&M Cotton-Blend Shopper

Cotton-Blend Shopper

Plenty of space for a good book, sunscreen and a microfibre towel.

H&M Strappy Sandals

Strappy Sandals

These will go with every outfit you own. That's a promise.

H&M summer outfits: wedding guest look featuring a floral dress, blazer and accessories

Photo:

Who What Wear

Style Notes: As I get older and the number of wedding invites increases, I'm all for a low-budget guest look. H&M has so many beautiful event dresses to choose from, plus striking accessories to add that fashion flourish.

Shop the look:

H&M Lyocell-Blend One-Shoulder Dress

Lyocell-Blend One-Shoulder Dress

Such an elegant dress for such a reasonable price.

H&M Double-Breasted Blazer

Double-Breasted Blazer

Drape this over your shoulders when the temperature dips.

H&M Small String Pouch Bag

Small String Pouch Bag

Influencers love this bag—I've spotted the black version countless times on Instagram.

H&M Heeled Sandals

Try out the perspex trend without breaking the bank.

H&M summer outfits: festival look featuring a fringed dress, crochet top, cowboy boots and accessories

Photo:

Who What Wear

Style Notes: Whether you're attending a festival or just want to tap into the distinctive dress code, this cool boho look will work on and off the field. It started with the cowboy boots, and got better and better with each added item.

Shop the look:

H&M Fringe-Trimmed Dress

Fringe-Trimmed Dress

This affordable dress also comes in black.

H&M Crochet-Look Beach Dress

Crochet-Look Beach Dress

Don't expect this special piece to hang around for long.

H&M Waist Chain

The perfect finishing touch.

H&M Pendant Earrings

Pendant Earrings

Pull your hair into a top-knot to show these beauties off.

H&M summer outfits: office look featuring a linen vest, tailored trousers and court shoes

Photo:

Who What Wear

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.

Shop the look:

H&M Sleeveless Linen Blazer

Sleeveless Linen Blazer

You could layer a white shirt underneath for an even smarter look.

H&M Tailored Linen-Blend Trousers

Tailored Linen-Blend Trousers

These look like they have a really flattering fit.

H&M Large Hoop Earrings

Large Hoop Earrings

Simple and timeless.

H&M Large Straw Shopper

Large Straw Shopper

Ditch the briefcase and slip your laptop into this summery accessory.

H&M Slingbacks

You can carry these into autumn, too.

H&M summer outfits: weekend look featuring a one-shoulder top, jeans, straw bag and espadrilles

Photo:

Who What Wear

Style Notes: For a typical weekend afternoon, you want your outfit to feel relaxed, comfortable and sunshine-ready. Start with denim, then choose classic pieces you can wear all summer long and be confident you won't tire of.

Shop the look:

H&M Ribbed One-Shoulder Top

Ribbed One-Shoulder Top

A key basic for SS23.

H&M Wide High Jeans

Wide High Jeans

I've tried these jeans on and they fit great.

H&M Satin Scarf

An easy way to elevate any look.

H&M Crochet-Look Shopper

Crochet-Look Shopper

I want this shopper in every colour (it also comes in black and blood orange).

H&M Sunglasses

You don't have to splash out on £££ sunnies.