Unless the name of a Karl-caliber designer graces the tag, H&M's latest arrivals aren't usually considered breaking news. But for spring, the fast-fashion retailer's house collection is so sweet, it deserves a round of applause all on its own.
As always, the looks are strongly influenced by the runways, and a big part of the spring collection is tribal prints, in the same school as Oscar de la Renta and Diane Von Furstenberg but not in the same price range. A simple brown-and-white tie-dyed dress ($59.90) is strikingly similar to a sleeveless Ports 1961 shift selling for hundreds more.
The same primary colors that flooded Fashion Week now fill H&M with neon light. An effervescent yellow parka ($69.90) channels Sonia Rykiel. An electric blue dress ($49.90) is a toned-down version of Comme des Garcons. The affordable super merchant even paid homage to its latest golden boy, Roberto Cavalli, with a take on his modern-day hippie: a retro floral apron top ($39.90) and breezy wide-leg trousers ($59.90) beg for free love.
But the standout of this well-rounded collection, which also includes futuristic skirts and cropped trousers (as well as pieces for men in audacious patent leather), are the killer accessories. Versatile printed scarves ($14.90) make perfect accents wrapped around the head, neck or waist and will make smart sarongs once Malibu weather arrives. A bold necklace of faux tiger's-eye and shell ($19.90) will lend even a white tank some oomph.
Spring merchandise continues to arrive in stores weekly.
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SALES
Barneys New York Warehouse Sale Through Feb. 18: Football's big game is over, but the Super Bowl of shopping is in full force. A vast selection of designer shoes, accessories, apparel and housewares is 50% to 75% off, and competition is fierce. Expect crowds (tip: shop between 10:30 a.m. and noon, or 2 to 4 p.m., to avoid long lines), no dressing rooms (eek), prices that tend to drop as the sale drags on and even the possibility of a love connection (or so the publicist says; wear your sexiest underwear). With names like Louboutin, Margiela and Prada at stake, you may also want to wear a helmet and a cup. Barker Hangar, 3021 Airport Ave., Santa Monica. (310) 777-5700. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. www.barneys.com
