Spring 2012 H&M Fitting Room Review + 20% off coupon

Are you ready for a massive fitting room review? Last weekend I went to the mall and H&M to scope out the leftovers of their massive and still-ongoing winter sale and check out new spring clothes. There weren't that many interesting items that screamed spring, but plenty of neutrals and versatile cross-seasonal pieces. H&M also sent out a 20% off one item coupon via email for use 2/9 to 2/14, so I might brave the 17 degree temperature to grab something that I passed up from last week. If you want pictures of the tag bar codes for anything shown here, just send me an email.

1) H&M mint green cable knit sweater (size S), $20 USD
This lightweight mini cable knit sweater in a delicious pastel spring mint green would be a perfect spring transitional item. Paired with the pastel pink tulle skirt I had on when I went shopping, it's a dreamy colour palette! They also have this in other colours, including carnation pink.
- Verdict: Pass, too many sweaters and a little pricey for such a thin sweater

2) H&M faux leather leggings/tights (size S), $25
Found these on a return rack somewhere and thought I'd try them on. Breaking my rule of no attack-of-the-uncovered-leggings-butt just to show you the fit and material (seriously, worst fashion faux pas ... badonkadonk hanging out, no shorts or skirt over it, leggings and Uggs/boots). The material is quite thin and very stretchy - I thought that these were Medium but in fact they're small and even have a few creases (indicating too loose), which surprised me and my non-toothpicky legs. The style gives any outfit an edge, moreso than simple cotton black tights. These are probably more comfortable than leather pants, but definitely less structured (of course) ... may have to look into pants too.
- Verdict: Purchased, despite the price tag, this piece is very versatile for building a minimalistic wardrobe that still packs punch - in a week I already wore them three times!

3) H&M purple velvet ruched dress (size S), $7 ON SUPER SALE
This velvet material caught my eye in the massive sale rack, then when I saw the price tag I ran to the fitting room. The Small is even a bit loose on me, and it's actually a flattering classy length, hitting mid-knee on 5'3" (160 cm) me. The rucheing makes everything drape elegantly and I like that you can wear the sleeves off the shoulder or on. I've included the tag too in case you're interested in finding it at your H&M - I know there were like 10 of these left at the St. Louis Galleria (click to enlarge).
- Verdict: Passed, reluctantly. Didn't feel like I needed another dress, and where would I wear something this mature/classy to? I think I'll go back for it this weekend.

4) H&M gold snake chain necklace, $6
It's more gold than the picture suggests, and I like the segmented plates stacked against one another. It sometimes has trouble staying down flat but I'm sure if it's clasped properly in the back it won't happen as much.
- Verdict: Purchased, it's so versatile as demonstrated by working well with each of these outfits in the fitting room

5) H&M flats with chiffon bows in black and nude (size US 5/Euro 36), $15
These flats do feel pretty cheap but at least it fits. It's much more flexible and reminds me of those kinds you can fold up and throw in your purse but the chiffon bows are cute.
- Verdict: Purchased the black pair. If you remember my poor black ballet flats that finally fell apart in the fall after 6 years of use, they were finally replaced. I really liked the nude ones on the shelf but they looked gaudy on my feet.

6) H&M navy velvet small dot mesh top (size S), $18
This polka dotted piece caught my attention with its mesh and velvet texture. The front and back's solid navy parts go straight across the chest and back horizontally (better with a sweetheart neckline?) I love the mod-ish look and everything about it, but couldn't justify shelling out for this fun top. Also, the fact that you need a strapless bra for this is annoying.
- Verdict: Passed reluctantly, due to price

7) H&M black over white tulle midi skirt (Euro size 2), $7
Couldn't zip it up in the back, awkward length and just all around unflattering on me. Tried it on because it was so cheap. Some intricate detail though.
- Verdict: Passed

8) H&M bending coils gold knuckle ring (size S), $6
This is a really cool ring - I have one that's like a piece of armor but it's too big. It has two segments that is hinged at the middle and bends right at your knuckle. When you hold it straight, it literally looks like an awesome gladiator finger splint. This one is so small that when I put it on my hot little hands (middle finger), it wouldn't come off! So I pulled and panicked and finally decided to wait a while to try to twist it off - whew, disaster averted.
- Verdict: Passed, don't wear that many rings (though I like to believe I will)

An interesting corn blue blazer with nautical gold buttons. The material is very thick and textured cotton. $60 - priceyyy

Floppy sunhats are always in - wool/felt materials are the best-looking in my opinion and this tan colour is suitable for all-year-round fashion adventures. $13-15?

This mannequin had on an interesting mix - bunny cardigan, small floral print, crossbody bag, but mostly the perfect pleated leather skirt! It's sooo structured but I honestly didn't need another $25 pleated mini skirt (even though I'm currently leather-obsessed)

Bowler hat: in cobalt blue, orange, black $12-14? The shape is so comical and cute!

Pink boyfriend blazer only $25, can you believe it? I've learned my lesson with funky coloured blazers - I'm shy with them, so best for ogling from afar and not for wardrobe assimilation.

Bunny print peter pan collar top

Bunny print dress - not in love with the shapelessness of the actual piece but the print is super adorbs

Bold blue lacquer and silver stretch bracelet - a statement piece $6

Gold sequin mini coin purse/cardholder $4 - purchased!

Readers - any recent finds at H&M/while shopping?