How To Shop Mugler x H&M on May 11

True to form, H&M is partnering with another big name in fashion for their spring designer collection. The house of Mugler, helmed by Casey Cadwallader, is the newest luxury brand to pair with the Swedish fast fashion powerhouse for a modern and dramatic collection of apparel, accessories, and swimwear including laser-cut dresses, corset details, and skin-baring bodysuits. Prices range from $29.99 to $749.

one-shoulder dress, $149

The Mugler x H&M collection launches on May 11, 2023. In this post, I'll be sharing pro shopping tips for both online and in store. 

Preview the Mugler x H&M lookbook below and bookmark this page now to preview the line. 

Set your reminders now for May 11, and see which stores will carry the collection.

Keep reading for fifteen expert tips on how to shop Mugler x H&M. 

The Online Strategy (The Preferred Way to Shop)

1. Bookmark this page now and learn the Mugler x H&M lookbook. Study it carefully to select your favorites, get outfit inspiration, research the sizing, choose colorways, and check the prices. 

2. Play favorites. Check the prices here. Set a budget. Make a Pinterest board, list, or collage of your favorites to help you stick to your budget and prioritize your potential purchases.

3. Know when and how to shop. In the U.S., these collections launch online in the morning at a designated time. Start checking the H&M app or website early in the morning.

In the U.S., these collections usually launch online at 10 AM EST. The website has crashed in the past, so be extra prepared by using more than one web browser, mobile device, etc. You may be placed in a virtual queue when you visit the website or the H&M app. Expect some glitches and be persistent. Remember that patience is key.

4. Save your info. Before the time to shop online approaches, log onto hm.com and have your checkout and payment details saved ahead of time. Clear your cart of any old items in order to streamline the checkout process. This reduces the chances of having your cart emptied of any out-of-stock items before you can complete your order.

5. Click quickly. Shop your top pick(s) first and submit your order right after placing in your cart. Do not shop and fill up your cart. Why? Once an item is in your cart, it's not reserved for you. In order to avoid an item being removed from your cart because it's already sold out, you need to click quickly and complete your order! That's why I create a prioritized wish list and try to buy my top picks first. Online purchases are typically limited to one item per style per person. 

6. Stay social. Check social media channels for up-to-the-moment shopping updates, product info/reviews, and to connect with other shoppers. 

The In-Store Strategy 

1. Know where to go if stores in your area are open.  See this page for a list of stores that will stock Mugler x H&M.

2. Phone it in. Be extra prepared by calling your local store the week before the launch to confirm if they'll carry the collection and ask them exactly where/how you should line up to shop.

3. Be an early bird. You know what they say about the early bird. Stores open at 8 AM (instead of 10am) on launch days. I've found in the past that if I arrive by 4 AM or even earlier, then I'm able to get into the first or second shopper group. 

4. Play the waiting game and respect the line. Store employees will pass out color-coded wristbands to the first 420 people in line. They do this several hours before the store opens, with each shopper group consisting of 25 people. Each group of 25 shoppers is allowed ten minutes in which to shop the collection in a secure and sectioned-off area of the store. They are strict, and with good reason. The time slot goes by really fast, with employees calling out the time at five minute intervals. In between the shopper groups, employees rapidly replenish the merchandise in five-minute intervals. 

5. Preparation is key (but first, coffee). I bring a blanket/pillow, cozy jacket, phone charger, water, and healthy snacks to stay energized and comfortable while in line. Bring coffee if needed. Stock varies widely from store to store, with flagships in metropolitan areas carrying the best selection.

6. Bring a buddy. A healthy family member, friend, or significant other (ideally from your household) might be able to help you get the pieces you want and help you make purchasing decisions. "Divide and conquer" should be your strategy! Arrange to meet in line at the same time or go to the store together (with masks and hand sanitizer) so you're not cutting in line and you can be in the same shopper group for maximum teamwork.

7. Check for go-backs. If your favorite pieces disappear from the racks in a flash, be courteous, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask employees and other shoppers to politely trade to get what you want! Just respect the rules and limits that they have in store. Stay at least six feet away from shoppers as much as possible. Limit your time socializing and shopping in the store to reduce your exposure to the virus.

8. Know your limits. There are quantity limits per person on these collections (it's 1 item per style in stores and 1 item per style online) to prevent buying in bulk, and the return policy time frame is shorter (7 days). Be aware of these restrictions in order to prevent any buyer's remorse. Read more about quantity limits and returns here.

9. Persistence pays off. These collections are not restocked, but you can still score your favorites. If you don't find what you want after the launch, check back for returns in the coming days, as many shoppers take items back to the store. Accessories can't be returned for hygiene reasons, so select them carefully. Don't forget to check the customer service desk and clearance racks for returns. Call your local stores to ask what they have in stock.

corset-style wool jacket, $349

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Teva Hurricane XLT2 Ampsole Sandals Review

If you're looking to update your spring/summer footwear, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 ampsole is a great option for both outdoor enthusiasts and fashion-forward buyers. It's a slightly updated and more chunky version of the best-selling Teva Hurricane XLT2 sandals. With a 2" platform, it offers the same traction and comfort of the original, with a modest boost of height. In this review, I'll be sharing my thoughts on the Teva Hurricane XLT2 ampsole's quality and sizing.

the Teva Hurricane XLT2 ampsole in sesame

Appearance

In terms of appearance, the ampsole sandals are just like the original Hurricane XLT2 sandals, but with a thicker platform. They're the ideal blend of fashion and function. When I first saw them I asked myself why they didn't release these earlier. Platforms are currently having a major moment in fashion and they are all I've been wearing lately. 

The ampsole sandals are not so chunky that you'll feel like you'll roll an ankle doing more active pursuits, and they transition perfectly from hiking to happy hour. They look great with everything from running shorts and leggings to casual dresses and summer jumpsuits. They come in several neutral colors (including olive and sesame), and a new rainbow style that was just released. 

I'm hoping Teva releases some colorblock and printed colorways that echo the original Hurricane XLT2 sandals. 

The white and sesame styles (pictured) both sold out last summer. 

Quality and Sizing

The adjustable ankle, toe, and heel straps allow for a highly customizable fit, so whether your feet are narrow or wide, you'll be able to get your sandals to fit just right. 

They run true to size, but if you're between sizes, then go up. Unfortunately, they don't come in half sizes. 

The ampsole sandals have the same cushioning and durable rubber outsole as the original, so they're ideal for hikes and other outdoor activities. The nylon shank and quick-dry webbing make them sturdy and practical for water activities when you still want protection for your feet. They do not require any breaking in, and I've never had issues with blisters when wearing new Teva sandals. Teva is my go-to brand for summer platforms and sport sandals. 

With regards to arch support, I find them both adequate and comfortable for long hours on your feet. If you need more arch support, I recommend trying them on in store to walk around in them and judge for yourself. 

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UGG Classic Ultra Mini Braid Platform Boots Review

If you missed out on the immensely best selling UGG Classic Ultra Mini boots, then the latest style from UGG may offer some consolation. They just released a new embroidered style called the UGG Classic Ultra Mini braid platform. The braided style comes in three colorways: burnt olive, chestnut, and black. They retail for $170, which is $20 more than the Classic Ultra mini platform boots. The black style has gorgeous blue/red stitching, while the olive ones pair pale pink with vibrant yellow, and the chestnut incorporates red with yellow for a look that calls to mind Native American artisanal design.   

As a platform devotee, I grabbed a chestnut pair for myself without hesitation, and I'll be sharing my thoughts on fit and quality in this review. 

The boots are part of UGG's Heritage Collection, which celebrates the brand's 45 years of iconic design. They are currently an UGG Rewards member exclusive, which means you need to have an UGG Rewards account and be logged in in order to buy them. 

Instead of a pull tab in the back, this style incorporates UGG's decorative braid design on the sides, which also function as pull tabs. While I think they are more decorative than functional, I still love the pop of color and the bright UGG braid details. Plus, the two rows of stitching on the heel counter gives them an elevated, retro feel. They'll look equally cute with relaxed slouchy denim as with more dressy, embellished looks as spring approaches. In terms of ease, I'd like them much more if they added a pull tab in the back, since this style is tricky to put on. (More on that below.)

Fit and Sizing

I recommend getting your true size in the UGG Classic Ultra mini boots. If you are a half size, then go up. This style is especially hard to pull on because the foot opening is small and the pull tabs are not tall enough to loop over your fingers. I personally do not follow my own advice, simply because my true size gives me the appearance of big feet. With wear, these boots will mold and stretch a small amount as the lining flattens. I wear mine comfortably with socks and without, but getting them on requires a great deal of effort because I sized down. My true size is much easier to put on, but I like the look of the smaller size on my petite frame.

So...get your true size if in doubt.

Quality and Appearance

These outsole of these boots are made with UGG's renewable sugarcane SugarSole, making them extremely light and pleasant to walk in. The lining is a blend of eco-conscious upcycled materials, not the traditional UGG twinface sheepskin from years past. It's effective in keeping feet warm, but not as thick or as plush as the lining of older Classic UGG boots. 

They also come in the UGG Classic Mini silhouette, which has a lace-up detail and a five inch shaft height.

For more UGG style and info, see my UGG Classic Mini platform boots review here.

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New Balance 327 Sneakers Review

With the arrival of the new year comes a new color obsession. While I've harbored a lifelong adoration of bright colors and pretty floral prints, this winter's grey days have inspired a newfound appreciation for all things neutral. I'm thoroughly inspired by all of the camel, chestnut, beige, heather grey, and ivory tones that fill my social media feed. I can't get enough of the #beigeaesthetic.

After seeing an abundance of New Balance 327 sneakers on both cool girls around town and Instagram street style stars, I got a pair in the Timberwolf/Aluminum colorway. This is actually my second pair, and my obsession with this retro sporty sneaker continues to grow. They retail for $100, and I must confess that I'm considering buying a third pair.

The popular New Balance 327 sneaker is such a simple silhouette, albeit elevated with retro textural details, a bold logo, and a lightweight upper. It makes a strong style statement while looking effortless and chic. For winter, I'll be pairing them with activewear looks, marled socks, and sherpa everything. When spring arrives, I'll wear them with cropped denim, handmade day dresses, leggings, and slouchy cargo pants.

The mix of neutrals in the Timberwolf/Aluminum colorway is exactly what I wanted for all of my neutral looks. The only thing I don't love is that the N logo is a flat overlay instead of a stitched pattern piece, giving a somewhat more low-end look. 

In my experience, the New Balance 327 runs true to size. Mine fit well both barefoot and with thick socks. The insole is removable, which is a nice feature. They're comfortable right out of the box with no breaking-in period. The arch support and cushioning are light, making them perfect for low impact activities. I love that they did not give me blisters when I wore them without socks. 

While I wouldn't wear them for my HIIT and bodybuilding workouts (I'm loyal to Hoka sneakers for that), the New Balance 327 is ideal for walking and hiking. They also serve as the perfect on-the-go sneakers for casual daytime looks. I confess that I love mine too much to get them dusty or muddy on hikes, so I'll confine mine to paved surfaces. 

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UGG Classic Mini Platform Boots Review

This fall, platform footwear is getting all the attention. The design team at UGG is taking advantage of this Y2K fashion resurgence with their new and best selling UGG Classic Mini platform boots. By the way, the black colorway was just restocked. They retail for $160, a $10 price increase over the UGG Classic Mini boots. I scored a pair, and they are even more comfortable than the non-platform UGG Classic Mini boots. They are worth the $160 investment because they are comfortable, versatile, and on-trend. The sole is well cushioned, while giving me an appreciated two extra inches of height. I wore these all day while on my feet, and they provided nice support while keeping my feet warm in cold and windy weather. In this UGG Classic Mini Platform Boots review, I'll be sharing my thoughts on quality, fit, and sizing.

Above, the UGG Classic Ultra Mini platform boots in the ever-popular chestnut colorway.

January 2023 update - If you buy UGG boots or shoes on DHGate, they are not authentic. The cheap plastic bags that DHGate uses, plus the outdated "UGG Australia" logo are two of the first obvious signs. Deckers, the company that owns UGG, dropped "Australia" from the UGG logo several years ago. Plus, UGG ships their products in cardboard boxes, not plastic bags. Don't be fooled by their counterfeit products. DHGATE sells fakes.

Quick guide for how to authenticate UGGs:

In 2022, UGG started using a QR code on the back side of the left shoe size tag. Look for a hologram strip with the UGG logo and a number/letter code as pictured below.

New in 2022, look for a number/letter code on both size tags in the left AND right shoe. Previously, this code was ONLY in the left shoe. 

UGG is constantly changing their security hologram tags every year, so older UGGs will have a slightly different look to their security tags.

UGG platform boots do not have a two-tone outsole. A closer look will show that the outsole has three uniform layers as seen above. The sole of the ultra mini platforms will say "SugarSole". 

January 3, 2023 update - Shop a more affordable version (a look for less style that's not a counterfeit). 

Shop these styles in four colors (not made by UGG) under $80:

Below, the UGG Classic Mini platform boots in black. 

Appearance and Sizing

The UGG Classic Mini Platform boots come in three colorways: black, white, chestnut, and radish (a bright, dark pink). I've also seen them in Forest Night, a deep olive green, which is currently sold out. The chunky soles of the UGG Classic Mini Platform boots are two inches, and they can make your feet appear bigger because of the thick platform and large toe box. I tried on my regular size, but I felt that they looked too bulky, and since there was room in front of my toes, I went a size down. They fit very nicely when I wear them barefoot or with socks. In terms of sizing, these run similar to the non-platform UGG Classic mini boots. Most people size down on this style. As you wear UGG boots, the wool footbed will flatten, leaving more room for your feet. My verdict on sizing is to size down unless you'll wear them with thick socks. 

The shaft height not including the platform is five inches, which is the same as the non-platform version. Compared to the UGG Classic Ultra Mini platforms, these look more balanced and proportionate in terms of shaft height to sole thickness. 

Quality and Construction

If well cared for and treated with a suede protector, these should last several seasons. I would not wear these in the snow or heavy rain in order to protect the suede. (The UGG Adirondack is a good snow boot.) I use a lint roller frequently on mine since black shows dust and lint more than lighter colors. I also place the cardboard shoe shapers inside to keep them looking nice and new. Despite being chunky platforms, these boots are surprisingly light and easy to walk in. You won't get foot fatigue from these. They are sturdy, durable, and a top pick for comfortable, warm winter boots. 

If you're not used to platforms, I recommend walking around in them on carpet to get used to the height. They are much easier to get on and off compared to the Classic Ultra Mini boots, which require some effort to guide your foot in. I am looking forward to getting more when new colors are released for the spring season.

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