As part of the first shopper group at 8:05 am, I was able to get my hands on the sunglasses, jewelry and sequin collars that I wanted, as well as the tees and blue dotted jacket. After trying on the trousers (the gold brocade and black dotted versions), I found them to be loose and slouchy, and slightly itchy, although with quality construction and hefty fabrics. I imagine the silk trousers were more comfortable, and I'd go a size down on these. The two printed T-shirts were less sheer and much thicker than in previous H&M collections, and the black ribbed trim gave the flower tee sporty look. The chunky plastic bracelets were of solid fabrication and will look right at home layered with some of my statement rings.
While shopping, I noticed that the silk pajama top worn by Rumi was one of the first items to be cleared from the racks, and the color block dress, black heels, shiny black zip jacket, and sequin collars were popular as well. Demand for the tote bags and silver sandals didn't seem as high though.
We were limited to two of each item, and to enforce this rule, employees checked our shopping bags prior to leaving the shopping area. I left the area well before my 15 minutes were up, and an employee barked, "straight to the checkout!" More like straight to the fitting rooms, where I tried some things on.
The black dotted jacket (for $79.95) runs true to H&M sizing. I'm wearing a size 4. Just wish it had pockets.
The brocade top (priced at $79.95) was slightly itchy, but I loved the print. I'm wearing a size 4. It runs true to H&M sizing. The ribbed trim makes it more casual.
One of the collection's more popular pieces, and my favorite piece, was the tailored blue dotted jacket (priced at $99). I'm wearing a size 4, which is slightly small on me due to its high armholes. The flower tee (for $19.95) underneath is my favorite casual top from the line, and its stitched patchwork-esque details and ribbed trim are best appreciated in person.
And now for the fun part...due to delirium, I accidentally bought an extra white sequin collar (retail value $19.95), and I'm hosting a sweepstakes.
Rules and guidelines:
Sweepstakes starts March 11, 2012. Entries must be received by March 21, 2012. One winner will be selected at random and announced by name on March 21, 2012.
To enter, do one of the following:
1. Like The Key To Chic's Facebook page.
2. Follow The Key To Chic on Pinterest.
3. Follow on Twitter.
4. Follow on Chictopia.
5. Follow on Bloglovin'.
If you are already doing one or more of these, please choose another.
Leave a comment on this post telling me how you entered and how you'd wear the collar. Please leave your e-mail address so I can contact you if you win. Must follow all the instructions properly to be entered. U.S. residents only please. Good luck!
**March 21, 2012 update. The winner is Toni! Congratulations! I'll be e-mailing you!
No purchase necessary, legal venue is California, void where prohibited by law, and open to U.S. readers only. Must be over age 18 to enter. If winner forfeits prize, then another will be chosen at random. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning.