I Spent Hours Trying On H&M's Spring Collection—These Are the Pieces I Loved

Ah, H&M—where to begin? Prior to working in fashion, I didn't regularly shop H&M. However, in the 11 years since I started analysing its wares more closely, I've become more and more impressed by the pieces H&M creates. Sure, sometimes it's a little young for me—I steer clear from much of the Divided section for this exact reason—but the rest of H&M remains the affordable high-street hot spot where I find some of my favourite pieces, from premium-looking knitwear to elevated midi dresses. It's the place I go when I need an easy fashion fix on a budget. This is why I like to particularly pay close attention to H&M when each new season rolls around.

Although temperatures still may be on the chilly side, it certainly looks like spring is here. So naturally, all I can think about is assembling chic spring outfits. Of course, I have plenty of clothes from years gone by ready and waiting in my wardrobe, but I'm always on the lookout for new investments to make my existing clothing feel fresh. So I headed straight to H&M to see the sartorial delights the brand has in store for us in 2022.

I tried on key pieces from H&M’s spring 2022 collection so you don’t have to. 

Generally, I tend to avoid anything that feels too trend-led, instead focusing my efforts on pinpointing elevated basics I can start wearing now and, with some clever styling, that'll last me until summer. After two hours spent in a changing room, five hero items stood out for me (as well as a host of versatile accompaniments to pair them with).

With everything from bright shirts—the sort I keep seeing on Instagram—to a £50 trench coat that genuinely looks and feels three times the price, these are the H&M buys and outfits I loved during my try-on.

1. THE TRENCH COAT

Style Notes: This trench coat was one of the first things I spied when I entered my local H&M store. Having had a trench coat from H&M in the past, I was keen to see if the standard (which, on my trench, was quite high) was still there. With details like the fabric-covered clasp and the well-sewn lining, this is a quality trench coat for the cost. Though the subtly oversized silhouette feels very on-trend, it doesn't take away from its timelessness. This particular style is only available in plus sizes online at the moment, but I've also got my eyes on the brand new premium-looking cream version below now that I'm confident in the quality.

Shop the look:

2. THE FLORAL DRESS

Style Notes: If you were to look inside my wardrobe, you'd find a lot of space is taken up by floral dresses. Like a moth to a flame, I find them very difficult to resist. However, one print that's lacking from my collection is '70s-inspired retro florals, the sort you'd find on your nan's old tablecloths, which are set to be huge this spring. What I particularly liked about this print was the subtle black outline throughout, making it easier to style with black accessories (another thing my wardrobe is full of).

Shop the look:

3. THE CLASSIC KNIT

Style Notes: In my humble opinion, one of H&M's strongest product categories is knitwear; I always find a cardigan or jumper to swoon over whenever I browse. I like to keep my knitwear classic and versatile, and cream is a spring-ready colour that goes with everything. This knit was so popular it's actually already sold out online (I'll keep an eye on it and report back if I see a restock), but I think I might even prefer the V-neck version below as the weather warms up.

Shop the look:

4. THE OVERSIZED BLAZER

Style Notes: I don't go out often, but when I do, chances are I'll be wearing a blazer with either a slip skirt or cropped trousers. This is a look I feel confident and stylish in, and seeing as H&M has some of the best blazers on the high street right now, I thought I should see if there was a style I should consider adding to my blazer line-up. I tried on a few, but this fabric felt the most luxurious—a weightier alternative to linen but not so much so that it feels wintery. Spoiler alert: It came home with me.

Shop the look:

5. THE BRIGHT SHIRT

Style Notes: Full disclosure: I'd never normally wear colours as bright as this one. But after seeing a slew of bright shirts doing the rounds on Instagram—especially those in this shade of Kelly green—I was tempted to give them a whirl. I saw four women pick up this oversized shirt, which is positioned near the front of the store. And after trying it on for myself, I get why. The colour is slightly more grass green in real life, which I prefer. Due to its oversized shape, I was concerned it would look a little "cliché art teacher," but it was so sleek. 

Shop the look:

Next Up: I Just Tried On Zara's Newest Dresses, Jeans and Blazers—Here's What I Loved

This post was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.