Style seekers around the country have been craving a TOPSHOP presence here in the states, and when it arrives it will be every hipster and boho goddess’s heaven on earth. Until then you should know that H&M is offering an extremely similar fashion palette these days..

H&M has always been known to have inexpensive, on trend designs that won’t last a lifetime, as well as a source that provides ideal pieces for last minute fashion emergencies. We love H&M for that, but the newly vibrant store seems to have woken up from a looong nap with a completely new, and very TOPSHOP-like image. I discovered this when I strolled into H&M not expecting to find anything aside from the overstuffed racks, ill-fitting jeans, polyester sweaters that we love until they pill, basic tee-shirts, and lingerie for those blessed with the Barbie physique. However, I was immediately shocked as I reached for cascading ruffled blouses, fabulously contoured dresses and vests, empire waist coats and oh-so-over the top fabulous sweaters, tees, tanks and tartan high-waist skirts.

People, we have a lot to think about here - where will you be shopping? Take a look at H&M and let us know if you think their current image is similar to their rival’s. While TOPSHOP is offering Americans European styles, online shopping and a Kate Moss line, H&M prices are much lower and stores are located everywhere. What’s your pick? Are you going to hike to Broadway and Broome, stay loyal to our old friend, H&M, or mix it all up like a true fashionista?

Of course, we’ve all heard of Chanel. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the woman behind the successful fashion house was innovative, ingenious, and an independent thinker. She was never one to follow the trends, and soon she was the one setting the trends. She never quit, never accepted failure, and followed her own ideas all the way. During the depression, she worked with what she could, and designed some of her most significant pieces. You could say, she was given lemons and made some really great lemonade. So, be inspired! Yes, we’re all looking to save money right now - be innovative, be ingenious! You don’t have to spend a lot to look great. Do your research, or work wonders with what you have in your closet. Since we’ve been so inspired by the life of Coco Chanel, we’ve created a Chanel inspired look for under $190. Yes! You can look fabulous for under $200! Thanks Coco!

Tips when bargain hunting:
1. Pay attention to fabric. It shouldn’t look flimsy.
2. Keep it simple. If detail isn’t done well, it makes the garment look cheap.
3. Taylor it. A garment that fits nicely will always look better.
4. Look at high-end designer collections before you go shopping, so you can spot good copy when you see it.

Coco inspired items in this observation: