Ways to Wear It - $15 H&M Convertible Strapless Dress

I stopped by H&M after work yesterday, and surprisingly found sooo much cute stuff in small sizes! I went to town on their "Trend" line, which is sold only at select stores across the country (available at the Newbury St. location in Boston). H&M Trend is a little more expensive than their regular line, but is more fashion-forward and better constructed, using better materials. After I discovered Trend, I rarely ever shop in the regular section anymore. I picked up several skirts today from H&M Trend, to be showcased later when lighting is better - stay tuned!

Today the focus is on a simple dress from H&M's "Divided" juniors line. The dress is belted with a nice sweetheart neckline, which I instantly liked for layering over tops. There were literally piles of this dress available in every size, re-priced (not on sale) from $29.50 to a mere $14.50. I saw it in black and purple, out of which I chose boring black. Apparently, in Sweden in comes in electric blue as well:

I got a size 4, thinking that since it was juniors it would run small, but it doesn't. The 4 is too big in the bust area for me, so it's being exchanged for a sz 2. As expected, there's nothing outstanding about the quality nor material of this dress, but the fit was decent and I thought it was a great deal for the price. I also found it to be quite versatile!

1. Cocktail
Worn plainly, with the straps removed. Replaced the original belt for a wider elastic one in size XS (also found at H&M today for $10!). Ankle-strap stilettos are from BCBG.

Click "Read More" to see more ways to wear this bargain dress.



2. Chic
Worn with Aldo peep toe pumps over Target juniors XS white pleated button-up shirt, $6. This looks exactly like something my boss' secretary would wear. In fact, I think she wore this today : )

3. Career
To make this dress business-appropriate, I paired it over a black top (same top as above, just in black) and cropped BR 00p jacket to make the strapless aspect more conspicuous. The belt shown is the one the dress came with.

4. Casual
Worn with tights ($5, H&M) over a neutral-colored tee ($8, H&M), with plaid scarf ($15, also from H&M ... see a trend yet, lol?) and vintage flat boots. I think this dress would look better over a soft heathered gray long sleeved tee, which is on my to-get list.

5. Cozy
Worn over Theory seamless stretch tank (one size, from Saks off 5th) and with Theory cashmere cardigan (size P, from eBay). Paired with diamond-patterned tights ($16, Banana Republic) and Nine West patent pumps.

I think this one's my favorite. Also could be work appropriate!