INDstyle

Cheap chic

by Amanda Bedgood

First ever H&M store slated for Louisiana offering high-end fashion with low-end prices

If you're a fashionista, you know about H&M. And there is no doubt you shall rejoice as this IND Styler did upon hearing news (verified, legit) that the well-known purveyor of exquisitely trendy pieces on a shoestring budget finally arrives in the Pelican State.

While H&M is setting up shop in the French Quarter (we're super jealous over here, but figure the universe could never allow both a Whole Foods and H&M in such quick order) and we try to stick to all things Lafayette, we had to give a shout out in case a day trip were in order. The new store will occupy the old Hard Rock filling more than 32,000 square feet with clothing that manages to stay ahead of trends without breaking the bank.

And while it will be a bit before the doors open, we had to give a round up of our fav new finds from the Swedish store. For you see, one of the cruel truths of H&M - you can't buy online. That's right. You can peruse their pieces, even "try on" different ensembles with models of your choosing. But, you have to hit up the store in person for these steals.

Let's start with the army-green dress with sexy lacy details. This dress and other versions of it replacing those peek-a-boo lace cut outs with sheer fabric (or no fabric if you dare) are everywhere for spring. The beauty of these peek-a-boo spots are that they accentuate an area only ever so slightly and are in a spot that is one of the most flattering on a woman - sitting above the waist and revealing little.

The army green continues with these silky shorts and blazer. Just the way to do shorts for the office (if you have a liberal leaning business casual environment) or add a chunky necklace for the perfect easy weekend look.

There are few things this IND Styler loves more than distressed denim and long tanks. This deep wine tank may not scream spring, but it's just the sort of rich hue that's making it's way into the season along with all that watermelon and mint green.

And then there is the tropical-print dress. The epitome of summer, the palm-leafed print is going to be huge. This easy dress is a way for even the timid to wear it, but we are loving wildly printed tropical pants with crisp white tops and natural-hued cork wedges.

So, next time you're in NOLA, take our advice and check out one of the world's biggest retailers without worrying about how you'll afford the gas back home.