Chanel-Inspired Details - H&M Black and White Tweed Skirt, $39.95

It's hard for me to talk about tweed without thinking of Coco Chanel, who pioneered the iconic tweed suit for women. Since Chanel clothing is quite far out of my price range, I'm always on the lookout for affordable pieces that embody CC-inspired details. Tweed, quilting, pearls, satin bows, camelia flowers, chain hardware - sigh, so elegant and timeless. I love it all!!

From left to right: Coco Chanel in pearls and bows (how lovely are her pearls?), felted camelia pin, black/white tweed snippet, and lilac classic flap from www.Malleries.com.

I already added 2 tweed pieces to my wardrobe this Fall (Banana Republic pencil skirt and a Theory dress suit), but both are work basics and not fun nor chic enough for weekend wear. So when I came across this super petite-looking tweed miniskirt from H&M Trend, I think I yelped a little with joy.

Black & White tweed miniskirt with grossgrain ribbon trim and mock pockets - Size 2, $39.95.

I had a little sticker shock when I saw the price on this skirt, but it is H&M "Trend" which runs more expensive. On that note, I was truly impressed by the workmanship on this skirt - much better than anything I've ever seen in their regular department. The tweed is a tight crosshatch material (looks pretty darn similar to the snippet of Chanel tweed shown above), the skirt is fully lined with piped trim at the inside waistband, and the grossgrain ribbon trim is sturdily stitched on.

And look, if you live in Sweden, you can even order the corresponding jacket online. Wouldn't ever want to wear it together with the skirt, but wouldn't this jacket be adorable with a black or white camelia flower pin? Why do Swedes get all the fun stuff? Better Ikea selection, better H&M selection, H&M online shopping ...

Click "Read More" to see more pics of this adorable skirt.



While leaving the store, I was already brainstorming about how to style this skirt. Pearl necklaces and tights are an obvious must, but what kind of top? For cocktail or evening occasions, a flirty ruffled blouse would complement the classic tweed. For a cozy yet elegant look, a soft black cashmere crewneck sweater would be perfect. Too bad I don't own one - I've been on the lookout for a tiny-fitting one for ages.

While wrapped up in my thoughts, I purchased the skirt and left the store without even noticing a glaring window display at the entrance. The next day while on a tea/cofee run, my coworker and I pass by H&M as he casually points out,"Hey, that looks like something you would wear!"

The top the mannequin is wearing would only work on fashionably bold, tall & slim women. I have an aversion for detailed or structured shoulders because it makes petites look even shorter and wider. Instead, I found a blouse at home with lots of ruffle details and some less obnoxious pearls. Ta-da! My version with opaque tights and Aldo satin pumps:

And with sheer tights (don't like these as much - not as concealing as the opaque):

Target blouse in juniors XS, H&M tights, Calvin Klein booties, and mom's(?) pearl necklaces.

I was so pleased that the skirt fit perfectly, with no alterations needed. The fabric has a tiny bit of stretch so that it fits snugly, but is not too snug on me. Also, as you may have noticed, I adore ruffled blouses! They are so feminine, and can be easily paired under suits, tucked into skirts, or with jeans. See old post on Ann Taylor ruffle blouses here. Unfortunately, my bf doesn't care for them, and calls the blouse shown above my "pirate shirt."

Could this skirt also be work appropriate? My coworkers voted "Yes." This skirt is inches shorter than anything I would dare wear to a business formal client, but this winter I get to work somewhere with a business casual dress code. Since my legs are so short, the skirt isn't too mini. I could probably get away with this paired with a jacket and opaque tights : )

Banana Republic Swing Jacket in 00p. I love the cute white contrast piping!

Ann Taylor ruffle tank in womens XS

Annnd...another ruffled top. This chiffon-ruffled tank top is a recent purchase from Ann Taylor. I couldn't find any in petite sizing, but it was $25 after sales and markdowns so I settled for a womens XS. It was pretty baggy and came down past my hips, but after being washed & dried it shrunk a bit.

A final snapshot, with matching patent flats (Bloomies) and watch (Movado outlet):

I'm loving this skirt, but torn about the price, being that it is H&M. At $40, should I keep or return?