To keep or not to keep: H&M Lace Draped Dress

I found a dress at H&M last week that I'm excited to share with you guys (I even have an extra one up for grabs). I would love your opinions on whether or not it's a keeper for the price of $59.95. Sometimes I am deluded into thinking something looks and fits fabulously, but then you guys help me see the light (ie. gap ankle pants, gahh).

This dress is from H&M "Trend." Trend is their more expensive line, distinguishable by more fashion-forward styles and noticeably better workmanship. I adore their styles, but unfortunately, from my experience their trendy stuff is usually cut for taller women (long hemlines, super structured shoulders, over-sized, flowy styles). But this dress - not really trendy, plus I thought it fit great:

Dress: H&M Trend sz 2 (fits like sz 00 and also comes in black)

Cardigan: Martin & Osa XS (can't wait for my long LOFT cardi's)

Sandals: Mossimo Palani sz 5.5 - love! Buy em HERE

Brooch/pendant: Vintage "Peri" Cameo pin from eBay

Click continue reading for my review...

I became obsessed with brooches and chains after watching Khatu's DIY video. I found this 1960's cameo from eBay. The chain is some cheapy one from A.C. Moore.

FIT: The bust is a smidge roomy (can accommodate up to a 32B or maybe 34A) but the waist is tiny. The tulip skirt is not too bubbly (see side view), but still gives the illusion of some hips. Measurements of a sz 2: 15" across the underarms, 11.75" across the waist. 33" total length.

QUALITY: As with my other H&M Trend stuff, I am pleased with the quality. The materials are not premium by any means (polyester / viscose / elastane blend) but the details speak for themselves: the gorgeous lace panel that crosses over the shoulders onto the back...the grosgrain ribbon waist...the delicate pleats and draping down the front...the generous pockets...love it all. Plus it's fully lined with a back zipper closure.

VERSATILITY: Not sure what type of occasions I can wear this to. I can see it being nice for a wedding, or on casual occasions with the long cardigan. What do you guys think?

VALUE: One part that is holding me back is the $59.95 price tag. A little much for H&M, but I've paid $40 before for my "Trend" skirts which have held up nicely. I am just biased because H&M stuff is usually so cheap, but if you think about it, dresses from BR and Ann Taylor retail for at least twice as much, plus they don't usually look nor fit too well on tiny petites.

A note on these Palani gladiator sandals. I love them, but don't expect quality for $25. The materials are all man-made, but the style and fit are perfect for me. They look great with skinny jeans too, and the heel is very comfy. I am going to pick up the same style in black (buy HERE).

PS - Hautelook (click here if you need an invite) is selling a number of beauty brands this week. Stila is up today, and the smokey eye palette I got last time is there even less this time around for $18 (retail $40). I love this palette and have been wearing it almost every day. It's small and perfect for travel. Here are some crappy swatch photos from my phone:

On Tuesday they are having Lorac. I bought a charcoal eyeshadow from there last time and wore it in this video, but ever since Stila arrived I have been neglecting it. And on Wednesday, they are having NYX cosmetics which is loved by beauty gurus all around. I don't have anything from there so I'm excited to see the offerings.

Readers - I'd love your thoughts on the dress. Would you buy it for $60?