Budget Fashion

I stopped by my local H&M over the weekend in hopes of finding a cute bathing suit with Marimekko's cheerful, retro-fabulous patterns, but alas, all they had were a few skimpy bikinis that could have been from just about anywhere, i.e., they were nothing special.

Some colorful cotton tops and a graphic black and white sundress were instantly recognizable as Marimekko designs, but the quality wasn't up to snuff. Other pieces in the collection included white pants, black shorts and some solid color camis to complete the looks, but it was kinda like, what's the point? We came for the prints!

As for accessories, there was a black and white graphic tote, a beachy white bucket hat, two different styles of signature-print scarves and a blue & pink print coin purse. I was tempted to buy a Marimekko scarf to use as a wall hanging or something, but decided it wasn't worth the $24.90 pricetag. Who knows, though…I might go back for something just so I have a sort of "souvenir" (as strange as that may sound).

Overall, I was bummed. The Marimekko for H&M collection wasn't bad - it just could have been so much better. Perhaps they can team up with Target and do a line of home furnishings. And then we'll call it even.