It's no secret fast-fashion retailers pull "inspiration" from the most popular runway trends and design houses. But every so often, a label comes along that's not just showing a new style — it's creating a revolution, disrupting the way people dress, which sets a path for other companies, both luxury and accessible, to follow. And that's when you know something is kind of a big deal.
In 2016, this type of trickle-down trail can also be referred to as "the Vetements effect." When the world was first introduced to Demna Gvasalia's creative genius — which included bizarre silhouettes; too-long sleeves; and extra-wide, quarterback-style shoulders — many likely shrugged it off as yet another over-the-top, Fashion Week extravaganza. Six seasons later (and an added role as creative director of Balenciaga), Gvasalia's aesthetic has become a phenomenon — and one of the strongest influences in the industry today.
Thankfully, this impact means we can get in the "luxury streetwear" aesthetic without having to spend £600 on a sweatshirt. And since Gvasalia is all about "borrowing" looks from other labels and stores, it's no surprise that places like H&M are doing the same: offering some of Vetements' most ubiquitous trends, allowing the masses to get in on a little bit of the action. Click on to shop 10 of them on the cheap.
Oversized Hoodies
Hoodies were never exactly the first thing to come to mind when you think about an item that's "stylish." Now, however, you can wear one without looking like you're off-duty, especially when styled with heels or some bold accessories.
H&M Oversized Hooded Sweatshirt, £39.99, available at H&M.
Quirky Shirting
Vetements' runways almost always include some innovative takes on the button-up shirt, with details like vintage-inspired prints, super-high and tight necks, or interesting ruffle elements. This black-and-white striped option fits the bill.
H&M Cotton Shirt, £14.99, available at H&M.
Hidden Hands
Take the extra-long sleeve trend and run with it (if you need further convincing, just look to the runway).
H&M Knitted turtleneck Sweater, £39.99, available at H&M.
Leather Legs
If the leather, crotch-height boots from the last Vetements show aren't quite your thing, you can still get the same look with a pair of leather trousers.
H&M Leather Pants, £199.99, available at H&M.
Dark Florals
You wouldn't expect florals from a label as strange and often twisted as Vetements, but that's part of why they make so much sense. They're shown dark, prairie-like, and meant to be contrasted with a high-impact boot or clashing pattern.
H&M Patterned Dress, £39.99, available at H&M.
Intentionally Unflattering Shapes
Remember when you were told wrap dresses were flattering? Think again. With this style, loose waists, wide shoulders, and long sleeves reign supreme.
H&M Calf-length Dress, £39.99, available at H&M.
Not-Dainty Ruffles
Pulling off Vetements-style ruffles is all in the styling — try pants, patent-leather boots, and some bed head to balance things out.
H&M Dress with Frills, £39.99, available at H&M.
School Attire Gone Rogue
Take your school uniform and make it fashion. Bonus points if the shirt is just a few sizes too big (especially in the sleeves).
H&M Oversized Cotton Shirt, £29.99, available at H&M.
Pilot Jackets
Go big in sizing and let it hang off your shoulders just so.
H&M Oversized Silk Pilot Jacket, $129 (£98), available at H&M.
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