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Versace for H&M vs. the real thing: How does it compare? – Metro US

Versace for H&M vs. the real thing: How does it compare?

It’s hard to believe that collaborations between designers and mass market brands can still generate the level of excitement that Donatella Versace’s new collection for H&M has.

Each launch is another opportunity to snag wallet-friendly versions of a runway look you couldn’t afford to buy.

But shoppers want dresses that scream designer, not chintzy knockoff. Frankly, there haven’t been a whole lot of high-low collaborations that have struck the right balance. So we decided to compare H&M’s latest with a few standouts from the Versace archives.

Versace:

H&M:

1. This dress, which is straight from the S/S ’12 show, has that “just off the runway” feeling. The H&M version may not have the leather strips and asymmetry that the catwalk dress does, but it impressively nails the maximal, studded-to-the-Gods look of the original.

Versace:

H&M:

2. Donatella replaces the original’s Greek key pattern — a trademark of the Versace house that appears on other items in the H&M collection — with graphic hearts. The problem: the hand-drawn love symbols cheapen the look. But the patterned fringing and cut-out shoulders are just right.

Versace:

H&M:

3. These tropical trousers will make a colorful alternative to the festive cocktail dress for your office holiday party. That said, the H&M incarnation out-Versace’s the original pants in loudness, even if they are missing the little baroque trim at the hem.

Versace:

H&M:

4. On paper, the two are nearly identical. The flashy buckle and gilt waistband are there. But here’s hoping the H&M belt won’t turn silver after a few too many wears.

The grade

The H&M line feels more like new Versace than old. It does a great job of recreating the brand’s money-is-no-object look by steering clear of fancy fabrics that are impossible to re-do on the cheap and sticking with the fun details that make the garments stand out in the first place. That said, maybe just avoid buying the “gold” accessories.