Texture-patterned Dress

Hundreds of new styles have been added to H&M's sale section. Use code 0040 for free shipping on orders over $40.

I had given this black and blue bruised look a whirl some time ago but still find it a challenge to conquer. It's certainly one of those past fashion faux pas that has been rehabilitated to the point of widespread acceptance.

Zara Wool Jacket (similar) | ICB Leather A-Line Skirt (borrowed from mom) | Forever 21 Necklace | Zara Sweater with Faux Leather Elbow Patches | Zara Haircalf Bow Gloves | H&M Cable Tights | Forever 21 Classic Oversized Faux Leather Clutch | Dolce Vita Madison Pumps

As the designer and high-street collaboration craze continues to smolder, I bought into the fanaticism that was the Isabel Marant for H&M collection last month.

I didn't have the luxury of time or patience to line up outside a store so waited for lunch time to roll around and made my purchase online (my preferred shopping medium).

About a month ago I wrote a Wear It Five Ways post on different ways to wear a lace dress and received a few requests to show how I turned the dress into a top.

H&M blazer, Forever 21 top (similar) + bracelet, J. Crew skirt (similar here & here) + bag, and Via Spiga wedges

Tobi Blouse, Forever 21 skirt (runs at least a size big; size down) + bracelet, H&M belt, See by Chloe bag, and Ann Taylor shoes

Where do I begin with high-low skirts? Or, as J likes to call them, mullet skirts. I was at first ambivalent about them but as soon as I tried one on, it was instant infatuation. The skirt catches the wind in such a romantic way and I can't help but become a high-low skirt convert.

The skirt is easy enough to pair but I thought I would brainstorm a few ideas here anyway.

Some beginner styling tips for the high-low skirt: I think this skirt can be worn as a fall piece (add a fitted leather jacket and you are ready to go) but I decided to focus on how it can be worn comfortably for the summer. If your high-low skirt is a solid color, like mine, you can try pairing it with a fun floral print (top left), a military-inspired blouse (top right), or a lace top (bottom right). I would say it's pretty difficult to go wrong in these simple pairings - the skirt itself is interesting enough so there's no need to style it with more complicated designs.

To get more use out of this skirt, you can consider wearing it as a top (top middle) with some fitted capri pants and a piece of statement jewelry. Or, you can take advantage of the longer outer layer and tie it around your neck and wear this skirt as a dress (bottom middle).

Of course, you always have the option of wearing a high-low skirt with the tank top of your choice (solid colors, busy prints, fitted, loose, whatever catches your fancy). I do want to add that since this skirt is flowy, you might want to avoid a pairing mate that is too blousy. There is always an off-chance that that pairing would come across as being too shapeless and overwhelming.

My high-low skirt is from H&M and it cost $17.95.

And an outfit that I wore out a few weeks ago. I consider myself a simple dresser so I love pieces that fit well within my existing wardrobe.

From left to right: Pim + Larkin Polka Dot Skirt, Layered Skirt, Wrap Skirt, Leopard Skirt, Woodleigh Skirt, Cynthia Rowley Print Skirt

My favorite DIY/style blogger SewPetiteGal is the host of this month's Petite Fashion Challenge and here's the challenge she posed:

H&M top + skirt, Forever 21 belt, bracelet, + necklace, J. Crew bag, and DvF sandals

Forever 21 blouse, J. Crew cardigan, Abercrombie & Fitch skirt, H&M belt & bracelet, and See by Chloe bag

Ann Taylor blouse, H&M blazer, Club Monaco skirt, Butter shoes, and J. Crew bag

H&M dress + trench, Marc Jacobs bag, F21 necklace, and Ziginy shoes