Hello Darlings, There are some soirees where a trusty little black dress simply won’t do. You know, one of those evenings where you want to make an impression. A few days ago there was one of those evenings in my life, attending a private party hosted by Elizabeth Arden to preview their Spring collection.

Aside from being a work related event, it was also a date night and what girl doesn’t want to dress to impress both her colleagues and her beau. Any woman can walk into a luxe designer boutique and walk out in a look from the latest collection. But when buying a new designer piece is not a realistic option, not to mention responsible...

In the words of ever-so-wise Carrie Bradshaw you don’t want to wear patchouli in a room full of Chanel.) But what if we can’t afford Chanel? Well, that's when style takes over!

Money can buy clothes but imagination is what creates outfits are great words to live by, and I am a firm believer that confidence is all you need. It is incredible how many people can ruin a perfectly good Chanel suit with wrong coloured pumps and a grumpy face! Attitude and self-assurance is what matters most. Attitude is what can turn Patchouli into Chanel, and vice versa.

I Am Wearing: H&M Mint Dress // Marc by Marc Jacobs Coat // Marc by Marc Jacobs Patent Leather Mary Jane Pumps // Pandora Leather and Charm Bracelet // Coach Madison Lindsey Satchel 

So with my patchouli vs Chanel dilemma in full effect, I was eager to wear my new pastel H&M stunner to the Elizabeth Arden soiree. Yes, it may have only cost me forty dollars, but I still felt on top of the world. After receiving several Mad Men'ish compliments, I was then and there convinced that despite being in a room full of Chanel, it is possible to wear patchouli when done right.

[nggallery id=22]

And reality is that some of my favorite pieces are from H&M, maybe because I do not over think the purchases and simple enjoy them.

What are your thoughts - can patchouli be your Chanel?

With Love...

Marta