Of the seven (clothing) brands nestled under the H&M Group, Arket has to be my favourite. They’re positioned as more of an eco-conscious brand, with Scandic-chic timeless essentials. Think wardrobe basics in core neutrals with the occasional burst of colour, and high quality materials (which often includes recycled fibres). I recently placed an order for some new closet staples, and thought it was time to share an Arket Review for 2023 here on my blog.
It’s worth noting that some of my most worn, most loved items are from the brand. And so far, so good. I’ve yet to be disappointed by the quality, and the only reason I’ve ever sent something back? Because the fit wasn’t quite right, or the colour didn’t suit me. Not a bad run if you ask me. So let’s dive in and chat through the six items I ordered.
Arket Ribbed Cotton Jumper (item ID 1165467-003) | size S
First thing I added to cart was this ribbed cotton jumper. I was after an updated replacement for an Enza Costa sheer long sleeve top which had truly seen better days. What drew me to this style, was that it was seemingly more opaque, but had the added ribbed detail. Chic, and a basic that works well both on its own or as a layering piece. I chose to keep this, but did want to note that the thumbholes at the end of the sleeves come up a little short. Not only that, the sleeve length seems to have shrunk up slightly since laundering so it’s no longer a functioning detail for me.
This is the first time I’ve felt a pang of disappointment from an Arket purchase. But aside from that, I like the fit, and the texture of the cotton hasn’t changed since washing it. I have the size S and it hugs the body in a soft way. Not too tight.
Would I buy it again? Right now I’m on the fence. I think I’d probably seek out some other options, or consider getting one of the merino wool long sleeve knit tops instead.
Arket Taffeta Midi Skirt (item ID 1185336-001) | size 36
One of two wild card pieces I added to cart was this taffeta midi skirt. It piqued my interest as it appeared to be a good dupe for Tibi’s nylon skirt, but with a fixed waistband. Which personally, I prefer, if I want to look intentionally more put together. Probably goes without saying, but elasticated waistbands tend to read “casual”.
This surprised me in just how much I liked it. The taffeta has this ethereal, light quality which has volume and movement to it. One of the ways I’m often drawn to clothing is in the perspective of how it feels to wear it, and clearly, this was doing all the right things. The size 36 is a perfect fit. A little bit of room at the waist to tuck in a thicker knit, which allows some give to wear lower or higher on the waist depending on my styling.
Not lined, but doesn’t need to be. A great option to transition from summer through to winter, too.
Arket Wide Hopsack Wool Trousers (item ID 1122104-001) | size 36
I have a couple of wool hopsack items from Arket in my closet, and couldn’t be happier with them. So I added this to cart with the intention of the trousers being the matching pair to a blazer I purchased over two years ago. Colour is a tricky thing to match online, so when it arrives I quickly realised that the ‘dark beige’ shade I ordered was warmer and deeper than the blazer I already owned.
I went with a size 36, and if your intention is to wear these low on the hips, then it was the perfect fit for me. For reference, I’m a true AU8 or US4, and wear a 26 in jeans. As a long-waisted girly, this didn’t really jive with me. Most items I’ll buy need to be mid to high rise or have some heavy justification as I know I’ll seldom reach for it otherwise. So, if you’re like me, I would recommend sizing down one to get that high rise effect. There’s enough length through the rise to accommodate.
Ultimately I chose to return these, because aside from the desire to get them tailored for my perfect fit, the caramel tortoise button just kind of bothered me. It’s wholly inoffensive, so very much a question of personal taste. I would have preferred a concealed button and clasp closure for a clean, minimal look.
Also worth noting that YES you can launder the wool hopsack pieces. I recommend doing a wool wash setting, and hanging to dry. They come out looking like new.
Arket oversized t-shirt (item ID 1115412-002) | size S
A repeat purchase in a different colour way. Always a good sign of an absolute winner. The organic cotton is beautiful; it’s not too thick, yet is robust, soft, and drapes nicely against the body. Post-laundered fabric feels the same as pre-wash, which can always be a bit of a gamble.
The fit of this top isn’t going to be for everybody. It’s wide through the body, boxy cut, with a wide sleeve. I find that this particular tee looks best when worn tucked in, as it helps to counter the very chill nature of the design. If you’re petite, you may find it helpful to size down one. I went with my usual size small, which works well for me for a super nonchalant vibe and fit. I’m 172cm tall for reference.
Arket rib tank top (item ID 1163690-002) | size S
More basics. As I said earlier, it’s something the brand does well, and I used this order (with 15% off) as an opportunity to stock up. This tank I liked for the neckline; more of a curved, racerback style. And also the fit. Described as slim, it’s exactly that. Not figure-hugging or “snug”, but cut close to the body in a way that ruches up nicely. This fits incredibly long, so for those with a shorter torso you may find you either want to get some of the excess fabric chopped off, or that you have a lot to tuck in.
A blend of organic and recycled cotton, this feels lovely against the hand. Medium in weight, though not fully opaque. Would recommend wearing skin-toned undergarments. Wearing a size S which fits true to size for a slim (but not tight) fit.
Arket rigid leather crossbody bag (item ID 1012998-015)
The other wild card item I added to cart was this crossbody bag. Honestly, I had no intention of keeping it. I more added it to cart as a curiosity. Having no physical stores near me, I wanted to see how it stacked up to my Acne mini musubi bag. And let me tell you, a side by side comparison is coming.
Colour me impressed. The leather is basically a match in terms of quality and thickness, and the style exudes that Acne Studios cool vibe, without the price tag.
My personal opinion is that if you’re priced out of the Acne style, you’ll get the same feeling carrying this bag around, as you would the musubi. Coming from someone who owns both; I’m getting just as much joy and value out of the more affordable, Arket version. Obviously there are some small design differences, but in the scheme of bags – and how we’ll look at what’s trending now in 10-20 years’ time – they’re very similar.
Ended up keeping this, and have zero regrets.
What would you have kept vs. what would you return from this Arket order?
