Famous Swedish retailer H&M is back again with a new collection that must be shared. The H&M ‘Essentials’ lookbook by Ann-Sofie Johansson for spring/summer 2011 focuses on the head designer’s fashion favorites. The line focuses on casual, effortless clothes, perfect for all those who want to keep their appearance while staying comfortable.

As the name suggests, the collection includes beautiful, stylish essentials and tailored versions of casual clothes, such as elegant blazers and jackets, yet teamed in amazing, fashionable contrasts. The entire line is so laidback, yet it manages to bring updates going back to basics through specific colors and cuts.

Casual doesn’t necessarily mean messy, lazy and untidy. And if there is one thing that H&M emphasizes through their latest collection is that glam and style can be synonymous with practicality. Everything stands in the way you mix and match. For example, a denim jacket paired with a feminine skirt can create a great contrast, while a posh boyfriend blazer can give a casual twist to the on-trend smart style.

The key pieces in this line are new versions of some old faithfuls. From trench coats and suits to denim items and capris, H&M builds a purposeful collection that makes absolute sense for the season that is about to start.

The entire ‘Essentials’ collection was thought around the idea of casual style. Modern looks include numerous must-haves for spring/summer 2011, such as the already famous second-skin shades, which are a true love story this season. From nude pants and shorts to head-to-toe nude appearances, H&M comes with fashionable variants for everyone and for every occasion. And suddenly, the whole nude shade idea doesn’t seem so boring. Jackets, waistcoats and pants in nude hues teamed with white flats can be the perfect match for a comfortable, office-appropriate outfit.

White, anyone? Yes, of course. With the new season’s trends proving that getting back to basics is a good thing, H&M shows us that there is beauty in simplicity. Besides, when a classic item such as the white shirt is reinvented, improved and worn properly, the result can only be cool and smart. Moreover, the white-black combination is timeless. Don’t be afraid to try an androgynous approach which is so hot this season.

Photos courtesy of H&M