Winter is turning into spring and with the start of a new season, it's time to pack away your chunky knits and embrace an armoury of colourful separates.

Luckily, spring pieces are finally trickling into store and, as ever, H&M is at the top of our warm-up wishlist. The brand's new collection will give you a head start with floaty fabrics, printed dresses and a healthy dose of vivid colour.

We took the pieces to Penang Island, Malaysia to give them a test-drive. It was there that we found the heritage area of George Town with colonial buildings and lantern-lit streets making for the perfect backdrop.

ELLE's Senior Fashion Editor Michelle Duguid styled our two models in feminine pieces mixed with a hint of grunge. Think a '90s Courtney Love complete with undone hair, slept-in makeup and a carefree attitude.

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Ed Singleton

The outfits showcase a key trick for transitioning into the new season; creating a balance between utilitarian and pretty. See frothy tulle breaking up layers of denim, lace crop tops worn under khaki jackets and playful frills tempered by mannish trousers and chunky heels. It's that effortless cool girl look we all aspire to.

Want to see the pieces in action? Click play on the video below to see our two girls stay up all night to explore the bustling night market before watching the sunrise from a nearby beach. It's a celebration of that 'devil-may-care' mood you only get on holiday.

preview for ELLE x H&M

H&M's Spring collection will be available in store and on www.hm.com from March 30th.