Welcome to Austin, H&M

I do not wait in lines – unless those lines lead to Margiela.
When I arrived at the Nov 20 H&M launch party, the line to get in was wrapped around two blocks. Now, I’ve been ecstatic for H&M to open in Austin, but in all honesty, I only RSVP’d to the launch party to get my hands on the fall collaboration with Maison Martin Margiela.

The collection has been highly anticipated because, unlike H&M’s previous designer collaborations, the Margiela line features solely re-editions of the house’s most iconic pieces – for a reasonable H&M price. The collection is perfect for lovers of all things lavish, who don’t have a Beyonce bank account.

I waited in line for around 45 minutes to get into the store – but it was definitely worth the wait. H&M gave all shoppers 25% off their entire purchase–even Margiela for H&M!!
The massive 24,000 square foot space was filled with burgundy leggings, forest green turtlenecks, digital print trousers, neon cocktail dresses–and their adoring fans. It was overwhelming, but I fought the urge to hide out among the mannequins and scoured the racks. I successfully departed with a Margiela top, faux-suede H&M leggings and neon jewel earrings.

The arrival of H&M in Austin means no longer pining over luxury goodies that are thousands of miles away, instead stockpiling them every chance I get. The only drawback? My friends and I are about to have identical closets…
Ah, well, it’s worth it. Welcome, H&M, I <3 you.