This is the first of a series on stores where those of us size 10-18 can find cool stuff fairly easily.
First up is Swedish superchain H&M, which has been slowly taking over the planet with its Euro style at low prices. It skews youngish but ladies of all ages can find something wearable there. Accessories are often ridiculously inexpensive and you can get great deals on its sales.
I first got hooked on the chain when I walked into one of its many NYC stores in July 2002. Shortly thereafter, H&M expanded like crazy on the East Coast, and in May 2003, one opened a short drive away from me in Tysons Corner, VA and one opened a short distance away from where I worked in downtown D.C.. Needless to say, I was a frequent visitor.
Then in 2004, I moved to Southern California, where there were no H&Ms. I went through withdrawal. When H&M finally came to CA, it chose to open first in...San Francisco. It took nearly 1-2 more years before it opened in L.A. and Orange County. Closer than San Fran, but its newest store in Irvine is still an hour's drive. Waah!
What's great for us: For most of its women's lines, it's usually easy to find sizes 10-16 or L and XL in dresses, skirts, pants, and tops. Generously-cut A-line skirts can even allow you to go down a size or two depending. You can find anything to fit your style, whether you're a teen or a workin' gal. Not to mention the low prices.
What's not so great: Size 18 on up are not available. H&M used to carry a plus line but it has been dropped from its U.S. stores (for good reason, the stuff I saw was fugly). Some items can run small, so it might be necessary to size up. Its sporty LOGG and junior Divided lines stop at size 12. Occasional items are a bit dodgy in quality.
Can you order online: Sadly, no.
Where's it located: Visit www.hm.com to find a store nearest to you.
2 comments:
Never heard of it. Need to check it out.
Oooh, you don't know what you're missing! Granted, there aren't as many of them in CA as there are on the East Coast. I keep hoping they'll open at least one in San Diego County eventually.
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