The Recessionista Reviews Lanvin for H&M

It’s the night before the Lanvin launch and all through the H&M house, not a creature is stirring, not even a mouse! I had the opportunity to see the collection prior to it’s official launch tomorrow at a preview tonight at the H&M showroom on Sunset Boulevard.  I’m pleased to report that it looks really good.  I’m not here to “flog” the collection, or make sure it will sell out, but there are some terrific pieces in it, and then some others that are just great party fun.  Most unexpected are the beautiful men’s suits.  There are midnight blue tuxedo jackets, traditional black tuxedo suits and some light cotton/linen suiting in beige.  This collection has some amazing menswear as well as women’s party frocks, jackets and fun jewelry.  There are even Lanvin for H&M lipsticks in bright holiday colors.

Tonight was supposed to be the exclusive West Coat preview of the collection at the new H&M in Las Vegas at Caesars Palace.  Sadly, H&M had to cancel tonight’s party and West Coast launch due to construction issues at the Caesars Forum Shoppes.  I for one was very disappointed, and also lost some dollars on that cancellation as  I was not able to use my non-refundable ticket.  However, I give H&M high marks for being responsive to the situation and reaching out promptly to make amends.  They arranged a private preview for me at the showroom on Sunset and gave me some shopping certificates to cover the loss of my $200.00 plane tickets.  So big props to H&M from this blogger!   The only problem is I didn’t get to get my shop on, and I am still wondering if I will line up tomorrow.  H&M will be giving shoppers wristbands tomorrow according to their place in line, to let them gain admittance to the stores where the collection will be sold.  Once you are admitted into the store, you will be able to only buy 2 of each piece. I like this policy. I hated the days of the eBayers swooping in, taking everything off the racks, and then marking it up outrageously and reselling it online.   Be aware that your time in store will be limited, so  have a look at the H&M website and select carefully what you might like and then move quick to get it.  You need to have a game plan, and maybe even a shopping buddy so you can divide and conquer.

 Pictured: One of my favorites: The long black tailored women’s coat. The collar is detachable.
 

Pictured: This faux fur coat is gorgeous and looks like mink.

Following are my top picks based on what I saw today. I’ll be posting more pictures later tonight, so check back.  We’re on real-time H&M Lanvin watch at The Recessionista. 

• The short women’s tuxedo jacket with the amazing buttons
• The women’s faux fur coat with the alternating rhinestone and black buttons (199.00US)
• The one shoulder dress in midnight blue/black.  
• Any of the men’s suiting that you can get your hands on.  Some of the blazers are amazing at at $149.00 US, you can’t beat the price.
• The long women’s tuxedo coat  ( $349.99 US)
• The tulle dress with the embellished collar is a doppelganger for a piece from the 2006 runway collection.  I like the look of it, and the fitted  waist. It will be flattering for many women.

On  my second choice list are the following novelty items.  These pieces are just a bit of holiday cheer.  You won’t want to wear them forever.

They are more trendy, but maybe fun to own for the price. 

•  The brightly colored holiday shoes for men and women.
•  The chunky big necklaces with the flowers, and the pins for women. (the flowers are plastic, but sturdy.)  I also like the large flower brooch.
•  The men’s sunglasses which look they belonged to Jack Nicholson.
•   The embellished T-shirts for women

All the pieces are well done.  I wish some of the edges on the ruffled dresses had better finishing. As a former seamstress and Vogue Pattern user, I  don’t like raggedy cut edges on clothes I pay over $100.00 for. I  also was not in love with the women’s bright floral ruffled dresses, but if you can rock it, go for it. My other misses are the women’s wristlet and  the small clutch bag.

They are way too overdone for my tastes.  Now for the eternal question: will I arise at the crack of dawn to get in the shopping queue for H&M Lanvin?  I ‘m not so sure.  LA is turning cold, and rain is definitely on the way.  The line will form at Beverly Center in am near Quinzo’s subs on Beverly Blvd.  The Century City and Sunset stores will also have the collection.  South Coast Plaza will too.  For the rest of the planet, check the H&M website.  My prediction, it will sell out quick.  Then there will be a few returns, so if you straggle in later, you can always find a few returns in the story. I’m still thinking if I want to spend my time sleeping or shopping tomorrow morning.  How about you dear reader?