While the rest of the world shoppers were clamoring (and refreshing their browsers obsessively) for the H&M x Isabel Marant Collection, here in the bluegrass the madness simply surrounded the opening of our first H&M. Alas, we didn’t get any of the seriously amazing designer collaboration but we did get a seriously awesome addition to the local shopping scene.

H&M very graciously offered me and the giveaway winners an opportunity to sneak into the store a little early (aka before the madness) to get our bearings and do a little (or a lot) of shopping. I’m not going to lie, it was pretty awesome. Meeting the giveaway winners was a real treat and we were all like kids on Christmas morning – bright eyed and seriously excited.

The scene at Oxmoor was crazy. According to estimates, there were 400 people in line at 9 a.m., Lisbeth from H&M said that people even slept outside the store the night before. Clearly, people were hype. The hype atmosphere continued inside with a DJ and party atmosphere helping countdown to the ribbon cutting.

Once the three fabulous prize winners arrived, we made the most of our 30 minute head start. As Britt put it, “it feels like we’re on Super Market Sweep.” We divided and conquered spending most of our time on the first floor dominating the women’s section. If you never even set foot upstairs you’ll be impressed with the offerings: ladies, juniors, work wear, lingerie, maternity, workout gear and accessories for days. Take a quick trip upstairs and you’ll find a great men’s department and an adorable kid’s section. I’m already planning on heading back to do a little holiday wear shopping for the little guy.

There are basics like tees, blazers and sweaters galore. I’m pretty sure I scooped up four sweaters – all great basics at a great price that I’ll be rocking all winter long. One of my favorite buys at H&M are scarves and they had bright prints, chunky snoods, camo, leopard, skulls, basics and more. I also added a couple plaid shirts to my collection (my tip: buy a size or two up for that slouchy, worn-in look). Here’s a snap of what I walked away with. Side note: the staff at the store is BEYOND nice and CRAZY helpful. The GM Emily was so great and every person I encountered was wonderful.

All in all it was a really fun experience and the atmosphere at the mall was really exciting to see. I’m just glad I snuck out of there before the real craziness all began.

Thanks so much to H&M for having us! 
p.s. – if you’re looking for the store, it’s right next to Sephora and has an outdoor entrance.