WWD reported that the "gloves were off" in Paris and London for today's launch of Sonia Rykiel’s knitwear collaboration with H&M. After extended pre-opening waits, crazed, clawing fashionistas cleared the racks quickly in both cities.
Yeah, been there, done that, and almost lost a limb during previous Cavalli and Rei Kawakubo's Commes des Garcons releases.
For this one, I took my sweet time and strolled into the store well past noon to find filled racks with only the occasional tourist stocking up. By the end of the day, it was a different story, but there certainly wasn't the Black Friday @ Walmart frenzy that usually accompanies release of these one-off capsule collections.
I was bowled over by the quality of the main fabric, found in everything from the dresses and sweaters to the awesome scarf wrap and bejeweled beret. Softest, pima cotton that's tightly woven, for an excellent hand and durability--this is fast fashion that won't fade away.
Sizing was a different story--the signature rainbow stripe sweater dress was enormous (46" around the underarms for the XS), while the strappy halter version of the dress was 28" (that's not a typo) around the underarms.
The scarf is by far my fave piece--after purchasing several to stock my gift closet, I ripped off the tag and put one on before leaving the store. How cute is the Sonia doll?
Here are some other window display photos...spring time in Paris anyone???
Sonia Rykiel on eBay