Balmain x H&M collaboration hits stores Nov. 5
Balmain creative director Olivier Rousteing, center, and models Dudley O'Shaughnessy, left, Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Jourdan Dunn at the Balmain x M&M Collection Launch in Manhattan on Oct. 20, 2015. Credit: Getty Images / Dimitrios Kambouris
The buzz is more like a roar when it comes to the hotly anticipated Balmain x H&M collaboration, hitting stores Nov. 5.
The French luxury house is a favorite of the Kardashians (Kim's wax figure at Madame Tussauds is dressed in Balmain, and half-sis Kendall Jenner stars in advertising for the collection). But dresses can easily run $10,000. Good news is that designer Olivier Rousteing's signature looks -- sexy, sharply tailored and richly embellished -- have been translated for the masses in a well-made, high-quality, high-fashion way.
The bad news is the collection is pricey by H&M standards. A heavily beaded signature mini will run you $649; an allover fuchsia embellished sheath, $499, and a beaded stiletto-heeled bootie, $349. There are a few logoed items more in line with traditional H&M prices such as a beanie cap, $17.99, tee shirt, $34.99, and ear buds, $49.99.
There's also a menswear collection. Some of it is super-smart, such as a military-inspired olive coat ($299) and a wide-lapel tux jacket ($199), though a red leather jacket with black inserts ($349) gives off a Michael Jackson vibe. That said, expect shopper frenzy at the store, long lines and a lightning-fast sellout.
