get there early get out fast

Versace for H&M debuts next weekend and if you're planning on attending, you'll need to prepare yourself both mentally and physically. Last year I went to Lanvin for H&M and I was like, "oh no way it'll be that crowded I bet I'll be the only one there at 8 o'clock in the morning; people don't care that much" but how silly and naiive was I: by the time I arrived at 8:00 AM a huge crowd had already assembled. I still got a pair of shoes and a dress though, so no big deal, but it was so scary standing in line praying things would still be left by the time I got in. Also, people be crazy and pushing and violent. So for all of you hoping to snag a piece from the Versace for H&M collection, take note:

1. The earlier, the better. Versace for H&M debuts on Saturday, November 19th, at 8:00 AM in select stores (be sure to check the H&M website here for a list of participating stores). Get there as early as possible! The first 280 people in line will recieve colored wristbands (20 people per color) corresponding to a certain time slot in which they can shop. So try to get into one of the first groups. Those who arrive after the first 280 people will be let in later (at around 11:00) in groups to pick over the remains of the collection.

2. Look at the collection beforehand and decide what you want. Then you can prioritize and scramble for the pieces you know you want first.

3. Grab as much as you can. But be polite: don't shove others, or snatch things out of people's hands. However, if you see something in your size, go for it. You can always put it back later.

4. Bring snacks/coffee/phone for the wait. Your waiting time is always longer than expected. Because there are always people even crazier than you willing to camp out in front of the store.

5. The men's collection has a much, much, much shorter wait. And more often than not, no wait at all. You don't need a wristband to be one of the first to shop Versace for H&M men's, so do take a look at the men's pieces. I personally have my eye on the super-sweet bomber jacket. Gender bending works, especially with Versace!

So to prepare for the Versace for H&M debut, take a look at the entire collection below:

Men's:

$129. What I'll be racing my way towards.

Prepare. This is a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration.

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