Today H&M launched its limited edition Comme des Garcons collection in Los Angeles and three other US cities, and although we were not on line at 2 AM like some frantic shoppers ready to bombard the racks, we were waiting behind the battle-lines alongside H&M's Sunset Plaza staff in anticipation.

The staff began a countdown like it was New Year's Eve: five four three two: and at 9 AM on the dot, the glass doors opened and the frenzy began.  The chic collection of trench coats, trapeze pants and cardigans were snagged up within seconds as a swarm of shoppers began grabbing and pulling from the multiple racks of Rei Kawakubo's designs.

The palette of black, midnight blue, red, rose and polka dotted print made up the CdG collection found in only 8 of H&M's US locations - Los Angeles is home to two (Sunset Plaza and Beverly Center) and there are four in New York, one in Chicago and one in San Francisco.

Everything from blouses and tees to doctor's bags, canvas sneakers and scarves piled up and hung over customers arms.  From the looks of the scene you would never be able to tell there was any sort of economic issue plaguing the country.

First it was Karl Lagerfeld, and then Stella McCartney and Roberto Cavalli both joined the list of designers to collab with our mass market favorite H&M. We're loving the Comme des Garcons price tags that read only $24.90-$349.  Take a little trip over and see what's left.  I'm sure your girlfriend would be thrilled with one of those polka dot sweaters (our editor's hoping his is).

THE MUST HAVE: Satin Buttoned Trench Coat, $199

THE DETAILS: H&M
8580 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90265
310.855.9683
www.hm.com

Story by Marisa Lynch.

STILL SPENDING?  TRY JOHN VARVATOS MALIBU