he two-story, high profile retail slot vacated recently by Kenneth Cole was generous enough to fit the volumes of clothing that define H&M, a store one shopper said is perfect for “recession chic”. With pieces that allow the composition of an entire outfit for under $100 and inventory that’s often trendy and of-the-moment, many shoppers flocked here to gather finds that they’d wear for one, maybe two, seasons, or add to the existing wardrobes they showed off upon arrival.

We know H&M as the place for “fashion and quality at the best price”, as they say in the H&M corporate world. Seattle was ripe for the invasion. High-priced boutiques are everywhere, Nordstrom’s Flagship store is the standby, and flea-market style abounds, but affordable ready-to-wear (en masse) was a bit hard to find. Worthy of a Red Carpet Affair? Hmm…worthy of at least a very warm welcome and a swipe of the debit card.

Page