Swedish fashion retailer H&M first opened up shop in the States 13 years ago in New York City. Given New Orleans' reputation as a shopping mecca, one wondered when the Big Easy would get a slice of H&M.
The initial grand opening for the retailer was set to be October 31st. After a slight delay, the store will now open in mid-November on the corner of Decatur and St. Louis. This will put it right between The Shops at Canal Place and the stores inside Jax Brewery.
The new 32,000-square-foot space will be the one of the first U.S. stores to feature a Home Department. Traditionally, the retailer focuses on selling clothing and accessories for adults and children. They offer designer type clothes at affordable prices, making them sort of an IKEA for clothing (keeping with the Swedes).
Some have expressed concern about another "chain retailer" entering the city, while others are clamoring for the opening, happy that their city is welcoming some of the stores that make home in other large cities. For the former, H&M will be replacing a chain restaurant, so no mom-and-pop types will be displaced because of this new addition.
For travelers, having an H&M in the French Quarter will be perfect for complementing your travel wardrobe on the go. If you have an unexpected dinner or client meeting, H&M can have you fitted for the occasion without busting the wallet. You won't have to worry about your style suffering because of the price tag
The new Home Department will be sort of a mini Bed Bath & Beyond. Shoppers can expect to find things like linens, curtains, carpets and other bedroom/bathroom type options. For travelers who are renting homes or apartments in the French Quarter, stopping at H&M could be vital to setting up your travel home for your stay.
There are always large events in town that draw travelers, like conventions, the Super Bowl and Jazz Fest–to name a few. The opportunity to showcase your flair for style is ever present in the city. For travelers, don't be overly concerned with packing all the right things. With retailers like H&M in town, and conveniently located in the Quarter, creating a wardrobe on the run is not a problem.
New Orleans will welcome H&M to town with open arms. The post-Katrina rebound of New Orleans as a shopping-centric destination is nearly at its pinnacle.