The largest H&M store in the world opens on Fifth Avenue in NYC featuring a collaboration with iconic artist Jeff Koons

Opening day was the culmination of a partnership between H&M, The Whitney Museum of American Art and renowned American artist Jeff Koons.  The grand opening also celebrated the launch of the Jeff Koons for H&M leather handbag featuring Balloon Dog (Yellow), one of his most famous works.  Eager passersby peeked into the four-story tall glass façade of the mega-store which features a larger-than-life image of the balloon dog. 

Beginning Thursday, July 17, the specially-designed, limited-edition leather handbag featuring the Balloon Dog (Yellow) sells for just $49.95 and is being carried in select markets across the US including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Dallas, as well as online.  A select number of pieces will also be sold at the Whitney Museum of American Art during the Retrospective as well as on Whitney.org.

H&M’s CEO, Karl-Johan Persson, President of H&M North America Daniel Kulle, and Flagship Store Manager Erica Hebert officially cut the ribbon and welcomed the first shoppers as they danced into the store.  “This store is unlike any other we have ever designed.  We are so proud to finally have a true flagship that carries every one of our concepts: Ladies, Men’s, Young Trend, Home, Accessories, Shoes, and much more”, says Kulle. “Our customers will finally get to experience our full offering under one roof and H&M at 589 Fifth Avenue will  become the destination for both our local customers and our visitors from around the world.”

The new flagship, measuring  57,100 square feet, includes six floors of fashion and a 470 square foot LED screen which create a regal feel upon entering the store.  Timeless design details in-store include green and white marble tiles, opulent walls of mirrors, and distinct herringbone woodwork.  The store is the first in the country to offer a full concierge shopping service which will create a truly unique consumer experience.  It is also the first store in New York to carry the H&M Home collection. 

The first customers started lining up outside of the store on the red carpet at 7pm on the evening before the opening, and were rewarded with Access to Fashion Passes valued between $10 and $1000, balloon dog decorated custom H&M canvas tote bags filled with fun giveaways and stylish balloon dog headbands!  Customers and staff together enjoyed the fun  and excitement of the highly anticipate opening!