I Pre-Shopped Kenzo x H&M and Lived to Tell the Tale

When the night finally arrived, I attended the red carpet first, where I asked actress Chloë Sevigny what items she thought would sell out (I needed some tips, after all). "I have my eye on this pink and black jacket with gold buttons," she told me as I mentally made a note and checked out her vibrant layered look, which she'd paired with black accessories. "I think that's going to be a hot seller."

After the show was done, the space turned into a full on party rave. I danced for a bit, then finally saw the light: a neon Kenzo x H&M sign directing me to the shopping section. I made my way through models and editors and stood in line, which was actually more of a huddled mass surrounding an entrance.

After a few minutes, men came around with bracelets. I stuck my arm out, gave dirty looks to the people pushing me from behind, and silently prayed I wouldn't get trampled. Finally, I felt one tighten around my wrist and together, the mass made its way into the "store." (I still have no idea what the number means.)

Even though the event was invite-only, it was still extremely packed inside, and I was surrounded by tons of people pushing through, frantically grabbing things off the racks. Since there was a limited amount of each item, I worried my size wouldn't be left and, admittedly, began doing the same. I was in the zone, reaching for stuff I didn't even want — until I nearly pulled a dress out of Rosario Dawson's hands. "Stay calm," I told myself. "You'll find something."

Despite falling in love with a green and pink peplum sweater and overhearing bloggers talk about a ruffled crop top ("You can pair it with high-waisted jeans!" one advised), I decided to stick with classics: a printed scarf and white graphic tee, both of which I know I'll wear long after the excitement wears off. I then waited on a long, winding line leading toward the registers. It was pretty civilized — until someone unlatched the rope and cut me to stand with their friend. I didn't mind it too much, I just hoped it wouldn't start a stampede.

Those credit card machines might have been the fastest in the world because once I got up there, it took around a minute to pay and leave. I then grabbed some popcorn from the party, requested an Uber, and made my way to the car — fully intact! — with my Kenzo x H&M shopping bag. Was it all worth it? The compliments I've received on this scarf today tell me yes. But it's still not a bad idea to avoid the chaos and shop online, in pajamas, in the comfort of your own home.