New H&M at Atlantic Station a treat for fashionistas on budget

Shorts And Shirts I was a penniless student and couldn't wait to get my hands on theinexpensive, trendy duds. But I did wait. Three months. Why?Because it was just too crowded to shop. It probably won't take three months for the crowds to die down atH&M Atlantic Station, particularly since it is the second locationin the metro area (the first at North Point Mall opened in May),but it can't hurt to have a shopping game plan whenever you decideto go. Fortunately, the layout of this big bi-level store, isn't toocomplex. The entire ground level is devoted to women's clothing. LongtimeH&M fans will quickly identify modern basics; white linen shortswith a belted waist, polka dot sundresses, and multi-tiered pinktank tops all for $20. A bikini wall spans the middle of the storewith rows of mix and match tops and bottoms in color combinationsof black and gold or summer brights. Across the aisle, racks ofaccessories include $6 scarves, enamel bracelets and canvas andfaux-leather bags and totes. Shorts, tanks and dresses by L.O.G.G., H&M's casual sportswearconcept, occupy space at the rear of the store while the tailoreditems from the H&M modern classics collection with career womanappeal such as sand colored sailor pants ($30) and printed buttonfront blouses ($25), are just near the East District Avenueentrance. For a special treat, dip into the lingerie room, a section devotedto H&M's line of intimates that includes organic cotton sets like agray and white striped padded bra with matching boy shorts. Take the escalator (or elevator) to level two and find thechildren's section arranged by age; 0 - 18 months, 1-8 years and9-14 years. Boys can choose from drawstring surfer style shorts($10) and t-shirts, while little girls can try the tiered dressesin pink and brown ($17) and Hello Kitty tanks. The men's department is also on the top floor where plaid buttondown shirts, striped polos and other casual sportswear fromL.O.G.G. hang near accessories like sunglasses and flip-flops.Tanks with leaf motifs ($5) and cargo shorts ($30) share space withdressier gear such as jackets and pinstriped dress shirts. Don'tforget a black and white trilby hat ($8) to complete any stylishoutfit. Divided, H&M's concept for ultra-trendy men and women, is housedupstairs as well. The line includes denim for men and women, alongwith other hot-off-the-street looks for the fashion-consciousshopper. Dressing rooms and cash registers on both levels may help quell thecrowds in the first few weeks, but consider yourself warned.